Get Those Puppies! One Hundred and One Dalmatians

By Christina Pappous, Walt Disney Archives

Eighty-four. Add fifteen, plus two. A hundred and one! Released on January 25, 1961, One Hundred and One Dalmatians is an adaptation of the children’s novel The Hundred and One Dalmatians by Dodie Smith. In writing the screenplay, story artist Bill Peet “decided to start the narrative from the dog’s point of view” and notably, the tale is set in contemporary London—a contrast to preceding Disney films that took place in earlier times or fairytale realms.

The film’s aesthetics reflected the larger turn in animation towards a more modern, graphic style with stylized, angular characters and loosely detailed backgrounds. As historian Charles Solomon writes in his essay about the film in The Walt Disney Film Archives, The Animated Movies: 1921–1968 (Taschen, 2016), this “crisp new style tied animation not only to contemporary fine art, illustration, and cartooning but also to the modern aesthetic of industrial design.” Most famously, One Hundred and One Dalmatians was the first feature film to rely on the Xerox camera throughout the animation process; prior to this production, animators’ drawings were inked directly onto animation cels, a labor- and time-intensive process. To reduce cost and increase production efficiency, the studio’s technology genius, Ub Iwerks, began experimenting with using Xerox photography in animation. By the end of the 1950s, he had successfully created a Xerox system that transferred animators’ pencil drawings directly onto cels, maintaining the energy and lines of their work. For a film that involved 6,469,952 spots on Pongo, Perdita and the 99 puppies, the process was quite helpful for directing animator Eric Larson and the rest of the animation team during the three-year production!

Despite these innovations, Walt Disney was quick to cool on the finished film. As Solomon later highlighted, in Ken Anderson’s words, “Walt never liked the visibility of the lines […] he wanted people to believe that these things were not drawings, that these things were actual people. His whole drive had been in that direction.” However, One Hundred and One Dalmatians was a massive critical and commercial success for the studio and went on to earn over $10 million during its initial release. In light of this beloved, nay, “paw-fect” legacy, please enjoy images from the making of this fabulous film and more from our collections and check out One Hundred and One Dalmatians on Disney+!

Play One Hundred and One Dalmatians
Directing animator Eric Larson with Dalmatian puppies.
At the suggestion of Ub Iwerks, animators built and photographed scale models of Cruella De Vil’s car and the lorry to reference when animating the climactic car chase sequence.
Lisa Davis, voice of Anita Radcliff, reading to one of the production’s furry friends. Davis originally read for the role of Cruella De Vil, but concluded she was better suited to voice the gentle Anita.
Model sheet for the Dalmatian puppies.
Story sketches of Pongo.
Walt Disney’s 101 Dalmatians Story and Song vinyl record; note how the cover art employs a model sketch of Rolly.

Quinjet Lands at Disneyland Paris’ New Avengers Campus—Plus More in News Briefs

By Courtney Potter

Calling All Recruits: The Quinjet Has Arrived at Disneyland Paris

Avengers, assemble! In anticipation of Disneyland Paris’ brand-new Avengers Campus opening later this summer, our friends at the resort just welcomed the Avengers’ signature aircraft, the Quinjet… See how they got the aircraft safely to its landing place atop the Campus’ central hub in the video, above.

First imagined as an advanced aircraft transport used by Earth’s Mightiest Heroes, there have been several different Quinjet designs throughout Marvel comics and the Marvel Cinematic Universe. However, for their Avengers Campus version, the Disneyland Paris team wanted to show a cool, forward-looking aesthetic—but to build a full-size jet, it required additional engineering expertise… which Walt Disney Imagineering found by partnering with British company UK Loco, a longtime collaborator who’d already provided technical input into other amazing Disneyland Paris experiences including Toy Story Playland and Ratatouille: L’Aventure Totalement Toquée de Rémy.

Just like at Hong Kong Disneyland and Disney California Adventure park, Disneyland Paris’ Avengers Campus will give guests the ability to meet and interact with their favorite heroes in incredible, immersive ways. And why not make a whole Marvel-themed vacation out of it this summer by staying at Disneyland Paris’ newly opened Disney’s Hotel New York: The Art of Marvel? Sign us up!

