Disney ceases business with Toy Maker over labor violations

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November 30, 2016

The Walt Disney Co is no longer doing business with one of their main Toy Makers in China over labor violations. The Dongguan Qing Xi Juantiway Plastic Factory has been flagged by the US based ‘China Labor Watch‘ which monitors manufacturing in China.

“Our investigation has revealed that Dongguan Qing Xi Juantiway Plastic Factory failed to remediate hiring and human resource issues identified during an investigation of the facility last year, despite our encouragement of remediation and their contractual requirements to us,” Disney said in their report.

According to Bloomberg Disney has maintained an International Labor Standards program since 1996 to work with companies and governments to prevent labor abuses. A staff of 120 people in 12 countries helps improve working conditions in over 30,000 factories. About 28 percent of those plants were located in China.

The Dongguan Qing Xi Juantiway Plastic Factory made products for Disney’s Frozen product line.

Epcot Introduces International Holiday Treats Around the World Showcase

By

Lisette R

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November 30, 2016

When we think of the holidays, often-times the first thing that comes to mind is the food. Cultures around the world celebrate a variety of holidays, such as Christmas and New Year’s, with foods that may be slightly unfamiliar to many of us. We are happy to announce that Epcot has introduced International Holiday Treats at food kiosks located around its World Showcase.

You can pick up your 2016 Holiday Passport at the entrance to Epcot. If you enter Epcot through the International Gateway, or just forget to pick one up at the front entrance, you can find your Holiday Passport at any food kiosk ordering station around the World Showcase.

There are a number of kiosks around Epcot’s World Showcase that have been specifically designed to provide holiday food and drink. New this year is the Seasonal Southern Delights. It is located to left of the giant Christmas tree, just before you arrive in Mexico. This food kiosk offers southern-style seasonal foods such as Hoppin’ John and Blackened Catfish. For dessert you can try is their chocolate Pecan Tart. If you are looking for something interesting to drink try the Frozen S’mores with, or without, alcohol.

The Mexico food kiosk, while not new, offers some interesting choices. From traditional Chicken Enchiladas to Sweet Tamales, you will be tempted to have a taste. And what about a Mexican Coffee Margarita to balance out the food?

The Prost! food kiosk in Germany is not new to the Holidays Around the World event. However, the German Artisan Cheese Plate with a glass of Possmann Pure Hard Black Currant Apple Cider is tempting. If you are looking for a snack then the Stollen, a Holiday Fruit Cake, makes a great option. If you are interested in learing about different traditions, sampling International Holiday Treats is a great way to do this.

New to the Holidays Around the World is the American Holiday Table. Located on the grounds of the America Pavillion you can purchase seasonal favorites such as the Slow-roasted Turkey with stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, cranberry sauce, and green bean casserole. As portions go, this is the largest one I saw and can easily be shared. Try to wash it down with a glass of Firenog!

The Alpine Haus, located between the U. K. and Canada Pavillions, is another new option. This food kiosk was one of my favorites and is a must-try location. The Duck Confit along with the Cheese Fondue is delicious. Just looking for dessert? No problem as they offer a beautiful Sachertorte, which is a type of chocolate cake. If you enjoy shaking things up a bit then you should try the alcoholic, or non-alcoholic version, of the Chocolate Apple Shake.

The Holiday Eats and Treats is yet another new theme to an already existing food kiosk. This one is located just to the right of the giant Christmas Tree headed towards the Canada Pavillion. The theme appears to be Holiday foods, however the hot dog on the menu threw me a little. The Holiday Sandwich is pretty good as it is made with a nice cranberry bread. I was not a fan of the mashed potatoes on my sandwich and would have much preferred the stuffing, that I am familiar with, on a popular sandwich at a Disney Springs vendor. The Peppermint Sundae was basically chocolate soft-serve ice cream with whipped cream and crushed candy cane. I will pass on this option next time.

