Fun For the Whole Family at the Cheaper by the Dozen World Premiere

By Jocelyn Buhlman

Yesterday, Hollywood had stars by the dozens on the red carpet for the premiere of Disney+’s original movie Cheaper by the Dozen, which debuts on the streamer this Friday. Zach Braff, Gabrielle Union, two adorable dog actors, and more of the film’s cast and crew dazzled at the premiere of the film, which is a reimagining of the classic novel.

Cheaper by the Dozen is a funny and heartwarming story about the shenanigans of a blended family of 12, the Bakers (they’re a Bakers dozen—get it?), as they navigate a hectic home life while simultaneously managing the family’s restaurant.

Check out some of the highlights from the premiere below, and make sure to tune into Cheaper by the Dozen when it begins streaming on Disney+ this Friday!

Back and Even Better: Cheaper by the Dozen Premieres on Disney+

It’s been 19 years since the last Cheaper by the Dozen film graced our screens, but the wait for a revisit was definitely worth it! Kenya Barris and Jenifer Rice-Genzuk Henry, co-writers of black-ish and grown-ish, worked together to make this updated version more relatable and hilarious than ever before.

Stars Gabrielle Union and Zach Braff lead the film as Zoe and Paul Baker, newlyweds who bring their many children together under one roof. The blended family of 12 must learn how to compromise and prioritize and have a little fun along the way while trying to juggle the family business.

Directing numerous children during union hours with no parents or nannies on deck can be a bit overwhelming, but director Gail Lerner managed not only to handle the chaos but to get some great shots out of it as well. Braff called her eye the “most double black diamond directing I have ever seen.”

The addition to the story of Paul’s ex-wife, Kate (Erika Christensen), and Zoe’s ex-husband, Dom (Timon Kyle Durrett), contributes a whole slew of additional problems. The group’s dynamic is both comic and stressful as they attempt to co-parent in the best way possible for the children.

“I come from a large family,” Durrett said. “At one point, there were 10 of us in the house. I can relate to the chaos when I was younger, so when we were working on the film it was nostalgic to me.”

After two years in and out of quarantine, the cast was just happy to work together after a long break from movie sets. Braff said that unlike some other movies and shows he has been involved in, Lerner put an emphasis on bonding among the cast—including setting up a relay sandwich race.

The chemistry on and off the screen could definitely be felt, the actors said, as the cast became more like a family than co-workers.

Cheaper by the Dozen premieres March 18 on Disney+ and is sure to make the whole family burst with laughter.

5 Fantastic Things to Watch This Weekend Presented by State Farm®

By Andie Hagemann

Cancel your weekend plans, because lots of exciting new content is coming your way! The Baker family returns in the all-new Disney+ original movie Cheaper by the Dozen, debuting Friday. Sing about Bruno with the Sing-Along version of Encanto, also debuting Friday; that same day, Amy Schumer stars in the new series Life & Beth, which launches with all 10 episodes. Look for Gillian Jacobs’ documentary More Than Robots to debut on Friday—and just in time for awards season, Sunday’s Step Into… The Movies with Derek and Julianne Hough honors iconic dance performances throughout cinematic history.

Cheaper by the Dozen—Friday, March 18, on Disney+
The Bakers are back! Gabrielle Union and Zach Braff star as parents Zoey and Paul Baker in an all-new Disney+ original movie that’s a fresh take on the 2003 hit comedy. Can Zoey and Paul find balance running their family business and a hilariously chaotic household as a blended family of 12?

Encanto Sing-Along—Friday, March 18, on Disney+
It’s time to warm up those vocal cords, because Disney+ is releasing Sing-Along versions of beloved musicals this year—beginning with Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Encanto! Further immerse yourself in the magic of the film by belting your favorite songs including “We Don’t Talk About Bruno,” Surface Pressure,” and the Academy Award®-nominated “Dos Oruguitas” as you follow the on-screen lyrics.

Life & Beth—Friday, March 18, on Hulu
Amy Schumer stars as Beth, whose life looks pretty great on paper with her successful career, long-term relationship, and Manhattan residence. But when an unexpected incident forces Beth to revisit her past, her life is changed forever. Beth begins to learn how she became who she is, and who she wants to become during her journey towards living a bigger, bolder, and more authentic life. The original series—intended for a mature audience—debuts with all 10 episodes on the streamer.

