Mark Ruffalo Advises Actors to do Indie Films so there is Actual Competition
Actor Mark Ruffalo, who plays Hulk in the MCU, is encouraging his fellow actors to pursue smaller independent films following the SAG/AFTRA strike resolution. Ruffalo recently took to social media to share his thoughts on the work stoppage saying, “How about we all jump into indies now? Content creators create a film & TV-making system alongside the studio & streaming networks? So there is actual competition.”
How about we all jump into indies now? Content creators create a film & TV-making system alongside the studio & streaming networks? So there is actual competition. 🧵https://t.co/NhxqlwWUsZ
Ruffalo said that Hollywood has created an “empire of billionaires” and that actors should unify to “organize a new world for workers.” Ruffalo added, “While they hang out in the billionaire boy summer camps laughing like fat cats, we organize a new world for workers. One sure way to strengthen our hand right now is to become very supportive & friendly to all independent projects immediately. Push every SAG-AFTRA member to join the ones that get SAG-AFTRA (WGA) WAIVERS immediately. The studios have no competition—this will change that.”
Ruffalo is not the first actor to go after studio heads and executives. Sean Gunn, fellow cast member of the MCU spoke directly to Disney CEO Bob Iger just yesterday. Gunn went on to attack Iger by saying, “I think that when Bob Iger talks about what a shame it [the strike] is, he needs to remember, in 1980, CEOs like him made 30 times what their lowest worker was making. Now, Bob Iger makes 400 times what his lowest worker is, and I think that’s a f—— shame, Bob — and maybe you should take a look in the mirror and ask yourself, why is that?“
More actors will continue to come forward against in the coming days and weeks. We anticipate the rhetoric to only become more inflammatory as the strike drags on. What are your thoughts on the SAG/AFTRA strike? Share your opinions in a comment on this article and stay tuned for more updates on this story and more.
Signage Installed for new Japan Pavilion Restaurant in EPCOT. Attention Sushi Fans! Soon EPCOT will be the home to a new sushi restaurant at the Japan pavilion called Shiki-Sai: Sushi Izakaya. This table-service restaurant will offer a festive dining experience in a sharable Izakaya style for you to create memories and good times through flavors.
The newest restaurant is scheduled to open this summer in Epcot, and we are starting to see the signage put up around the Japan Pavilion. Shiki-Sai: Sushi Izakaya will be upstairs with amazing views and amazing Sushi.
Here, you’ll be able to experience the essence of Japan’s seasonal festivals, where each month brings a new celebration to your table. From hanging tanzaku to celebrate Tanabata in July to savoring moon-viewing dumplings in September, a cultural representative from Japan will guide you through each unique festival experience, one bite at a time.
The atmosphere also embraces the festivals of Japan, with the atmosphere featuring beautiful, hand-painted artwork and lanterns highlighting some of the natural wonders that Japan offers as well. Each and every visit is designed to create unforgettable memories that capture the spirit of Japan’s vibrant seasonal festivities.
Signage Installed for new Japan Pavilion Restaurant in EPCOT
Amani Village Traders at Africa Outpost in EPCOT Receives New Look. Located in the back corner of Epcot’s World Showcase, between China and Germany is sub-continental Africa. Home of Refreshment Outpost, which serves Dole Whip year-round, has received a new mural making it more in line with the theming of the land.
Amani Village is now home to some amazing artwork that was recently finished. Now the Afrocentric land has artwork that reflects some of the beauty of Africa. Wonderful designs are mixed in with images of flowers and people who represent the culture of various African countries.
Morocco Pavilion Refurbishment Underway in EPCOT. Construction crews are repainting and fixing up the pavilion. We caught some repainted roofs. Check out the images of the pavilion below. This looks to be a pattern in Epcot right now, doing some cleaning up prior to the Disney 100 celebration getting ramped up on September 22nd.
The Moroccan Pavilion at Epcot is a captivating attraction that you should definitely include in your next visit. Located in the World Showcase at Epcot, this pavilion represents the beautiful mountainous country of Morocco in Northern Africa, covering an area about the size of the US state of California.
What makes the Moroccan Pavilion unique is that it was the only Pavilion in the World Showcase to receive direct assistance from the Moroccan government in its design. When it opened on September 7, 1984, it stood out as the only pavilion fully sponsored by a government rather than a corporation.