My absolute favorite International Holiday Treats food choice was the Three Kings Bread. You can find this delectable treat at the Feast of the Three Kings food kiosk located just behind the Holiday Eats and Treats heading towards the Canada Pavillion. If you have never tried Coquito, then this drink option is a must and I plan to have that the next time I visit Epcot.

The Joffrey’s food kiosks are not new to the World Showcase. However, they are offering some really interesting seasonal drinks. I admit that I did, in fact, turn into a Crazy Elf on this visit. Of course, you can always keep things mellow with a lovely Holiday Latte as well.

Epcot’s Holidays Around the World is a popular event that is likely to become even more popular as word gets around about the additional seasonal food and drink options located around the World Showcase. The Holidays Around the World kicked off on November 25th and will run through December 30th. If you are visiting the Walt Disney World Resort this holiday season, be sure to plan a visit to Epcot. You are sure to be please that Epcot has introduced a number of new International Holiday Treats at food kiosks around the World Showcase.

Which food and drink option are you most excited to try? Please leave your comments in the box below.

Behind the Scenes look at all new Starbright Holidays Drone Show in Disney Springs

By

Chip

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November 30, 2016

Today we get a behind the scenes look at the all new “Starbright Holidays – An Intel Collaboration” Drone Show in Disney Springs. The Starbright Holidays Drone show is a twice nightly show featuring 300 Intel Shooting Star Drones that can be seen from the West Side of Disney Springs. Lisette was on hand to share her experience when it first stared on November 20th.

Watch how Disney Imagineers and Walt Disney World Creative Entertainment worked with the experts at Intel to bring this experience to Disney Springs this holiday season:

You can wish upon a holiday star during “Starbright Holidays – An Intel Collaboration” daily at 7:00 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. until Jan 8.

Have you seen the Starbright Holidays Drone Show yet?

Tell us what you thought in the comment box below!

Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort is updating the Dolphin Resort lobby

By

Chip

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November 30, 2016

The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort’s Dolphin lobby will undergo a $12 million re-design as the final stage of the largest makeover in the resort’s history. When finished in the fall of 2017, the new lobby will be completely transformed into a sleek contemporary space and feature new dining and beverage options.

The lobby re-design is the final stage of a total $140 million project which also includes the transformation of all 2,267 guest rooms, along with upgrades to the hotel’s meeting space.

“This lobby will mark the final piece of an exciting transformation for the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort,” said General Manager Fred Sawyers. “This space is designed specifically to cater to today’s guests and offer an inviting place where they can come together to relax, network, and grab something to eat or drink.”

Renowned Manhattan design firm ICRAVE, designers of projects including Westin New York at Times Square, W Atlanta and STK restaurants, created the concept for the new lobby space, drawing on inspiration from the lobby’s iconic Dolphin fountain.

The centerpiece of the new lobby will be a dazzling custom crystal chandelier which will sparkle above the fountain and use the latest in color-changing lighting technology.

Other new features will include a new geometric ceiling, increased lighting, all new contemporary décor and furnishings and more than double the amount of seating.

Two new food and beverage options will be incorporated into the lobby, including a bar and lounge space seating up to 150.

A new quick service café and market offering coffee, sandwiches and snacks will provide guests a convenient way to energize during their day, whether it be filled with business meetings or exploring the theme parks.

The Dolphin Resort lobby will remain open throughout the renovation with minimal impact to resort guests. The project is currently scheduled to begin in spring 2017 for completion by fall 2017.

Celebrate the Spirit of Moana at Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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November 30, 2016

Moana mania is sweeping through Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina, Hawai’i. Guests can enjoy new Moana themed experiences at the resort including fireside stories, a live meetup, canoe race, a special Moana Makeover along with Aulani-exclusive Moana merchandise.

Mo‘olelo Fireside Stories with Moana

At the edge of the sea—surrounded by the enchantment of O’ahu—gather by the fire pit as Aulani’s beloved storyteller “Uncle” brings legends of the island to life. Set sail in your imagination as Uncle recounts the tales of the ancient wayfinders who settled Oceania. Then get swept away as Moana tells of her own incredible journey alongside Maui. Hear how this daring young woman set off on a dangerous open-ocean quest to save her people—encountering hilarious and incredible adventures along the way.