More Than Robots—Friday, March 18, on Disney+
The Gillian Jacobs-directed documentary film follows four teams of teenagers from around the world as they prepare for the 2020 FIRST® Robotics Competition. You’ll meet teams from Los Angeles, Mexico City, and Chiba, Japan, as they work towards the goal of taking their unique designs all the way to the highly competitive global championships. Despite facing challenges along the way—including limited community resources and the COVID-19 pandemic—the kids persevere… and learn that there is a lot more to the competition than just robots.

Step Into… The Movies with Derek and Julianne Hough—Sunday, March 20, at 10 p.m. ET, on ABC
Emmy® Award-winning choreographers and professional dancers Derek and Julianne Hough will get you in the Oscar® spirit with this one-hour special recognizing iconic dance moments in movie history. The dynamic sibling duo is joined by a star-studded cast including Academy Award-nominated actress Ariana DeBose from West Side Story, along with Kevin Bacon, Charli D’Amelio, Jenna Dewan, Harry Shum Jr., Baz Luhrmann, Tate McRae, Rob Marshall, Kenny Ortega, Amber Riley, and John Stamos. You’ll have the time of your life watching show stopping performances inspired by classic films.

D23 Gold Member Exclusive from Mickey’s of Glendale – T-Shirt Shopping Opportunity

Dust off your Sorcerer Cap for a special online shopping event with Walt Disney Imagineering exclusive campus store, Mickey’s of Glendale, and snag some special merchandise designed by the Walt Disney Imagineering team. The first special collection features pieces inspired by Walt Disney Imagineering mascot, Sorcerer Mickey, with specialty designs by Imagineer Mike Quinn. An additional collection also features the iconic Attraction Spiels of Disney parks from around the world.

These items were originally available at D23 Expo 2019 and will be available for purchase at the D23 Gold Member Exclusive Shopping Opportunity with Mickey’s of Glendale. This shopping event is now live and will close March 25th, 2022. Please visit here to view available items and make your purchase!

Check out some of the “magically-imagineered” collections that are available. Visit here to view the products and their availability.

Sorcerer Mickey Collection
“Sorcerer Mickey has always been uniquely suited as the symbol of an Imagineer—playful, curious, innovative, inspired, and focused,” Quinn says. “Here’s a reinvigorated and refreshed take on the classic icon, complete with a nod to the foundation which lies at the heart of all my work: a simple sketch.”

Attraction Spiels Collection
From Swiss bobsleds to high-in-the-sky monorails, display your pride for the most stellar attraction spiels from the Disney parks around the world! These specialty pieces feature spiels recognizable to any Disney Fan, all to commemorate the Wildest Rides in the Wilderness!

Not a D23 Gold Member?

Go to D23.com/join to learn more.

 

Are You a Disney Expert? Try This Week’s Trivia Challenge

As a member of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club, you know your magic! This week, put your Disney and Pixar knowledge to the test and see if you are the ultimate Disney fan.

What class is Mei in when her mom comes to find her at school?

Correct! Wrong!

Disney and Pixar’s Turning Red tells the story Mei Lee, a confident, dorky 13-year-old torn between staying her mother’s dutiful daughter and the chaos of adolescence. And as if changes to her interests, relationships and body weren’t enough, whenever she gets too excited (which is practically ALWAYS), she “poofs” into a giant red panda! Steam Turning Red now on Disney+.

Are You a Disney Expert? Try This Week’s Trivia Challenge
You are the ultimate Disney Fan!
Looks like you are a Disney expert! Thank you for participating in this week’s Trivia Thursday! We will see you next Thursday for your chance to uphold your title as the ultimate Disney fan!
Just keep swimming! Just keep swimming!
Thank you for participating in this week’s Trivia! These questions are tricky, so don’t stop swimming yet. We will see you next week for your chance to earn the title of the ultimate Disney fan!