The king of Morocco personally contributed to the pavilion’s creation by sending his royal craftsman to design and lay all the intricate tiles found throughout the space. Additionally, more workers were sent to design the stunning carvings and paintings, adding to the authenticity and beauty of the pavilion.
While the Moroccan Pavilion has undergone some changes and updates since its opening, it remains an enchanting representation of Moroccan culture and architecture. In 2020, Disney took over the ownership and operation of the pavilion, ensuring that visitors continue to enjoy this immersive and culturally rich experience
New Expedition Everest Collection At Animal Kingdom!
Get ready to race through icy Himalayan peaks with this new Expedition Everest Collection we spotted at Animal Kingdom! It features a fun backpack and blankets to stay cozy at home all year long.
First we found this very unique Yeti Loungefly Backpack featuring white fur on the front and a plain light blue color on the back. The face of the yeti features snow googles with the reflection of Mount Everest in them.
We also found an adorable blanket that features a hood with the Yeti’s face! The rest of the blanket features an all over pattern of Mountain Everest and the Yeti.
Finally, we found this cozy blanket with artwork featuring the Yeti skiing through the mountain, “Yeti Ski School” text and Expedition Everest logo at the bottom.
All very unique pieces you can only get at Animal Kingdom in Walt Disney World!
New Germany Pavilion Collection Available At Epcot!
We found a new Germany Pavilion Collection at the World Showcase in Epcot offering apparel, kitchenware and home decor options with Minnie Mouse as the start of the collection, super cute!
First we spotted two t-shirts in light blue and white featuring Minnie Mouse in a classic German dress carrying some pretty flowers.
For home decor we found a Minnie Mouse shaped pillow in a gorgeous royal blue color with floral details, a fleece blanket featuring Minnie Mouse and a little Minnie Mouse shaped tray to use for your jewelry on your dresser.
There are also a new pair of Minnie Ears with blue ears and floral details plus a sparkly red bow, and a cute denim wristlet with Minnie Mouse, “Ich Liebe Edelweiss” text and red details.
Finally, for kitchenware, the collection has a mug, travel mug, bowl, apron and spatula all in blue, red and white colors with Minnie Mouse and floral details.
So next time you visit Epcot, make sure to stop by the Germany pavilion and check out this new collection!
Glenn Barker Disney Parks Sound Designer Passes Away
Glenn Barker the Walt Disney Imagineer who created the audio for Disney Parks for more than 45 years has passed away. The news was shared yesterday on Twitter.
I was so sad to learn about the passing of Imagineer Glenn Barker, who designed sounds for Disney's parks for more than 45 years. Beyond Glenn's amazing career, he was so genuine and humble. I hope this 2019 podcast helps pay tribute to Glenn and his work. https://t.co/OPJU1vClOe
We pay tribute to the late Glenn Barker, a musical virtuoso whose magical touch enriched the very essence of Disney’s theme park attractions. Glenn’s journey commenced as a skilled drummer, marching along the lively parades at Disneyland. Little did he know that his passion for rhythm and melody would lead him to a remarkable career at WED, where he would become a celebrated media designer, forever leaving his mark on the world of soundscapes.
Glenn’s brilliance in crafting soundscapes and soundtracks elevated the enchantment of Disney attractions. From the breathtaking Big Thunder to countless other beloved rides, his artistry was the heartbeat that synchronized perfectly with the visuals, immersing visitors in a realm of wonder and joy.
His passing leaves us with a sense of loss, but also with an immense gratitude for the magic he brought into our lives. Glenn’s ability to share the essence of each story through music was a gift that transcended generations, uniting us in the wonder of Disney’s timeless tales.
Let us celebrate Glenn Barker’s legacy by cherishing the soundtracks that continue to transport us to magical lands. Each time we hear those melodies, we will remember the maestro behind the music—the man who shaped the symphony of our cherished Disney memories.
As we bid farewell to Glenn Barker, we hold dear the secrets he shared and the enchantment he created, forever thankful for the joy he bestowed upon us through the power of sound. May his melodies continue to resonate in our hearts, ensuring that his legacy lives on in the happiest places on earth.
At this time we don’t have any further details on his passing. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family…
You can hear about all of the wonderful contributions to Disney Parks on this episode of The Tomorrow Society:
New DreamWorks Themed Land Coming to Universal Studios Florida in 2024
Experience the enchanting realm of DreamWorks Animation like never before! Get ready for an immersive and interactive adventure as we unveil a brand-new land, arriving at Universal Studios Florida in 2024. Step into a world filled with vivid colors, captivating stories, and beloved characters, all awaiting your arrival. Join us for an unforgettable journey into the magic of DreamWorks Animation – an experience beyond your wildest dreams!
