Save 15% at Howard Johnson by Wyndham Anaheim Hotel & Water Playground, CA

April 23, 2024

Where: Howard Johnson Anaheim Hotel & Water Playground

Expires: April 15, 2025

Dive into the magic of Anaheim with an exclusive offer just for D23 Gold Members! Enjoy an 15% off your stay at Howard Johnson Anaheim—the ultimate family-friendly hotel conveniently located across the street from Disneyland Resort and just 1.5 miles away from the Anaheim Convention Center!

Splash in our Garden Pool, explore Castaway Cove water park, and bask in seven lush acres of pure fun! Hurry, book now, and let the adventure begin! Don’t forget to check out @hojoanaheim on Instagram for more magic!

D23 Gold Members can enjoy 15% off regular rates at Howard Johnson by Wyndham Anaheim Hotel & Water Playground, a Disneyland Resort Good Neighbor Hotel.

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A Time Capsule of Treasures: The 1964-1965 World’s Fair

April 22, 2024

By Taylor Larsen, Walt Disney Archives

Imagine the year is 6965, and you’re about to open a time capsule buried since October 16, 1965. As a record of 20th-century living, it was lowered deep within the earth on the last days of the famed 1964–1965 New York World’s Fair, with instructions to remain sealed for 5,000 years. In fact, this would be the second such time capsule, the first having been firmly planted on September 23, 1938, in advance of the 1939–1940 New York World’s Fair. Both capsules are packed with documents, memorabilia, and other commonly used items of the day—all evidence of what life was like in America during each respective era.

Wouldn’t it be amazing to journey several thousand years into “Tomorrowland” to glimpse these objects and discover how well they survived? Even now, on the 60th anniversary of the 1964–1965 New York World’s Fair, life has changed in profound ways… and a look inside a 60-year-old time capsule would still be a fascinating discovery. Just ask Father and his trusty dog Rover over at Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress in Walt Disney World Resort; they’ll agree that life today looks much different than it did in the ’60s. One must possess the never-aging capabilities of the “Carousel family” (and witness every significant advancement in human life from now until 6965!) to be fortunate enough to see the memorabilia inside these capsules. Otherwise, you’re out of luck.

Rest assured, the Walt Disney Archives has you covered!

Because Walt Disney and his Imagineers played a critical role in the 1964–1965 New York World’s Fair (and since the Fair has been a significant part of the Disney story ever since), the Walt Disney Archives maintains its own collection of memorabilia and rarely-seen materials from this landmark event. We liken this to a living time capsule—one in which dedicated professionals actively preserve and protect the assets inside.

In 1964, the World’s Fair was mounted at Flushing Meadows Corona Park in Queens, New York, and promoted the theme of “Peace Through Understanding.” After some involvement in the 1939–1940 New York World’s Fair, Walt and his skilled designers, artisans, and craftsmen showcased their creativity and workmanship at an unprecedented level, leaving a lasting impact and drawing critical acclaim. If you’ve ever visited a Disney theme park, you’ve most likely seen evidence of Disney’s involvement in the Fair. Some items are massive show pieces or actual ride-through attractions at the parks, while other items are smaller, safely preserved objects that reside in the Archives and made available to the public through exhibitions… or right here!

To celebrate the 60th anniversary of the New York World’s Fair, and many of the well-known Disney theme park attractions still enjoyed today, let’s take an up-close look at some rarely seen objects from 1964 and 1965. These items provide a unique perspective into Walt Disney’s involvement at the Fair.

Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln

When Robert Moses, president of the 1964–1965 New York World’s Fair, visited the Disney studio in 1963 he was able to witness an early test of the first Audio-Animatronics^® human figure: Abraham Lincoln. He was so smitten with the illusion that he reportedly exclaimed, “I won’t open the Fair without that exhibit!” Moses was a fan of Walt Disney and, therefore, negotiated with the State of Illinois to sponsor and welcome the sixteenth president of the United States (in lifelike Audio-Animatronics form) to their pavilion.

At the time, the Lincoln figure was arguably Walt’s most sophisticated creation, and there were myriad technical issues leading up to the Fair’s opening day. Walt, however, remained confident the figure would perform successfully. On May 2, 1964, Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln officially debuted at the State of Illinois pavilion and became one of the most popular attractions at the Fair. (The figure was so lifelike that some attendees incorrectly recounted how the president walked forward and shook hands with the crowd.) With advancements in technology, an updated Audio-Animatronics Lincoln still delights guests today at Disneyland Park. The Walt Disney Archives has several components of that first Lincoln figure built for New York, including the head feature. This historical object is currently traveling with the Disney100: The Exhibition and will soon be displayed at its next stop in Kansas City, Missouri.

