EXCLUSIVE: Cover Reveal and Q&A for a New Book Reimagining Beauty and the Beast

August 5, 2020August 5, 2020

By Jocelyn Buhlman

We all know the tale as old as time, but what happens after “happily ever after”? The new book, Queen’s Council: Rebel Rose aims to answer just that. The first book in The Queen’s Council series, an empowering fairy tale reimagining of the Disney Princesses—and the real history behind their stories, Rebel Rose tells the story of what happens when Belle becomes the queen while France is on the brink of revolution. Torn between her roots as a commoner, and her future as a royal, Belle questions her newfound power and what it means to be a queen. You can preorder The Queen’s Council: Rebel Rose here.

Check out the just-revealed cover and then read on for an exclusive Q&A with the author, Emma Theriault.

D23: The Official Disney Fan Club: This story finds Belle shortly after having broken the curse, and places her right into pre-revolutionary France. What was it like getting to reimagine Belle during the start of the French Revolution? What were some of the challenges?

Emma Theriault (ET): It was a time of great change. In France, Enlightenment philosophers had been espousing the ideas of equality, liberty, constitutional government, and religious tolerance for decades, so it was very easy to imagine Belle, a radical thinker in her own right, in the midst of it all. But it was a time when women were largely excluded from institutions and public spheres, so Belle’s biggest dream is to visit Paris and attend salons frequented by the likes of Olympe de Gouges and Madame de Montesson. Little does she know; she is about to be embroiled in the biggest political and social upheaval of her time.

D23: What kind of research did you do to prepare for writing a period piece like this?

ET: The very first thing I did was watch both the animated and live-action films closely, taking notes on setting, background characters, mannerisms, etc. Then I did historical research by reading books about the French Revolution, accessing online databases of political pamphlets, scouring the writings of the Enlightenment thinkers that Belle would have admired, studying the Palace of Versailles website (they have excellent information on design, architecture, furniture, decorations, etc.), and jotting down anything and everything I thought might be relevant. And finally, the best thing I did was go on an extremely well-timed and entirely coincidental trip to Europe in April 2019. We visited my boyfriend’s family in Austria (where I got a private tour of a castle!) and spent some time in Paris. Rebel Rose opens with Belle in a carriage rumbling over the cobbles of Pont Neuf, so it was really amazing to trace her path through the city that would have captured her heart and mind, at least in my imagination.

D23: Belle totally seems like she’d be a part of the revolution, but now she’s royalty. What kind of challenges does she face?

ET: At one point in the book, Belle realizes that she now occupies a strange position: she is not a commoner anymore, but she likewise isn’t noble. She is torn between two worlds, belonging to neither. In another life, Belle would have been debating in the gardens of the Palais-Royal, calling for change and demanding action. Now she feels an immense responsibility for her people in the principality of the kingdom of Aveyon. She wants to both protect them from the violence that comes with revolution (she witnesses the storming of the Bastille and the beheading of the marquis de Launay, after all), and enact sweeping changes in Aveyon to make the lives of commoners better. The challenge for Belle is that hers is not the only voice in Aveyon, and there are competing ideas about what way forward is best. Her journey through the book is one of discovery—discovering her voice, her power, her privilege, and how she can and must use all three to make her world a better place.

D23: In your opinion, what do you think fans of Beauty and the Beast can look forward to when reading this novel?

ET: I think the combination of Disney magic and real, gritty, bloody history is a unique one, and I hope readers enjoy the chance to revisit beloved characters as they grow into their new roles in an utterly changed world. Being chosen to expand and extend Belle’s story like this was an unimaginable privilege for me, a girl who once performed ‘Belle (Reprise)’ so vigorously she sent her framed Beauty and the Beast poster crashing to the ground (shattering it), and getting to expand her story against the backdrop of the French Revolution was such a gift for this former history major.

Alice Through the Looking Glass Wind-Up Toy

August 4, 2020July 10, 2020

By Nikki Nguyen, Walt Disney Archives

In Alice Through the Looking Glass, Time presents this wind-up toy to Iracebeth as a gift “made entirely out of love… and also a little bit of metal and wood.” The complex machinery of this prop is functional and in working order. As the crank is turned, the executioner lowers the hatchet and the unfortunate king kneeling at the chopping block loses a bit more than just his crown… which brings some momentary delight to the Red Queen.

In addition to this version of the wind-up toy prop, there is a nearly identical rubber version, painted to mimic the look of the wood and metal of the original. It is not uncommon for two versions of a prop to be made for production—one made of heavier materials or more intricate parts that is often used for close-up shots, and one that is lighter and less fragile so it can be more easily handled by actors.

5 Fantastic Things to Watch This Week

August 3, 2020August 6, 2020

By Zach Johnson

ABC is delivering the drama this week with a new episode of The Bachelor: The Greatest Seasons – Ever, which follows one woman’s journey to finding true love after making the shocking decision to eliminate herself on The Bachelor. Then, on Wednesday, the network is broadcasting a brand-new episode of the top-rated freshman comedy United We Fall. And on Friday, Disney+ will add new titles to its library, including the documentary film Howard, as well as The Peanuts Movie, Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time, and many more.

The Bachelor: The Greatest Seasons – Ever!—Monday, August 3, at 8 p.m. ET on ABC
Ali Fedotowsky’s search for love on The Bachelorette in 2010 took her to some of the most exotic locations around the world, including Iceland, Portugal, Tahiti, and Turkey. She fell hard for Kasey Kahl, Roberto Martinez, and Justin Rego—and now, Fedotowsky is sharing the behind-the-scenes stories from those emotional days as she visits with Chris Harrison from her home. What shocking secret has Fedotowsky been holding onto for the last decade?