Magical Encanto Concept Art

It’s true: We’re still talking about Bruno—and all members of the family Madrigal—’round these parts! How could we not? Encanto, Walt Disney Animation Studios’ 60th animated feature, is hard to forget, with its incredible songs, fantastic performances, and stunning visuals. And now, it’s nominated for Best Animated Feature (as well as Best Original Song, “Dos Oruguitas” by Lin-Manuel Miranda and Sebastián Yatra; and Best Original Score by Germaine Franco) at the 94th Academy Awards®.

D23 was able to procure some truly amazing concept art for the film, seen in the gallery below. Take a gander at the enchanting images. If you’re anything like us, they’ll make you want to sit down for a second (or 32nd) viewing on Disney+!

Stream Encanto on Disney+

Fasci-NATE-ing Facts We Learned at the Better Nate Than Ever Premiere

By Sarah Sterling

On Tuesday, the stars of the new Disney+ Original Movie Better Nate Than Ever graced the red carpet at Hollywood’s famous El Capitan Theatre. The film, directed by High School Musical: The Musical: The Series’ Tim Federle, is based on his debut novel of the same name and tells the story of 13-year-old Nate Foster—a small-town boy who dreams of becoming a Broadway star. While his parents are out of town, Nate and his best friend Libby travel to New York City to audition for Lilo and Stitch: The Musical, hoping to make his biggest dream come true.

Federle’s personal experiences are imbued in every aspect of the movie, and he was equally influenced by the teenage shenanigans he enjoyed in films during his adolescence. “I grew up with the kind of movies like Ferris Bueller and Adventures in Babysitting that were like, family movie nights,” Federle told D23 on the red carpet. “And so to create something that’s kind of a tribute to that, but with theater kids? It’s really autobiographical and personal. And I think discovering a kid like Rueby Wood as Nate is such a lightning-in-a-bottle dream. It’s been big and emotional!”

Rueby Wood is as inspiring and effervescent in person as is his on-screen counterpart. Strutting down the red carpet adorned with jewels and a lime green tulle train, Wood personified the message he hopes viewers take from the film: “Be unapologetically themselves.”

Better Nate Than Ever not only tells viewers to be true to who they are, but to also pursue their wildest dreams—the bigger, the better! As Lisa Kudrow, who plays Nate’s Aunt Heidi, put it, “Do it! Why not? Before you have any responsibilities? That’s the time!” Similarly, producer Adam Siegel said he hopes kids see this movie and learn to “dream big, and maybe your dreams can come true.” And if you don’t quite know what your dream is yet? Don’t worry, Federle said, “the operative word is yet! Stick to it and trust your gut and find your people.”

Of course, a film about Broadway musicals must boast an impressive soundtrack of its own, and Better Nate Than Ever has original songs written by music director Jon Levine and songwriter Taura Stinson. Levine has an extensive pop music career, but this project fulfilled his lifelong dream of writing music for a movie. Stinson was thrilled to contribute to the library of Disney original songs because, she said, “All the best music comes from Disney films!”

Better Nate Than Ever is a film perfect for dreamers of all ages and will inspire you to be your most authentic self. You can stream Better Nate Than Ever starting April 1 on Disney+. Remember, dream big!

D23 Hidden Mickey Cupcakes Recipe

Celebrate D23 Member Appreciation Week with these yummy cupcakes featuring a Mickey-inspired surprise inside!

Ingredients

For cupcakes:

  • 2 boxes white cake mix (or your favorite white cake recipe)
  • any necessary additional ingredients as directed on the box (eggs, water, oil)
  • 5-10 drops blue food coloring

For buttercream:

  • 1 cup butter (softened)
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla
  • 1 tbsp milk
  • A pinch of salt
  • 5-10 drops blue food coloring

For toppings (optional but encouraged):

  • 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 5-10 drops pink or magenta food coloring
  • Blue sprinkles

 Directions

Step 1: Make the base for the cake balls

  1. Mix the contents of 1 box cake mix, adding water, oil, and eggs as directed on the box.
  2. Once combined, add blue food coloring and mix until your desired color is reached.
  3. Line a 9×13 baking tray with parchment paper, then pour batter into tray, smoothing the surface until even. Bake as directed on the box, about 30 mins at 325°.
  4. Once done, allow to cool before removing from the tray and peeling the parchment paper off the bottom. Set aside while making the buttercream.