Say Aloha to Moana

Moana has arrived at Aulani—delighted to share stories, hugs and snapshots with Guests like you. Come tell her the tales of your travels and hear all about her incredible ocean-going adventures with Maui. Check the Daily ‘Iwa for times and locations.

Uncle’s Kahakai Canoe Race

The fun starts at Pau Hana Community Hall where Uncle will share the fascinating lore of the wa’a or Hawaiian canoe—an essential part of Polynesian culture and history. You’ll even get to build a wa’a model yourself. Then, unleash the explorer within as you take to the ocean in a fun and spirited canoe race the whole family can enjoy.

Moana Makeover

Want to rock an adventurous new look inspired by Moana? Head over to Painted Sky and chart a course for fabulous with your choice of costume, hairstyle, mani-pedi, makeup and a dash of pixie dust. Now you’re ready to really make a splash!

This experience is available for Guests ages 3 to 12. For reservations call (808) 674-6300. Guests under 18 must have parent or guardian permission to call.

Load Up on Aulani-Exclusive Moana Merchandise

Hey explorers, be on the lookout for rare finds to bring back from your island expedition! Aulani is stocked with sensational Moana gifts and gear—including many items available exclusively* at our stores:

Available at Kālepa’s Store:

•Boys’ Maui shirt *
•Girls’ Moana shirt *
•Tervis drinkware
•Girls’ and boys’ sportswear, swimsuits and flip-flops
•Moana backpack

Available at Hale Manu:

•Reyn Spooner men’s camp shirts *
•Le Sport Sac crossbody bag, cosmetic bags, totes and more
•Neff trucker hat, tub shorts and other men’s and women’s apparel

All merchandise is subject to availability.

Discover Moana fun at Aunty’s Beach House

Kids can enjoy even more awesome hands-on fun at Aunty’s—like coloring sheets, games and puzzles.

Disney’s Moana tells the tale of an adventurous teen who teams up with the demigod Maui on a daring voyage across the Pacific. Share your own enchanting island adventures—and boatloads of Moana fun—with your family at Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa.

Contact [email protected] or visit my Facebook page here to start planning your next Aulani vacation. All of my planning services are 100% FREE and can help save you both time and money!

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Too Cute to Eat Disney Sweet Life Raglan Tee Shirt

By

Danielle

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November 29, 2016

It’s no secret that I love Disney sweets, I even have a tradition of the first day of my big Disney trips, of going to Hollywood Studios and having a cupcake for breakfast! When I saw this Disney Sweet Life Raglan by SparklingOasis, I have to admit it stole my sugar lovin’ heart!

The Disney Sweet Life Raglan, features of trio of scrumptious treats, in colors that are just darling. The tasty trio shown, is a Mickey’s Premium Ice Cream Bar, A Disney Cupcake with sweet pink frosting, and then Mickey Macaroons! The raglan sleeves are a complementing pastel purple. I love that I don’t have to choose just one sweet treat to wear proudly, but a handful of them in a darling design. If you aren’t a fan of Raglans you can also get this in a regular or ladies cut tee.

Sparkling Oasis has a few other cute designs you can check out below too, including a Disney Holiday tee!

Wouldn’t this delightfully delicious Disney Sweet Life Raglan be adorable for a beautiful day at the Magic Kingdom?

New Details on 2017 Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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November 29, 2016

The 24th annual Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival will take place from March 1 – May 29, 2017 for a total of 90 days. The festival dates were extended last year and guests will continue to be able to enjoy the event for an additional two weekends in 2017.