Next year, Universal Orlando Resort will debut an all-new themed land featuring DreamWorks Animation’s beloved animated characters. The new DreamWorks land, coming to Universal Studios Florida, is part of a collection of new entertainment experiences debuting at Universal Orlando Resort in 2024.
BREAKING: Step into the colorful world of DreamWorks Animation in an immersive and interactive new land – Coming to Universal Studios Florida in 2024.
— Universal Orlando Resort (@UniversalORL) July 20, 2023
Currently being developed in the former KidZone location of Universal Studios Florida, the new area will immerse guests of all ages in vibrant, family-friendly experiences that bring popular franchises like Shrek, Trolls and Kung Fu Panda to life in a whole new way – plus, guests can enjoy special meet-n-greets with these and other characters like Gabby from Gabby’s Dollhouse.
Construction continues on Universal’s Epic Universe Theme Park
Construction is continuing full steam ahead at Universal’s new Epic Universe theme park, as evidenced by the latest drone videos posted to Instagram by peaceful_thrill_seeker.
The drone videos show progress on various sections of the new park, including the Ministry of Magic and Super Nintendo World.
The second drone video below focuses on the progress of the dueling racer rollercoaster, currently known as “Starfall Racers.”
https://www.instagram.com/p/Cs814pYOlQN/
About Epic Universe
Epic Universe, slated to open in the Summer of 2025, is noted by Universal to be the “most immersive and innovative park” that the theme park giant has ever created. The park was originally slated to open in 2023, however, construction delays due to the COVID pandemic have pushed the opening date back by 2 years.
Attractions and lands that we know will be located at Epic Universe include Super Nintendo World (Universal theme parks in California and Japan currently have this land) and an extension of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
The Orlando Business Journal previously reported a series of trademarks filed by “a Universal Parks & Resorts-related entity and film giant DreamWorks Animation” that may provide insight into the planned Epic Universe attractions. For Universal IP, potential attractions/lands include experiences based on classic monsters, the above-mentioned Starfall Racers rollercoaster, and Constellation Carousel. The DreamWorks-related patents point toward How To Train Your Dragon and The Secret Life of Pets.
The theme park is located near the Orange County Convention Center. Six traffic lanes are being constructed to connect the current Universal property to the Epic Universe location. There are also talks to construct a Sunrail station near the convention center, which would effectively link Epic Universe with the rest of the Sunrail line (including Orlando International Airport).
Ready to book your next epic vacation, but don’t know where to start? Want to enjoy a Universal vacation without the stress of planning, booking, and tracking trip changes and promotions? Contact me today! As an agent with Destinations To Travel who specializes in Universal destinations, I can help you stress less and enjoy your vacation more! The best part? My services are provided at NO ADDITIONAL COST when you book your Universal vacation package through me!
First, there was Dole’s sponsorship of Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room at Disneyland in 1976, which lead to a similar arrangement at the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World several years later.
After serving just DOLE® Pineapple juice and fresh-cut spears for its first season in the dual Adventureland, Dole sweetened its pineapple legacy forever when it introduced a new kind of frozen pineapple treat called the Dole Whip in 1984 – and the rest is Dole and Disney legend.
Thirty-nine years later, Dole Packaged Foods continues the in-park sponsorship while Dole Food Company takes the next step in its Dole Whip journey with the introduction of eight new, all-natural Dole Whip recipes that bring the total number of Dole Whips that can be easily whipped up at home to a most-ever 13.
Joining the classic DIY Dole Whip that started it all plus four existing variations, Dole’s new fresh-ingredient Dole Whips are naturally flavored with, or themed to, curry and mango, spicy tamarind, lemon-blueberry, tangy fresh mint, peppermint candy canes, the Hawaiian tropics, Mexican hot chocolate, and Filipino halo-halo.
All 13 Dole Whips now in Dole’s vast online recipe library are vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and low-sodium, and five are also low fat. In keeping with the spirit of the original dessert, all are made with DOLE® Pineapples, DOLE® Bananas or both.
