Disneynature Roars into Earth Day with Tiger: A Wildlife Spectacle

By Cecilia Sarantopoulos

In the heart of the Indian forest roams the most regal of creatures: the tiger. Disneynature’s documentary Tiger, debuting on Earth Day, April 22, on Disney+, is the culmination of 1,500 days of capturing the essence of Ambar, a young tigress who would do anything to protect her four curious, clumsy, and adorable cubs. That includes keeping them safe from the territory she shares with bears, reptiles, and other tigers.

Director Mark Linfield, co-directors Vanessa Berlowitz and Rob Sullivan, and producer Roy Conli assembled a dedicated team of filmmakers to embark on a quest to chronicle Ambar’s journey through motherhood, as she and her cubs navigate the fable forests of India. With a blend of exhilarating action and tender moments, Tiger intimately portrays the dynamics and distinct personalities of Ambar’s family. The 90-minute documentary is narrated by Priyanka Chopra Jonas.

In a scene from Tiger, a tigress is lying down while a cub is playing with its mother’s ear

Though the filming of Tiger started “approximately six and a half years ago,” says Linfield during a press event for the new Disneynature film, the idea of such a project was born much earlier. “Nine years ago, I did a little straw poll in the animation studio I was working at about what my co-workers’ favorite animal was. It was hands down the tiger,” recalls Conli.

Linfield’s involvement traces back even further, spanning over a decade. “Eleven years ago, Disney approached us to create a tiger film, but we declined due to technological limitations and unsuitable tiger habitats,” he explains, adding that “it was just not the right time.” However, the desire for a tiger-themed project persisted. “Everyone wanted to see a tiger film,” says Linfield.

Years later, several favorable factors aligned providing further incentive for the project—the tiger population had increased, and Indian locals expressed enthusiasm for involvement, coupled with the presence of a pregnant tigress amidst the picturesque landscapes and beautiful rivers, streams, and woodlands. Linfield and Berlowitz realized that the timing was perfect to revisit the potential of this highly anticipated project.

Now, the team could leverage cutting-edge camera technology, including remote-controlled MōVi Carbon cameras, to observe tigers in their natural habitat without disturbing them. “Setting up remote cameras… was a game changer,” notes Linfield. Stabilized cameras mounted on jeeps and camera traps were also employed to document wildlife with minimal intrusion.

In a scene from Tigers on the Rise, two filmmakers are recording wildlife in the back of a jeep recording wildlife in a darkened landscape. The outline of trees is visible behind them.

The film is not without a palpable sense of some iconic Disney tigers. “There is a definitely a Shere Khan essence found in Shankar,” says Conli, drawing parallels between the beloved Jungle Book character to the huge male tiger in Tiger who’s almost twice Ambar’s size. “However, I don’t think of Shankar as a villain,” he adds. “Shankar is just patrolling his territory. When all is said and done, he has a pretty big heart.” Conversely, Ambar’s loyal and protective nature may remind viewers of Rajah, Jasmine’s faithful pet tiger from the Aladdin franchise.

In conjunction with Tiger, Disneynature presents a companion film, Tigers on the Rise, narrated by Blair Underwood. Directed by Sullivan, co-directed by Alistair Tones, and produced by Sullivan, Berlowitz, Linfield, and Conli, Tigers on the Rise focuses on the tireless efforts to ensure the harmonious coexistence of tigers and humans.

Secrets of the Octopus Provides a Mesmerizing Look at Elusive Ocean Dweller

By Cecilia Sarantopoulos

In the depths of the ocean, a creature of extraordinary complexity and mystery resides: the octopus. National Geographic’s upcoming three-part series Secrets of the Octopus premieres on Sunday, April 21, on National Geographic and the following day on Disney+ and Hulu, in celebration of Earth Day. Narrated by Paul Rudd, the series promises a mesmerizing exploration into the unique behaviors and intricate communication of these elusive creatures.

At the heart of the series from Academy Award®-winning filmmaker and National Geographic Explorer-at-Large James Cameron lies a deep reverence for the natural world. Drawing upon his experience in oceanic exploration, Cameron underscored the profound importance of understanding and preserving nature’s wonders. “My goal as a film creator of the Avatar movies and as a part of the National Geographic team is to raise consciousness and remind people how connected we must be with nature to preserve the natural ecosystem of the planet,” Cameron said during a session with several members of the documentary’s creative team at the 2024 Winter Television Critics Association press event.

Cameron also called octopuses “masterminds, shapeshifters, and so incredibly alien,” noting that they operate on a much higher level of consciousness than other sea creatures, such as sharks.

Director and DOP Adam Geiger operates a jib arm with Producer/Camera Operator Rory McGuiness and Camera Assistant Woody Spark, surrounded by knee-deep water.

