I like blogs with lots of photos. Sometimes, I think photos just do a much better job than words at telling a story or giving an update. I can do my best to describe how amazing the Little Mermaid dark ride building looks in DCA right now, or I can just take a photo and show you.
His identity, I don’t know. It’s a total mystery. Who knows if I’ll ever know. I only know him as @MintCrocodile on Twitter.
His blog, Magic Eye, is fantastic for photos. He provides such thorough photo updates of Disneyland and California Adventure; I’m sure if I wanted to check up on something I could find it in his blog.
So if you’ve never been to Disneyland or California Adventure and what to know what’s up, or you haven’t visited the parks in a while and want a construction update, Magic Eye is the place to go.
Are you heading to the Disney Parks and want to share some of the Disney Magic while you are there?
Did your Cheerios this morning give you the sought after Hidden Mickey?
Or you find a new and exciting Disney Product while you are out shopping and wanted to tell everyone about it?
We would love to see a picture! You can log onto our Facebook Page and post your pictures there or email your pictures to me and I will post them for you. ([email protected])
Also don’t forget we are still taking guest articles for the Chip Panel. Click the link to learn more.
From the visionary Director Julie Taymor (Frida) comes a modern retelling of William Shakespeare’s masterpiece in the visually stunning and innovative feature film THE TEMPEST. Available nationwide on Blu-ray™, DVD, Movie Download, and On-Demand on September 13, 2011.
Film Synopsis:
This modern retelling of William Shakespeare’s final masterpiece is an exciting, mystical and magical fantasy with Academy Award®-winner Helen Mirren (Best Actress, The Queen, 2006) leading a star-studded cast including Russell Brand (Get Him To The Greek) and Alfred Molina (The Sorcerer’s Apprentice). Exiled to a magical island, the sorceress Prospera (Mirren) conjures up a storm that shipwrecks her enemies, and then unleashes her powers for revenge. Directed by Julie Taymor (Frida) — and complete with exclusive bonus features — The Tempest, with its innovative twist, is a supernatural dramedy filled with Shakespearean villains, lovers and fools that will leave you spellbound.
U.S. Release Date:
September 13, 2011
(Direct Prebook July 19, 2011/ Distributor Prebook August 2, 2011)
Rating:
PG 13 – for some nudity, suggestive content and scary images
Feature Run Time:
Approximately 110-minutes
Release Format:
Blu-ray™, DVD, Movie Download & On-Demand
Suggested Retail Price: 1-Disc Blu-ray = $39.99 U.S.
1-Disc DVD = $29.99 U.S.
Movie Download High Definition = $39.99 U.S.
Movie Download Standard Definition = $29.99 U.S.
On-Demand = for pricing, please contact your television provider or favorite digital retailer
Bonus Features:
Audio Commentary with Director Julie Taymor Russell Brand Rehearsal Riff
O MISTRESS MINE Reeve Carney Music Video
And more!
Talent:
Helen Mirren (The Debt,State of Play, The Queen)
Russell Brand (Get Him To The Greek; Forgetting Sarah Marshall)
Alfred Molina (The Sorcerer’s Apprentice, Prince of Persia, An Education)
Djimon Hounsou (Blood Diamond) Alan Cumming (“The Good Wife,” It’s Complicated)
Chris Cooper (Remember Me, The Kingdom)
David Straitharn (The Bourne Ultimatum)
The World Premier Movie Event of My Future Boyfriend, premiersSunday, April 10th at 8/7c, starring Barry Watson and Sara Rue!
A curious human from a well-ordered but loveless future, P-A-X-497/341 (aka Pax), played by Barry Watson, returns to the year 2011 to satisfy his curiosity about such archaic concepts as love, passion and sex, and winds up making his own discoveries when he meets the woman of his dreams, Elizabeth Barrett, portrayed by Sara Rue, a newly published romance novelist.
When Pax doesn’t return to the future by the given deadline, Bob (Fred Willard), his fellow scientist, travels back in time to find Pax. Meanwhile as Elizabeth is helping Pax learn about love, she ends up confiding in her colleague, played by Valerie Harper, about her own upcoming “surprise” engagement.
This just in! Nemo has kept on swimming…right into his FIRST ever app!
Disney is happy to share with you that the “Finding Nemo: My Puzzle Book” app launched today and is now available in the iTunes App Store for $0.99 for your iPad, iPhone and iTouch! From Disney Publishing Worldwide, this new app features authentic sounds and sea-worthy images based on the Disney/Pixar movie. It also includes fun games for your kids like a scavenger hunt throughout the story and various jigsaw puzzles your kid can enjoy!
While planning our ADR’s for our October 2010 trip, I knew one thing was for sure, we were going to Le Cellier one way or another. Many Disney World enthusiasts suggested the restaurant and just by looking at the menu, I knew I had to try it out. The thing about Le Cellier is that their food is so awesome that it is hard to get a reservation! It is a highly sought after dining experience in Epcot, and really needs to be booked as early as possible so you can try them! You cannot just walk in this place, a reservation is a must!
To find Le Cellier you must go to the Canada Pavilion at Epcot. Once you arrive, you will check in with the host/hostess outside of a beautiful landscaped area with a very small fence around it. Le Cellier is located near the O’Canada! attraction and also has a Kidcot Funstop area. When we went, we checked in and headed directly to the Kidcot Funstop area until it was time to actually check into the restaurant. The kids were able to color cut outs of Duffy the bear and take them home with us.
When you actually go into the restaurant there is ambient lighting and it is a little cool. It is made to resemble a wine cellar that would be seen in a classy Canadian Chatauesque hotel. Our wait was 10 minutes at the most and was seated in a location close to the kitchen area. We were given our pretzel bread as soon as we sat down, let me tell you, it is AMAZING!! I am not much into pretzels usually, but this bread was so yummy! I dipped my bread into some Canadian cheese soup that I got for our 2 year old. She didn’t eat much and she decided to try it my way as well!
When the server took our orders, our wait was minimal, the kids were given activity menus and crayons for the wait. Everyone got something a little different. I ordered a Filet Mignon with Mushroom Risotto, my hubby ordered a Steak with Yukon Gold Potatoes, our son ordered Steak and Fries, and our toddler ate Meaty Macaroni and Fries. All of the food was amazing! My filet was cooked to perfection, it didn’t require any steak sauce as the taste was magnificent. Upon cutting the steaks, they were very juicy and succulent. The sides were delicious, especially the mushroom risotto.
Since we were on the dining plan, we ordered desserts! My hubby and I both got chocolate moose (yes it is moose, you will see why!), our son had an ice cream sundae topped his way, and our daughter got fruit salad. The chocolate moose was smooth and divine! The chocolate creaminess was so good it put a smile on our faces! My son was raving about the ice cream sundae and our daughter loves fruit, so she was a happy little girl!
Bottom line, Le Cellier is a MUST DO!! The atmosphere, staff, food, the whole package is just wonderful! If you love good food, you need to at least go here once. All it will take is one try and you will want to come back each trip, I guarantee it!
Le Cellier is now a signature dining experience as of March 1,2011. If you use the dining plan it will cost 1 credit for lunch or 2 credits for dinner. For more information call (407) WDW- DINE or contact your travel agent!
Angelica and family live in Evansville, IN, as a mother of 2 she knows how important memories can be! She works as a Pixie Vacations agent planning trips to Disney Destinations! Her affinity with the Disney brand started at a young age and has carried on into adulthood. Her Blog “Pixie Dust and Mouse Ears” is her newest undertaking, it is informative, fun, and even has giveaways!
After delivering a year of best-ever ratings across each of its kid-driven, family inclusive platforms, and deepening its strong connection with kids and parents, especially moms, Disney showcased an unprecedented amount of new programming that’s to come — an expanded slate of 13 new original series (part of 435 total original episodes in 2011, a 30% increase from last year, not including acquisitions) and additional new titles in the blockbuster Disney Channel Original Movie franchise at its annual presentation to advertisers today at New York’s Gotham Hall.
At the event, themed “Time to Shine,” Carolina Lightcap, President, Disney Channels Worldwide, highlighted the expanded programming slates, ratings momentum and unique emotional connection to kids and families that’s delivered by each brand in Disney’s portfolio – which includes Disney Channel, Disney XD, Disney Junior and Radio Disney.
Disney’s new and returning programming was showcased by Gary Marsh, President, Entertainment and Chief Creative Officer, Disney Channels Worldwide; and Nancy Kanter, Senior Vice President, Original Programming and General Manager, Disney Junior Worldwide.
Rita Ferro, Executive Vice President, Disney Media Sales and Marketing, presented Disney’s powerful media sales enterprise, through which marketers can reach kids, tweens and moms across every engagement point where they are spending their time: TV, online, mobile and radio. Ferro also highlighted the strength of the flagship Disney Channel in bringing kids and families together — 2011 to date, it reaches more kids, tweens and Moms in primetime than any other cable network.
Hosted by Radio Disney’s Ernie D., the event included a performance by teen superstar Selena Gomez (“Wizards of Waverly Place”), the performance debut of actress and newly signed Hollywood Records recording artist China Anne McClain (“ANT Farm”), a martial arts performance by actor Leo Howard (“Kickin’ It”), a boisterous song by Bones and Sharky of The Never Land Pirate Band (“Jake and the Never Land Pirates”), an appearance by actress Debby Ryan (“Jessie,” “The Suite Life on Deck”) and a high energy dance number by the cast of “Shake It Up” — TV’s #1 series among Kids 6-14: Bella Thorne, Zendaya, Adam Irigoyen, Davis Cleveland, Kenton Duty, Roshon Fegan and Caroline Sunshine.