New character topiaries and outdoor kitchens along with new entertainment will help jump-start the spring season at Walt Disney World. Below are some exciting new details about the 2017 Flower & Garden Festival at Epcot:

Fresh, farm-market food and beverage flavors will debut at two new Outdoor Kitchens that will join 13 returning Outdoor Kitchens. Guest can sip and savor their way around Epcot, enjoying chef-inspired
noshes and refreshing libations with or without a kick.
The new generation of princess topiaries (Snow White, Anna and Elsa – the first to be designed and created with topiary facial features) will welcome a brand-new Belle topiary as fans remember her from the Oscar-winning Disney film, “Beauty and the Beast.” Located outside the France pavilion with the Beast topiary, Belle will come to life with sculpted facial features and her yellow ball gown created with golden blooming Joseph’s Coat plants.
Another festival first will be a 6-foot-tall topiary of Figment, the feisty dragon mascot of the park’s Imagination! pavilion, perched atop a 5-foot-diameter ball fashioned from yellow Joseph’s Coat.
The brand-new Epcot front-entrance topiary garden inspired by a vintage Walt Disney short film will spring to life with a floral-festooned maypole featuring Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Daisy and
Pluto.
The popular Garden Rocks concert series will expand to four days each week, with three concerts each Friday through Monday presenting pop musicians that span multiple genres over four decades.
New Garden Rocks Dining Packages will be available on select days at a number of Epcot restaurants.
Reimagined interactive play gardens will include a new take on the “Cars”-themed garden introducing a new character topiary from the June 2017 release of the Disney•Pixar sequel, “Cars 3.”
Music Garden Melodies play area will return with new garden and topiary elements.
For the first time, the event’s Festival Center will extend operating hours from Wednesday, March 1 through Sunday, March 5. Throughout the rest of the festival, the center will be open each
Friday through Sunday with an entertaining mix of gardening seminars and DIY workshops.

One of the popular Outdoor Kitchen gardens, Urban Farm Eats, will return with savory bites, sweet treats and ideas for planting produce that can inspire growing numbers of guests who want to learn to grow their
own edibles.

“A lot of people, including young children, are serious foodies now, and they have lots of questions about gardening,” says Eric Darden, festival horticulture manager. “We’re getting more and more people in their
20’s and 30’s asking, ‘How can I grow this?’ I think we’ll be creating more gardeners because people can see what’s possible.”

The 2017 festival forecast will be sunny with colorful floral bursts by day and a nighttime landscape aglow with twinkling lights:

Topiaries of Donald Duck and nephews Huey, Dewey and Louie will share Future World space in front of Spaceship Earth with Chip and Dale for a “Fresh Epcot” selfie and family photo opportunity.
Anna and Elsa topiaries will return to the Norway pavilion festival landscape in celebration of the park’s new Frozen Ever After.
Nearly 100 festival topiaries in all will include up to 70 character
creations such as Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Lady and the Tramp, Simba, Timon and Tinker Bell.
Guests will encounter garden surprises and special appearances related to Earth Day and other spring activities.
The Butterflies on the Go garden will return with the story of the Monarch’s epic journey across the continent and featuring butterflies emerging from their chrysalises.
On the way to the new Soarin’ Around the World film at the Soarin’attraction in The Land pavilion, guests can discover gardens featuring edible flowers, plants that benefit health and healing, and
a pollinator paradise.

Dozens of Disney-crafted “flower towers” and beds of multi-colored blooms will transform the park’s landscape. At least 70,000 bedding plants will surround the Future World east and west lakes alone; on the
water, 220 mini-gardens will be set afloat.

All gardening programs and exhibits at the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival are included in regular Epcot admission.

Contact [email protected] or visit my Facebook page here to start planning your next magical Disney vacation. All of my planning services are 100% FREE and can help save you both time and money!

Credit: http://wdwnews.com

Planet Hollywood Observatory at Disney Springs Now Opening on January 3

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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November 29, 2016

Planet Hollywood Observatory at Disney Springs

Planet Hollywood at Disney Springs will not be opening on December 15th as planned due to unexpected construction delays. They are however currently accepting reservations for dates beginning January 3, 2017.

Reservations can be made online or by calling the restaurant directly at 407-827-7827. Guests with reservations between December 15 and January 2 should have been notified of cancellation.