5 Fantastic Things to Watch This Weekend

If you’ve been jonesing for some animation to delight you this very weekend, you’re in luck—there’s plenty to choose from around the worlds of Disney. Not only can you help celebrate Sleeping Beauty’s 63rd anniversary with a viewing on Disney+, but you can also take in a ’90s animated favorites Hercules and A Bug’s Life over on Freeform. And there’s more where that came from…

2022 Special Olympics

Disney to Produce Opening Ceremony for the 2022 Special Olympics USA Games

Athletes from across the country will converge on the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at Walt Disney World Resort when the 2022 Special Olympics USA Games kick off in just a few months’ time… and Disney has just announced that the thousands of competitors, families, and fans in attendance for the games will be treated to incredible entertainment—sprinkled with a little pixie dust, no doubt—with an opening ceremony produced by Disney Live Entertainment!

Special Olympics USA, Experience Kissimmee, and Walt Disney World Resort revealed the news during the recent Special Olympics USA Games’ Head of Delegates meeting at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. The Walt Disney Company has a long-standing relationship with Special Olympics, including additional sponsorship and in-kind support for the USA Games, as well as staging multiple state and local events at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. As the presenting sponsor of the Volunteer Program for the ’22 USA Games, Disney will also support the families and fans cheering on the athletes this summer with cast members and community volunteers.

The 2022 Special Olympics USA Games will be held from June 5-12!

Marvel Day at Sea

Marvel Day at Sea Returning to Disney Cruise Line in 2023

In further Marvel-related news… For fans looking for a truly epic vacation in early 2023, the largest assembly of Marvel heroes and villains will be on one ship when Marvel Day at Sea returns to Disney Cruise Line next year.

Now on the Disney Dream, embarking on spectacular voyages out of Miami, Marvel Day at Sea combines the thrills of Marvel comics, films, and animated series with the excitement of a Disney Cruise, making for an unforgettable day! This celebration on select five-night Caribbean cruises—beginning January 7, 2023—features encounters with some of your favorite heroes (including Thor!), all manner of action-packed entertainment, and Marvel-themed activities designed for the whole family to enjoy.

Along with visiting destinations in the Western Caribbean including Cozumel, Mexico; Grand Cayman; and Castaway Cay, Disney Cruise Line’s private island in the Bahamas, guests will be able to experience all that the Disney Dream has to offer while on a Marvel Day at Sea sailing—Broadway-style shows like Beauty and the Beast, themed dining, and so much more. If you’re ready to book your next epic adventure, or want further info, check out DisneyCruise.com.

A Replacement Oscar for Disney Legend Hayley Mills…

Several decades ago, Disney Legend Hayley Mills realized the special “juvenile” Academy Award® she’d received in 1961 had disappeared. Thankfully, she’s now been reunited with Oscar—and D23 spoke exclusively to the actress about the whole experience! See Mills “get together (yeah yeah yeah)” with her new statuette by clicking here.

Virtual Polka Dot Retreat

Virtual Polka Dot Retreat Celebrates Minnie Mouse and National Polka Dot Day

Get out those dots, friends! National Polka Dot Day, the annual fan holiday honoring Minnie Mouse, is next week—and @MinnieStyle is hosting virtual sessions (think of them as Minnie moments) on Instagram, all inspired by our favorite lifestyle muse.

Kicking off on Monday, January 31, and polka dotting through Friday, February 4, the event will showcase what it means to be “Positively Minnie” through fun, uplifting programming that’s sure to inspire! Each day, talented influencer guests known as Minnie Muses will co-host a series of 10- to 15-minute sessions on a variety of topics such as careers, friendship, and body positivity; audiences around the world can tune in to @MinnieStyle on IG starting at 1 p.m. ET/10 a.m. PT to join the conversation live. Daily replays will also be available on @MinnieStyle following each session.

The sessions include:

  • January 31: Aysha Harun (Focusing on Empowering Your Life)
  • February 1: Rae Hersey (Focusing on Styling)
  • February 2: Marisas Meizz (Focusing on Forging Good Friendships)
  • February 3: Loria Stern (Focusing on Turning a Passion into a Business)
  • February 4: Kellie Brown (Focusing on the Journey to Self-Love)

And make sure to keep those eyes peeled on @MinnieStyle for announcements on additional special guests!

ICYMI: Disneyland Paris Kicks Off 30th Anniversary Celebrations March 6

Thrilling new experiences? Check. Incredible new food? But of course. A sure-to-be-insanely-memorable new drone show above the newly refurbished Sleeping Beauty Castle? Naturally! All that and much, much more is coming to Disneyland Paris beginning this spring when the resort celebrates its 30th anniversary. Read all about what guests can expect right here at D23.com.

Pooh’s Hunny Pots de Crème Recipe

These Hunny Pots de Crème—inspired by our friend, Winnie the Pooh—are the perfect sweet treat to share with your honey!