The momentum is strong. 2011 to date, in Total Day, Disney Channel is pacing to deliver its best ever first quarter in Total Viewers and all kid demographics, and is the only network among its chief competitors (Nickelodeon and Cartoon Network) to post ratings increases versus a year ago. 2010 was Disney Channel’s most watched year ever in all key demographics including Total Viewers, Kids 2-5, Kids 6-11 and Tweens 9-14. 2010 was also Disney Channel’s second consecutive year ranking #1 among Tweens in Total Day. In primetime, Disney Channel’s #1 rank extended to 10 consecutive years among Tweens and to eight straight years among Kids. Disney Channel was cable’s #2 network in primetime among Total Viewers, marking the fifth consecutive year the network has ranked among the Top 2 cable networks. 2010 also marked the ninth consecutive year Disney Channel has delivered the #1 original movie telecast among Tweens and the fourth consecutive year in Total Viewers, an indication of strong co-viewing by kids, parents and families. In fact, Disney Channel is the #1 cable network for reaching moms in primetime.
Disney XD, which recently marked its second anniversary, has had eight consecutive quarters of growth. With three weeks left in the first quarter of 2011, Disney XD is currently pacing to deliver the channel’s best quarterly Total Day ratings ever in Total Viewers, Kids and Boys 6-14, 6-11 and 9-14. In 2010, Disney XD delivered its best yearly ratings ever (including the channel’s 10+ years as Toon Disney) in Total Viewers, Kids and Boys 6-11 and 6-14, posting double-digit percent increases in all key demographics – Kids and Boys 6-14, 6-11 and 9-14.
With the premiere of Disney Junior, February was Disney Channel’s best month ever among Kids 2-5. Year to year, Disney Junior is up a whopping 44% among Kids, 55% among Boys 2-5, 32% among Girls 2-5 and 13% among Women 18-49. 2011 to-date, “Jake and the Never Land Pirates” is TV’s #1 series among Kids and Boy 2-5.
Highlights of new and returning programming are:
“Gravity Falls” (new animated series)
This animated comedy tells the story of twins Dipper and Mabel – two city kids sent to spend the summer with their crusty old great uncle Stan (aka Grunkle Stan) in Gravity Falls, Oregon. Turns out, Gravity Falls is not a run of the mill vacation spot, but is a strange and wondrous place – home to every weird creature and phenomenon imaginable, from gnomes to time portals to quantum waffles. Created and executive-produced by Alex Hirsch (“Fish Hooks”), the series is a production of Disney Television Animation.
“ANT Farm” (new series)
Set in San Francisco, this comedy revolves around China Parks, an 11-year-old musical prodigy who attends a high school as part of the prestigious ANT (Advanced Natural Talents) program. She, along with her fellow ANTs, Olive and Fletcher, must find her place and make the most of her high school experience despite the decidedly lukewarm welcome from some high school students, including China’s older brother, Cameron, who overcompensates to avoid his sister’s shadow, and overachieving Lexi Reed, who doesn’t appreciate the competition China represents. Starring are China Anne McClain (“House of Payne”), Sierra McCormick (“Ramona and Beezus”), Jake Short (“Shorts”), Stefanie Scott (“Flipped”) and Carlon Jeffery (“Heroes”). Recurring are Finesse Mitchell (“Saturday Night Live”) and Elise Neal (“The Hughleys”). “ANT Farm” was created by Dan Signer (“The Suite Life on Deck,” “The Suite Life of Zack & Cody”) and executive-produced by Signer and Stephen Engel (“The Big Bang Theory,” “Mad About You”). It is from It’s A Laugh Productions, Inc.
“Jessie” (new series)
The sitcom “Jessie,” starring 17-year-old actress and fan-favorite Debby Ryan (“The Suite Life on Deck,” “16 Wishes”), follows a starry-eyed teen from rural Texas who moves to New York City to explore life outside her small town. She soon finds herself living in a multi-million dollar penthouse as nanny to a high-profile couple’s four children, one of their imaginary friends and a pet capybara. As she navigates life in the big city, Jessie finds allies in the frosty butler, Bertram, and the 20-year-old doorman, Tony. The pilot was written by Pamela Eells O’Connell (“Family Matters,” “The Suite Life of Zack & Cody,” “The Suite Life on Deck”), who will serve as the series executive producer. It is from It’s a Laugh Productions, Inc.
“Madison High” (series pilot)
Multi-talented teens Mark Indelicato (“Ugly Betty”), Nolan Sotillo (Disney’s feature film “Prom”) and Katherine McNamara (Broadway’s “A Little Night Music”) join the previously announced cast, Alyson Reed (“High School Musical”), Luke Benward (Disney Channel’s “Minutemen”), Leah Lewis and G Hannelius (Disney Channel’s “Den Brother”), in the music and dance-driven comedy pilot “Madison High” (working title) under consideration for Disney Channel’s schedule. Bill Borden and Barry Rosenbush (“High School Musical” and its sequels) and Lester Lewis (“The Office”) and Paul Hoen (“Camp Rock 2: The Final Jam”) are the executive producers. The pilot was written by Lester Lewis and is being directed by Paul Hoen. It is from Autumn Harvest Productions, Inc.
“Shake it Up” (returning series)
With a second season renewal announced today, “Shake it Up” will continue to reflect the tween dance culture in a relatable “BFF” buddy-comedy. For 2010 and 2011 to date, “Shake it Up” is the #1 series on TV among Kids 6-11 and Tweens. It introduces best friends CeCe Jones and Raquel ‘Rocky’ Blue, whose dreams of becoming professional dancers are realized when they become background dancers on the most popular teen dance show, “Shake it Up, Chicago!” Created by Chris Thompson (“Laverne and Shirley,” “Bosom Buddies”) and executive-produced by Rob Lotterstein (“The War at Home,” “Ellen”), it is from It’s a Laugh Productions, Inc.
“Phineas and Ferb” (returning series and movie)
The critically acclaimed, Emmy-winning “Phineas and Ferb” is TV’s #1 animated series among Tweens for three years running, and has inspired a Disney Channel Original Movie, “Phineas and Ferb: Across the 2nd Dimension,” that transports Phineas and Ferb to a parallel dimension where a truly evil Dr. Doofenshmirtz is actually succeeding at taking over the world. The movie is set to premiere in summer 2011. The series is on both Disney Channel and Disney XD. Both the series and movie were created and are executive-produced by Dan Povenmire and Jeff “Swampy” Marsh. Both are productions of Disney Television Animation. The voice cast includes Vincent Martella, Thomas Sangster, Ashley Tisdale, Mitchel Musso, Caroline Rhea, Richard O’Brien, Dee Bradley Baker and Alyson Stoner.
“Good Luck Charlie” (returning series and movie)
2010’s #2 rated TV series among Kids 6-11 and Tweens is also a hit for the entire family. Premiere to date, its new episodes are events with 38% of its Adults 18+ viewers watching with a Kid 6-14. A holiday-themed Disney Channel Original Movie based on the series will premiere in 2011. Starring are Bridgit Mendler, Leigh-Allyn Baker, Bradley Steven Perry, Mia Talerico, Eric Allan Kramer and Jason Dolley. The series was created by Phil Baker and Drew Vaupen (“Suddenly Susan” and “What I Like About You”) and is executive-produced by Baker, Vaupen and Dan Staley (“Cheers,” “Love & Money”). It is a production of It’s A Laugh Productions, Inc.
“Frenemies” (movie)
This Disney Channel Original Movie is an anthology that follows three pairs of friends as they navigate the delicate balance when besties go to worsties, and back again. It is slated for a 2012 premiere. Written by Dava Savel, Wendy Weiner, Jim Krieg and to be directed by Daisy Mayer, the movie’s producers are Les Morgenstein and Bob Levy. It is a production of Alloy Entertainment.
“Geek Charming” (movie)
Sarah Hyland (“Modern Family”) and Matt Prokop (“High School Musical 3: Senior Year”) star in this Disney Channel Original Movie, a coming-of-age tale that explores the dynamics of high school popularity and its social hierarchy. Based on the popular young adult novel by Robin Palmer, the movie was written by Elizabeth Hackett and Hilary Galanoy and will be directed by Jeffrey Hornaday (choreographer of “A Chorus Line,” “Flashdance”). The executive producers are David Hoberman and Todd Lieberman (both of “The Muppets,” “The Fighter,” “The Proposal”) and Paul Shapiro (“Detroit 1-8-7”). It is a production of Mandeville Films and Television.
Disney XD
“Kickin’ It” (new series)
In this live action comedy, the owner of the struggling Bobby Wasabi Martial Arts Academy, the worst dojo in the nationwide chain of underperforming dojos, recruits a hotshot skateboarder to teach his students, a ragtag group of neighborhood kids, about life, karate and how to just plain kick it. Starring are Jason Earles (“Hannah Montana”), Leo Howard (“Leo Little’s Big Show”), Mateo Arias, Dylan Riley Snyder (Disney’s “Tarzan” on Broadway), Alex Jones and Olivia Holt. The series was created by Jim O’Doherty (“3rd Rock from the Sun”), who also executive-produces it with Marc Warren (“That’s So Raven”). It is from It’s A Laugh Productions, Inc.