Fingers crossed there won’t be any more delays and Plant Hollywood Observatory at Disney Springs will open on January 3, 2017!

Contact [email protected] or visit my Facebook page here to start planning your next magical Disney vacation. All of my planning services are 100% FREE and can help save you both time and money!

New Details Released on Partnership between Nintendo and Universal Studios

By

Chip

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November 29, 2016

New details released today on the partnership between Nintendo and Universal Studios theme parks.

Imagine the fun of stepping into a larger-than-life Nintendo adventure. Gigantic Piranha Plants spring to life. Question blocks, power-ups and more surround you. And Mario and all his friends are there to pull you into a brand-new world.

You’ll enter an entire realm filled with iconic Nintendo excitement, gameplay, heroes and villains. And it’s coming to three Universal theme parks around the globe.

Nintendo-themed areas are coming to Universal Studios Japan, Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Hollywood.
These will be expansive, immersive and interactive. They’ll be highly themed and authentic environments filled with multiple attractions, shops and restaurants.
You’ll feel as if you’re playing inside your favorite games – in real life.
There will be something for everyone—regardless of their age or gaming experience level.
Planning and creative work on these areas is well underway; they will open separately over the next several years.

Shigeru Miyamoto, of Nintendo, and Mark Woodbury, President of Universal Creative, recently sat down to talk about the two teams working together. Along with reviewing potential designs for the land, they also discussed what fans can look forward to experiencing as these exciting plans come to life.

The goal of everyone on this project is clear: to bring the characters, action and adventure of Nintendo video games to life within Universal theme parks. And to do so in new and innovative ways that capture what makes them so special.

All of the adventure, fun and whimsy you experience through a screen will now be all around you – in breathtakingly authentic ways.

Each Universal theme park will announce details of its specific Nintendo areas. The first such announcement will come soon.

Source

New “Highway in the Sky Dine Around” Experience at Walt Disney World Begins December 2nd

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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November 29, 2016

Board the Walt Disney World Resort Monorail for a progressive dinner at 3 Disney Resort hotels beginning December 2, 2016. The new “Highway in the Sky Dine Around” experience includes stops for cocktails, appetizers, dinner and dessert along the way. Guests will receive priority boarding on the monorail during their dining journey between Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort and Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa.

Your Dine Around adventure begins at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, where you’ll check in at The Wave… of American Flavors restaurant. Relax and mingle with your fellow diners, enjoying a welcoming appetizer and specialty cocktail before setting off on your epicurean odyssey. Bon voyage and bon appétit!

First stop: Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort—where you’ll feel as if you’ve arrived in a far-flung tropical paradise. Celebrate the spirit of the South Pacific and luxuriate in the charm of this exotic retreat, with an enticing variety of island-inspired libations and appetizers.

Then it’s time for a change of scene and cuisine—as the monorail transports you a world away: to the opulent Victorian-style Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. Step inside and step back into a bygone era of elegance and gracious hospitality. You’ll be escorted to the award-winning Cítricos restaurant where we invite you to settle in amid the refined ambience as you’re treated to a special Chef’s main course selection. Afterward, gather in the splendidly appointed lobby to sip champagne and savor a selection of artisanal cheeses.

Board the monorail once more to return to Disney’s Contemporary Resort for the culmination of your evening. Here, you and your Dine Around companions will retire to a private patio to enjoy an indulgent assortment of desserts, cordials and coffee. From this exclusive location, watch in wonder as the Wishes nighttime spectacular fireworks light up the night over Cinderella Castle—a musical, magical grand finale to your one-of-a-kind dining adventure.

The price of the “Highway in the Sky Dine Around” is $150 per person plus tax, gratuity included. It is offered on select Tuesday, Friday and Saturday evenings at 6:45pm beginning December 2, 2016. Check-in takes place at The Wave located at Disney’s Contemporary Resort 15 minutes ahead of your reservation time. The Disney Dining Plan may not be used for this event and any discounts or promotions are not valid.