United We Fall—Wednesday, August 5, at 8 p.m. ET on ABC
In “My Favorite Marta,” Jo Rodriguez (Christina Vidal Mitchell) steps in as a role model for her teenage niece, Marta Rodirugez (Olivia Taylor Cohen)… much to the dismay of Jo’s brother, Chuy Rodriguez (Guillermo Rodriguez). Meanwhile, Bill Ryan (Will Sasso) plays matchmaker for his mom, Sandy Ryan (Jane Curtin), who, under the influence of post-colonoscopy drugs, unintentionally professes her love for her ex-husband (Sam McMurray).

Howard—Friday, August 7, on Disney+
Directed by Don Hahn, Howard is the untold story of Disney Legend Howard Ashman, the lyricist behind Disney classics like Aladdin, Beauty and the Beast, and The Little Mermaid. Featuring never-before-seen archival footage, personal films, and photographs, the documentary film is an intimate look at his life, his creative drive, and the process behind the music. Spanning his childhood in Baltimore, to his formative years in New York and his untimely death from AIDS, Howard goes in-depth to explore Ashman’s journey to become the lyricist behind some of the most beloved and well-known classic family films in the world. The film features an interview with Ashman’s musical collaborator, Disney Legend Alan Menken, who also scored the film. Others interviewed include his partner, Bill Lauch; his sister, Sarah Gillespie; and his friends, Disney Legends Jodi Benson and Paige O’Hara.

The Peanuts Movie—Friday, August 7, on Disney+
Based on Charles M. Schulz’s comic strip Peanuts, the 2015 animated comedy from Blue Sky Studios and 20th Century Fox Animation makes its debut on the streaming service. Life seems complicated for Charlie Brown (voice of Noah Schnapp), who always tries his best against seemingly impossible odds. But when the Little Red-Haired Girl (voice of Francesca Angelucci Capaldi) moves into his neighborhood, he develops a crush on her. Meanwhile, his best friend Snoopy (voice of Bill Melendez) embarks on an epic adventure in a fantasy world. As a World War I flying ace, the beagle pursues his nemesis, the Red Baron, while also trying to win the affection of a pretty poodle named Fifi (voice of Kristin Chenoweth).

Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time—Friday, August 7, on Disney+
The 2010 action-adventure film, directed by Mike Newell and produced by Jerry Bruckheimer, makes its debut on the streaming service. Set in medieval Persia, the adventurous Prince Dastan (Jake Gyllenhaal) teams up with a rival princess, Tamina (Gemma Arterton), to stop an angry ruler from unleashing a sandstorm that could destroy the world. After being tricked by a dying vizier to unleash the Sands of Time, which gives mortals the power to turn back time, Dastan and Tamina must find the Dagger of Time, return the sands to the hourglass, and unmask who killed King Sharaman (Ronald Pickup).

Every Wicked Way to Celebrate Descendants’ Fifth Anniversary

July 31, 2020

By Jocelyn Buhlman

Today we’re celebrating a half-decade of deviousness from our favorite VKs (that’s short for “Villain Kids,” aka the children of some of Disney’s most feared villains). On this day in 2015, Disney’s Descendants debuted on Disney Channel—and three movies and a whole lot of mischief later, we’re still obsessed with Mal, Evie, Jay, and Carlos and their adventures at Auradon Prep. If you’re like us, you’ll be looking for all the ways to be wicked—and all the ways to be celebrating this anniversary! Check out our suggestions below for a Descendants celebration so good, it has to be evil.

A Mischievous Marathon
Of course, the best way to celebrate this wickedly wonderful milestone anniversary is to watch all the movies! Whether you’re streaming them on Disney+ or marathoning through your Blu-ray collection, you need to block out some time this weekend to watch all three iconic films and celebrate along with Mal, Evie, Carlos, and Jay.

Make a Midnight Snack
As Lonnie says, “chocolate chips are the most important food group”—so why not make some chocolate chip cookies like the VKs do (although yours don’t need to include a secret love spell). Our friends at Disney Family have a recipe inspired by the movie. Plus, you can check out two different recipes from our friends at Ghirardelli—traditional chocolate chip and double chocolate.

You Have to Look Good to Be Bad
Even if you don’t consider yourself a fashion expert like Evie, there are still plenty of ways to show off your VK style. Head over to shopDisney to grab a kit to make your own Descendants-themed friendship bracelet or grab some shirts with villainously awesome style. (Don’t forget, D23 Gold Members get an exclusive discount on purchases!). Finish off your outfit with a hairstyle inspired by Evie herself, like the one featured in this tutorial from our friends at Disney Style.

Learn All the Wicked Words
You look good, you’ve got your snacks—but before you hit “play,” on your Descendants marathon, you need to prepare to belt along to all the songs. Need some practice? Check out these sing-along videos for “Rotten to the Core,” “If Only,” “Did I Mention,” and “Set It Off” below.

Of course, learning the words in only half of the fun…

And then learn how to Descen-DANCE!
…The other half is learning the dances! Make some room on the floor and put on your dancing shoes, because the Disney Descendants YouTube channel has a whole playlist of dance tutorials for songs from all three Descendants films! Start practicing your moves, and soon you’ll be chillin’ like a villain!