Step 2: Make the buttercream

  1. In a large mixing bowl, add the softened butter and powdered sugar, and begin whisking with an electric mixer on low.
  2. Once combined, add the vanilla, blue food coloring, milk, and a pinch of salt, then mix on high until smooth and fluffy.
  3. Spoon half of the frosting into a piping bag with and set aside for decorating later.

Step 3: Make the cake balls

  1. Crumble the blue sheet cake and add to the bowl with the remaining frosting. Mix together until thoroughly combined.
  2. Roll the cake and frosting mixture into 12 balls, about 1-inch in diameter, and 24 smaller balls, about 1/2-inch in diameter. These will make up the hidden Mickey shape inside each cupcake.

Step 4: Make the cupcakes

  1. Mix the contents of the remaining box cake mix, adding water, oil, and eggs as directed on the box. Prepare a cupcake tin with cupcake liners
  2. Spoon about a tablespoon of batter into each liner. Place one of the larger cake balls in the center of each liner.
  3. Spoon another tablespoon of batter into each liner, over the first cake ball. Place two of the smaller cake balls into each liner, each one balancing between the first cake ball and the side of the liner, arranged so that they form a straight line. Remember which way you’ve lined up the cake balls, so that you can cut it correctly later.
  4. Spoon one more tablespoon of batter into each liner, so that all three cake balls are covered in batter.
  5. Bake as directed on the box, about 15-20 minutes at 325°. Allow to cool before decorating.

Step 5: Decorate

  1. While the cupcakes cool, create the pink chocolate ganache topping. Place the heavy cream in a small microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 45 seconds, then add in the white chocolate chips. Stir with a spatula until the chocolate chips are fully melted and the mixture is smooth. Add the pink food coloring and mix until the desired color is reached. Spoon into a piping bag with a small tip.
  2. Once cupcakes are cool, pipe a swirl of blue buttercream on top. Drizzle the pink chocolate ganache on top, and add sprinkles.
  3. When ready to serve, slice each cupcake along the line you created with the cake balls, so that the cut divides all three and reveals the hidden Mickey. Enjoy!

Experience the Thrills and Chills of Nightmare Alley with this Costume Gallery

Please note: Nightmare Alley is rated R and is not suitable for viewers under the age of 17 without parental guidance.

From the whimsical mind of director Guillermo del Toro, Nightmare Alley takes viewers into the seedy underworld of a traveling carnival, where a charming mentalist sets out to exploit the rich socialites of New York City with the help of his mysterious new friends (and foes). The film garnered four Oscar® nominations, including Best Picture and Best Costume Design.

Luis Sequeira, Nightmare Alley’s costume designer, achieved a classic film noir look for this deceptive cast of characters... and we are pleased to present a gallery of the striking wardrobe pieces from the film! Enjoy a closer look at the details of Nightmare Alley—then find out where you can stream all of this year’s Disney Oscar nominees here.

Stream Nightmare Alley on Hulu

Transform Your Life with These Adorable Turning Red Products

By the D23 Team

Disney and Pixar’s Turning Red is now streaming on Disney+, and if you’re anything like us, you can’t get enough of the sweet and silly world of Mei and her friends and family. To keep the panda party going, we’ve rounded up adorable products that will bring the magic of Turning Red to the comfort of your home.

Box Lunch Turning Red Collection
This stu-PANDA-ous collection is everything you need to celebrate Pixar’s latest film, from stylish t-shirts to collectible pins.

Like Mother, Like Daughter from Disney Books
This beautiful and charming hardcover jacketed picture book is perfect for mothers, daughters, and fans alike! Ming and Mei are the perfect mother and daughter. They work as a team, and each always seems to know what the other is thinking. But one day, something shocking happens: Mei poofs into a red panda! Now this once-perfect pair has a huge panda problem…

Disney Sorcerer’s Arena – Turning Red Exclusive
To celebrate the launch of Disney and Pixar’s Turning Red on Disney+, all players who log in to Disney Sorcerer’s Arena between 3/11 and 3/12 will receive an exclusive Red Panda Mei Talisman in their inbox, and have the ability to unlock an additional special offer: a Ming Lee talisman!

shopDisney Turning Red MagicBand 2 (Limited Edition)
Transform your time at Walt Disney World Resort with this Limited Edition MagicBand 2 inspired by Disney and Pixar’s Turning Red. With a simple touch, you can enter parks; unlock your resort room door; charge purchases to your room; and more!

shopDisney Turning Red Cast Pin (Limited Release)
This limited release Turning Red pin-on-pin design will have collector’s flying high. Mei in her Panda guise gives Miriam, Priya, and Abby a lift. Inspired by Disney and Pixar’s film, streaming exclusively on Disney+.