Executive producer Adam Geiger emphasized the significance of forming a genuine connection with these shy and intelligent creatures. “Octopuses are very shy,” Geiger said. “It can take hours or days before an octopus accepts your presence. But when that happens, its personality comes through.”

Dr. Alex Schnell, National Geographic Explorer and internationally recognized expert in comparative cognition, admires octopuses’ capacity for trust, considering the animal’s vulnerability in the absence of shells, claws, and teeth. Despite these limitations, octopuses possess a remarkable asset: the ability to camouflage. “Finding an octopus is incredibly difficult because they can blend into any background,” said Dr. Schnell. “They can change color in a fifth of a second and alter the texture of their skin, going from smooth to bumpy.”

A maroon Day octopus (Octopus Cyanea), with mottled skin coloration, stretches a probing arm beneath the head the coral (Porites sp.) she is perched on.

Renowned author of Secrets of the Octopus, Sy Montgomery has spent years befriending and studying these enigmatic creatures, exploring everything from their mimicry of other species to their surprising social behaviors. “They also lie,” Montgomery disclosed, alluding to octopuses’ adeptness at camouflage and impersonation. “[Through their camouflaging], they say: ‘I’m a venomous lion fish.’”

Despite the allure of cutting-edge technology, Secrets of the Octopus adopts a refreshingly human approach to filmmaking: embracing patience and observation. The filmmakers of the series immersed themselves in the underwater realm, capturing intimate moments of octopus behavior with astonishing clarity and detail.

Through stunning visuals, insightful commentary, and heartfelt narration, the series invites us to dive deep into the mysteries of the ocean and discover the profound beauty that lies within. It’s a journey of discovery, enlightenment, and above all, a celebration of the intricate web of life that surrounds us!

D23 Gold Members: Enjoy 10% Off Your Stay at Fairfield Anaheim Resort, CA

Fairfield Anaheim Resort
Where: Fairfield Anaheim Resort, CA
What: 10% Off Regular Rates
Expires: April 15, 2025

Experience a refreshing stay at Fairfield Anaheim Resort, located across the street from Disneyland®.

This Disneyland® Resort Good Neighbor Hotel offers modern amenities, on-site dining, Wi-Fi, a fitness center, a heated outdoor pool, and a game room!

D23 Gold Members can enjoy a 10% discount on their next magical stay at Fairfield Anaheim Resort in 2024.

To redeem your offer online, please use the following link and enter the discount code in the “Corp/Promo Code” field:

Proof of D23 Gold Membership required to be shown at check-in. Discounts will be removed if D23 Gold Membership is not present with ID. Rates are per room per night. A limited number of packages are available. Some blockout dates, as well as tax and other fees, apply.

Not available to groups of 10 or more rooms, or in conjunction with other promotional offers. There is a 72-hour cancellation window with no penalty.

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What’s Coming to Disney+ in May 2024

By Cecilia Sarantopoulos

May is just around the corner… and so is the highly anticipated addition of several magical titles to Disney+.

Kicking off the excitement on May 4 is the premiere of Star Wars: Tales of the Empire, with all episodes streaming. This six-episode series takes viewers on a journey into the fearsome Galactic Empire through the perspectives of two warriors on divergent paths, spanning different eras.

Following closely on May 5 is the debut of the new Doctor Who series. Join the Doctor (Ncuti Gatwa) and his companion Ruby Sunday (Millie Gibson) as they traverse through time and space, embarking on adventures ranging from England’s Regency era to a war-torn future world.

Also on May 5, fans can watch Season 2 of Monsters at Work, with all episodes streaming. This season puts Tylor Tuskmon’s (voiced by Ben Feldman) journey as a Jokester and his friendship with Val (voiced by Mindy Kaling) to the ultimate test.

Making its debut on May 8 is Let It Be. Director Michael Lindsay-Hogg’s original 1970 film about The Beatles will be available for the first time in over 50 years! And speaking of music, The Beach Boys, a documentary celebrating the legendary band that revolutionized pop music, premieres on May 24!

Mark your calendars for May 22, when Season 2 of Chip ‘n’ Dale: Park Life premieres—following the nervous worrier Chip and laid-back dreamer Dale in their perpetual pursuit of acorns.

All titles coming to Disney+ in May are listed below:

Wednesday, May 1
Life Below Zero: First Alaskans (S3, 20 episodes)
Marvel’s Daredevil (2003)
Star Wars: The Bad Batch (Season 3, Episode 315 “The Cavalry Has Arrived”)
X-Men ’97 (Ep 108 – Tolerance is Extinction – Pt 1)

Friday, May 3
Fantastic Mr. Fox

Saturday, May 4
How Not to Draw Shorts (Special R2D2 Episode) (S2, 4 Episodes)
Star Wars: Tales of the Empire (Premiere – All Episodes Streaming)

Sunday, May 5
Monsters at Work (Season 2, All Episodes Streaming)  