Discover Your Own Villainous Family
If you’re a Descendants fan, you’ve probably put a lot of thought into which Disney villain could be your parent. But do you really know who your Disney villain parent is? Luckily for you, we have a handy quiz that will answer your question in no time. Grab a pen and paper and get ready to discover who you’re descended from.

Pixar Announces Its Next Animated Feature: Luca—Plus More in News Briefs

July 31, 2020July 30, 2020

By Courtney Potter

Pixar Reveals Next Big-Screen Adventure: Luca

Fabulous news this week from our pals over at Pixar Animation Studios: Their next feature film is entitled Luca, and will be directed by Academy Award® nominee Enrico Casarosa (La Luna) and produced by Andrea Warren (Lava and Cars 3). Along with the announcement, Pixar shared concept art for the movie—seen above.

Set in an idyllic seaside town on the Italian Riviera, this brand-new animated feature is a coming-of-age story about one young boy experiencing an incredible summer filled with gelato, pasta, and endless scooter rides. Luca shares these exploits with his newfound best friend—but all the fun is threatened by a secret: he’s a sea monster from another world just below the water’s surface.

“This is a deeply personal story for me, not only because it’s set on the Italian Riviera where I grew up, but because at the core of this film is a celebration of friendship,” Casarosa recently said. “Childhood friendships often set the course of who we want to become and it is those bonds that are at the heart of our story in Luca. So, in addition to the beauty and charm of the Italian seaside, our film will feature an unforgettable summer adventure that will fundamentally change Luca.”

The film is set to open in U.S. theaters on June 18, 2021… keep your eyes peeled for more information as it becomes available!

5 Fantastic Things to Watch This Weekend

Can you believe it? August starts in earnest this weekend—and to kick off the eighth month of the year, there’s all manner of fabulous options for your viewing pleasure from around the worlds of Disney. Incredibles 2 makes its way to Disney+; National Geographic Documentary Films presents virtual screenings of director Ron Howard’s look at the 2018 Northern California fires, Rebuilding Paradise; and so much more. Read up on what you can expect by clicking here.

Sneak Peek at Freeform’s Love in the Time of Corona

Love in the Time of Corona, a new limited series from Freeform, will debut as a special four-part, two-night event beginning Saturday, August 22, at 8 p.m. ET/PT and continuing Sunday, August 23, at 8 p.m. ET/PT. And just this week, the network shared a sneak peek at the series; take a look, above.

Filmed using remote technologies and shot in the actual homes of the cast, Love in the Time of Corona will follow four interwoven stories about the hopeful search for love and connection while in quarantine, from the early days of the stay-at-home order through the events that ignited the worldwide Black Lives Matter protests. James (Leslie Odom Jr.) and Sade (Odom’s real-life wife Nicolette Robinson), a married couple who have been living somewhat separate lives, are forced back under the same roof after the pandemic halts his work travel; roommates Oscar (Tommy Dorfman) and Elle (Rainey Qualley) find their mostly platonic relationship becoming complicated; Paul (Gil Bellows) and Sarah (Rya Kihlstedt) pretend to be a happy couple for the sake of their daughter Sophie (Ava Bellows), recently returned from college; and Nanda (L. Scott Caldwell)—a headstrong woman whose husband is unable to return home from his rehab facility—tries to find a way celebrate her 50th wedding anniversary.

Following their debut on Freeform, the episodes of Love in the Time of Corona will be available on Hulu the next day.

ICYMI: Disney Earns 145 2020 Primetime Emmy® Award Nominations

Perhaps the biggest news of the week came courtesy the just-announced nominations for the 2020 Emmy Awards… Series from around the worlds of Disney earned a whopping 145 nominations total, in all manner of categories. For a complete rundown—and for info on how you can watch the ceremony, hosted by Jimmy Kimmel, in September—click here.

Disney+ to Debut Black Beauty Later This Year

Anna Sewell’s classic 19th century novel Black Beauty will be getting a contemporary adaptation on Disney+, premiering soon on the streaming service. Black Beauty (voice of Oscar® winner Kate Winslet) is a wild mustang born free in the American west. When she is captured and taken away from family, her story intertwines with that of 17-year-old Jo Green (Mackenzie Foy), similarly grieving over the loss of her parents. The two slowly develop a bond that is built on love, respect, and mutual healing.

Directed and written by Ashley Avis, Black Beauty also stars Iain Glen as John Manly and Claire Forlani as Mrs. Winthorp. Watch for the film to debut on Disney+ later this year.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Welcomes Adorable Baby Mandrill

Looking for something cute and cuddly to warm the cockles of your heart? We’ve got just the thing: Recently, the animal care team at Disney’s Animal Kingdom welcomed a new addition to their animal family—namely, an adorable baby mandrill monkey born on Saturday, July 25! Check out the infant, born to mother Scarlett and father Linus, in the clip above.

According to Dr. Mark Penning, Vice President, Animals, Science and Environment, Disney Parks, mom and baby are doing well and spending lots of time bonding. In fact, their bond is so close that at the baby’s neonatal exam, the Animal Kingdom veterinary team wasn’t able to determine if the baby is a boy or a girl just yet, because Scarlett is keeping the infant so close to her belly. Scarlett and her lil’ one have already begun making short appearances in their habitat on the Kilimanjaro Safari, joining other members of their mandrill troop.