Ingredients

For Custard:

  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 4 egg yolks
  • 1 vanilla bean or 1 tsp vanilla extract

For Caramel Sauce:

  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 3 tbs butter
  • 1/8 cup heavy whipping cream
  • A pinch of salt

For Topping:

  • 1/2 cup white chocolate chips or white chocolate candy melts

Special Equipment:

  • 4 oven-safe ramekins or glass jars
  • Baking dish
  • Kettle
  • Bubble wrap
  • Fine-mesh sieve

Directions

Step 1: Make the Custard

  1. Preheat oven to 300°F. Heat a kettle of water until boiling.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, honey, and salt. Heat over medium-low heat until honey is fully dissolved. Split the vanilla bean and scrape out the seeds, then add both the seeds and pod to the cream mixture. (If using vanilla extract instead, add now.) Once the mixture begins to steam, turn off the heat and allow to sit for 10 minutes.
  3. In a medium bowl, quickly whisk the eggs yolks until lightened (about 30 seconds). Ladle the cream mixture into the eggs slowly, whisking constantly, to temper the eggs. Once all of the cream is incorporated, the mixture should be smooth and warm to the touch. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove remaining pieces of the vanilla bean.
  4. Place a wet paper towel or cloth in the bottom of the baking dish and arrange the 4 ramekins on top; the towel will prevent the ramekins from sliding around. Fill each ramekin equally with the custard. Place the baking dish in the oven, then carefully pour the hot water into the dish, being careful not to splash into the ramekins.
  5. Bake for 30-50 minutes, depending on the size of your ramekins. When the custard is ready, the sides should be set, but the center should be jiggly. Carefully remove the baking dish from the oven and allow ramekins to cool on a drying rack.
  6. Once the pots are room temperature, chill in the fridge for 2-3 hours, or overnight.

Step 2: Make the Caramel Sauce

  1. In a medium saucepan, add sugar and heat on medium-low. Stir occasionally, and do not leave unattended. Sugar should first begin to clump, then melt.
  2. Once the sugar is mostly melted, add honey. Continuing stirring until sugar has fully melted and the honey is fully combined. The mixture should be a light golden-brown color.
  3. Remove from heat and add butter. Stir until combined, then add heavy cream and a pinch of salt.
  4. Cool until room temperature, then set aside in the fridge until ready to assemble.

Step 3: Make the Topping

  1. Place the white chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in the microwave for 60 seconds, stir, then continue heating in 10-second intervals and stirring until fully melted.
  2. Lay out the piece of bubble wrap with the bumpy side facing up. Spread the melted chocolate on top, creating a thick, even layer.
  3. Place in the fridge to harden. Once set, slowly peel the bubble wrap off, revealing a honeycomb-shaped piece of chocolate. Using your hands, break the chocolate into four smaller pieces.

Step 4: Assemble

  1. Top each custard with a spoonful of caramel sauce. If sauce has thickened too much in the fridge, heat in microwave for 30-second intervals and stir until it reaches a thinner consistency.
  2. Print our Hunny Label Design and cut out each label. Wrap a label around each ramekin and tape in the back to secure it.
  3. Top each custard with a piece of chocolate honeycomb. Serve chilled or at room temperature and enjoy!

5 Things to Know About The Ice Age Adventures of Buck Wild

By Andie Hagemann

Adventure-loving weasel Buck Wild (voiced by Simon Pegg) is back, along with your favorite Ice Age pals, for more hilarious escapades in The Ice Age Adventures of Buck Wild. In this new animated film, thrill-seeking possum brothers Crash (voiced by Vincent Tong) and Eddie (voiced by Aaron Harris) set out on a journey to assert their independence and find a place of their own. However, trouble ensues when they find themselves trapped in a massive cave inhabited by dinosaurs, including a revengeful Orson (voiced by Utkarsh Ambudkar). Can the band of unlikely pals save the Lost World from dinosaur domination?

The Ice Age Adventures of Buck Wild premieres Friday, January 28, exclusively on Disney+. Before you stream the film, read on for five things you need to know—straight from the cast and crew!

1. Buck Takes Center Stage
Beloved Ice Age character Buck Wild makes his triumphant return as viewers are transported to the Lost World—and in this adventure, viewers get a glimpse at Buck’s backstory. The one-eyed weasel, who made memorable appearances in Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs (2009) and Ice Age: Collision Course (2016), earned his spinoff thanks to his zany personality. “He’s clever, he’s an adventurer, he’s a swashbuckler, he’s a protector, and he’s guardian of the Lost World,” says executive producer Lori Forte. “It’s such a great, great character to have. We love to go on adventures with him because he’s just not afraid of anything.”