“Ultimate Spider-Man” (new animated series)
The centerpiece of an upcoming Marvel programming block on Disney XD, this animated series from Marvel follows Peter Parker who, as the storyline begins, has been Spider-Man for just one year. He’s fought villains, saved lives, but still has much to learn about being a super-hero. Now, Nick Fury gives Peter the chance to go to the next level — to train to be a real super-hero and become The Ultimate Spider-Man. But before he can do that, Peter will have to learn how to work with a team of fellow teenage super-heroes. The series’ award-winning creative team includes Paul Dini (“Batman: The Animated Series,” “Lost”), the creative powerhouse Man of Action Studios (creators of “Ben 10” and “Generator Rex”), comprised of lauded creators Joe Casey, Joe Kelly, Duncan Rouleau and Steven T. Seagle; and Brian Michael Bendis (visionary behind Marvel’s Ultimate Spider-Man comic series).
“Motorcity” (new animated series)
This animated series is set in a futuristic Detroit owned by evil billionaire Abraham Kane. Having banned personal freedoms including automobile transportation, Kane now faces one last obstacle, a group of hot-rod wielding rebels who call themselves The Burners. Led by Mike Chilton, The Burners rise to stop Kane from conquering Detroit’s last oasis of freedom – an underground refuge dubbed Motorcity. The series, created by Chris Prynoski and produced by Disney Television Animation and Titmouse, Inc., is slated to premiere in winter 2012 on Disney XD. The voice cast is Reid Scott, Nate Torrence, Kate Micucci, Kel Mitchell, Jess Harnell, Brian Doyle Murray, Jim Breuer and Mark Hamill. It is executive produced and directed by Chris Prynoski (“Metalocalypse,” “Megas XLR,” “Downtown”). Craig Lewis (“Foster’s Home For Imaginary Friends”) is the story editor and John O’Bryan (“Avatar: The Last Airbender”) and George Krstic (“Star Wars: Clone Wars”) are staff writers.
“Tron: Uprising” (new animated series)
This visually stunning series, scheduled to premiere in fall 2012 on Disney XD, focuses on an era of the “TRON” storyline that transpires after the 1982 feature film and before the story in “TRON: Legacy.” Its impressive list of artists, animators, directors, producers and digital technicians includes executive producer/director Charlie Bean (“Robotboy,” “Samurai Jack,” and “Powerpuff Girls”), and consulting producers Edward Kitsis, Adam Horowitz (both screenwriters of “TRON: Legacy” / executive producers of “Lost”) and Justin Springer (co-producer of “TRON: Legacy”). The series will be preceded by a 10-part “TRON” micro-series launching in winter 2012 on Disney XD. The voice cast includes Elijah Wood, Emmanuelle Chriqui, Mandy Moore, Nate Corddry, Lance Henriksen, Paul Reubens, Reginald VelJohnson and Bruce Boxleitner.
“Pair of Kings” (returning series)
Buoyed by strong ratings, the series has been renewed for a second season and continues to deliver what kids and especially boys want – fresh relatable storytelling, outrageous adventure and creatively written physical comedy. Starring Mitchel Musso and Doc Shaw, it premiered in September and was Disney XD’s #1 series in 2010 across all key kid and boy demos — including Kids 6-14 and Boys 6-14 — and ranked #2 in Total Viewers behind “Phineas and Ferb,” at least doubling the year-ago time period in core demos.
“Kick Buttowski – Suburban Daredevil” (returning series)
The hit animated series premieres its second season in April, a season filled with notable guest stars including NBA star Dwight Howard (Orlando Magic), Tony Hawk, Ed O’Neill (“Modern Family”), Will Forte (“Saturday Night Live”), Rico Rodriguez (“Modern Family”), legendary entertainer Debbie Reynolds and Jay Harris (ESPN’s “SportsCenter”). The series stars Charlie Schlatter, Matt L. Jones, Danny Cooksey, John DiMaggio and Eric Christian Olsen. Recurring are Henry Winkler, Emily Osment, Simon Helberg and Alyssa Milano. Created and executive-produced by Sandro Corsaro and produced and directed by Chris Savino, the series is a production of Disney Television Animation.
Disney Junior
“Doc McStuffins” (new animated series)
The doctor is in… and she will launch the 24-hour Disney Junior channel in 2012. “Doc McStuffins” is an imaginative animated series about six-year-old Dottie “Doc” McStuffins, who communicates with and heals stuffed animals and toys out of her backyard clinic. The series will highlight the importance of taking care of oneself and others, while showcasing the hallmarks of great Disney storytelling – fantasy and wish fulfillment. The Hollywood Health & Society division of the USC Annenberg Norman Lear Center will serve as the health and medical consultant for the series, advising on core health issues that are relevant to young kids and families. Emmy Award-winning writer Chris Nee (“Little Bill”) is the creator and executive producer and Emmy Award-winning Norton Virgien (“Rugrats”) is the director. “Doc McStuffins” is a production of the Dublin, Ireland-based Academy Award-nominated animation studio Brown Bag Films (“Granny O’Grimm,” “Give Up Yer Aul Sins”) in association with Disney Channel.
“Oki’s Oasis” (new animated series)
The first animated western for preschoolers, “Oki’s Oasis” stars Mandy Moore (Disney’s “Tangled”) as the voice of Oki, a kitty cat sheriff in the town of Nice and Friendly Corners, the friendliest town in the West. With the help of her deputy woodpecker, Peck, Oki makes sure the town stays “nice and friendly” and when trouble comes a-calling, she makes sure it doesn’t stay long. The series imparts social skills and lessons on the value of being a “good neighbor.” Produced by George Evelyn and Denis Morella, it is a production of Wildbrain Entertainment.
“Sofia the First” (new animated special and series pilot)
“Sofia the First,” a full length animated special and series pilot, set in the storybook world of the classic Disney Princesses, introduces Sofia, a little girl with a commoner’s background until her mom marries the King and suddenly she is royalty. Sofia is whisked off to the castle, where she learns what it means to be a real princess, discovering empowering lessons about kindness, forgiveness, generosity, courage and self-respect. With the help of the three familiar fairies in charge of the Royal Training Academy – Flora, Fauna and Merryweather of Disney’s classic “Sleeping Beauty” – Sofia learns that looking like a princess isn’t all that hard, but behaving like one must come from the heart. The writer is Craig Gerber (“The Pixie Hollow Games”) and the executive producer/director is Jamie Mitchell (“Special Agent Oso”). It is a production of Disney Television Animation.
“7D” (new animated series pilot)
Creators, including Walt Disney himself, have long been inspired to access classic folk and fairy tales… reimagining, reinterpreting and reinventing them for new generations. The animated series pilot “7D” takes a new creative approach to the beloved Brothers Grimm tale of “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,” reimagining it in a comic and contemporary storybook world. The new music-filled stories introduce the whimsical world of Jollywood, where the kind-hearted Queen Delightful calls upon the 7D – Happy, Bashful, Sleepy, Sneezy, Dopey, Grumpy and Doc – for assistance. Emmy Award-winning Tom Ruegger (“Animaniacs”) directs the pilot written by Craig Shemin (“Tasty Time with ZeFronk”) with character design by Noah Z. Jones (“Fish Hooks”). It is a production of Disney Television Animation.
“Minnie Bow-Toons” (new animated short form series)
This new short form series was inspired by a popular episode of “Mickey Mouse Clubhouse” that focuses on Mickey’s #1 gal, Minnie Mouse, and her friend Daisy Duck and is set in Minnie’s Bow-Tique (which stocks only bows and bow-ties). Scheduled for a 2011 premiere, it will be followed soon thereafter by a full-length series that takes place at Minnie’s Bow-tique Hotel and follows the comedic happenings as some familiar guests, including the Hippo from “Fantasia,” check in. On any given day, Minnie acts as hostess, party planner, chef, fashion consultant, riding instructor or tour guide, with Daisy taking on the role of a very chatty front desk clerk. Clarabelle is a cow of all trades, taking on a number of jobs – bellhop, maintenance worker, pool attendant, juice bar attendant and room service waitress – all for which she is completely ill-suited. “Minnie’s Bow-Toons” is produced by Kate Boutilier and Eryk Casemiro (“Olivia”) and directed by Robert Ramirez (“Can You Teach My Alligator Manners?”). It is a production of Disney Television Animation.
“Jake and the Never Land Pirates” (animated series)
A second season pick-up was announced for “Jake and the Never Land Pirates,” following its remarkable premiere to record-setting ratings on Disney Channel. It is the #1 series on TV among both Kids 2-5 and Boys 2-5 2011 to date, and is posting significant year-to-year time period growth with Kids 2-5 (+40%), Boys 2-5 (+60%), Girls 2-5 (+19%), and notably with Women 18-49 (+36%) and Total Viewers (+37%). The animated adventure introduces a crew of kid pirates – leader Jake and pals Izzy and Cubby – and follows their Never Land adventures as they work to outwit two infamous characters, the one and only Captain Hook and Smee, from Disney’s classic “Peter Pan.” The learning-focused series emphasizes teamwork and features original pirate rock music performed by The Never Land Pirate Band. The executive producer is Rob LaDuca (“Mickey Mouse Clubhouse”) and producer/story editor is Mark Seidenberg. Kelly Ward is the voice director and Howy Parkins is the director. It is a production of Disney Television Animation.