Mandrills are the largest species of monkey in the world, found in African rainforests along the equator. Unfortunately, they’re also a vulnerable species—faced with a disappearing habitat due to deforestation and poaching. Thankfully, this mandrill birth is an example of how the dedicated and highly trained team of Disney animal care experts works with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) on Species Survival Plans (SSPs), assuring responsible breeding for endangered animals.

Congrats to the happy mandrill family, and to all our pals over at Disney’s Animal Kingdom!

American Idol to Launch “Idol Across America” Live Virtual Audition Tour

July 31, 2020

By the D23 Team

Last season, American Idol’s talented singers made history by making musical magic from their homes in the series’ first-ever remote shows. The competition series is set to return for an all-new season—its fourth on ABC—in spring 2021, and it’s time for Idol hopefuls across the U.S. to begin their vocal warmups. Our friends at ABC have just announced that American Idol will continue to break new innovative boundaries via “Idol Across America,” a virtual audition tour that will use custom-built Zoom technology in the show’s nationwide search for the next superstar. These remote auditions kick of Monday, August 10, and will be held in all 50 states, as well as Washington, D.C.

Auditions are easier than ever this year, giving hopefuls the chance to showcase their talents from anywhere in America, across any official audition date and face-to-face with an American Idol producer, who will offer aspiring Idols real-time feedback on their journey.

In need of some expert advice as you gear up for your virtual audition? Just Sam, American Idol’s reigning champion, has put together five tips to keep in mind as you prepare for an audition that could truly change your life:

The lineup of audition dates is as follows (and is subject to change):

Delaware, Florida, and Ohio (August 10)
Louisiana, Missouri, and Wisconsin (August 12)
Arizona, Oregon, and Washington (August 14)
Georgia, Maryland, Washington, D.C., and Rhode Island (August 16)
Open Call Auditions (August 17)
Alabama, Arkansas, and Kansas (August 18)
Idaho, New Mexico, and Utah (August 20)
Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Texas (August 22)
Michigan, Tennessee, and Virginia (August 24)
Open Call Auditions (August 25)
Iowa, Mississippi, and Oklahoma (August 26)
Illinois, Indiana, and Minnesota (August 28)
Connecticut, New Jersey, and New York (August 30)
Colorado, Montana, Nevada, and Wyoming (September 1)
Maine, South Carolina, and West Virginia (September 3)
Alaska, California, and Hawai‘i (September 5)
Kentucky, New Hampshire, and Pennsylvania (September 7)
Massachusetts, North Carolina, and Vermont (September 9)

Visit AmericanIdol.com/auditions now to sign up for “Idol Across America” and a chance to virtually audition in front of an American Idol producer, as well as more details on specific dates, full eligibility requirements, submission forms, terms, and conditions. Contestants must be between 15 and 28 years old to audition, and may do so on any “Idol Across America” date regardless of location.

Stay tuned for more American Idol news as it’s announced!

5 Fantastic Things to Watch This Weekend

July 30, 2020July 30, 2020

By Zach Johnson

Get a super start to your weekend when Incredibles 2 joins the Disney+ library Friday. That same day, National Geographic Documentary Films will release Ron Howard’s inspirational film Rebuilding Paradise in more than 70 markets. Then, on Saturday, turn on FX for a screening of Hidden Figures and Disney Channel for a new episode of Big City Greens. Finally, on Sunday, National Geographic will premiere the special Shark vs. Surfer.

Incredibles 2—Friday, July 31, on Disney+
The super-sized sequel to Disney and Pixar’s The Incredibles finds Helen (voice of Holly Hunter) tapped to lead a campaign to bring Supers back, all while Bob (voice of Craig T. Nelson) navigates the day-to-day heroics of a “normal” life at home with their three children: Violet (voice of Sarah Vowell), Dash (voice of Huck Milner), and baby Jack-Jack. Their missions are derailed, however, when a villain emerges with a brilliant, dangerous plot involving mind-control that threatens the world. Luckily, the Parr family doesn’t shy away from a challenge—especially with Frozone (voice of Samuel L. Jackson) by their side.

Rebuilding Paradise—Friday, July 31, in Select Theaters and Virtual Screenings
Rebuilding Paradise will open in more than 70 markets through a hybrid release. In addition to major virtual releases through Laemmle and ShowcaseNOW (National Amusements), it will open in select drive-ins and via individual cinemas’ VOD platforms. On the morning of November 8, 2018, a spark from a transmission line in Northern California melded with climate-impacted conditions to grow quickly into a firestorm that engulfed the city of Paradise, California, killing 85 people, displacing 50,000 residents, and destroying 95 percent of local architecture. It was the deadliest U.S. fire in 100 years and the worst ever in California. From the moment the crisis began, Oscar®-winning director Howard led a filmmaking team that would go on to spend a year with Paradise residents as they faced the damage to their lives, their homes, and more than 150,000 acres in and around their 141-year-old town. They also did something amazing: They worked together to heal.

Hidden Figures—Saturday, August 1, at 7 p.m. ET on FX
Based on a true story, the three-time Academy Award®-nominated film follows three brilliant Black women at NASA—Katherine Johnson (Taraji P. Henson), Dorothy Vaughan (Best Supporting Actress nominee Octavia Spencer) and Mary Jackson (Janelle Monáe)—who serve as the brains behind one of the greatest operations in history: the launch of astronaut John Glenn (Glen Powell) into orbit. It was a stunning achievement that restored the nation’s confidence in NASA, turning around the Space Race and galvanizing the world.