Tuesday, May 7
Billy & Molly: An Otter Love Story

Wednesday, May 8
Me & Winnie the Pooh (S1, 7 episodes)
Playdate with Winnie the Pooh
Let It Be (Premiere)
X-Men ’97 (Ep 109 – Tolerance is Extinction – Pt 2)

Friday, May 10
Doctor Who (Season Premiere, Episodes “The Church on Ruby Road,” “Space Babies,” and “Devil’s Chord”)

Wednesday, May 15
Big City Greens (S4, 4 episodes)
Dino Ranch (S3, 5 episodes)
X-Men ’97 (Ep 110 – Tolerance is Extinction – Pt 3)

Friday, May 17
Doctor Who (Episode: “Boom”)

Wednesday, May 22
Mickey Mouse Funhouse (S3, 5 episodes)
Chip ‘n’ Dale: Park Life (Season 2, Premiere)
Marvel Studios’ Assembled: The Making of X-Men ’97 (Premiere) 

Friday, May 24
The Beach Boys (Premiere)
Doctor Who (Episode: “73 Yards”)

Tuesday, May 28
Gordon Ramsay: Uncharted (S4, 6 episodes)

Friday, May 31
Jim Henson Idea Man (Premiere)
Doctor Who (Episode: “Dot and Bubble”)

The Art of Inside Out 2: Exclusive Q&A with Jason Deamer

By the D23 Team

Inside Out 2 has us feeling all kinds of emotions: Excitement, anticipation, joy… The sequel to Pixar’s Oscar®-winning Inside Out is heading to theaters June 14, but fans can get an early sneak peek thanks to an all-new book! The Art of Inside Out 2, showcasing the art and behind-the-scenes details of the film, is available for preorder now. Feeling impatient? Get a first look at the book below, and hear from production designer Jason Deamer on the creative process behind making Inside Out 2.

Two images, side-by-side, of the emotion Anxiety from Inside Out 2. The left image features sketches of Anxiety’s head in various expressions against a yellow background; on the right, the image features various full-body sketches of the character against a white background.

D23: As we know, the second film follows now-teenage Riley as she navigates new Emotions such as Anxiety, Ennui, Embarrassment, and Envy. What was your creative process for bringing these new characters to life?

Jason Deamer (JD): When it came to choosing the new emotions, it was an embarrassment of riches (pun intended!). I think you’d be surprised by how many new characters came and went as the story developed. Over time, we realized that we needed to lean towards the emotions that made sense for where Riley was in the story. Once we focused on what made sense for a 13-year-old, it all started to become clear. When we started asking ourselves which Emotions have the biggest influence at that age, that’s when we finally narrowed down the options and settled on our new characters: Ennui, Envy, Embarrassment, and leading the way, Anxiety.

Concept art from Inside Out 2 featuring different designs of background characters, arranged in four lines of 11 characters each. The characters are dressed in a variety of casual and athletic clothes, and are of varying heights and races.

D23: The Art of Inside Out 2 also talks about the new characters Riley will meet in the real world. What was your creative process for bringing these specific characters to life, as well?

JD: The crew talked at length about wanting to design characters from a place that was representative of the world we live in. For Riley’s story, that’s San Francisco. Our Character Art Director, Keiko Murayama, did a deep dive into researching the demographics and cultural history of the people that make San Francisco the city it is, so we could design the human cast from an informed and intentional place.

Even for secondary characters—by which I mean those with less screen time where there might not be room to communicate a backstory to the audience—this still proved very useful when it came to our design choices. To give some examples: “What is a plausible garment for this character? How would this person cut their hair?”, etc. In my mind, even though it may not be overtly clear to a viewer, this type of specific and observational detail in character designs adds a rich texture to the cinematic experience.

D23: As we know, navigating our teens can feel uncertain and overwhelming at times —did you tap into your personal experiences as you were working on Inside Out 2?

JD: I think for most of us, the changes we go through as a teenager come with more than a few bumps in the road. And telling a story in the context of this very human experience came with a silver lining. It opens a lot of doors for humor. Personally, I have clear memories of being self-conscious at a party and not knowing what to do with my hands; growing so quickly that I tripped over stairs in my own house; my friend group taking up more of my mind’s attention than my family; or even idolizing older kids almost to the point of hero worship… To me, that’s what makes all this stuff so relatable.

Concept art from Inside Out 2 featuring Anger, Disgust, Joy, and Sadness sitting sadly at their control panel, surrounded by purple construction workers demolishing and rebuilding the space around them.

D23: With the great success of the first film, what were the biggest pressures/challenges you had to face when coming up with the production design, Emotions art, and creative worlds in IO2?

JD: I jumped at the opportunity to take this task on. I loved what my dearly departed friend and mentor Ralph Eggleston did as the production designer of Inside Out. Revisiting all the soft and semi-translucent materials of the mind world presented so many possibilities. When you’re designing for the “mind,” you can do just about anything. Certainly there was pressure there—Inside Out is beloved, so it was imperative that we honor the way it was designed, as well as work within the rules of the world building established to audiences in the original story. Beyond that, though, the mind is your oyster.