It started as a way for me to rant about the crazy stuff I saw parents doing to their kids in the name of “fun”. Then I started including some awesome stuff I saw parents and kids enjoying together. Now, I mostly re-post my Chip and Co articles until Crew season is over (I coach rowing, it takes up all my time.).
Favorite Disney Website other than Chip and Company?
Innermouse (I’m NDW #61!!)
What % of your clothes and house is decorated with Disney Gear?
I’d say half of it. Easily half. At the very least.
Chip or Dale?
Chip. Dale is too goofy. And not that Goofy is a bad thing, but still.
About the Parks:
What’s you Favorite Disney Park?
Epcot. Pshaw.
How many Times have you been to the Disney Parks?
Minimum average is now up to about 6xs annually since I was 3. So, easily more than 100.
What’s your First Disney Memory?
I was at Epcot Center on opening day, way back in 1982. There were all sorts of festivities, and pins and smiles. It was the first time I had ever seen “Jumping water” and cavemen blowing on their feet and a huge golfball called “Spaceship Earth”. I was hooked and still am!
What is your favorite Ride, Show, and Event?
Ride: Toss-up between Soarin’ and Spaceship Earth.
Show: Mainstreet Electrical Light Parade or Candlelight Processional
Event: FOOD AND WINE FESTIVAL!!!!
Where is your favorite place to get your grub on?
Food and Wine Fest, but if you’re asking me for faves: 50’s Prime-time, Liberty Tree, Rose & Crown and Yak & Yeti.
What’s your favorite snack?
Cinnamon Glazed Almonds, Napoleons and Dole Whips.
You have the whole park to yourself tell us what park it would be and plan of attack?
To myself? That’s no fun. I like people watching as much as I do the rides.
Least Favorite Disney Ride or Attractions?
The “Under New Management” Tiki Room, Nemo and Friends version of “The Living Seas”.
Whats missing from the Parks?
A new one. I’m still waiting for my call from someone in Show Writing at Imagineering. I’ll let you know how that goes.
Which thing do you wish Disney would bring back?
Horizons, World of Motion, Kitchen Cabaret, People that give a crap about the Disney Brand. There are only so many Cast Members that can work at The Haunted Mansion.
What do you bring to the park with you?
My wallet, Key, Sunscreen, Gum and iPhone.
Do you fly, drive or take a Magic Carpet to the Disney Parks?
Drive
What’s your most and least favorite Disney character and why?
Most: Tigger. Least: Donald. (He’s got some major anger management issues.)
Dining Plan, OOP, or Bring Food with you?
Combination of Dining Plan and Bringing Food. (We bring breakfast items and snacks for the resort.)
To ADR or Not to ADR?
Always make reservations ahead of schedule. It’s the only way we do things.
Events at the park that cost extra: good idea or should be included with park admission?
I could play devil’s advocate, but my greedy side says that it should be included and my Disney side says that a good time should be part of any holiday regardless of a family’s budget.
When is your next trip to WDW or DL?
March 25th!!!
Everything Else Disney:
What is your favorite Disney Movie?
Live action: Mary Poppins, Swiss Family Robinson or Bed knobs and Broomsticks. Animated: Donald in Mathmagic Land, Fantasia/ Fantasia 2000, Up.
Do you do any Disney Collections?
Snow Globes, until my mom kinda accidentally broke most of them. So now, vintage T’s.
Have you been on a Disney Cruise or Adventures by Disney?
Not yet.
Ever been to DLRP or TDL?
Nope. Again, not yet.
Finally what does Disney Mean to you?
It is the place where my family came together for most all of our holidays. Disney created the songs that I hum while driving in rush-hour, coaching my athletes, teaching my students. It is the place that I first went with my grand-dah and it is one of the only memories I have of him. It’s how I learned that kindness is universal and that everyone has a dream for a better tomorrow. I’ve seen kids and adults alike share in the wonder of the parks and the merriment of the environment. Disney allows me to hope, dream, wonder and create. 😀
You might remember these guys from Shaun of the Dead, one of my absolute favorite movies of all time. Simon Pegg and Nick Frost act out one of the first scenes from Star Wars as C3P0 and R2D2. HILARIOUS!
If you are a Disney Foodie fanatic then you must try Ohana (meaning Family) for Dinner-an all you can eat restaurant. Ohana is located on the 2nd floor of the Polynesian Resort at WDW. They open for dinner at 5pm and ADR are a must. We had reservations for 11 people at 5:05pm (which is a great time! No waiting) our server immediately brought coconut bread to our table and took our drink orders. Of course I had to try the drink that came in the pineapple (which I did not know the name at the time) it is called Lapu Lapu-a very strong drink but ohhh so good! Here is my brother trying it out.
Your start out your dinner with a mixed greens salad with honey-lime dressing. For appetizers you receive Pork Dumplings and chicken wings. Your side items for your meal are vegetables and noodles. Out comes the main course, meat, meat and more meat! Barbequed Pork Loin, Grilled Peel-n-Eat Shrimp, Sirloin Steak, and Grilled Turkey. Served with these meats are three dipping sauces, House-made Peanut, Chimichurri, and Pineapple Sweet-and-Sour. They are all served on skewers and put on your plate.
During dinner they have games and music for children. They have coconut races and music. They also call to the floor anyone celebrating birthdays, anniversaries and present them with leighs. This can be a bit loud but it really is a lot of fun.
For the finale, its dessert time. Your dessert is banana bread pudding and there is a lot of it. We had 4 children in our family and our server brought them ice cream with Mickey sprinkles.
Now my father is a diabetic and cannot have the banana bread pudding, we asked our server if there was another dessert that was sugar free. She smiled and said she would be right back. A few minutes later she came back with this.
All for one person! It was huge! My mother helped my father eat it and both said it was wonderful! The chef himself even came out and asked my parents if they enjoyed it. There was no extra charge for this either. Ohana and Disney could not have been more accommodating. I would have to say that Ohana is a must on your next Disney vacation! I know it is on ours. See you in July Ohana!
Ohana Restaurant Dinner Review
By: Jennifer Lanpheare
A special thank you to Jennifer for this guest review of Ohana. If you would like to review something at Disney just shoot me and email with your review and if I like it I will post it on the site. If you have your own blog be sure to include that in your signature at the bottom 🙂
Here’s part two of my chat with Tangled directors Byron Howard (Lilo & Stitch, Brother Bear) and Nathan Greno(Bolt, Prep & Landing). Enjoy!
What were three main challenges you faced making Tangled?
Nathan Greno: The schedule was terrible. Usually you have 4 to 5 years to make one of these films. We only had 2. It was crazy. Lucky for us, we were working with a very devoted, hard working, talented crew. We all worked around the clock. We worked through weekends and holidays. We all believed in this film. We basically did the impossible. The film looks like it took 5 years to make… and it only took 2!
2010 was really, according to many, a great year for animated movies… Were you a little bit disappointed when that movie wasn’t nominated for an Oscar. Especially this year, where many claimed that there should have been five nominees.
Byron Howard: Yes, we were initially very disappointed when TANGLED didn’t recieve an Oscar nomination for Best Animated Feature. However, the day before the Oscar announcements we had shown the film at the Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children in London, and the reaction from those kids and their parents is worth more to us than one million Oscars.
Seven years of research went into the creation of Rapunzel’s hair. Were you satisfied with the final result?
Nathan Greno: Without a doubt, YES! The hair looks amazing. You’ve never seen anything like it in any animated film. It’s just incredible. I have no idea how our tech crew made that hair work. I know it was a nightmare to figure out. I couldn’t be more proud of the results and of our team. They did a great job.
Do you know how many layers of animation were involved to create Rapunzel’s hair?
Byron Howard: Rapunzel’s amazing head of hair has over 100,000 strands.
How was working on Tangled different to working on Bolt?
Nathan Greno: For Bolt I oversaw the story department. I worked with a team of artists – we came up with story and character ideas and sent them on to the next department. On Tangled, I am one of the directors. I now get to follow those story ideas through the creative process. I love my job. I still get to storyboard from time to time… I’d never want to give that up.
Family plays a very strong role in this film. What prompted you to explore the mother/daughter dynamic through the character of Rapunzel?
Byron Howard: Nathan and I were fascinated by this bizarre relationship that Gothel had created between herself and this kidnapped girl. To try to find out more about mother/daughter relationships, we asked a bunch of women from our studio to stay after one evening to have a chat about their relationships with their mothers. It turned into a therapy session! We were amazed at how brutal some of the things that their mothers would say to these women, but it was always coming from a place of “I know what’s best for you” or “I’m trying to keep you safe”. This push/pull that happens between parents and children is a rich, rich area to explore with classic tales like this.
Do you think that home viewers will miss out on some of the delights of seeing “Tangled” on the big screen with all the bells and whistles?
Byron Howard: The Blu-Ray looks extraordinary, so beauty-wise, I think the experience will echo the theater experience nicely. I do think there will always be something about viewing a film in an audience, hearing people all around you laugh, cry, and react to the story playing out in front of you. It’s a social, human thing that I don’t think will ever go away completely.
Why do you think it’s easier for some to look at stylized characters like the ones in “Tangled” instead of the motion capture ones like in “Polar Express?”