The Ice Age Adventures of Buck Wild

2. A Bold New Character Joins the Crew
Justina Machado voices Zee, a zorilla often mistaken for a skunk thanks to her killer scent—which has become her superpower. As Buck’s counterpart, Zee is graceful, independent, courageous, and not fazed one bit by Orson and the raptors. Machado was excited to be part of the Ice Age family and to be afforded the opportunity to voice a strong female character like Zee. “She’s just a lot of fun, and it was so much fun going into the studio and working on her,” says Machado. “She’s very funny, and as you can see, all the characters that she’s surrounded by are so great. No one is funnier than the other, so it just was great fun to be a part of this.” Not only did Machado voice Zee, but she also served as inspiration for Zee’s spirit. “We started taking traits from her, like her strength and her personality and her in-your-face kind of thing, and it wove into the character itself,” says Forte. “Zee was very much part of who Justina is.”

3. Family Is Forever
As with the other installments of the Ice Age films, the dynamics between family and friends—both what keeps them apart and what brings them together—is at the heart of The Ice Age Adventures of Buck Wild. “We loved the idea that once you’re in a herd, which is our family, it’s a herd,” says director John C. Donkin. “They’re equivalent. Once you’re in a herd and you have that connection, it’s OK if there’s some physical separation between you, because there’s always going to be shared love and support.” The creators felt it was important to incorporate these elements, especially with so many across the globe separated from their families and chosen families amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Ice Age Adventures of Buck Wild

4. A G.O.A.T. Inspired Zee’s Movement
When animating Zee, Donkin and the crew were inspired by superstar Olympic gymnast Simone Biles and her graceful and powerful movements. Says Donkin, “We looked at gymnastics, and she’s very physically able. There’s this great moment in the third act where Buck sees Zee go off and handle [Orson].” Machado says it was thrilling to see her character come to life and do spectacular stunts as Zee saves the day.

The Ice Age Adventures of Buck Wild

5. Buck’s Independence Is Challenged
Buck is considered a loner—after all, his many inanimate friends include rocks and tree stumps. In this film, he shakes up his solitary life to help the possums, which requires him to ask for help. Pegg says Buck learning how to be vulnerable and connect with others is an important lesson for the young and young at heart. “He’s so used to doing everything by himself that the idea of relying on his friends, or trusting someone to do something else, is a little bit uncomfortable for him,” says Pegg. “In this movie, he learns that it’s not only OK to ask for help, it’s also OK to ask for help as a guy from your female friends, and to trust in them to take over.”

 

5 Fantastic Things to Watch This Weekend

By Andie Hagemann

Animated features (and a little bit of mystery) are taking over your weekend: Watch the premiere of The Ice Age Adventures of Buck Wild on Disney+ on Friday, and then catch a brand-new episode of Secrets of Sulphur Springs on Disney Channel that night. Go from zero to hero with a double dose of two animated classics airing Saturday morning, beginning with Hercules and followed by A Bug’s Life, on Freeform. Later that day, celebrate the 63rd anniversary of Sleeping Beauty with a viewing of the classic on Disney+… and don’t forget the cake!

The Ice Age Adventures of Buck Wild

The Ice Age Adventures of Buck Wild—Friday, January 28, on Disney+
Adventure-loving weasel Buck Wild (voice of Simon Pegg) is back, along with your favorite Ice Age pals, for more hilarious escapades. In this new animated film, thrill-seeking possum brothers Crash (voice of Vincent Tong) and Eddie (voice of Aaron Harris) set out on a journey to assert their independence and find a place of their own. However, trouble ensues when they find themselves trapped in a massive cave inhabited by dinosaurs. Buck Wild rescues Crash and Eddie—but can the new pals save the Lost World from dinosaur domination?

The Ice Age Adventures of Buck Wild

Secrets of Sulphur Springs—Friday, January 28, at 5 p.m. ET, on Disney Channel
Is more trouble ahead for our time-traveling adventurers? Young Sam Tremont (Ethan Hutchinson, pictured above) secretly watches Harper (Kyliegh Curran) search for the hatch in the middle of the night as she tries to escape the 1930s and travel back to the present day. Meanwhile, Elijah Tremont (Robert Manning Jr.) receives a life-altering offer from a judge.