“Despite its global appeal and cult-like following, the Dole Whip was developed by Dole in 1986 for a fairly simple reason: to encourage more theme park guests to experience – and love! – the juicy flavor of pineapples,” said Bil Goldfield, director of corporate communications for Dole Food Company. Of course, the strategy worked, and these newest Dole Whip recipes take that idea further by adding new farm-fresh fruits and vegetables like mangos, avocados, plantains, grapes and even spinach to the list of what’s possible to create more lifelong produce fans – and offer them in the universally beloved Dole Whip form.”
The eight new Dole Whips debuting on Dole Whip Day on July 20 include the following:
1. Blue Hawaiian Dole Whip (Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Low-Sodium, Low-Fat): A tribute to Dole’s Island roots made withDOLE® Pineapple, Bananas and Lemons.
4. Golden Curry & Mango Dole Whip (Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Low-Sodium, Low-Fat): DOLE® Bananas, Pineapple and Mango come together for an exotic taste sensation.
5. Healthy Halo-Halo Inspired Dole Whip (Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Low-Sodium): Dole’s take on the popular Filipino dessert features DOLE® Strawberries, Blueberries, Raspberries Grapes, Mango, Bananas and Pineapple.
6. Mint Green Dole Whip (Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Low-Sodium): One of Dole’s tangiest Whips ever calls for DOLE® Blueberries, Bananas, Avocado, Grapes and Spinach.
7. Sweet & Spicy Tamarindo Dole Whip (Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Low-Sodium): A unexpected mix of DOLE® Bananas, Plantains and Pineapple delivers a powerful flavor punch.
8. Twisted Candy Cane Dole Whip (Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Low-Sodium): Dole whips up DOLE® Strawberries, Raspberries, Bananas and Pineapple for holiday – or any day! – inspiration.
As part of Dole’s celebration of Dole Whip Day and to encourage all Americans toward a more produce-rich diet, Dole has matched a Dole Whip with each of the 12 Zodiac signs based on the personality traits of each sign.
Movable lights added to CommuniCore Plaza Construction in EPCOT. Due to open this fall CommuniCore Plaza and Hall, are headed into the final phase of construction. With how much is still to finish, it would be safe to say late fall.
Recently we wrote about the new light columns, with a Spaceship Earth pattern, that has been installed. Now we can see Disney construction crews have installed the moving lights that will be used for shows, and nighttime lighting.
With Journey of Water inspired by Moana starting Cast member previews, and Disney announcing all the new D100 fun coming to Epcot on September 22nd, we should start to see construction wrap up soon in the World Celebration area of the park.
This fall will bring even more exciting experiences as part of the multi-year transformation of EPCOT. Guests will be able to explore the wonders of water when Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana opens. This fun, interactive outdoor trail offers a chance to play and interact with water as it travels from the sky to the ocean and back again. Along the way, guests learn about the importance of water and discover its playful personality – just as Moana did on her heroic voyage.
Fall will also mark the completion of the new World Celebration neighborhood. As the hub of the park, it will feature seasonal gardens and will be home to both Communicore Plaza as well as Communicore Hall, where guests can meet Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse. World Celebration will also anchor the park’s renowned festivals. Guests can also discover Dreamers Point, an inspiring overlook showcasing a statue of Walt Disney called “Walt the Dreamer.”
Guests will be treated to the debut of an all-new EPCOT nighttime spectacular later this year. A dazzling display of music, pyrotechnics, lasers, and lighting, the show will feature an original composition and evocative selections from the Disney songbook – all woven together to remind us that we are more alike than different.
Movable lights added to CommuniCore Plaza Construction in EPCOT
Digital Tip Board Installed at America Gardens Theatre in EPCOT. Updated Digital boards have come to the American Garden Theater. The boards now display the upcoming Eat to the Beat concert series, along with Epcot Forever! nighttime spectacular.
The boards are located at the entrance to the outdoor concert pavilion.
The Eat to the Beat Concert Series presented by Florida Blue Medicare is bringing the heat to the 2023 EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival presented by CORKCICLE starting July 27. Here is a first look at the lineup of artists bringing sizzling sounds to the America Gardens Theatre!
Fan-favorites like Sheila E. and Hanson are ready to serve up hits once again while festival newcomers Orianthi, Phillip Phillips, The Bacon Brothers, We The Kings and more bring new flavor to this year’s menu of talent. Speaking of talent, local bands will take the stage Tuesday-Thursday so you can enjoy delicious eats and fun beats all week long! View the full list of announced artists below and keep checking back at TasteEPCOT.com as more acts are revealed!
Digital Tip Board Installed at America Gardens Theatre in EPCOT
