Moana Directors Not Involved With Disney’s Live-Action Remake
Dwayne Johnson charts a new course for Moana! Original directors John Musker and Ron Clements won’t be returning for the live-action remake, leaving the helm to a fresh crew.
“I hope that they do it well, but we have nothing to do with it,” Musker told the Spanish outlet El Pais.
Musker, a veteran Disney animator, is known for co-directing gems like The Little Mermaid (1989), Aladdin (1992), Hercules (1997), and The Princess and the Frog (2009). He took aim at Disney’s trend of remaking classic animated films in live-action. This criticism comes as Disney moves forward with a live-action Hercules, following their 2019 take on Aladdin by director Guy Ritchie, and whispers of a Moana remake.
“Companies are always like, ‘How do we reduce our risk? They like this, right? We’ll just do it again and sell it to them in a different form,'” Musker said. “Or they think, ‘Well, we could make it better.'”
Disney’s live-action Moana picks up the oar from the 2016 animated hit. Dwayne Johnson returns to wield the demigod Maui’s hook, this time in live-action. He also joins forces as a producer alongside Dany Garcia (Jungle Cruise), Hiram Garcia (Black Adam), Beau Flynn (Red Notice), and Auli’i Cravalho (Moana’s voice in the original film). While Cravalho won’t be stepping back into Moana’s shoes for the live-action version, she’ll lend her talents as an executive producer alongside Scott Sheldon.
Just like the original, the live-action Moana promises a vibrant celebration of Pacific Islander culture, traditions, and community, all seen through the eyes of a determined young woman. Prepare to be swept away once again by Moana’s journey of self-discovery and her heartwarming bond with the exiled Maui!
Closer Look at the All-New High Energy Alice in Wonderland Show at Disneyland Paris
Dive into a topsy-turvy reimagining of Disney’s Alice in Wonderland at Disneyland Paris! “Alice & the Queen of Hearts: Back to Wonderland” is a brand new, high-octane show tumbling through Walt Disney Studios Park from May 25th until September 29th, 2024.
This immersive theatrical adventure throws a wild card into the classic story, with a modern twist on the iconic croquet match between Alice and the temperamental Queen. Witness dazzling musical performances, gravity-defying aerial acrobatics, and heart-stopping BMX stunts unfold. You won’t just be a spectator – the grand finale might just depend on your cheers and energy!
Here are some exciting ways this awe-inspiring show was brought to life.
1. A Stage with Colors that “Pop”
The stage setting draws its creativity from the “pop art” movement with nods to many places Alice explores in the original world of “Alice in Wonderland.” These elements, inspired by pop and street art culture, bring a unique atmosphere with street murals, flashy colors and industrial elements to the resort’s largest stage measuring over 220 feet long, 80 feet deep and 50 feet high! Featuring 13 screens framing the center of the stage, it’s quite the immersive experience that puts you right into the action!
2. Oh Dear, New Music!
To bring the show to life, “Alice & the Queen of Hearts: Back to Wonderland” will feature five new original songs inspired by the melodies of the 1951 animated movie. The songs reflect the characters’ dueling personalities with Alice embodying a joyful pop style to match her cheerful personality and believing in your dreams. Whereas the Queen of Hearts personifies a classic rock-inspired world of her own and self-confidence!
During the show, characters like the Mad Hatter, the Caterpillar, the March Hare and the White Rabbit will sing along to help tell the reimagined story. Live musicians will also rally the audience to create an unforgettable musical atmosphere of catchy rhythms you can enjoy!
If you have keen ears, you may also hear some unique sounds incorporated into the music tracks such as special drum sets using heating oil tanks. These were made to sound like percussion instruments, adding to the industrial vibes and matching the modern style of the show!
3. They’re Mad…Mad Talented Performers!
The show features various types of exhilarating performances including acrobats that make use of seven trampolines on stage, including trampoline walls for aerial acrobatics. Some of the trampolines are even located at the foot of the bleachers to bring you closer to the action! While the acrobats perform, BMX riders will jump through the air and perform tricks across the stage to the sound of the music — it’s a one-of-a-kind experience!