Big City Greens—Saturday, August 1, at 8 p.m. ET on Disney Channel
In “Friend Con,” when the Greens attend Farm Con, Bill (voice of Bob Joles) and Chip Whistler (voice of Paul Scheer) will become friends; Darin De Paul will guest star as Good Ol’ Joe, and in addition to Scheer, Cheri Oteri will return as Gwendolyn Zapp. Then, in “Flimflammed,” Cricket (voice of Chris Houghton) finds $100 and is persuaded to invest it.

Shark vs. Surfer—Sunday, August 2, at 8 p.m. ET on National Geographic
As the number of shark attacks worldwide rises, surfers are taking the brunt of the bite. Shark vs. Surfer—part of National Geographic’s five-week Sharkfest programming event—will visit shark-infested surf spots around the world to relive some of the most harrowing shark and surfer stories through unbelievable, caught-on-camera encounters and interviews with the victims. With insight from marine biologists Ryan Johnson and Dr. Stephen Kajiura, the Shark vs. Surfer special aims to answer the question: “Are we really in danger?”

Our Favorite Disney Witches and Wizards

July 29, 2020

By Zach Johnson

Countless witches and wizards have been casting a spell on Disney fans for nearly 100 years—and this Friday, July 31, we’ll meet more enchanting characters when the highly anticipated Disney Channel Original Movie Upside-Down Magic premieres at 8 p.m. ET! Before you’re introduced to BFFs Nory (Izabela Rose) and Reina (Siena Agudong), let’s take a closer look some of our favorite witches and wizards throughout the world of Disney:

Maleficent (Sleeping Beauty)
Crashing a christening to curse a newborn—all because she was snubbed by King Stefan and Queen Leah—is as wicked as it gets. Whether she’s hypnotizing Princess Aurora or transforming into a dragon, Maleficent always lives up to her name as Mistress of All Evil.

Merlin (The Sword in the Stone)
Though a bit absentminded, Merlin is a marvelous mentor to Arthur (aka Wart). And although his tutoring techniques are unusual—like transforming himself and Arthur each into a fish during a physics lesson—they somehow also prepare Arthur for his future as a king.

The Sanderson Sisters (Hocus Pocus)
It took 300 years for a virgin to light the black flame candle, resurrecting youth-obsessed Winnie (Disney Legend Bette Midler), Sarah (Sarah Jessica Parker), and Mary (Kathy Najimy). Unfamiliar with the modern world, the sisters might seem as dim as Halloween night itself. But make no mistake: The trio can still “put a spell” on the people of Salem!

Ian Lightfoot (Onward)
For as long as he can remember, Ian has only ever wanted one thing: to know more about his late father. And on his 16th birthday, the awkward and timid blue elf receives a life-changing gift from dear ol’ dad that sends him and his big brother, Barley, on an epic quest… one that helps Ian learn to conjure magic and maybe (just maybe) conquer his fears.

Ursula (The Little Mermaid)
They weren’t kidding when they called her, well, a witch! After being banished from Atlantica by King Triton, Ursula waits until the perfect moment to exact her revenge. It comes when Ariel strikes a deal to trade her voice in exchange for human legs. If Ariel fails to win the love of Prince Eric in three days, she will be bound to Ursula forever—finally giving Ursula the upper fin over King Triton. Lesson learned: Always read the fine print!

Jafar (Aladdin)
The sneaky sorcerer makes us shiver whenever he slithers into a room. As royal vizier, Jafar should have The Sultan’s best interests at heart. Behind his back, Jafar seeks a magic lamp containing an all-powerful genie so he can overtake the throne… and the rest of the world!

The Russos (Wizards of Waverly Place)
Everything is not as it seems for in this family! To the outside world, Justin (David Henrie), Alex (Selena Gomez), and Max (Jake T. Austin) engage in typical sibling squabbles. But behind closed doors, their dad (David DeLuise) is training them to be wizards. Looming in the background is the knowledge that when their training is complete, they will have to compete to decide who will become the Family Wizard—the one who gets to keep their magical powers forever—while the other two will lose their powers and become mortals.

Dr. Facilier (The Princess and the Frog)
He’s got friends on the other side… but on this side, he’s known as the Shadow Man! Dr. Facilier’s reputation precedes him in New Orleans, but that’s never stopped the smooth-talking voodoo master from scamming and scheming those looking for a quick, magical fix.

Marnie Piper (Halloweentown)
Thirteen years pass before Marnie (Kimberly J. Brown) discovers she’s half-human, half-witch… much to her mother’s chagrin. The life-changing revelation causes tensions to boil over, so Marnie secretly follows her grandmother, Aggie Cromwell (Debbie Reynolds), to a place called Halloweentown. There, Marnie and her two siblings must embrace their full identities to save the day as Halloweentown’s citizens continue to mysteriously disappear.

Rumplestiltskin (Once Upon a Time)
Known as Mr. Gold and Weaver after the Dark Curse, the immortal trickster (Robert Carlyle) is the most powerful magician of any realm. A master of pyrokinesis, technopathy, telekinesis, teleportation, transfiguration, and much more, Rumplestiltskin has a knack for making deceptive deals—though he argues they’re fair—that the other parties later regret.

Halt, Unbeliever! Anything Can Happen in the Movies!

July 29, 2020July 21, 2020

By Francesca Scrimgeour, Walt Disney Archives

The Great Movie Ride attraction was a film lover’s dream, an experience that visited some of the most important and classic films of all time. As soon as the attraction vehicle passed under the neon-flashing marquee with “Hooray for Hollywood” swelling in the background, Guests knew they were in for a spectacular adventure.