The Ice Age Adventures of Buck Wild

Hercules—Saturday, January 29, at 8:25 a.m. ET, on Freeform
Who puts the “glad” in gladiator? In this 1997 animated classic, Hercules (voiced of Tate Donovan), the son of gods Zeus (voice of Rip Torn) and Hera (voice of Samantha Eggar), is snatched as a baby by Hades (voice of James Woods) and forced to live among mortals as a half-man, half-god. To rejoin his family on Mount Olympus, Hercules will need to perform a rite of passage on Earth to prove himself worthy. With the help of satyr Phil (voice of Danny DeVito) and a damsel-not-so-distressed named Meg (voice of Susan Egan), Hercules discovers that a true hero is not measured by the size of his strength but by the strength of his heart .

The Ice Age Adventures of Buck Wild

A Bug’s Life—Saturday, January 29, at 10:30 a.m. ET, on Freeform
This 1998 animated feature follows Flik (voice of Dave Foley)—a resourceful ant who, unlike his fellow bugs, is a bit of an independent thinker. After one of his inventions goes wrong, he sets out on a mission to protect his colony from a crew of villainous grasshoppers and regain the Queen’s (voice of Phyllis Diller) trust. However, when the “warrior bugs” Flik recruits are really a circus troupe, he must rely on his own ingenuity and creativity to save the day.

The Ice Age Adventures of Buck Wild

Sleeping Beauty—Saturday, January 29, on Disney+
Make it blue or make it pink? Celebrate the 63rd anniversary of the iconic animated film with a special viewing on Disney+. Snubbed by the royal family and filled with jealousy, Maleficent (voice of Eleanor Audley) curses newborn Princess Aurora (voice of Disney Legend Mary Costa) to die on her 16th birthday, upon the prick of a spinning needle. With the help of her guardian fairies, Aurora only falls into a deep sleep that can be ended with true love’s kiss. Will Maleficent’s plan come to fruition, or will it be foiled by Prince Phillip (voice of Bill Shirley)?

Ghirardelli Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Hearts Recipe

Servings:   9 servings
Time:  20 mins

Ingredients

For Cheesecake:
2 cups Ghirardelli 60% Cacao Bittersweet Chocolate Baking Chips
4 8 ounce pkg. cream cheese, softened
3/4 cup white sugar
4 eggs (for cheesecake)
1/2 cup raspberry puree (recipe below)
1/2 cup heavy cream (for cheesecake)

For Crust:
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10 crackers)
1/4 cup ground almonds
4 tablespoon white sugar
3/4 cup butter, melted

For Puree:
1 (10 – 12 oz) pkg. frozen raspberries
4 tablespoons white sugar

For Chocolate Ganache (Optional):
2 tablespoon butter
1/2 cup(s) heavy cream

For Garnish (Optional):
1 cup fresh raspberries
8 ounce Ghirardelli 60% Cacao Bittersweet Chocolate Baking Chips
8 ounce Ghirardelli White Chocolate Baking Bar

Preparation

  1. Preheat over to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C).
  2. To prepare crust, in a microwave safe bowl, melt the butter.
  3. Add the chocolate graham crackers, ground almonds, and sugar and mix until combined.
  4. Press mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan and set aside.
  5. To prepare the puree, combine raspberries and sugar in a saucepan. Bring to boil, and continue boiling 3-5 minutes, or until sauce is thick.
  6. Strain sauce through a mesh strainer to remove seeds and set aside.
  7. To prepare cheesecake, in a small pot over low heat, bring the whipping cream to just boiling.
  8. Remove from heat and add the chocolate chips.
  9. Set aside for 5 minutes and then stir until smooth.
  10. In a large bowl, mix together cream cheese and 3/4 cup sugar until smooth.
  11. Beat in eggs, one at a time.
  12. Remove approximately 1 & 1/2 cup; cup of this batter and place into a smaller bowl and add 1/2 cup raspberry puree. Blend until combined.
  13. Add the melted chocolate to the remaining batter and mix until combined.
  14. Pour the chocolate cheesecake batter into the pan.
  15. Very carefully layer the raspberry cheesecake mixture on top of the chocolate mixture.
  16. Bake for 60 to 75 minutes, or until filling is set.
  17. Cool in pan, then cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until cold before removing from pan.
  18. If desired, top cooled cheesecakes with one or a combination of the garnishes below.
  19. Chocolate Ganache: In a small pot over low heat, bring the heavy cream and butter to just boiling. Remove from heat and add the chocolate chips. Set aside for 5 minutes and then stir until smooth. Pour over cold cheesecake to form ganache layer, or drizzle over the cold cheesecake. Refrigerate until it is set.
  20. Raspberry Puree: Pour remaining raspberry puree over cold cheesecakes. White Chocolate: In double boiler over hot water, melt the white chocolate until smooth. Drizzle over cold cheesecakes. Refrigerate until it is set.
  21. Fresh raspberries on top or served on the side.
  22. For Heart Shapes: To make the individual heart shape cheesecakes, prepare the recipe as directed using a 13X9 inch pan instead of a springform pan. Bake for 45-50 minutes. After the cheesecake cools, cut out the hearts using a metal heart shaped cookie cutter.