Reservations open November 29th and can be made online or by calling 407-WDW-DINE. There will be no dine-around between December 18 and January 3. Dates are currently available through March 31, 2017. Reservations must be cancelled at least 24 hours in advance to avoid forfeiting the full price of the experience.

Contact [email protected] or visit my Facebook page here to start planning your next magical Walt Disney World vacation. All of my planning services are 100% FREE and can help save you both time and money.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

“Pete’s Dragon” Blu-Ray Review

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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November 29, 2016

I’ll just come out and say it, I loved “Pete’s Dragon.” The effects, the directing, the actors, the story, the dragon! I loved it. So getting it on Blu-Ray is a necessity. Besides the wonderful movie itself, owning the Blu-Ray is totally worth it, because of the bonus features.

Notes to Self: A Director Diary:
The director, David Lowery, kept a journal and wrote about his experience with the film. From the day before filming began to his plane ride home after wrap. It was lovely to hear about his adventure.

Making Magic:
How the character of Elliot came to be. And all the details that made him ‘real’

“Disappearing” Moments:
A montage of David Lowery’s favorite deleted scenes

Bloopers:
The wonderful gag reel. Always a must!

2 Music Videos:
“Nobody Knows” by the Lumineers

“Something Wild” by Lindsay Stirling, featuring Andrew McManhon in the Wilderness

This holiday season, do yourself and your family a favor – get “Pete’s Dragon.” It’s a sweet, wonderful movie that should be in every Disney lovers collection.

Twitter Announces Live Streaming Event with Disney and People for Rogue One: A Star Wars Story

By

Chip

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November 29, 2016

Twitter today announced it is collaborating with Disney and People to live stream exclusively a special Rogue One: A Star Wars Story event. The live stream, hosted by People, will feature the debut of never-before-seen content from Rogue One followed by a Q&A with the director and cast members from the film.

Live coverage will start on Friday, December 2nd at 10am PT, streaming from a surprise location. The live stream will be available worldwide to Twitter’s logged-in and logged-out audience on Twitter and connected devices and can be found at RogueOne.twitter.com, in Twitter Moments and through @StarWars and @people.

The experience will give Star Wars fans a sneak peek of the highly anticipated film ahead of its December 16 release date, and will include behind-the-scenes commentary during a live discussion with Director Gareth Edwards, Lucasfilm President and Producer Kathleen Kennedy, and cast members including Felicity Jones, Diego Luna, Ben Mendelsohn, Donnie Yen, Mads Mikkelsen, Alan Tudyk and Riz Ahmed. The Q&A will be hosted by People’s Deputy Editor, JD Heyman. Fans can submit questions on Twitter for the cast to answer during the event by Tweeting with #AskRogueOne. Fans can also Tweet with the following hashtags and a Star Wars Twitter emoji will automatically appear: #RogueOne, #DeathStar, #StarWars and #StarWarsRogueOne.

“People come to Twitter to see what’s happening in the entertainment world, and the conversation about movies, especially Star Wars, is constant on Twitter,” said Anthony Noto, COO at Twitter. “Our collaboration with Disney and People will give fans fresh and exciting live Star Wars content that they can view and Tweet about all on the same platform.”

“Disney and Lucasfilm are always seeking out innovative ways to tell great stories and engage with fans around the world,” said Ricky Strauss, President, Marketing, The Walt Disney Studios. “We’re thrilled to join forces with Twitter and People to create this can’t-miss Rogue One event that gives Star Wars fans a behind-the-scenes peek at one of the most talked-about movies of the year.”

“People is thrilled to participate in the celebration of the latest release in the iconic Star Wars franchise,” says Jess Cagle, Editor in Chief, People. “We have been covering Star Wars since the very first film hit theaters in 1977; our audience can’t get enough of it.”

People is also releasing a special newsstand edition on Nov. 30 called Star Wars: The Secrets of Rogue One, featuring a VR bonus including goggles, in addition to the original People Special — Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, which is premiering Nov. 30 on the People/Entertainment Weekly Network (PEN).