Initially titled “Great Moments at the Movies,” The Great Movie Ride was originally planned for EPCOT as part of a Hollywood studio-themed “Show Business” pavilion between the Imagination and The Land pavilions in Future World. The attraction and pavilion quickly morphed into a much larger concept than the Imagineers had first considered. Executives at the time recognized that the entertainment concept could be formed into an entire theme park experience, which eventually became the foundation for The Disney-MGM Studios Theme Park, or, as we know it today, Disney’s Hollywood Studios Theme Park. That only goes to show that though it may go through a few iterations, a good idea never truly goes away!

Imagineers often have to think outside the box and collaborate across disciplines to create the most unique experiences conceivable. For this attraction, they were tasked with the challenge of immersing Guests within the world of several classic movies, all deeply rooted in popular culture, while also striving for the high-quality experience that had come to be expected by those familiar with their capabilities and past accomplishments. Imagineering delivered with The Great Movie Ride and brought forth an array of dramatic, terrifying, and whimsical scenes for Guests to experience.

In order to transform their imaginations into reality, Imagineers created models of the attraction experience to help others understand the big picture. Models are a vital part of the creative process as they give designers a three-dimensional storyboard to work from. This photograph shows a model of the loading area for the attraction. Designed to look like a Hollywood soundstage, the attraction vehicle sets out on its adventure by entering beneath a movie theater’s brightly lit neon marquee.

Load Area model for *The Great Movie Ride*.

Imagineers are professionals at the top of their fields—from painters to engineers and every discipline in between—and they push themselves to create extraordinary experiences for our Guests. These images show Imagineers sculpting and adding last-minute touches to the Audio-Animatronics^® in The Great Movie Ride. The first image shows sculptor Magda Flaire working on busts from The Wizard of Oz sequence, while the second image shows a Xenomorph from Alien being sculpted. Both examples offer a glimpse into the details that were carefully applied to craft the attraction.

As an opening day attraction at Disney’s Hollywood Studios and as a cornerstone to the theme park’s concept, The Great Movie Ride necessitated representation from Hollywood’s most iconic pictures. The classic films that the Imagineers settled on included Footlight Parade (1933), Singin’ in the Rain (1952), Mary Poppins (1964), The Public Enemy (1931), The Good, the Bad and the Ugly (1966), The Searchers (1956), Alien (1979), Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981), Tarzan and His Mate (1932), Casablanca (1942), Fantasia (1940), and The Wizard of Oz (1939). The attraction ended with a grand finale montage featuring some of the greatest stars and films ever made, and was periodically updated over time. As the world of the movies grew, so too did the attraction.

With the glitz and glamour of Hollywood encompassed in one attraction, it is no wonder The Great Movie Ride was a fan favorite. The last image we’ve shared here is from early previews of the spine-chilling Alien scene, and highlights just how much testing is done before an attraction is revealed to Guests.

The Great Movie Ride was as unforgettable as the films that inspired it, and we hope this article has provided you with a fond glimpse back at the care and detail that went into creating this experience. As the attraction’s Tour Guides used to say: “We’ll see you at the movies, the stuff dreams are made of.”

Disney Earns 145 2020 Primetime Emmy® Award Nominations

July 28, 2020July 30, 2020

By Zach Johnson

Eight months after its launch in the U.S., Disney+ today received an impressive 19 Emmy® Award nominations. The Mandalorian, from the mind of Disney Legend Jon Favreau, leads with 15, followed by A Celebration of the Music from Coco, Forky Asks a Question, The Imagineering Story, and The World According to Jeff Goldblum with one nomination apiece.

Across the board, The Walt Disney Company’s portfolio of brands earned an incredible 145 nominations, with ABC, FX, and Hulu improving upon last year’s totals. ABC received 36 today, led by The Oscars® (nine) and followed by black-ish (four), Dancing with the Stars (three), Jimmy Kimmel Live! (four), The Little Mermaid Live! (three), Live in Front of a Studio Audience: “All in the Family” and “Good Times” (three), Modern Family (three), Shark Tank (two), 2019 American Music Awards (one), The Conners (one), How to Get Away with Murder (one), and The Rookie (one). Disney Channel received a nomination for the animated series Star Wars Resistance, while the ESPN docu-series The Last Dance racked up three nominations.

FX Networks received 33 nominations, led by Mrs. America (10) and followed by What We Do in the Shadows (eight), Pose (six), American Horror Story: 1984 (four), Devs (four), Cake (one). Hulu received 26 nominations, led by The Handmaid’s Tale (10) and followed by Little Fires Everywhere (five), Normal People (four), Ramy (three), The Great (two), Hillary (one), and Wu-Tang: An American Saga (one). National Geographic picked up nine for The Cave (four), Life Below Zero (two), National Geographic Presents Cosmos: Creating Possible Worlds (one), and Sea of Shadows (one). Disney Television Studios received an additional 19 for The Politician (five), This Is Us (five), The Simpsons (three), Tales from the Loop (two), Bob’s Burgers (one), Central Park (one), Godfather of Harlem (one), and Homeland (one).

Executive produced and hosted by Jimmy Kimmel, the 72nd Emmy Awards will air Sunday, September 20, at 8 p.m. ET, live on ABC. The list of every Disney Emmy nomination is included below. Please visit Emmys.com to view the complete list of this year’s nominees.