Nathan Greno: I personally enjoy the more stylized design because it’s not reality… if done well, it’s better than reality. You have more control over the appeal of the characters. I see the real world everyday, it’s fun to watch a movie and be taken on a journey that feels believable… but isn’t real. It’s all a matter of taste, but I really like stylized characters better. It’s just more fun.
How did you arrive at 70 feet of hair for Rapunzel? Is that length something that you guys settled on after some visual tests? Or is that how long someone’s hair would get if they didn’t actually cut it for 18 years?
Byron Howard: Actually, seventy feet is how long the hair had to be to reach the bottom of the tower. It was that simple. That said, there are times in the film where we add or subtract a little length depending on the needs of the scene.
Are there any hidden nods to other films included in Tangled that you can tell us to look out for?
Byron Howard: Look for Pinocchio hidden in the pub and in Rapunzel’s tower, each newell post on her staircase is painted with the symbol of Disney’s previous five princesses.
What advice do you have for kids who dream on one day directing?
Nathan Greno: Go for it! I grew up in a small, factory town in Wisconsin. It took a long time to get where I am, but I worked very hard and my dream came true. It’s possible to do whatever you want in life if you work hard enough.
At what age did you decide you’d like to work with Disney?
Nathan Greno: I was in 1st grade! That was a looong time ago…
The scene in the gondolas is a show-stopper. Where did the idea of the lanterns come from?
Byron Howard: The idea for the lantern scene came from John Ripa, one of our story artists. We needed something that Rapunzel could see from miles away, locked up in her tower, that would draw her out to the kingdom. We thought “Fireworks?” But that didn’t seem quite right. Then John mentioned this lantern ceremony that they do in Indonesia. We brought it up on YouTube and that was it, we knew that had to be in the movie. It’s perfect for CG as well, because we can actually create thirty to forty thousand of these beautiful things for the audience to marvel at.
How were you, as a storyboard director, considered as another director for Tangled?
Nathan Greno: John Lasseter asked me to direct the BOLT DVD short film. Byron helped me on that short — there were departments I never worked in before and Byron showed me the ropes. Lasseter really liked the job I did on the short and asked if I would like to direct a Rapunzel film for the studio. Yes! Of course! He asked if I would like to direct with anyone or by myself. I asked for Byron. Byron said yes… and today we have Tangled!
How was directing this feature with another director beside you? Were there any difficulties or is it a normal occurrence?
Byron Howard: I really prefer directing as part of a team. Nathan and I have very good chemistry together and we are constantly pushing each other to make sure the film is as good as it can be. The thing that saves us from any huge disagreements is our shared philosophy that whatever is best for the story, wins.
“Hi everyone, thanks for the tons of questions! We are trying to get to as many as we can in the next 20 minutes. To help that along we will stop receiving new questions now and work to answer the ones already submitted.”
Why do you think you were able to get boys interested in a “Disney Princess” film?
Nathan Greno: Mostly because I don’t feel we made a “princess film”. Honestly, I feel we made a movie that has princess elements in it — but I wouldn’t call it a princess film. Tangled has a ton of action, a ton of humor, a ton of heart and emotion. It’s a film for everyone. Yes, we have a princess… but she doesn’t know she’s a princess. It was easy to get boys interested in the movie because we made a movie for everyone to enjoy.
Other than Tangled, what is your favorite Disney movie?
Nathan Greno: I love Dumbo! Best. Film. Ever.
What were three main challenges you faced making Tangled?
Byron Howard: 1. The schedule 2. The schedule 3. The schedule. Honestly, the film was challenging in a hundred ways, but the fact that we had to make this film in half the time of other features was the real bear. Happily, the film looks more amazing than we could’ve ever hoped for, but our poor crew really took a beating trying to hit those deadlines with Nathan and myself being so slavish to quality. We love our crew, and the fact that their work has made such a splash in the world really justifies all their hard work and sacrifice.
Did you get much sleep throughout the making of Tangled?
Nathan Greno: Zzzzzzz… what? Sorry. I missed the question…
Was there a character that was initially in the story, but was removed because they no longer fit within the story?
Byron Howard: We had a fortune-telling monkey that was very popular, but eventually we found that he wasn’t part of where the story needed to go. You can see a hint of him in the end credits.
Do you think you and Byron will become a directing duo from now on?
Nathan Greno: We already pitched new ideas to our boss, John Lasseter and we are currently working as a team developing one of those ideas into a feature film. So… YES!
Who thought up Flynn’s “smoulder” face? Was it based on anyone in particular?
Byron Howard: The smoulder is based on my directing buddy, Nathan. He has a way with the ladies.
Nine versions of Rapunzel were created before you settled on the final version. What were some of the other versions like?
Nathan Greno: Really? Nine? The idea of a Rapunzel movie has been around the Disney Animation Studio since the 1930’s… I bet there has been more than nine.
Who came up with the idea of the Rapunzel emotional whipsaw scene, where she’s jubilant to be out of her tower one moment and in tears because she’s betraying her mother’s trust the next. As any parent of a daughter will tell you, that moment in the movie such Rapunzel such a real. relateable character. So who came up with that story concept?
Byron Howard: That scene was storyboarded by story artist Marc Smith. That was one of the earliest scene we boarded in the film and it held fast as one of the key moments for the audience to connect with this young woman. Many people have commented on how true-to life that scene is.
What is your favorite song in Tangled?
Nathan Greno: I really love them all. I guess if I had to pick one… I would go with the pub song “I’ve Got a Dream”. It’s just silly and fun and crazy. It’s always wild to watch.
There’s some concept art in “The Art of Tangled” that shows Rapunzel’s love interest as more of a muscular commoner / farm boy, rather than a handsome rogue like Flynn Rider. Was this story idea seriously explored? Or just something that was considered?
Byron Howard: The burlier leading man was from a previous version of the movie. Nathan and I knew we wanted a dashing thief from the get-go, so Flynn, as you see him in the movie, evolved from that idea. And also from the “Hot Man Meeting” where we asked dozens of women at the studio to bring in pictures of their favorite hunky men to help us design Flynn. Being a guy in that meeting was brutal. Those ladies have high standards!
What was your favorite animated film growing up, has it inspired you up and until today?
Byron Howard: The animated film that made me want to be an animator was THE LITTLE MERMAID. Ariel was the first Disney heroine I had ever seen where there seemed to be a real soul behind those eyes. As soon as I saw that film, I knew I wanted to be a part of Disney Animation. Little did I know that I’d wind up working on TANGLED with Ariel’s creator, legendary animator Glen Keane. Life’s good.
Ariel & Rapunzel Concept Art
How was the did the idea for “hot man” meetings come up?
Nathan Greno: We had a great design for Rapunzel. She was super cute and incredibly appealing. We needed Flynn to be up to that level, so we had this crazy idea to bring all of the women of the studio into a room and ask them what they thought made up a “hot man”. It was a crazy meeting. Crazy. Photos of all the hottest men in Hollywood being thrown around a room. Photos being torn in half and pasted back together. Eyes were ripped from one picture and put on another. Heads were torn from photos. I’ve never seen anything like it. I’m happy to be alive.
In what way was Rapunzel inspired by Ariel in The Little Mermaid?
Byron Howard: I think Rapunzel is like Ariel in that they come across as very real young women. That was very important to us for Rapunzel, because the more you can relate and identify with these characters, the greater your emotional response will be to the journey that they take on screen.
Was Flynn’s facial hair based off your own?
Nathan Greno: It was in my contract… one of the Tangled characters had to have my facial hair.
Had you two ever worked together on a film before? You two seem to work very well together.
Nathan Greno: We fight all the time when the cameras are off. Nah. We get along really well. It’s hard to find someone you can work with everyday. I guess we got lucky.
How do you think Tangled has changed the future of Disney films?
Byron Howard: I think that TANGLED proves that this studio can make smart, contemporary films that still retain everything that the audience loves about traditional Disney filmmaking. The slate of upcoming projects coming up from our studio excites me because they’re not what you would expect. It’s a great time to be a part of this studio.
What is your favorite song in Tangled?
Byron Howard: Mine personally, is “I See the Light”. The moment we heard Alan Menken’s demo we knew that one would be a classic.
Were there any traits in Rapunzel that were directly from Mandy Moore such as her being barefoot constantly, or the short brown hair at the end of the film?
Byron Howard: Mandy and Rapunzel definitely have similarities. They’re both incredibly smart, funny, artistic young women, and unbeknownst to us, Mandy jumps out of airplanes! Just like Rapunzel leaps off cliffs and swings from the rafters. Adventurous young women as well.
How involved is John Lasseter during the whole process?
Nathan Greno: John has to approve everything we do and that guy only wants the best. It’s amazing working with him. I’ve learned a lot from John. He lets you get your vision of the film up on the screen… and he brings out the best in you and your work. What could be better?
What advice would you give to people who want to break into the entertainment industry?
Byron Howard: Do what you love and do it with passion. Passionate people really push every industry ahead, including animation.
Did you get much sleep throughout the making of Tangled?
Byron Howard: Nope.
BOTH: How long did you need to prep for the roles of Thug #1 and #2 and Guard #1 and #2
Nathan Greno: It takes YEARS of practice to pull off roles like “Thug #1” and “Guard #1”. Kids, please don’t try that at home.
Do you know how many layers of animation were involved to create Rapunzel’s hair?
Byron Howard: Rapunzel’s amazing head of hair has over 100,000 strands.