Still craving something sweet? Don’t forget that D23 Gold Members get an exclusive discount in Ghirardelli stores!

Disney Legend Hayley Mills Receives Replacement Oscar

By Victoria Hunt

It’s been over three decades since Disney Legend Hayley Mills’ Oscar statuette went missing from her London home. But now, she and Oscar have been reunited!

In 1961, Mills received a special, smaller “juvenile” Oscar from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS)—an award given periodically to recognize performers younger than 18—for her role in Disney’s Pollyanna at the young age of 15. (It was the last year the Academy handed out the “juvenile” award.) When her statuette disappeared in the late 1980s, Mills wasn’t sure if she would ever be reunited with it—but after 30-plus years, the Academy reissued an Oscar exclusively for Mills, following the celebration of the movie’s 60th anniversary in 2020.

Hayley Mills
Richard Harbaugh / AMPAS

The new Oscar was presented to Mills by AMPAS President David Rubin on January 9 at the AMPAS offices in Beverly Hills, California. But that’s not all: As Mills tells it, her face lit up with excitement when Rubin surprised her with a new full-sized statuette. All told, it was an occasion Mills had been hoping for since the day the award disappeared.

“It was an amazing moment in my life,” Mills recently explained exclusively to D23. “I love it passionately. I am deeply grateful to the Academy for seeing their way to giving it to me.”

When Mills originally won the award in 1961, she was away at school in England and missed out on the ceremony. Fellow Disney star Annette Funicello (herself inducted as a Disney Legend in 1992) accepted on her behalf… and Mills was later handed the Oscar out of a box by her then-manager: “He put this cardboard box on the kitchen table and pushed it towards me and said, ‘This is for you,’ Mills recalled.

Not only did she receive this new statuette, it came with recognition accorded directly by the Academy—something that Mills holds dear to her heart. Now 75 years old, the actress feels that only now she can fully appreciate the honor of receiving an Oscar. “I know so much more about the whole history and meaning of the Oscars that I didn’t understand or fully appreciate at the time,” Mills said of her 15-year-old self.

Hayley Mills

Mills, who was named a Disney Legend in 1998, remains an icon of Disney films from the 1960s. Walt Disney himself found her talent incomparable, and he signed her to a five-year contract in 1960, immediately casting her in Pollyanna. Many leading roles followed, including The Parent Trap, In Search of the Castaways, and others. Her ability to capture an audience has left a mark on the hearts of generations of Disney fans.

Mills plans to put her new golden friend on display in her home for all to see.

101 Dalmatians: Which Dalmatian Are You?

Disney’s 101 Dalmatians is celebrating 61 years since its debut on January 25, 1961. The animated film about perseverance, fierce loyalty, and a whole lot of cute puppies became an instant classic, touching generations of Disney fans.

Just over six decades later, we cannot help but feel nostalgic when reflecting on the film’s adorable pups, each with their own unique personality. Take our quiz below to find out which Dalmatian—we chose five of our favorites—you are most like!

101 Dalmatians

At a party, you are:

It’s “Movie Night” and you get to choose the genre. What are you picking?

What’s for dinner?

It’s Friday night and you’re taking your date:

It’s your best friend’s birthday... what did you get them?

101 Dalmatians: Which Dalmatian Are You?
You are Patch!

101 Dalmatians - Patch

Just like Patch, you must be rambunctious, bold, and confident. You don’t mind being the center of attention and you would never let anyone get in the way of you and the ones you love.
You are Perdita!

101 Dalmatians - Perdita

Like Perdita, you are loving, kind, and gentle. You enjoy a nice night in with the people you love most, and you will stop at nothing to make sure your family is happy and safe.
You are Pongo!

101 Dalmatians - Pongo

Pongo is responsible, a leader, and a little goofy—just like you. You both love to hang out with those closest to you, because you are incredibly loyal; in fact, you’d much rather spend quality time with just a couple of good friends or family than with a room full of people.
You are Lucky!