Progressland, featuring the Carousel of Progress

Remember Father and his dog, Rover? Like Mr. Lincoln, they also caught their big break in Queens. Leading up to the events in New York, Walt secured the sponsorship of General Electric to build a first-of-its-kind stage production featuring an impressive cast of Audio-Animatronics performers. The Carousel of Progress opened with the Progressland pavilion on the Fair’s opening day—April 22, 1964—and presented an entertaining narrative about electrical progress in America from the turn of the 20th century to the near future, as told by a “typical” American family of the time. An innovative ride system allowed the audience to move scene by scene around a central stage in a unique “theater in the round.”

The successful attraction was among the highest attended at the Fair, and General Electric agreed to sponsor the show when it moved to Disneyland in 1967. It relocated to Walt Disney World Resort in 1975, and General Electric continued its sponsorship until 1985. Today, the attraction is known as Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress, a tribute to Walt’s love of both nostalgia and the promise of tomorrow. Next time you visit the Magic Kingdom, take a spin through the decades with the Carousel family. They’ve been delighting guests for 60 years!

Magic Skyway

Ford Motor Company was one of the most prominent exhibitors at the Fair, and the company responded to Walt’s proposal for an attraction allowing visitors to journey through time in actual Ford cars. The popular attraction, titled the Magic Skyway, first took visitors to prehistoric times, including a climactic battle between two roaring dinosaurs. These dueling giants, and several other Audio-Animatronics beasts, did not go extinct—but have lived on inside the Primeval World Diorama of the Disneyland Railroad in Anaheim since July 1, 1966.

“it’s a small world”

With three shows in development, Walt Disney’s unique brand of entertainment was already well represented among the Fair’s planned 650 acres of experiences and displays. But a late addition to the creative lineup, which beautifully exemplified the Fair’s theme of “Peace Through Understanding,” would become one of the most charming attractions in Disney history (and thrill more than 10 million children of all ages during its premiere in New York). If you ever had the pleasure of sailing on “The Happiest Cruise That Ever Sailed ’Round the World,” you know the attraction well: “it’s a small world.”

The Walt Disney Archives preserves an impressive array of objects from the New York World’s Fair, including memorabilia and admission media. These colorful tickets offer a glimpse into what it would have been like to attend the Fair and take a journey on the happiest cruise of them all.

It all began in 1963, when the Pepsi-Cola Company approached Walt Disney about creating a salute to children and an exhibit to benefit the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). With the three other projects already underway, the year leading up to the Fair was full of creative challenges for Disney that required a symphony of people with many diverse skills. The artistic talents of countless dedicated individuals made “it’s a small world” an international kaleidoscope and an entertaining reality. After two successful seasons in New York, “it’s a small world” relocated to Disneyland and opened May 28, 1966, to great fanfare.

An opened page reveals colorful illustrations from the "it's a small world" souvenir guidebook, dating back to the Fair's heyday.

The words sung by the international dolls of “it’s a small world” are still heard by millions of guests from all walks of life. This delightful musical fantasy continues to stand as a tribute to the early version in New York. And with additional versions inspiring passengers at Walt Disney World, Tokyo Disneyland, Disneyland Paris, and Hong Kong Disneyland, the sun never sets on “it’s a small world.”

Fortunately, we won’t need to live until 6965 to catch a glimpse at fascinating objects that date to the 1960s. Disney parks and the Walt Disney Archives serve as a type of time capsule that can remind us of the incredible talents and dedicated professionals who came before us. The Archives continues to be dedicated to preserving objects that, when viewed, can transport us 60 years back to the 1964-1965 New York World’s Fair. Thanks for following along!

Disneynature Roars into Earth Day with Tiger: A Wildlife Spectacle

April 22, 2024

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.

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.

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

April 22, 2024April 19, 2024

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.

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.”

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!

Is Ursula an Octopus? D23 Members Can Test Their Octo-Smarts with Nat Geo and Enjoy a 30-Day Free Trial

April 22, 2024April 19, 2024

Where: National Geographic Online

What: Nat Geo Premium Editorial Exclusive + 30-Day Free Trial

Expires: April 30, 2024

Happy Earth Day! Are you ready to test your octo-smarts?