What were three main challenges you faced making Tangled?
Nathan Greno: The schedule was terrible. Usually you have 4 to 5 years to make one of these films. We only had 2. It was crazy. Lucky for us, we were working with a very devoted, hard working, talented crew. We all worked around the clock. We worked through weekends and holidays. We all believed in this film. We basically did the impossible. The film looks like it took 5 years to make… and it only took 2!
2010 was really, according to many, a great year for animated movies… Were you a little bit disappointed when that movie wasn’t nominated for an Oscar. Especially this year, where many claimed that there should have been five nominees.
Byron Howard: Yes, we were initially very disappointed when TANGLED didn’t recieve an Oscar nomination for Best Animated Feature. However, the day before the Oscar announcements we had shown the film at the Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children in London, and the reaction from those kids and their parents is worth more to us than one million Oscars.
Seven years of research went into the creation of Rapunzel’s hair. Were you satisfied with the final result?
Nathan Greno: Without a doubt, YES! The hair looks amazing. You’ve never seen anything like it in any animated film. It’s just incredible. I have no idea how our tech crew made that hair work. I know it was a nightmare to figure out. I couldn’t be more proud of the results and of our team. They did a great job.
How was working on Tangled different to working on Bolt?
Nathan Greno: For Bolt I oversaw the story department. I worked with a team of artists – we came up with story and character ideas and sent them on to the next department. On Tangled, I am one of the directors. I now get to follow those story ideas through the creative process. I love my job. I still get to storyboard from time to time… I’d never want to give that up.
Family plays a very strong role in this film. What prompted you to explore the mother/daughter dynamic through the character of Rapunzel?
Byron Howard: Nathan and I were fascinated by this bizarre relationship that Gothel had created between herself and this kidnapped girl. To try to find out more about mother/daughter relationships, we asked a bunch of women from our studio to stay after one evening to have a chat about their relationships with their mothers. It turned into a therapy session! We were amazed at how brutal some of the things that their mothers would say to these women, but it was always coming from a place of “I know what’s best for you” or “I’m trying to keep you safe”. This push/pull that happens between parents and children is a rich, rich area to explore with classic tales like this.
Do you think that home viewers will miss out on some of the delights of seeing “Tangled” on the big screen with all the bells and whistles?
Byron Howard: The Blu-Ray looks extraordinary, so beauty-wise, I think the experience will echo the theater experience nicely. I do think there will always be something about viewing a film in an audience, hearing people all around you laugh, cry, and react to the story playing out in front of you. It’s a social, human thing that I don’t think will ever go away completely.
Why do you think it’s easier for some to look at stylized characters like the ones in “Tangled” instead of the motion capture ones like in “Polar Express?”
Nathan Greno: I personally enjoy the more stylized design because it’s not reality… if done well, it’s better than reality. You have more control over the appeal of the characters. I see the real world everyday, it’s fun to watch a movie and be taken on a journey that feels believable… but isn’t real. It’s all a matter of taste, but I really like stylized characters better. It’s just more fun.
How did you arrive at 70 feet of hair for Rapunzel? Is that length something that you guys settled on after some visual tests? Or is that how long someone’s hair would get if they didn’t actually cut it for 18 years?
Byron Howard: Actually, seventy feet is how long the hair had to be to reach the bottom of the tower. It was that simple. That said, there are times in the film where we add or subtract a little length depending on the needs of the scene.
Are there any hidden nods to other films included in Tangled that you can tell us to look out for?
Byron Howard: Look for Pinocchio hidden in the pub and in Rapunzel’s tower, each newell post on her staircase is painted with the symbol of Disney’s previous five princesses.
What advice do you have for kids who dream on one day directing?
Nathan Greno: Go for it! I grew up in a small, factory town in Wisconsin. It took a long time to get where I am, but I worked very hard and my dream came true. It’s possible to do whatever you want in life if you work hard enough.
At what age did you decide you’d like to work with Disney?
Nathan Greno: I was in 1st grade! That was a looong time ago…
The scene in the gondolas is a show-stopper. Where did the idea of the lanterns come from?
Byron Howard: The idea for the lantern scene came from John Ripa, one of our story artists. We needed something that Rapunzel could see from miles away, locked up in her tower, that would draw her out to the kingdom. We thought “Fireworks?” But that didn’t seem quite right. Then John mentioned this lantern ceremony that they do in Indonesia. We brought it up on YouTube and that was it, we knew that had to be in the movie. It’s perfect for CG as well, because we can actually create thirty to forty thousand of these beautiful things for the audience to marvel at.
How were you, as a storyboard director, considered as another director for Tangled?
Nathan Greno: John Lasseter asked me to direct the BOLT DVD short film. Byron helped me on that short — there were departments I never worked in before and Byron showed me the ropes. Lasseter really liked the job I did on the short and asked if I would like to direct a Rapunzel film for the studio. Yes! Of course! He asked if I would like to direct with anyone or by myself. I asked for Byron. Byron said yes… and today we have Tangled!
How was directing this feature with another director beside you? Were there any difficulties or is it a normal occurrence?
Byron Howard: I really prefer directing as part of a team. Nathan and I have very good chemistry together and we are constantly pushing each other to make sure the film is as good as it can be. The thing that saves us from any huge disagreements is our shared philosophy that whatever is best for the story, wins.
“Hi everyone, thanks for the tons of questions! We are trying to get to as many as we can in the next 20 minutes. To help that along we will stop receiving new questions now and work to answer the ones already submitted.”
Why do you think you were able to get boys interested in a “Disney Princess” film?
Nathan Greno: Mostly because I don’t feel we made a “princess film”. Honestly, I feel we made a movie that has princess elements in it — but I wouldn’t call it a princess film. Tangled has a ton of action, a ton of humor, a ton of heart and emotion. It’s a film for everyone. Yes, we have a princess… but she doesn’t know she’s a princess. It was easy to get boys interested in the movie because we made a movie for everyone to enjoy.
Other than Tangled, what is your favorite Disney movie?
Nathan Greno: I love Dumbo! Best. Film. Ever.
What were three main challenges you faced making Tangled?
Byron Howard: 1. The schedule 2. The schedule 3. The schedule. Honestly, the film was challenging in a hundred ways, but the fact that we had to make this film in half the time of other features was the real bear. Happily, the film looks more amazing than we could’ve ever hoped for, but our poor crew really took a beating trying to hit those deadlines with Nathan and myself being so slavish to quality. We love our crew, and the fact that their work has made such a splash in the world really justifies all their hard work and sacrifice.
Did you get much sleep throughout the making of Tangled?
Nathan Greno: Zzzzzzz… what? Sorry. I missed the question…
Was there a character that was initially in the story, but was removed because they no longer fit within the story?
Byron Howard: We had a fortune-telling monkey that was very popular, but eventually we found that he wasn’t part of where the story needed to go. You can see a hint of him in the end credits.
Do you think you and Byron will become a directing duo from now on?
Nathan Greno: We already pitched new ideas to our boss, John Lasseter and we are currently working as a team developing one of those ideas into a feature film. So… YES!
Who thought up Flynn’s “smoulder” face? Was it based on anyone in particular?
Byron Howard: The smoulder is based on my directing buddy, Nathan. He has a way with the ladies.
Was Flynn’s facial hair based off your own?
Nathan Greno: It was in my contract… one of the Tangled characters had to have my facial hair.
Nine versions of Rapunzel were created before you settled on the final version. What were some of the other versions like?
Nathan Greno: Really? Nine? The idea of a Rapunzel movie has been around the Disney Animation Studio since the 1930’s… I bet there has been more than nine.
Who came up with the idea of the Rapunzel emotional whipsaw scene, where she’s jubilant to be out of her tower one moment and in tears because she’s betraying her mother’s trust the next. As any parent of a daughter will tell you, that moment in the movie such Rapunzel such a real. relateable character. So who came up with that story concept?
Byron Howard: That scene was storyboarded by story artist Marc Smith. That was one of the earliest scene we boarded in the film and it held fast as one of the key moments for the audience to connect with this young woman. Many people have commented on how true-to life that scene is.
What is your favorite song in Tangled?
Nathan Greno: I really love them all. I guess if I had to pick one… I would go with the pub song “I’ve Got a Dream”. It’s just silly and fun and crazy. It’s always wild to watch.
There’s some concept art in “The Art of Tangled” that shows Rapunzel’s love interest as more of a muscular commoner / farm boy, rather than a handsome rogue like Flynn Rider. Was this story idea seriously explored? Or just something that was considered?
Byron Howard: The burlier leading man was from a previous version of the movie. Nathan and I knew we wanted a dashing thief from the get-go, so Flynn, as you see him in the movie, evolved from that idea. And also from the “Hot Man Meeting” where we asked dozens of women at the studio to bring in pictures of their favorite hunky men to help us design Flynn. Being a guy in that meeting was brutal. Those ladies have high standards!
What was your favorite animated film growing up, has it inspired you up and until today?
Byron Howard: The animated film that made me want to be an animator was THE LITTLE MERMAID. Ariel was the first Disney heroine I had ever seen where there seemed to be a real soul behind those eyes. As soon as I saw that film, I knew I wanted to be a part of Disney Animation. Little did I know that I’d wind up working on TANGLED with Ariel’s creator, legendary animator Glen Keane. Life’s good.
How was the did the idea for “hot man” meetings come up?