101 Dalmatians - Lucky

You, like our friend Lucky, might be a little shy, thoughtful, and love a good nap. You would much rather spend some time curled up with a good book or Disney+ than at some loud party with lots of people.
You are Rolly!

101 Dalmatians - Rolly

Just like Rolly, you must be awfully hungry all the time! You love your friends and family, but nothing compares to your love of a good meal.

Disney Goes JRPG with Twisted Wonderland Mobile Game

By the D23 Team

There’s a whole new way to interact with some of your favorite Disney Villains, and it’s right in the palm of your hand! Twisted Wonderland, from Aniplex of America, is Disney’s first-ever mobile gaming experience that features an original story and characters, inspired by classic Disney Villains, in the visual and storytelling style of renowned anime and manga artist, Yana Toboso. And guess what? The English version of the game just launched on January 20 for players in the United States and Canada!

Twisted Wonderland is a narrative-based mobile JRPG that’s perfect for both manga/anime and Disney fans searching for a mobile gaming experience that offers a twist (pun intended!) on beloved stories. Summoned by a magic mirror, players are sent on a mysterious adventure inside an arcane academy called Night Raven College; with nowhere else to go, you accept the masked headmage’s (that’s “headmaster,” to you non-magic folk) mysterious hospitality and begin searching for a way home… but you quickly find that the students at this school are as talented as they are dysfunctional—bickering and competition are the perpetual order of the day. What secrets lie within the villainous hearts of these students? After choosing from seven dorms inspired by classic Disney Villains, players soon begin to uncover a thrilling story and diverse gameplay brought to life courtesy signature illustrations by renowned artist Yana Toboso—best known for her successful Black Butler series.

With an opening animation by TROYCA and voice acting talent including Natsuki Hanae (Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba, Tokyo Ghoul), Koki Uchiyama (Haikyu!!, Fate/Zero), and Atsushi Tamaru (The Irregular at Magic High School, The Asterisk War), Twisted Wonderland promises a truly unique gaming experience. “As we welcome players in the U.S. and Canada to the world of Twisted Wonderland with the launch of the mobile game’s English version, we are truly humbled to be given stewardship of this new adventure in the beloved and imaginative shared universe Disney has cultivated for so long,” says Yusuke Toyama, producer of Aniplex, Inc. “We are thrilled to expand our audience capturing new and returning Disney fans while offering a new take on classic Disney stories where the villains take center stage.”

Twisted Wonderland is now available for download from the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store. For more information, visit disneytwistedwonderland.com.

 

You Can Only Ride These 8 Unique Attractions at Disneyland Resort

By Jocelyn Buhlman

These attractions are only at Disneyland Resort, so make sure to check them out on your next trip!

Speaking of trips, D23 is taking a trip Around the World of Disney Parks as part of our 2022 D23 Gold Member Collector Set, which celebrates all of Disney’s theme parks around the world—plus Disney Cruise Line! As part of our celebration, we’re taking a closer look at Disneyland Resort and some of its unique attractions. From rides personally overseen by Walt Disney himself to newer, superpowered attractions, Disneyland is home to a variety of exclusive experiences that spread happiness to visitors from all over the world.

There are so many attractions to choose from, and we picked eight of our favorites to showcase to you now:

The Disneyland Story presenting “Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln”

The Disneyland Story presenting “Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln”
Originally created for the Illinois pavilion at the 1964 New York World’s Fair, “Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln”was not only the culmination of Walt Disney’s long-standing admiration for the United States of America’s 16th president, but also an impressive feat of Imagineering! The Audio-Animatronics™ figure of Lincoln was the first use of a human figure and wowed audiences at both the World’s Fair and Disneyland Park with its lifelike movement as it delivered a speech to the wonderstruck audience. While the current figure of Lincoln that broke ground at the World’s Fair has evolved over the years, the current advanced Audio-Animatronics figure continues to impress guests who visit the attraction.

Disneyland - Indiana Jones Adventure

Indiana Jones Adventure
You had to look, didn’t you? This action-packed attraction transports guests into the Temple of the Forbidden Eye, where they can obtain earthly riches, eternal youth—or a whole lot of trouble! Besides being a highly detailed (and highly fun!) attraction, Indiana Jones Adventure also gives guests a unique opportunity: This time we’re the ones rescuing Indy! On your high speed and turbulent journey, you’ll encounter swarms of giant insects, a giant snake, one skeleton in a Mickey ear hat and, of course, a terrifying boulder HURTLING RIGHT AT YOU! How will you and your fellow intrepid explorers make your escape along with Indiana Jones? You’ll just have to visit Disneyland to find out! While a similar version of this attraction exists at Tokyo DisneySea, (beware the Crystal Skull!) The Indiana Adventure at Disneyland features The Temple of the Forbidden Eye and effects and details unique to the location. You can read about some of those unique details and Easter eggs here.