ABC

2019 American Music Awards—1 Nomination
Outstanding Technical Direction, Camerawork, Video Control for a Special

black-ish—4 Nominations
Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series: Anthony Anderson
Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series: Tracee Ellis Ross
Outstanding Contemporary Costumes: “Hair Day”
Outstanding Contemporary Hairstyling: “Hair Day”

The Conners—1 Nomination
Outstanding Multi-Camera Picture Editing for a Comedy Series: “Slappy Holidays”

Dancing with the Stars—3 Nominations
Outstanding Costumes for a Variety, Nonfiction or Reality Program: “Halloween Night”
Outstanding Contemporary Hairstyling for a Variety, Nonfiction or Reality Program: “Episode 2802”
Outstanding Contemporary Makeup for a Variety, Nonfiction or Reality Program (Non-Prosthetic): “Disney Night”

How to Get Away with Murder—1 Nomination
Outstanding Guest Actress in a Drama Series: Cicely Tyson (“Stay”)

Jimmy Kimmel Live!—4 Nominations
Outstanding Variety Talk Series
Outstanding Lighting Design/Lighting Direction for a Variety Series: Jimmy Kimmel Live in Brooklyn (“Jason Alexander, Tracy Morgan, John Krasinski, Paul Shaffer, and Music From Kanye West”)
Outstanding Technical Direction, Camerawork, Video Control for a Series: Jimmy Kimmel Live in Brooklyn (“Jon Stewart, Benedict Cumberbatch, Kelly Ripa, and Music From David Byrne”)
Outstanding Short Form Variety Series—Jimmy Kimmel’s Quarantine Minilogues

The Little Mermaid Live!—3 Nominations
Outstanding Production Design for a Variety Special
Outstanding Contemporary Makeup for a Variety, Nonfiction or Reality Program (Non-Prosthetic)
Outstanding Technical Direction, Camerawork, Video Control for a Special

Live in Front of a Studio Audience: “All in the Family” and “Good Times”—4 Nominations
Outstanding Variety Special (Live)
Outstanding Directing for a Variety Special
Outstanding Production Design for a Variety Special
Outstanding Technical Direction, Camerawork, Video Control for a Special

Modern Family—3 Nominations
Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series: Fred Willard (“Legacy”)
Outstanding Directing for a Comedy Series: Gail Mancuso (“Finale Part 2”)
Outstanding Sound Mixing for a Comedy or Drama Series (Half-Hour) and Animation (“Finale Part 1”)

The Oscars—9 Nominations
Outstanding Production Design for a Variety Special
Outstanding Choreography for Variety or Reality Programming
Outstanding Contemporary Hairstyling for a Variety, Nonfiction or Reality Program
Outstanding Lighting Design/Lighting Direction for a Variety Special
Outstanding Contemporary Makeup for a Variety, Nonfiction or Reality Program (Non-Prosthetic)
Outstanding Music Direction
Outstanding Variety Special (Live)
Outstanding Sound Mixing for a Variety Series or Special
Outstanding Technical Direction, Camerawork, Video Control for a Special

The Rookie—1 Nomination
Outstanding Stunt Coordination for a Drama Series, Limited Series or Movie

Shark Tank—2 Nominations
Outstanding Host for a Reality or Competition Program: Barbara Corcoran, Mark Cuban, Lori Greiner, Daymond John, Robert Herjavec, Kevin O’Leary
Outstanding Structured Reality Program

Disney Channel

Star Wars Resistance—1 Nomination
Outstanding Children’s Program

Disney+

A Celebration of the Music from Coco—1 Nomination
Outstanding Contemporary Hairstyling for a Variety, Nonfiction or Reality Program

Forky Asks A Question: What Is Love?—1 Nomination
Outstanding Short Form Animated Program

The Imagineering Story—1 Nomination
Outstanding Narrator: Angela Bassett (“The Happiest Place on Earth”)

The Mandalorian—15 Nominations
Outstanding Drama Series
Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series: Giancarlo Esposito
Outstanding Character Voice-Over Performance: Taika Waititi
Outstanding Production Design for a Narrative Program (Half-Hour)
Outstanding Cinematography for a Single-Camera Series (Half-Hour): “Chapter 7: The Reckoning”
Outstanding Fantasy/Sci-Fi Costumes
Outstanding Single-Camera Picture Editing for a Drama Series: “Chapter 2: The Child”
Outstanding Single-Camera Picture Editing for a Drama Series: “Chapter 4: Sanctuary”
Outstanding Single-Camera Picture Editing for a Drama Series: “Chapter 8: Redemption”
Outstanding Prosthetic Makeup for a Series, Limited Series, Movie or Special: “Chapter 6: The Prisoner”
Outstanding Music Composition for a Series (Original Dramatic Score): “Chapter 8: Redemption”
Outstanding Sound Editing for a Comedy or Drama Series (Half-Hour) and Animation: “Chapter 1: The Mandalorian”
Outstanding Sound Mixing for a Comedy or Drama Series (Half-Hour) and Animation: “Chapter 2: The Child”
Outstanding Special Visual Effects: “Chapter 2: The Child”
Outstanding Stunt Coordination for a Drama Series, Limited Series or Movie

The World According to Jeff Goldblum—1 Nomination
Outstanding Hosted Nonfiction Series or Special

ESPN

The Last Dance—3 Nominations
Outstanding Documentary or Nonfiction Series
Outstanding Directing for a Documentary/Nonfiction Program: Jason Hehir (“Episode 7”)
Outstanding Picture Editing for a Nonfiction Program: “Episode 1”