Many assume that classic villainess and animated sea witch, Ursula, is an octopus. While she shares several traits with these fascinating sea creatures—a solo lifestyle and a mischievous temperament, to name a few—there are also some key differences.

So what kind of ocean-dwelling creature is Ursula, exactly? This Earth Day, join National Geographic on a deep dive into the ocean animals that inspired Disney animation artists to create this iconic character: Is Ursula from The Little Mermaid an Octopus? Sort of.

If you think you have what it takes to be an octo-expert, you can test your knowledge about these savvy cephalopods and take the Secrets of the Octopus quiz: Octopuses have a lot of secrets. Can you guess eight of them?

D23 Members have been granted this special Nat Geo access in honor of Earth Day and the stories that inspire action to protect, restore, and celebrate our planet. Explore even further as a D23 Member with a 30-day free trial to Nat Geo Premium and enjoy full access to subscriber-exclusive content on natgeo.com and the Nat Geo app, immersive online-only experiences, and new stories published daily.

National Geographic continues it celebration of these incredible creatures with today’s premiere of Secrets of the Octopus on Disney+ and Hulu:

Octopuses are like aliens on Earth: three hearts, blue blood, and the ability to squeeze through a space the size of their eyeballs. From Academy Award®-winning filmmaker and National Geographic Explorer-at-Large James Cameron, the next installment of the award-winning “Secrets of” franchise returns with Secrets of the Octopus. The three-part series explores their one-of-a-kind superpowers, extraordinary intelligence, and secret social lives. There is so much more to these weird and wonderful animals that are intelligent enough to use tools, transform their bodies to mimic other animals, and even communicate with different species. Narrated by award-winning actor Paul Rudd and featuring National Geographic Explorer, Wayfinder Awardee, and science communicator Dr. Alex Schnell, Secrets of the Octopus will bring us closer than ever to these elusive creatures.

Now available for streaming on Disney+ and Hulu.

D23 Members can take advantage of their 30-day free trial to Nat Geo Premium’s annual subscription at the link below:

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D23 Member Exclusive: Nat Geo Kids Earth Month Subscription Offer

April 18, 2024April 18, 2024

Where: National Geographic

What: Free Activity Kit and Bonus Issues with Paid Subscription

Expires: May 15, 2024

Unleash adventure for young minds! Packed with exciting stories, stunning visuals, and interactive science content – National Geographic Kids magazine is the perfect blend of education and screen-free entertainment to ignite the curiosity of young explorers. Inspire and empower children ages 7-12 to understand the world through stories, games, and more!

For a limited time, and in celebration of Earth Month, all D23 Members will receive a FREE downloadable activity kit and up to two bonus issues with a paid subscription!

To redeem your exclusive offer online, please visit the link below:

NOTE
Your gift subscription will automatically be renewed at the end of your term and then each year. We will send you a notice at the end of your introductory term, and before your gift subscription renews each year, with the then-applicable rate of renewal (currently USD$34/yr or USD$41/yr for Canada delivery). If you do nothing, your credit card will automatically be charged for another subscription year at the renewal rate then in effect. You may cancel or change your renewal status by calling 1-800-647-5463, sending an email to natgeokids@cdsfulfillment.com, or online at www.ngkservice.com at any time during your subscription. You will receive a refund for the portion of the subscription that has not yet been processed for shipping. If your credit card account cannot be charged, we will bill you directly instead. Applicable to all states/provinces except VT. New orders only. All pricing in U.S. Funds. Canadian orders include all applicable taxes. For U.S. orders, applicable sales tax will be added. Visit ngm.com/taxes for more information. In the U.S., please allow 4 – 6 weeks for delivery of the first issue; elsewhere please allow 8 – 12 weeks. If applicable, please allow 4 – 8 weeks for delivery of your free gift. If your order contains a free gift and it is unavailable, it will be replaced with an item of greater or equal value. For customer service inquiries, please call 1-800-647-5463, or contact us via email at natgeokids@cdsfulfillment.com.

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

April 18, 2024

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

April 17, 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

April 16, 2024

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.

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.

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.

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

April 15, 2024April 15, 2024

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 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

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

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

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

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

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

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 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.