Funko Pop! Super: Turning Red– Red Panda Mei 6″ Vinyl Figure
Growing up is quite the transformation for any kid, let alone for Mei… Bring the chaotic panda fun into your own life with this Super Pop! Red Panda Mei for your Disney and Pixar’s Turning Red collection. Vinyl figure is approximately 6 inches tall.

shopDisney Turning Red Plaid Flannel
It’s absolute “pandamonium” as you celebrate Turning Red with this plaid flannel shirt. The back of this fashion staple features the embroidered face of Red Panda Mei, while the front is highlighted with embroidered designs inspired by the movie.

shopDisney Youth Baseball Cap
This fun baseball cap “pandas” to fans of Disney and Pixar’s Turning Red. Its design is inspired by the movie’s teenage lead, Mei, who unwittingly transforms into a red panda whenever she gets excited—which is something that’s liable to happen to you when wearing this hat. The excited bit; not the whole turning into a panda thing. Although… ?

shopDisney Youth Slippers
When your own young one gets excited, their feet can transform into a red panda’s with these slippers inspired by Disney and Pixar’s Turning Red. The super soft padded faux fur uppers feature embroidered facial detailing and 3D ears, while the sherpa lining will keep their toes toasty and inspire warm memories of the movie.

shopDisney Panda Plush
Inspired by Turning Red, this large cuddly plush features Mei in her red panda form.

shopDisney Girl’s Tie-Dye Shirt
It’s always panda party time in this crystal wash tie-dye tee with Turning Red graphics, scoop neckline, plus curly-edge sleeves and hem.

shopDisney Plush Robe
Transform every bath time in the plush luxury of this soft, furry robe with embroidered Red Panda Mei features and character hood.

Danielle Nicole Turning Red Backpack
Meet the Turning Red Backpack: too cute to handle, with a print for our favorite RPG, Mei Lee. The base of this bag is a stunning purple to pink tie-dye ombre, with a front pocket to store your essentials (including your 4*Town CD). The backpack has adjustable straps for a custom fit. Oh snap! Don’t forget the die-cut panda ears at the top of the bag and the tail zipper puller!

Turning Red Journal from Target
The Turning Red Plush Journal with 2 Pens includes a journal that is plush on the front, side, and back covers. Mei’s panda face is made with appliques and embroidery, and felt ears are sewn on. The journal is 6″ x 8″ in size and has lined pages with colorful art. Two plush pom-pom pens are included, and are stored behind the felt ears that make the facial features pop out of the journal. Great for journaling, note-taking, and keeping lists organized.

Just Play Turning Red Many Moods of Panda Mei Animated Feature Plush
Bring home all the fun and excitement from Turning Red with this Many Moods of Red Panda Mei Animated Plush. Press her hand to hear music inspired by the film and cute phrases like, “I’m calm!” Squeeze her belly to see her arms raise and hear her growl with excitement. Then, take a deep breath and calm down alongside Red Panda Mei. An excellent toy for imaginative role-play, Disney and Pixar fans will love this relatable—and excitable—giant red panda. At 12 inches tall, this plush is sure to bring lots of giggles and warmhearted fun.

Just Play Turning Red BFF Collectible Figure Set
Experience the rollercoaster of junior high with the Disney and Pixar Turning Red Collectible Figure Set. When pandemonium breaks loose, Mei Lee (or Red Panda Mei) and her best friends are sure to be at the center of the action. This 5-piece kit includes Mei and Red Panda Mei, as well as her friends Abby Park, Miriam Mendelsohn, and Priya Mangal. Each figure features a different, personality-packed pose. Movie fans can recreate favorite scenes or create new stories. This beautifully crafted Best Friend Set is truly something to get excited about!