On another note, there’s a funny thing that happens when you make a follow-up to such a beloved film. You actually convince yourself, somehow, that it will be easier. We know what the world should look like, after all; plus, we assume we’ll get some reuse out of the characters and set pieces. But the truth is, we started making Inside Out 14 years ago! All of the software has fundamentally changed since then. So on this film, we were starting all of our work from scratch.

Another part of this is how surprisingly easy it is to let yourself ignore that most of the places your mind will go creatively, as you explore new concepts, will end up being the same or very similar to the ideas that came up making the first film. Of course you would, if you think about it. That’s the stuff which makes sense for this world, and is charming or funny, and worked in the original story. As a consequence, you have to push yourself in order to find novel concepts that expand on the world to create an engaging experience for the audience.

All the Can’t-Miss Walt Disney Studios Films Teased at CinemaCon

By the D23 Team

Mark your calendars, because The Walt Disney Studios is promising a dazzling slate of films in your future! Attendees at the 2024 CinemaCon® convention in Las Vegas last week got special sneak peeks at Disney’s upcoming 2024 films, including exclusive looks at highly anticipated films from some of its famed production studios: Disney Live Action, Marvel Studios, Pixar, Walt Disney Animation Studios, 20th Century Studios, and Searchlight Pictures.

Alan Bergman, Co-Chairman Disney Entertainment speaks onstage during the Walt Disney Studios presentation at Cinemacon in Las Vegas, Nevada. Behind him, on screen, is a split image featuring Moana, Joy, Deadpool, The Mandalorian, and Bella Baxter.

Alan Bergman, co-chairman of Disney Entertainment, took to the stage at The Colosseum at Caesar’s Palace to speak about the power of the theatrical film experience and the upcoming flow of exceptional cinematic events Disney fans can’t wait to see in throughout the year. “The upcoming lineup from our studio is incredibly exciting,” Bergman said. “With a mix of established franchises and fresh stories, there’s something for everyone, and we look forward to serving up a variety of films that deliver a steady flow of exceptional cinematic events to theaters.”

Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes
May 10, 2024

Tony Chambers, executive vice president and head of theatrical distribution, kicked off the studios’ presentation with 13 minutes of thrilling footage from the highly anticipated all-new action-adventure spectacle from 20th Century Studios, Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes, which opens in theaters nationwide on May 10—just around the corner!

Director Wes Ball breathes new life into the global epic franchise set several generations in the future following Caesar’s reign in War of the Planet of the Apes (2017). In the new film, apes are the dominant species living harmoniously, and humans have been reduced to living in the shadows. As a new tyrannical ape leader builds his empire, one young ape undertakes a harrowing journey that will cause him to question all he has known about the past and make choices that will define a future for apes and humans alike.

Young Woman and the Sea
May 31, 2024

Next up was Disney’s Young Woman and the Sea, the extraordinary true story of Trudy Ederle, the first woman to successfully swim the English Channel, which comes to theaters nationwide in a special engagement on May 31. Chambers kicked off a taped greeting from legendary producer Jerry Bruckheimer, who then introduced the brand-new trailer. The film stars Daisy Ridley, who trades in the Force for flipping her fins as an accomplished swimmer born to immigrant parents in New York City in 1905. Through the steadfast support of her older sister and supportive trainers, she overcame adversity and animosity to rise through the ranks of the Olympic swimming team and complete a staggering achievement—the 21-mile trek from France to England. CinemaCon attendees were the first to see the trailer, which you can watch for yourself above.

Inside Out 2
June 14, 2024

Amy Poehler speaks onstage during the Walt Disney Studios presentation at Cinemacon. On screen behind her is a split image of live video of herself speaking and the logo for the film Inside Out 2.

 Chambers welcomed Emmy®- and Golden Globe®-award-winning actor Amy Poehler to the stage. Poehler, who returns to cinemas as the voice of Joy in Disney and Pixar’s Inside Out 2 and who received this year’s CinemaCon Vanguard award at the Big Screen Achievement Awards ceremony, spoke about the film. As viewers return to the mind of newly minted teenager Riley, the headquarters is undergoing a sudden demolition to make room for something entirely unexpected: new Emotions! Joy, Sadness (voiced by Phyllis Smith), Anger (voiced by Lewis Black), Fear (voiced by Tony Hale), and Disgust (voiced by Liza Lapira), who’ve long been running a successful operation by all accounts, aren’t sure how to feel when Anxiety (voiced by Maya Hawke) shows up. And she’s not alone: Enter Envy (voiced by Ayo Edebiri), Ennui (voiced by Adèle Exarchopoulos), and Embarrassment (voiced by Paul Walter Hauser). The sequel to the Academy Award®-winning Inside Out (2015), Inside Out 2 is directed by Kelsey Mann and produced by Mark Nielsen.