Disneyland - Alice in Wonderland

Alice in Wonderland
Only at Disneyland can you fall down, down, down the rabbit hole and explore Wonderland aboard your very own oversized caterpillar. This attraction whisks you through the vivid world of Wonderland, from singing flowers to the Tulgey Woods—and even through a very merry “unbirthday” party! Just watch out when you go through the Queen’s palace... What makes this attraction unique from other Fantasyland attractions is that you make your escape from the Queen of Hearts by traveling down a giant vine outside. Enjoy the view of the Mad Tea Party and “it’s a small world” Mall before you arrive at the strangest tea party both you and Alice have ever attended.

Disneyland - Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride

Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride
For those of us who do not drive regularly, Autopia is a novel way to experience hitting the road. For all of us, seasoned drivers or not, the only way we can experience driving through a house (and a jail, and a warehouse, and a courtroom, and...) is to channel our motormania in Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride. You enter via Toad Hall, but who knows where your trip will end? This fan-favorite attraction opened with Disneyland’s debut in 1955 and has been thrilling guests for over 65 years.

Disneyland - Matterhorn Bobsleds

Matterhorn Bobsleds
Who needs to climb a mountain when you can speed through it? Walt had that thought when he visited the real Matterhorn during the filming of Third Man on the Mountain. He was so struck by the beauty of the epic Swiss mountain that he decided to build one in his theme park! The mountain is roughly a 1/100th size model of its Swiss counterpart, but the ride took more creative liberties than just its size—in 1978, a fierce Abominable Snowman made his debut in the attraction, adding an extra thrill to the fast-paced adventure. When the attraction debuted, it was innovative for its use of cylindrical rails and urethane wheels—which are now standard for roller coasters. Additionally, it was the first tubular steel roller coaster in the world when it opened in 1959! Terrifying Abominable Snowmen, however, are not standard in roller coasters, which is all the more reason to check out Matterhorn Bobsleds next time you visit Disneyland.

Disneyland - Radiator Springs Racers

Radiator Springs Racers
Only at Disney California Adventure Park can you visit the town of Radiator Springs at Cars Land. The detailed recreation of the small town from Disney and Pixar’s Cars films is full of familiar locations—but if you turn right at the end of the street, you’ll discover something special: Radiator Springs Racers! This attraction takes you on a tour of Radiator Springs before you head off to the big race, and along the way you’ll meet some familiar faces... er... vehicles? Traveling through Radiator Springs and Ornament Valley is no small feat—at almost six acres, Radiator Springs Racers is the largest attraction by acreage at Disneyland Resort! Therockwork of Cars Land spans nearly 300,000 square feet—making it the largest rockwork construction in anydomestic Disney theme park.

Disneyland - Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT!

Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT!
Care to drop in to admire the Tivan collection? We heard they’re showing off a new exhibit: the Guardians of the Galaxy! Of course, Rocket has already broken out, and he’s got an escape plan that involves a gantry lift, a rockin’ soundtrack, and YOU! Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! takes you through the Tivan collection of aliens (and the occasional Abominable Snowman) and into the gantry lift, where you put your hands in the air so they can scan for clearance—and then keep your hands in the air when you drop suddenly. Your top-to-bottom tour of the fortress is accompanied by one of six songs from Star-Lord’s mixtape, which sets the stage for one of six unique storylines to play out while you experience the plunging thrills of the attraction.

Disneyland - WEB SLINGERS: A Spider-Man Adventure

WEB SLINGERS: A Spider-Man Adventure
Disneyland Resort is where all kinds of dreams come true. Guests can live their dreams of soaring through space, adventuring through exotic jungles, befriending princesses, and more. One dream that is now able to come true? Slinging webs with Spider-Man! Since summer 2021, guests have been helping our favorite Web Head save the day on WEB SLINGERS: A Spider-Man Adventure. After Spider-Bots break loose at the Worldwide Engineering Brigade (WEB, for short) facility, Spidey enlists us to help him sling webs and take down the rampaging robots. The chance to fight alongside Spider-Man feels like a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, but thanks to Disney magic, you can team up with Spidey any time you visit Disney California Adventure.


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