4. This Team…No That Team
You’ll have the opportunity to influence the outcome of a show! During “Alice & the Queen of Hearts: Back to Wonderland,” there’ll be a moment where you can cheer as loud as possible to support your favorite team, whether it’s Team Alice or Team Queen of Hearts. This unique final scene will take audience opinion by measuring their enthusiasm to decide the ending of the show and which of the two characters should be celebrated during the grand finale!
5. Curiouser and Curiouser Costumes
The Disneyland Paris costume design teams called on the talents of Disneyland Paris’ couture workshop as well as the expertise of several local workshops to help costume designers bring their visions to life. Matching the pop style of the music Alice represents in the show, she received a pop star-inspired look, and the Queen of Hearts was paired with a glamorous outfit to better match the bold nature of her classic, rock-inspired music! The team also spent time creating twenty different modern costumes designs for performers of all disciplines, such as singers, dancers and musicians, that match the style of the décor on stage.
Disney Celebrates National Mint Julep Day with a Special Recipe
May 30th is National Mint Julep Day, and what better way to celebrate than with a taste of Disney magic?
Since the opening of the Mint Julep Bar in New Orleans Square at Disneyland in 1966, these refreshing cocktails have been a beloved park tradition. Today, both Walt Disney World and Disneyland offer a variety of twists on this classic beverage.
To join the festivities, we’re unlocking a special recipe from the Disney Recipe Vault: a Green Tea Berry Mint Julep! Get ready to create a refreshing summer drink with a Disney twist.
GREEN TEA BERRY MINT JULEP
EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival
Serves 1
MINT-INFUSED SIMPLE SYRUP
3/4 cup packed fresh mint leaves
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup water
GREEN TEA BERRY MINT JULEP
5 ounces water
1 green tea bag
1 ounce blackberry purée
1 1/2 ounces raspberry syrup
1/2 ounce reserved mint-infused simple syrup
1 ounce lime juice
Fresh berries
Mint leaves
FOR MINT-INFUSED SIMPLE SYRUP:
Wash and chop mint leaves.
Bring sugar, water, and mint leaves to a boil in a small saucepan, stirring until sugar dissolves.
Simmer for 2 minutes. Pour through fine-mesh sieve, pressing hard on leaves.
Cool to room temperature. Cover and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.
FOR GREEN TEA BERRY MINT JULEP:
Bring water to a boil, then cool for 1 minute. Pour into a heat-proof container.
Add tea bag and steep for 2 to 3 minutes; remove tea bag and cool tea.
Combine cooled tea in a shaker with blackberry purée, raspberry syrup, mint-infused simple syrup, and lime juice. Shake and strain over ice into a tall glass.
Garnish with fresh berries and mint.
Cook’s Note: Toss into a blender with ice for a delectable frozen julep. If you’re over the age of 21, add 1 1/4 ounces of Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey for an adult twist.
Here is a list of a few places to find non-alcoholic mint juleps as well as a few with alcohol for guests 21 and older at Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resort:
Disneyland Resort
Disneyland Park
Blue Bayou Restaurant
31 Royal Street Signature Julep (non-alcoholic)
Mint Julep (non-alcoholic)
Cafe Orleans
Bourbon Julep: Bourbon, citrus, and mint
Mint Julep (non-alcoholic)
Mint Julep Bar (Mobile order available)
Mango & Peach Mint Julep: Flavored with mango, topped with peach purée, and diced mango (non-alcoholic, available until August 23)
New Orleans Mint Julep: A refreshing mint drink with a hint of lime flavor (non-alcoholic)
Disney California Adventure Park
Magic Key Terrace (available to Magic Key holders only)
Mint Julep Cocktail: Old Forester bourbon, apricot liqueur, agave, lemon juice, and soda water garnished with a sprig of mint
Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa
Napa Rose
Mint Julep: Muddled fresh mint, lime juice, and ginger ale (non-alcoholic)
Downtown Disney District
Beignets Expressed
Frozen Mint Julep (non-alcoholic)
Jazz Kitchen Coastal Grill & Patio
Mint Julep: Bourbon, house-infused mint simple syrup, and fresh mint leaves
Walt Disney World Resort
Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa
Turf Club Bar and Grill and Turf Club Lounge
Mint Julep: Woodford Reserve Bourbon muddled with fresh mint and agave nectar
On the Rocks Pool Bar and The Paddock Grill
Frozen Mint Julep: Woodford Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon muddled with fresh mint and agave nectar
Seasonal Frozen Mint Julep: Woodford Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon muddled with fresh mint and agave nectar with raspberry purée
The teen, Layla Hildreth, has always been creative. However, she made her fairytale dreams come true this year by embodying Princess Tiana for prom at Shades Valley High School.