CinemaCon attendees were then treated to the first 35 minutes of the animated film, which opens in theaters on June 14.

Captain America: Brave New World
February 14, 2025

Kevin Feige, President, Marvel Studios, speaks onstage during the Walt Disney Studios presentation at Cinemacon. Onscreen behind him is the logo for the film Captain America: Brave New World, along with the text “Only in theaters 2-14-25

Of course, we can’t talk upcoming films without checking in with the Marvel Cinematic Universe! Looking ahead to the MCU’s most anticipated upcoming releases, Chambers brought Kevin Feige, producer and president of Marvel Studios, to the stage. Feige in turn welcomed Cap himself, Anthony Mackie, to talk about Marvel Studios’ Captain America: Brave New World. Mackie offered up a little behind-the-scenes insight before introducing a first look at the film, which hits theaters on February 14, 2025. Directed by Julius Onah, produced by Feige and Nate Moore, and executive produced by Louis D’Esposito, Charles Newirth, and Mackie, Captain America: Brave New World also stars Danny Ramirez, Carl Lumbly, and Shira Haas, with Tim Blake Nelson and Harrison Ford.

Deadpool & Wolverine
July 26, 2024

Deadpool & Wolverine director Shawn Levy and Kevin Feige, President, Marvel Studios speak onstage during the Walt Disney Studios presentation at Cinemacon. Behind them onscreen is the logo for the film, with only the yellow text “& Wolverine” visible in the picture. Below the logo is the text “July 25, Only in Theaters”

Can’t wait until 2025? Good news—Marvel’s Merc with a Mouth is returning to the big screen this summer to wreak havoc across the Marvel Cinematic Universe… with a friend. Feige introduced Marvel Studios’ Deadpool & Wolverine director Shawn Levy, who received CinemaCon’s Director of the Year award at the Big Screen Achievement Awards ceremony. Levy thrilled the audience with an exclusive look at the film, which stars Ryan Reynolds, Hugh Jackman, Emma Corrin, Morena Baccarin, Rob Delaney, Leslie Uggams, Karan Soni, and Matthew Macfadyen. The film is a sequel to the hit films Deadpool (2016) and Deadpool 2 (2018), which first introduced the fourth-wall-breaking fan favorite antihero to the big screen.

Kevin Feige, Ryan Reynolds, Shawn Levy, and Lauren Shuler Donner produce with Louis D’Esposito, Wendy Jacobson, Mary McLaglen, Josh McLaglen, Rhett Reese, Paul Wernick, George Dewey, and Simon Kinberg serving as executive producers. Deadpool & Wolverine is written by Ryan Reynolds & Rhett Reese & Paul Wernick & Zeb Wells & Shawn Levy. Deadpool & Wolverine opens in theaters July 26.

Alien: Romulus
August 16

In space, no one can hear you scream. However, at CinemaCon, the fans’ enthusiasm is loud and clear! Chambers shared a special greeting from Alien: Romulus producer Ridley Scott and director/writer Fede Alvarez, who thanked exhibitors for their ongoing partnership and their support of the Alien franchise over the past 45 years and introduced a special look at the upcoming film, a truly terrifying cinematic experience opening in theaters August 16.

Following a 45-year legacy started with Ridley Scott’s 1979 sci-fi classic Alien, 20th Century Studios’ Alien: Romulus takes the phenomenally successful Alien franchise back to its roots: While scavenging the deep ends of a derelict space station, a group of young space colonizers come face to face with the most terrifying life form in the universe.

Kinds of Kindness
June 21

Up next was Searchlight Pictures, which recently released Poor Things, the winner of four Academy Awards® last month. Searchlight Pictures is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. On June 21, Kinds of Kindness, which will premiere this spring at the Cannes Film Festival before it opens exclusively in theaters. The film reunites Poor Things director Yorgos Lanthimos with recent Oscar® winner Emma Stone, who is joined by Jesse Plemons, Willem Dafoe, Margaret Qualley, Hong Chau, Joe Alwyn, Mamoudou Athie, and Hunter Schafer. The film is a triptych fable, following a man without choice who tries to take control of his own life; a policeman who is alarmed that his wife, who was missing at sea, has returned and seems a different person; and a woman determined to find a specific someone with a special ability, who is destined to become a prodigious spiritual leader.

The Amateur
April 11, 2025

Tony Chambers, E.V.P., Head of Theatrical Distribution, speaks onstage during the Walt Disney Studios presentation at Cinemacon. Behind him on screen is the logo for the film The Amateurs along with the text “Only in theaters April 11, 2025”.