Nathan Greno: We had a great design for Rapunzel. She was super cute and incredibly appealing. We needed Flynn to be up to that level, so we had this crazy idea to bring all of the women of the studio into a room and ask them what they thought made up a “hot man”. It was a crazy meeting. Crazy. Photos of all the hottest men in Hollywood being thrown around a room. Photos being torn in half and pasted back together. Eyes were ripped from one picture and put on another. Heads were torn from photos. I’ve never seen anything like it. I’m happy to be alive.
In what way was Rapunzel inspired by Ariel in The Little Mermaid?
Byron Howard: I think Rapunzel is like Ariel in that they come across as very real young women. That was very important to us for Rapunzel, because the more you can relate and identify with these characters, the greater your emotional response will be to the journey that they take on screen.
Had you two ever worked together on a film before? You two seem to work very well together.
Nathan Greno: We fight all the time when the cameras are off. Nah. We get along really well. It’s hard to find someone you can work with everyday. I guess we got lucky.
What is your favorite song in Tangled?
Byron Howard: Mine personally, is “I See the Light”. The moment we heard Alan Menken’s demo we knew that one would be a classic.
Were there any traits in Rapunzel that were directly from Mandy Moore such as her being barefoot constantly, or the short brown hair at the end of the film?
Byron Howard: Mandy and Rapunzel definitely have similarities. They’re both incredibly smart, funny, artistic young women, and unbeknownst to us, Mandy jumps out of airplanes! Just like Rapunzel leaps off cliffs and swings from the rafters. Adventurous young women as well.
How involved is John Lasseter during the whole process?
Nathan Greno: John has to approve everything we do and that guy only wants the best. It’s amazing working with him. I’ve learned a lot from John. He lets you get your vision of the film up on the screen… and he brings out the best in you and your work. What could be better?
What advice would you give to people who want to break into the entertainment industry?
Byron Howard: Do what you love and do it with passion. Passionate people really push every industry ahead, including animation.
Did you get much sleep throughout the making of Tangled?
Byron Howard: Nope.
BOTH: How long did you need to prep for the roles of Thug #1 and #2 and Guard #1 and #2
Nathan Greno: It takes YEARS of practice to pull off roles like “Thug #1” and “Guard #1”. Kids, please don’t try that at home.
How do you think Rapunzel stacks up against the long line of Disney princesses? And what do you think she’s brought to the table which is fresh or new?
Nathan Greno: Rapunzel is the most modern of all the Disney Princesses. She is full of GIRL POWER. We love that about her. She doesn’t wait around to be rescued. She takes matters into her own hands. She’s a fun, funny and silly girl. She’s very talented and smart. We wanted to make a role model for modern kids. We were really happy with the way she turned out.
Was Tangled always going to be Disney’s 50th animation film? Or, did it just come about like that?
Byron Howard: It was a big surprise to us that we were Disney Animation’s fiftieth animated feature. It added more pressure for sure, but we love that our film holds that important place in Disney history.
How do you think Tangled has changed the future of Disney films?
Byron Howard: I think that TANGLED proves that this studio can make smart, contemporary films that still retain everything that the audience loves about traditional Disney filmmaking. The slate of upcoming projects coming up from our studio excites me because they’re not what you would expect. It’s a great time to be a part of this studio.
Tangled, The Walt Disney Studios blockbuster animated feature that takes a modern twist on the famous hair-raising fable Rapunzel, debuts as the ultimate 4-Disc Disney Blu-ray Combo Pack (3D Blu-ray + Blu-ray + DVD + Digital Copy in a single package) on March 29, 2011.
I recently had the opportunity to chat with Tangled directors Byron Howard (Lilo & Stitch, Brother Bear) and Nathan Greno (Bolt, Prep & Landing).
Byron Howard grew up in the borough of Landsdowne, Penn. (near Phliadelphia), and moved with his family to the Seattle area when he was 10 years old. His innate love of art began as a child where he would fill reams of computer paper with characters and stories of his own creation. His love of storytelling and art matured into a sincere interest in filmmaking in high school, and he went on to study story telling through great literature and film at The Evergreen State College in Washington (where he earned a Bachelor ofArts degree).
Howard structured his education with advice from veteran Disney animators Frank Thomas and David Block, and he set out in 1990 for Florida where he first became ahost of the Animation Tour on “the other side” of the glass window at Disney-MGM Studios. His natural talent was soon noticed after acouple portfolio submissions, and by 1994 he’d completed his internship and joined Walt Disney Animation Studios as an inbetweener and clean-up artist on “Pocahontas.” He went on to become an animator on “Mulan,” and a supervising animator on “Lilo & Stitch,” ”John Henry” and “Brother Bear”; he also did character design on the latter three movies.
Soon after completing work on “Brother Bear,” Howard relocated to California. He worked as a story artist and character designer before finally becoming a director in 2006. Walt Disney Animation Studio’s 2008 release “Bolt” marked Howard’s debut as a feature animated film director. The film was nominated for an Academy Award® for Best Animated Feature Film.
Nathan Greno was born in Kenosha, Wisc., on the southwestern shores of Lake Michigan. As a child, he developed a love for drawing which quickly evolved into a passion for visual storytelling. Influenced by comic books and newspaper comic strips, he started filling tablets of paper full of sketches. Animation was quickly becoming his favorite form of visual storytelling, so at the ripe old age of 8 years old, he just knew he wanted to work for Disney.
Greno devoted himself to discovering all there was to know about the art of animation. He continued to create his own characters, crudely animating them in the pages of his school textbooks. In 1989, a family trip to Walt Disney World gave him his first real glimpse of animators at work. It was there that he watched the artists breathe life into their characters, and he was more determined than ever to continue on his path to joining the Disney family. He went on to attend the Columbus College of Art and Design in Columbus, Ohio.
In 1996, Greno’s portfolio was accepted by Walt Disney Animation Studios in Florida. His career started as a clean-up animation artist on “Mulan.”Having never lost his affinity for storytelling, he soon became obsessed with the storyboarding process at the studio. He realized that storyboarding was similar to the comic books and comic strips he grew up reading and creating.
Pursuing his new interest, Greno joined the story department in 1998. He was part of the story team on“John Henry” and “Brother Bear.” He relocated to California in 2003, where he continued to work in the story department and in a variety of other capacities. He served as a screenwriter, story artist and voice actor on “Meet the Robinsons” and was then promoted to head of story on “Bolt.” He also lent his voice talent to Dasher the Reindeer in Disney’s 2009 animated holiday special “Prep and Landing.”
Here’s part one of my chat with these two talented directors.
Congratulations on the film’s success. Have you given any thought to making a sequel?
Nathan Greno: We’d only do a sequel if there was a great story to tell. The movie buttons up really nicely… but we do love those characters… I guess we’ll have to wait and see. Again, we’d have to have a great story already in mind if we wanted to do a sequel…
Are you pleased with the film’s title change from “Rapunzel” to “Tangled”?
Byron Howard: When Nathan and I figured out that this film was really about two characters, Flynn and Rapunzel, we knew that changing the title would be a good idea. We like that TANGLED as a title sounds smart and intriguing, while also relating to the tangle of plot, characters and emotion in the film.
“Please be sure to select one of the talent before you submit your question. Thanks!”
Having worked in both mediums, what do you prefer about computer animation and what do you miss about traditional 2D animation?
Nathan Greno: I really love both 2D and 3D animation. 2D is really graphic and classic. 3D has amazing textures and cameras to play with. It all comes down to your story… some tales work best in 2D, some in 3D!
I loved the characters of Pascal and Maximus. Was there ever any discussion about giving them voices?
Byron Howard: Nathan and I are huge, HUGE fans of Buster Keaton and Charlie Chaplin, and we thought, “Wouldn’t it be great to have someone like that as a character in TANGLED?” Time and time again, people who have seen the film have said that they liked the fact that we kept them silent. Pantomime acting is a great challenge for our animators.
How early in the production process was it decided to make this a musical instead of a romantic comedy-adventure?
Byron Howard: We knew it could be both. Music can be more effective than the most brilliant dialogue at conveying emotion, so we were very excited to have someone as skilled as Alan Menken writing our songs and score. And just because it had songs didn’t mean that the film couldn’t be an action filled roller coaster ride. We like that.
BOTH: You have both worked on several films prior to Tangled. Please explain the process of transitioning into the role of director.
Nathan Greno: I came from the story department. I was drawing story boards for over a decade before I started directing. I was always at the start of the process, but now I get to follow the ideas all the way through to the finish frame. It’s an incredible process. I feel like I’ve become a much better artist. And I still get to storyboard… so I’m happy.
How do you feel about Tangled being the last of the Disney Princess films (for awhile anyway)?
Nathan Greno: I’ve heard that rumor. Not true! If we wanted to do a Princess movie as our next project, John Lasseter would be ok with that. There is a lot in development at Disney Animation… I wouldn’t rule out the idea of seeing another Princess movie!
How has the animation processed changed through the years you have been working on Disney films?
Byron Howard: When I first started at Disney animation, CG animation was really just a tiny blip on the radar. Lion King had just come out to huge success, and Disney had a long slate of traditionally animated films in production. I actually remember seeing some of the first scenes from Toy Story, when the Army Men leave Andy’s room to spy on the birthday party, and I was like “Wow. This is going to change things from now on.” Now CG is the expected route for animated films, and the scope of the stories get bigger and bigger with each release.