In the heart of Disney fairytales, Tiana, a princess with a determined spirit, strives to turn her dream of a grand restaurant into a reality, silencing whispers of doubt. Hildreth drew inspiration not only from Tiana’s look but her work ethic as well.
“When it was time to make my dress, I was like I want to be her, I want to keep going. I want to put in that work to get where I want to be,” Hildreth said.
Hildreth worked for five months to put the dress together. It is made of “10 yards of satin and then a lot of tulle.” The material for the dress cost around $300 but Hildreth said it was worth every penny. Her dress was a big hit at prom and she looked amazing in the green and gold gown.
A new episode of Walt Disney Imagineering’s “We Call It Imagineering” on YouTube revealed some of the classic Disney tunes the bears will be performing. Get ready to hear favorites like “A Whole New World” and “Try Everything” alongside the previously announced “Bear Necessities.”
A new video peeked inside the recording studio magic for the Country Bear Jamboree! Top Nashville talent is bringing some fresh tunes to life for the show. We even see a glimpse of a beloved bear (could that be Trixie?) belting out a song, but details on who’s singing what remain a mystery for now.
The Country Bear Musical Jamboree is a reimagining of the classic Frontierland attraction! Get ready for a new show with the beloved bear band at Magic Kingdom this summer.
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Exciting news for Inside Out fans! While the sequel doesn’t hit theaters until June 14th, you can already grab the new Inside Out 2 Happy Meal toys at McDonald’s. Get ready to see all your favorite emotions, along with some new ones, in toy form!
Gear up for some emotional fun with the new Inside Out 2 Happy Meal toys at McDonald’s! Featuring all your favorite characters from the original movie, plus some exciting new additions from the sequel, these toys are ready to take playtime by storm.
The new Inside Out 2 Happy Meal at McDonald’s goes beyond playtime! The toys transform into interactive launchers,and there are even downloadable activities and coloring sheets for extra fun. Each Happy Meal comes with a choice of a healthy entree, fries, a drink, and supports Ronald McDonald House Charities.
Will you be heading to McDonald’s to get some Inside Out 2 toys?
Areas of Disneyland will be Unavailable to Guests this Summer
Heads up, Disneyland fans! Be aware of some temporary closures this summer due to construction projects in New Orleans Square and Critter Country. Construction for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, the Haunted Mansion expansion, and the Critter Country refurbishment is still underway, impacting these areas.
While Critter Country’s main area has been closed for a reimagining of two shops since May 1st, hungry adventurers can still rejoice! The beloved Hungry Bear Restaurant has remained open throughout construction, offering a delicious pitstop for parkgoers. That will soon change, however.
More closures are coming starting July 8.
New Orleans Square: The bridge connecting to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge will be unavailable. Guests can still access the land through the Frontierland entrance. The Disneyland Railroad’s stop in this area will also be closed. Accessible boarding for the train is available in Mickey’s Toontown and Tomorrowland. Additionally, popcorn and churro carts might be temporarily relocated.
Critter Country: The Hungry Bear Restaurant will be closing for kitchen refurbishments. If you’re looking for a refreshing ride or a sweet treat, Davey Crockett’s Explorer Canoes and the Critter Country Fruit Cart will also be unavailable. Restrooms near Hungry Bear will be closed, with the nearest alternative being Black Spire Outpost in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.
No reopening date has been announced for those areas.
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Set Sail on Adventure with the New Mickey Mouse Jungle Cruise Figure by Jim Shore!