The first footage from 20th Century Studios’ The Amateur was then screened exclusively in the room. The film, an action-packed espionage thriller directed by James Hawes and starring Oscar® winner Rami Malek, Rachel Brosnahan, Caitriona Balfe, Michael Stuhlbarg, Holt McCallany, Julianne Nicholson, Adrian Martinez, and Laurence Fishburne, opens in theaters nationwide on April 11, 2025.

Mufasa: The Lion King
December 20

Mufasa: The Lion King director Barry Jenkins speaks onstage during the Walt Disney Studios presentation at Cinemacon. Behind him is a split screen of Jenkins speaking and the film’s logo.

Next, Oscar® winner Barry Jenkins took to the stage to take us back to Pride Rock with Disney’s Mufasa: The Lion King, the follow-up to 2019’s global phenomenon, and showcase the teaser trailer for the film, which opens in theaters on December 20. Told in flashbacks, Mufasa: The Lion King reveals the rise of one of the greatest kings of the Pride Lands as Rafiki, Timon, and Pumbaa share the story of Mufasa with a young lion cub. The film is produced by Adele Romanski & Mark Ceryak, and executive produced by Peter Tobyansen.

Moana 2
November 27

Polynesian dancers perform onstage during the Walt Disney Studios Presentation at Cinemacon. Behind them is a teaser image for Moana 2, featuring the film’s title superimposed over the image of a beach, where Moana stands on the sand, blowing into a conch shell.

If CinemaCon attendees were hoping for a sneak peek at Moana 2, then we say, “You’re welcome!” The studios closed out their presentation with a surprise appearance by Dwayne Johnson, who came to a stage filled with Polynesian drummers and dancers from Tiana Liufau’s Nonasina (choreographer on the Moanafilms). Johnson returns as the voice of Maui in Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Moana 2, opening in theaters on November 27. Bergman returned to the stage to introduce NATO chair Bob Bagby, who presented Johnson with the NATO Spirit of the Industry Award in recognition of his unparalleled dedication, passion, and commitment to the motion picture theatrical experience.

Moana, standing on her boat, looks ahead at the camera with a determined expression, holding her oar up across her chest. Behind her is lush scenery of an island, that seems to have both plant life and strange tentacles and growths growing on it.

Moana 2 reunites Moana (voiced by Auli‘i Cravalho) and Maui three years after the original film for an expansive new voyage alongside a crew of unlikely seafarers. After receiving an unexpected call from her wayfinding ancestors, Moana must journey to the far seas of Oceania and into dangerous, long-lost waters for an adventure unlike anything she’s ever faced. Directed by Dave Derrick Jr., co-directed by Jason Hand, and produced by Christina Chen and Yvett Merino, the epic animated musical features music by Grammy® winners Abigail Barlow and Emily Bear, Grammy nominee Opetaia Foa’i, and three-time Grammy winner Mark Mancina.

Explore Disney Adventure World: Disneyland Paris’ Brand-New Creative Vision for Second Park

By Alison Stateman

Disney Parks fans are sure to say “ooh la la” when they witness the brand-new creative vision for Disneyland Paris, including an expansive update to its second park, unveiled during an immersive presentation Friday before an audience of 1,000 fans and cast members.

To celebrate this fresh chapter, Walt Disney Studios Park will be renamed Disney Adventure World when World of Frozen, a new immersive area dedicated to the magical world of Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Frozen, comes to life, bordering a majestic bay. This is the third Disney Park iteration of the beloved film and follows the opening of World of Frozen at Hong Kong Disneyland Resort and upcoming debut of Frozen Kingdom as part of the new Fantasy Springs at Tokyo DisneySea.

When Walt Disney Studios Park opened in 2002, the original idea driving the creation of the second park was to give guests a behind-the-scenes look into the making of movies, animated feature films, and television shows. The park concept has since evolved creatively to offer more immersive worlds, and in 2007 it embarked on an exciting expansion journey with the launch of multiple large-scale, immersive projects like The Twilight Zone™ Tower of Terror, Toy Story Playland, and Ratatouille: The Adventure.

“Today, we are changing the story of Walt Disney Studios Park, evolving from ‘how it’s done’ soundstages to celebratory theaters and adventures that come to life in immersive worlds,” said Tom Fitzgerald, Walt Disney Imagineering Chief Storytelling Executive and Senior Creative Executive for Disneyland Paris. “These fully realized adventure worlds will become the focus of the park’s new identity and appear as realms that guests discover as they navigate deeper within the park and are invited to participate in adventures inspired by our most beloved stories.”

Concept art for World of Frozen at the newly imagined Disney Adventure World showcases the village of Arendelle with its colorful facades and remarkable North Mountain as it gradually comes into view.

World of Frozen will be located on the edge of Adventure Bay, a 70,000-cubic-meter body of water surrounded by picturesque banks and a promenade at the heart of the park expansion, serving as a gateway to the new themed universes that will surround it. More than a scenic icon, Adventure Bay will serve as a unique entertainment stage with a 360-degree viewing area. It will be fitted with the latest technologies to provide exciting water-based entertainment, complete with fountains, music, lights, and special effects that are sure to delight guests.