In both of your last two projects, you’ve had to take over for another director. Was that challenging for you?
Byron Howard: It’s very challenging to step in on a project after another director has put his stamp on it. We’ve learned that the best thing to do is to tear the existing film down to the foundation and start with as much of a clean slate as possible. In doing that you can find the core ideas that made the films appealing in the first place.
What was it like to become a director after having run the storyboards?
Nathan Greno: In the past I would pitch my storyboards and ideas and sometimes they would change by the time they hit the big screen. I didn’t always understand why. Now I can follow ideas through start to finish. They still change… but at least I now understand why they are changing!
What was it like working with Alan Menken?
Byron Howard: Alan Menken, and our lyricist Glenn Slater are two genuinely brilliant guys. In a few minutes on the piano, Alan can create a tune that you will remember for the rest of your life, and Glenn’s diverse talent shows from the hilarious pub song to the heartfelt ballad in the gondolas. We’re very honored to have worked with them both.
How important is music to an animated film?
Byron Howard: I think music is integral to all film. Every animated film shouldn’t be a musical, but songs, music or score can do so much to move an audience emotionally, and that’s a power we don’t take lightly. There are parts of TANGLED’s score that still make me tear up.
Did you always have Mandy Moore and Zachary Levi in mind for the roles?
Nathan Greno: In the very beginning, we try to create very appealing characters. We have friends around the studio do the temp voices for our early screenings. At some point (before animation begins) we begin the casting process. We saw hundreds of people for the role of Flynn and Rapunzel. Hundreds! It was crazy. It seemed that all of Hollywood wanted these parts. There were a lot of amazing auditions, but in the end Mandy and Zac totally nailed it. They were incredible. People are always surprsied to hear they didn’t record together because their characters are so charming on screen. Mandy and Zac were the perfect fit.
Did you have any real life locations in mind when designing the Kingdom and its surrounding environments?
Byron Howard: Yes. We take our research very seriously. Knowing that we wanted Rapunzel’s story to take place in central Europe (Austria/Hungary) we did exhaustive research into local architecture, artwork, even flora and fauna. Every tree you see in TANGLED’s forest actually grows in those regions of central Europe.
What prompted you to inlude Pascal, Rapunzel’s chameleon side kick, in the cast?
Byron Howard: Pascal came from the need to have someone for Rapunzel to talk to in that tower. We knew we needed that character, but we didn’t want to do the typical squirrel, chipmunk or bird that you see so often in these tales. We thought a lizard sounded like a quirky pet for a quirky young woman.
Can you talk a bit about the genesis and evolution of Tangled?
Nathan Greno: The idea of a Rapunzel story has been around the Disney Animation Studios since the 1930’s… it was on one of Walt’s early lists. It took a long time to bring this film to the screen. The problem is the original tale is a very small story. It takes place in a tower. A girl is waiting around to be rescued. It’s all very passive and small. We needed to blow up the scale of the film… turn it into a big event. We really tried to keep what worked in the original. The original icons of the classic story are all there… it’s just been updated for a modern audience.
How do you feel about Tangled being the last of the Disney Princess films (for awhile anyway)?
Byron Howard: Honestly, I’m very happy that Disney Animation’s upcoming slate includes vastly diverse projects. That keeps the studio healthy. And, believe it or not, that slate does still include some great fairy tales.
Is it me or did some of the animals seem smarter than Flynn?
Nathan Greno: Max and Pascal would agree with that.
At what point during the film making process did you know you had a hit?
Byron Howard: I don’t think you know anything about how a film’s going to do until it does it. It’s always our hope that these films will do well; we pour our hearts and souls into every frame, tear the story apart reaching for more emotion and more comedy, but ultimately, it’s up to the audience whether they fall in love with a film or not. We’re delighted that TANGLED has become so popular, it’s a great reward for all that work.
How did you two divide your directing tasks?
Nathan Greno: We mostly didn’t! We tried to stick together as much as we could. We are both better in different areas… but we like to be there in the same room to challege each other. We want to make all of our decisions the best they can be. We work best as a team. It brings us the best results on screen.
Her “mother” was also a very interest, and rather scary, character. Did you draw on past witches and femme fatales from Disney movies for inspiration?
Nathan Greno: Disney does villians better than anyone and we needed to live up to the classic villians of our past films. We think Gothel is mostly scary because she isn’t a witch. She doesn’t have “powers”, but she has a very evil mind. Evil minds actually exisit in the real world — I think that’s why she freaks people out!
I’ve noticed that you bear a slight resemblance to Flynn Rider. Is this simply coincidence or directorial influence perhaps…? In all seriousness though, having been a huge part of films like Tangled and Bolt means that your influence in these films will carry on to future generations of viewers. Does this knowledge play a part in the choices you make during the production of these films?
Byron Howard: We like to say that Flynn has my hair and Nathan’s strong chin and goatee. Flynn’s a handsome guy, so if anyone think we look like him, we’ll take it. The fact that these films can endure for generations is one of the reasons we work at DIsney. Last Halloween, a little girl showed up on Nathan’s doorstep dressed as Snow White. That film is over seventy years old, can you think of any other films that have that kind of longevity? It’s amazing. We really hope this version of the Rapunzel story becomes the definitive version for generations of movie fans.
What are you most proud of with Tangled?
Nathan Greno: The whole thing! Really. We worked hard to make sure it was all worth watching. The movie had to look great, the story had to be strong, the characters had to be fun and appealing. There’s so much action and emotion in the film… it’s really everything I wanted it to be. I’m most proud of the whole thing!
How important was for you to make sure that the lead in this movie were a strong woman, which goes a little bit against the stereotype of a fairy tale princess…
Byron Howard: We knew Rapunzel had to have a lot of girl power. She and Flynn are the engine that drives this story, and making her too prissy or passive would have been cheating our audience. We love that Rapunzel’s not perfect, she’s quirky, funny and real. She has a very bohemian quality about her, painting her walls and running around the forest with bare feet through the mud. Above all, she’s much more like a real person, strong, smart interesting and flawed.
How did each of you get your start in the entertainment industry? Was animation always you passion?
Nathan Greno: I wanted to work for Disney ever since I was a kid. I was always into creating my own comic strips and comic books. I loved to create my own worlds and characters. I loved storytelling. My mom started taking me to see the Disney films when I was a kid and I fell in love with them. Disney created better stories and better characters than anyone. I wanted to go there and learn. I was in first grade when I told my parents I wanted to work for Disney. I guess things do work out in life if you want something bad enough.
BOTH: You have both worked on several films prior to Tangled. please explain the process of transitioning into the role of Director.
Byron Howard: Being an animation director is an amazing job. We are surrounded by the most skilled artists, composers and craftsmen in the film business. Nathan and I start at the very beginning of a film when there’s only an idea and thousands of blank storyboards, through to the end when the film premieres in theaters all over the world. In working with so many brilliant people along the way, we both become better filmmakers ourselves. I love my job.
Will you be working together on another Disney animation project, in the future?
Nathan Greno: Yep. We couldn’t be happier with the results of Tangled… we felt like we had no choice but to do this again! We pitched a few ideas to John Lasseter and we are currently developing another film… stay tuned!
Which Disney princess is your favorite?
Nathan Greno: Rapunzel, baby!
What are you most proud of with Tangled?
Byron Howard: I think we’re most proud of our crew. Nathan and I asked the world of them during our hectic production schedule and they delivered the most beautiful film anyone could imagine. It’s a great reward for all six hundred crew members to see people around the world falling in love with their work.
Did you have the cast of actors and actresses for this movie already planned out – or did you go into this project with an open mind for talent?
Byron Howard: Our audition process for TANGLED was unbelieveably huge. Nathan and I saw over three hundred actresses for the Rapunzel role alone. The benefit to doing that thorough of a search is that when you finally find the right actress, as we did in Mandy Moore, you really know that she’s the one.
What artists did you consult for the look of the film? It looks pre-Raphaelite to me.
Nathan Greno: We actually looked at the classic Disney films of the 1940’s and 50’s! We wanted Tangled to sit on the shelf next to Alice in Wonderland, Dumbo, Peter Pan — all of those great movies, but we wanted it to be fresh and different and modern as well. By going after a classic Disney look/style… and creating that look in the computer… we thought we could find that balance.
Tangled, The Walt Disney Studios blockbuster animated feature that takes a modern twist on the famous hair-raising fable Rapunzel, debuts as the ultimate 4-Disc Disney Blu-ray Combo Pack (3D Blu-ray + Blu-ray + DVD + Digital Copy in a single package) on March 29, 2011.
Stay tuned for part two of my interview coming soon!
While planning our ADR’s for our October 2010 trip, I knew one thing was for sure, we were going to Le Cellier one way or another. Many Disney World enthusiasts suggested the restaurant and just by looking at the menu, I knew I had to try it out. The thing about Le Cellier is that their food is so awesome that it is hard to get a reservation! It is a highly sought after dining experience in Epcot, and really needs to be booked as early as possible so you can try them! You cannot just walk in this place, a reservation is a must!
will see why!), our son had an ice cream sundae topped his way, and our daughter got fruit salad. The chocolate moose was smooth and divine! The chocolate creaminess was so good it put a smile on our faces! My son was raving about the ice cream sundae and our daughter loves fruit, so she was a happy little girl!