Calling all Disney adventurers! Embark on a captivating expedition with the arrival of the new Mickey Mouse Jungle Cruise Figure by Jim Shore, now available at the Disney Store. This exquisite figurine sets the stage for an unforgettable voyage down the world’s most thrilling rivers, featuring Mickey Mouse himself as your charismatic skipper.
For $100, you can bring home a meticulously crafted scene teeming with iconic Jungle Cruise elements. Skipper Mickey stands proudly at the helm of his riverboat, navigating lush greenery teeming with exotic wildlife. A cascading waterfall adds a touch of grandeur to the backdrop, while Jim Shore’s signature artistry brings the entire scene to life. Each detail is hand-painted and sculpted with remarkable detail, capturing the charm of carved wood and traditional folk art motifs. This stunning piece is sure to become a treasured heirloom for any Disney fan.
Crafted from high-quality stone resin, the Mickey Mouse Jungle Cruise Figure is a testament to the timeless artistry of Jim Shore. His masterful ability to blend Disney magic with folk art influences creates a truly unique collectible that embodies the spirit of adventure. So, whether you’re a seasoned Jungle Cruise veteran or just setting sail for the first time, this figurine is the perfect way to commemorate your Disney Parks memories. Head to the Disney Store online today and prepare to be swept away on an unforgettable Jungle Cruise adventure!
All Aboard for the Holidays with the New Main Street U.S.A. Station Sketchbook Ornament!
Calling all Disney train enthusiasts and holiday magic seekers! The Disney Store has just debuted a delightful new addition to its ornament collection, and it’s sure to send shivers down the spine of any park regular. The Main Street U.S.A. Station Sketchbook Ornament captures the iconic Walt Disney World Railroad station in miniature, bringing a touch of classic Disney charm to your holiday décor.
At $34.99, this ornament offers a touch of Disney nostalgia and holiday cheer at a delightful price.
This meticulously detailed ornament features the charming facade of the Main Street U.S.A. Station, complete with its red brickwork, arched windows, and the iconic clocktower. Nestled beside the station sits a miniature Walt Disney World Railroad train, ready to whisk you away on a magical journey. For a touch of hidden magic, flip the ornament over to discover a charming bas-relief image of Engineer Mickey Mouse, ready to take the helm.
Whether you’re a seasoned ornament collector or simply looking for a unique and delightful addition to your holiday decorations, the Main Street U.S.A. Station Sketchbook Ornament is sure to please. This enchanting ornament comes complete with a festive satin ribbon for hanging or can be displayed proudly on a shelf or desk using its sturdy base. So, hop on board and bring the magic of the Walt Disney World Railroad to your home this holiday season!
Adventure is Out There (Twice the Fun!): Celebrate Up’s 15th Anniversary with a Double-Sided Puzzle!
Calling all adventurers! To celebrate 15 years of soaring spirits and heartwarming tales, the Disney Store has unveiled a delightful double-sided Up’s 15th anniversary puzzle that captures the enduring love story of Carl Fredricksen and Ellie. This 1000-piece masterpiece offers two unique journeys through their lives, making it the perfect pastime for any Up enthusiast.
Whether you tackle it solo or gather your loved ones for a family night of bonding, the Up 15th Anniversary Double-Sided Puzzle promises an unforgettable adventure. At just $24.99, it’s a delightful and affordable way to commemorate this beloved Disney Pixar film.
On one side, you’ll find a whimsical scene depicting Carl and Ellie as wide-eyed youngsters, brimming with dreams and aspirations. Their youthful energy and adventurous spirit leap from the vibrant artwork, reminding us of the power of childhood imagination. Flip the puzzle over, and you’ll be transported to a heartwarming picnic scene featuring Carl and Ellie as adults. Sharing a loving glance amidst a picturesque park setting, they seem to be discussing the countless adventures that await them (we’re not crying, you are).
This high-quality puzzle is crafted with sturdy materials and stunning artwork, ensuring countless hours of entertainment for puzzlers of all ages. So visit shopDisney.com today! Embark on a double dose of Up magic and rediscover the joy of adventure with Carl and Ellie by your side.