The resort has seen an unprecedented number of projects brought to life to reinvigorate the guest experience and make the Disneyland Paris Resort a must-visit destination. One of the top priorities of this exceptional transformation plan—coming to fruition thanks to a two-billion-euro investment—is a complete makeover of Walt Disney Studios Park while continuing to expand its footprint with new themed areas that will join Marvel Avengers Campus, which welcomed its very first recruits back in 2022, and Worlds of Pixar. At the end of its expansion journey, the soon-to-be-renamed park will have roughly doubled its footprint and become a can’t-miss experience for an all-day getaway.

Transformations at the second park at Disneyland Paris to begin this month include revamping the entrance area to immerse guests in the brand-new story as soon as they enter, as seen in this concept image featuring a glowing neon marquee reading “Disney Theater World Premieres” amid an expansive promenade.

Beginning this month, the park’s transformation work will extend to the entrance area to immerse guests in the brand-new story as soon as they step inside. After passing through the turnstiles, guests will be transported into a vibrant, contemporary open-air movie studio before becoming special guests of a glamorous film premiere in the heart of Hollywood on a starry night. To bring this all-new immersive experience to life, the interior décor of the “soundstage,” which currently depicts a filming scene on Hollywood Boulevard, will be replaced with crafted décor that pays homage to historic movie theaters in Hollywood and the entertainment industry as a whole. The new entrance building, renamed World Premiere, will reopen in Spring 2025.

A concept image shows the all-new family attraction Raiponce Tangled Spin. Guests awaiting their turn stand watching guests enjoy spinning amid canoe-shaped ride vehicles as twinkling lanterns glow above the enclosed outdoor attraction.

To gain access to the park’s immersive worlds, guests will be able to walk along Adventure Way, a beautiful promenade surrounded by lush landscape and themed gardens—the perfect spot for magical daydreams. As guests wander through this enchanting area, they will discover Raiponce Tangled Spin, an all-new family attraction offering a fun take on a classic ride, inspired by the beloved Disney Animation movie Tangled. It will invite guests to “take a spin” through the iconic floating lanterns scene that has touched the hearts of viewers of all ages.

While the ongoing transformation of the park is sure to take the guest experience to an entirely new level, the entire resort will continue to elevate its offerings in the coming years.

Spark Magic in the Everyday with Products for Every Moment of Play

By Lauren O’Donnell

Time goes by so fast—treasure every moment of play, no matter how big or small. We have gathered toys from Disney, Pixar, Star Wars, and Marvel that will inspire imagination and endless playtime with the little ones in your life.

Disney

Mickey in a red racing vehicle in image one. Image 2 in the grouping is a Sparks plush from SuperKitties. The third image in the group is a Ginny mask from SuperKitties.

Rev up your engines with the Mickey Mouse Rev ‘n Glow Vehicle Racer inspired by Disney Junior’s Mickey Mouse Funhouse series. For more Disney Junior fun, favorites from SuperKitties include Ginny, Buddy, Bitsy, and Sparks plushes and a Ginny Mask for little ones to transform into the kitty-cat hero.

The first image in the group is a Frozen LEGO castle with accessories and minifigures. The second image in the group is a Wish keepsake box inside the packaging that features Asha. The third image is toys with different Princess characters and their friends.

Do you want to build Elsa’s Frozen Castle? With an ice-cream kitchen, swing and slide, plus a campfire and ice canoe, kids will love spending time at Elsa’s castle from LEGO®. Inspired by Walt Disney Animation Studios’ newest film Wish, Asha’s Musical Wishing Keepsake Box allows kids to make their wish and write it down on the wishing paper, then put it in the special capsule. For Disney Princess fans, this adorable Fisher Price Disney Princess Story Duos Figure Set features Disney Princess characters and their best friends!

Pixar

Cars Glow Racers Transforming Mack Playset truck toy.

Ready, set, GLOW! With the Cars Glow Racers Transforming Mack Playset, kids can light up playtime with glow-in-the-dark elements and twice the fun.

Star Wars

First image is a LEGO set of a ship from Young Jedi Adventures and the second image is a plush of Nubs from Young Jedi Adventures.

Inspire your little one to role-play action-packed Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures and spark excitement in the everyday with The Crimson Firehawk™ LEGO® set and the Fuzzy Force Nubs Plush.

Marvel

First image is a LEGO set from Spidey and His Amazing Friends with Marvel character minifigures. Second image in the grouping is a Ghost-Spider plush.

Team up for some Super Hero fun and spark adventure in the everyday with the Team Spidey Web Spinner Headquarters and Marvel Spidey and His Amazing Friends Gwen The Ghost-Spider Pillow Buddy.

D23 Magic All Year at Anaheim Majestic Garden Hotel, CA

Anaheim Majestic Garden Hotel
Where: Anaheim Majestic Garden Hotel
What: Exclusive Amenities Package
Expires: April 1, 2025

Anaheim Majestic Garden Hotel is situated on 13 acres of strolling gardens—with a koi pond, refreshing outdoor pool and spa, and fitness center. We feature indoor and outdoor dining options ranging from a quick bite in the California Deli; a more relaxed experience in the Garden Court Bistro; or an exciting culinary adventure at Hanagi Japanese Restaurant. Additionally, the Garden Court Bar & Lounge is perfect for a casual snack and cocktails.

The magic starts the moment you step through the door... with visits from our very own Princess Corinne, summertime outdoor movies on the lawn, and poolside dining!

Located just around the corner from Disneyland® Resort, Anaheim Majestic Garden Hotel offers a garden oasis and castle-themed fun for your next trip. 

With this special offer, D23 Gold Members will enjoy 15% off the best available rate, an extra-large room, free parking, late checkout, a D23 special gift, a one-time 15% dining voucher for Garden Court Bistro or the Garden Court Lounge, and a complimentary Dream Machine Shuttle to and from Disneyland® Resort provided with every stay at the Anaheim Majestic Garden Hotel.

Your castle getaway is sure to mean a stay filled with enchantment and accommodations that exceed your expectations!

D23 Gold Members will receive:

  • 15% off the best available rate (blockout dates apply)
  • An Extra-Large Room (nearly 500 square feet)
  • 15% Dining Voucher in Garden Court Bistro or Garden Court Lounge (excludes alcohol) 
  • Complimentary Dream Machine Shuttle to Disneyland Resort
  • Complimentary Parking for one vehicle ($30 per day savings)
  • Late checkout
  • A D23 Special Gift upon check-in – 1 (one) per room, while supplies last

To redeem your offer, please use the discount code and link below:

NOTE
Based on availability, some blockout dates apply, 24-hour cancellation required to avoid penalty, must be guaranteed with credit card.
Proof of D23 Gold Membership must be presented at check-in.
Maximum 2 (two) rooms booked for the same stay dates.

A promotional image for the Disney D23 app. The background is blue with the D23 logo and text that reads "THE OFFICIAL Disney FAN CLUB." The main text says, "TAKE THE MAGIC ON THE GO WITH THE DISNEY D23 APP," written in a casual, playful font. To the right, there is an illustration of a smartphone displaying a D23 Gold Member digital card featuring Mickey Mouse.

Access Your D23 Benefits Anytime, Anywhere
With the Disney D23 app, your membership card is just a few taps away.
Access your benefits from your phone!

2024 Collector Set

Get More Disney With D23 Gold Membership
Enjoy exclusive discounts and access to special events and merch.
Also includes our quarterly publication and annual Collector Set.

BECOME A GOLD MEMBER

D23 Gold Members: 20% Off at Columbia Sportswear in Disney Springs, FL

Columbia
Where: Columbia Sportswear in Disney Springs
What: 20% Off Your Purchase
Expires: April 15, 2025

Prepare for your next great adventure with Columbia Sportswear! D23 Gold Members can receive 20% off your entire purchase at Columbia’s Disney Springs location. Proof of membership must be presented at checkout, or mention code DISNEYD23 to redeem the discount.

To redeem your offer in-person, please follow the instructions below:

Proof of D23 Gold Membership must be presented, or mention code DISNEYD23 at checkout to redeem the discount.

Offer valid for 20% off your entire single purchase (excluding tax and shipping) at participating Columbia Sportswear-owned retail brand store in Disney Springs location only.

Limit one (1) discount per household. Offer is non-transferable and may not be applied to prior purchases, combined with any other offer or discount, used online, redeemed by employees, or applied to gift card purchases, tax, or shipping charges. If any portion of the purchase is returned or exchanged, you will be refunded (in the case of a return) or credited (in the case of an exchange) the price paid after discount (prorated per item based on price), and prorated discount amount will be void.  

All refunds are in the form of the initial payment. Columbia reserves the right to change or cancel this offer at any time. Void if altered or reproduced, and where prohibited, restricted, or taxed.

A promotional image for the Disney D23 app. The background is blue with the D23 logo and text that reads "THE OFFICIAL Disney FAN CLUB." The main text says, "TAKE THE MAGIC ON THE GO WITH THE DISNEY D23 APP," written in a casual, playful font. To the right, there is an illustration of a smartphone displaying a D23 Gold Member digital card featuring Mickey Mouse.

Access Your D23 Benefits Anytime, Anywhere
With the Disney D23 app, your membership card is just a few taps away.
Access your benefits from your phone!

2024 Collector Set

Get More Disney With D23 Gold Membership
Enjoy exclusive discounts and access to special events and merch.
Also includes our quarterly publication and annual Collector Set.

BECOME A GOLD MEMBER