Disney is Shutting Down Fan-Made Lorcana Digital Platform Pixelborn in June
As the popularity of Disney Lorcana, the newest trading card game on the market, continues to soar, so does its competitive scene. Disney and Ravensburger, the game’s publisher, have been actively expanding the game’s presence in the competitive circuit, organizing and promoting tournaments and events. However, this growing focus on competitive play has led to the unfortunate demise of Pixelborn, a beloved fan-made online platform that allowed players to practice and hone their skills.
Pixelborn, developed by a dedicated team of Lorcana enthusiasts, provided a virtual space for players to test out strategies, experiment with different card combinations, and compete against one another in a digital format. The platform quickly gained traction within the Lorcana community, becoming an invaluable tool for both casual players and aspiring professionals alike.
However, the platform’s success was short-lived. Earlier this week, one of Pixelborn’s founders announced on Reddit that the platform would be permanently shut down following a communication from Disney representatives. According to the statement, Disney asserted its intellectual property rights over the Disney Lorcana cards and requested that Pixelborn respect these rights by refraining from copying the cards or suggesting any affiliation with Disney.
The demand for Pixelborn’s shutdown before June 16, 2024, has sent shockwaves through the Lorcana community. Many players expressed their disappointment and frustration over the decision, highlighting the platform’s importance as a training ground and community hub. Some speculated that Disney’s move was motivated by a desire to maintain control over the Lorcana brand and potentially develop its own official digital platform in the future.
Despite the setback, the Lorcana community remains resilient. Players have already begun exploring alternative ways to practice and compete online, utilizing other platforms and tools. Meanwhile, the game’s competitive scene continues to thrive, with tournaments and events drawing in a growing number of participants.
As Lorcana evolves and expands, it remains to be seen how Disney will address the community’s demand for a digital platform. While the shutdown of Pixelborn is undoubtedly a loss, it also serves as a testament to the game’s immense popularity and the passion of its players.
Earlier this month, Disney representatives contacted me. I was advised that “Disney has intellectual property rights in the Disney Lorcana cards and that Disney has requested Pixleborn to respect these rights by not copying the cards or in any way suggesting an affiliation with Disney”.
I’ve always stated I would respect such a request, and I plan to keep my word and will not grasp at technicalities. Pixelborn will stop the support for Lorcana before 16th June 2024.
The Pixelborn Discord server will remain a safe and welcoming place to discuss everything Lorcana.
My heart is shattered to pieces. I’ve put everything in this project for the past year and a half. Every night, weekend, and holiday. I know it meant a lot for many people as the only way to experience the game we all love. I genuinely believe Ravensburger is the best company that could have developed and now supports the game. The past weekend proves that Lorcana has a bright future.
Thank you all for sharing this journey with me. You might not realize it, but every single one of you matters. With all the charity donations we’ve made, we really brought meaningful change to the world. If you ever feel down, always remember that. I will always cherish you.
Ahoy Mateys! Arrr You Thirsty for Adventure? New Pirates of the Caribbean Tumbler Makes a Splash at Magic Kingdom!
Calling all scallywags and landlubbers alike! There’s a new treasure to be found on the high seas of merchandise at Magic Kingdom. For a cool $39.99, you can quench your thirst for adventure with the all-new Pirates of the Caribbean tumbler! This buccaneer’s bounty resembles the design of popular Stanley cups, featuring a hearty terracotta color that’ll make you feel right at home on Captain Jack Sparrow’s ship.
This brigantine of a beverage holder boasts a treasure trove of details. Crafted from a sturdy, reusable material, it comes complete with a black lid and a reusable straw, perfect for keeping your grog or grog-lite beverage secure as you navigate the stormy Florida weather. But the true prize lies on the tumbler’s side. A swashbuckling silver design features crossed swords, a skull and crossbones, a trusty anchor, a pirate ship ready to conquer the waves, and a compass rose to guide you towards your next delicious drink. And to top it all off, the design is encircled with the wise pirate proverb: “Always be yourself unless you can be a pirate.”
So set sail for adventure and treat yourself (or a fellow pirate enthusiast) to this limited edition tumbler. You’ll find it waiting for you at the Pirates of the Caribbean gift shop in Magic Kingdom, a perfect souvenir to commemorate your swashbuckling escapades on land!