FX Networks

American Horror Story: 1984—4 Nominations
Outstanding Sound Mixing for a Limited Series or Movie: “Camp Redwood”
Outstanding Sound Editing for a Limited Series, Movie or Special: “Camp Redwood”
Outstanding Period and/or Character Makeup (Non-Prosthetic): “The Lady in White”
Outstanding Prosthetic Makeup for a Series, Limited Series, Movie or Special: “True Killers”

Devs—4 Nominations
Outstanding Cinematography for a Limited Series or Movie: “Episode 7”
Outstanding Sound Editing for a Limited Series, Movie or Special: “Episode 3”
Outstanding Sound Mixing for a Limited Series or Movie: “Episode 3”
Outstanding Special Visual Effects in a Supporting Role: “Episode 8”

Mrs. America—10 Nominations
Outstanding Limited Series
Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited Series or Movie: Cate Blanchett
Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Limited Series or Movie: Uzo Aduba
Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Limited Series or Movie: Margo Martindale
Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Limited Series or Movie: Tracey Ullman
Outstanding Casting for a Limited Series, Movie or Special
Outstanding Period Costumes
Outstanding Single-Camera Picture Editing for a Limited Series or Movie—“Phyllis”
Outstanding Music Composition for a Limited Series, Movie or Special (Original Dramatic Score)—“Reagan”
Outstanding Writing for a Limited Series, Movie or Dramatic Special—Tanya Barfield, “Shirley”

“Oh Jerome, No” (Cake)—1 Nomination
Outstanding Actor in a Short Form Comedy or Drama Series: Mamoudou Athie

Pose—6 Nominations
Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series: Billy Porter
Outstanding Period and/or Character Hairstyling: “Worth It”
Outstanding Period and/or Character Makeup (Non-Prosthetic): “Acting Up”
Outstanding Prosthetic Makeup for a Series, Limited Series, Movie or Special: “Love’s in Need of Love Today”
Outstanding Period Costumes: “Acting Up”
Outstanding Short Form Nonfiction or Reality Series: Pose: Identity, Family, Community

What We Do in the Shadows—8 Nominations
Outstanding Comedy Series
Outstanding Writing for a Comedy Series: Sam Johnson & Chris Marcil, “Collaboration”
Outstanding Writing for a Comedy Series: Paul Simms, “Ghosts”
Outstanding Writing for a Comedy Series: Stefani Robinson, “On the Run”
Outstanding Production Design for a Narrative Program (Half-Hour): “Resurrection,” “Collaboration,” “Witches”
Outstanding Casting for a Comedy Series
Outstanding Single-Camera Picture Editing for a Comedy Series: “Resurrection”
Outstanding Sound Editing for a Comedy or Drama Series (Half-Hour) and Animation: “The Return”

Hulu

The Great—2 Nominations
Outstanding Writing for a Comedy Series: Tony McNamara (The Great)
Outstanding Directing for a Comedy Series: Matt Shakman (“The Great: Pilot”)

The Handmaid’s Tale—10 Nominations
Outstanding Drama Series
Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series: Bradley Whitford
Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series: Samira Wiley
Outstanding Guest Actress in a Drama Series: Alexis Bledel (“God Bless the Child”)
Outstanding Contemporary Hairstyling: “Liars”
Outstanding Contemporary Makeup (Non-Prosthetic): “Mayday”
Outstanding Special Visual Effects in a Supporting Role: “Household”
Outstanding Production Design for a Narrative Contemporary Program (One Hour or More)
Outstanding Fantasy/Sci-Fi Costumes
Outstanding Casting for a Drama Series

Hillary—1 Nomination
Outstanding Documentary or Nonfiction Series

Little Fires Everywhere—5 Nominations
Outstanding Limited Series
Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited Series or Movie: Kerry Washington
Outstanding Directing for a Limited Series, Movie or Dramatic Special: Lynn Shelton
Outstanding Music Composition for a Limited Series, Movie or Special (Original Dramatic Score): “The Spider Web”
Outstanding Original Music and Lyrics: Ingrid Michaelson, “Find a Way” (Song Title: “Build It Up”)

Normal People—4 Nominations
Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited Series or Movie: Paul Mescal
Outstanding Directing for a Limited Series, Movie or Dramatic Special: Lenny Abrahamson (“Episode 5”)
Outstanding Writing for a Limited Series, Movie or Dramatic Special: Sally Rooney, Alice Birch (“Episode 3”)
Outstanding Casting for a Limited Series, Movie or Special

Ramy—3 Nominations
Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series: Ramy Youssef
Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series: Mahershala Ali
Outstanding Directing for a Comedy Series: Ramy Youssef (“miakhalifa.mov”)

Wu-Tang: An American Saga—1 Nomination
Outstanding Original Main Title Theme Music

National Geographic

The Cave—4 Nominations
Outstanding Cinematography for a Nonfiction Program
Outstanding Directing for a Documentary/Nonfiction Program
Exceptional Merit in Documentary Filmmaking
Outstanding Writing for a Nonfiction Program

Life Below Zero—2 Nominations
Outstanding Cinematography for a Reality Program
Outstanding Picture Editing for an Unstructured Reality Program

National Geographic Presents Cosmos: Creating Possible Worlds—1 Nomination
Outstanding Short Form Nonfiction or Reality Series

Sea of Shadows—1 Nomination
Outstanding Cinematography for a Nonfiction Program

Disney Television Studios

Bob’s Burgers—1 Nomination
Outstanding Animated Program

Central Park—1 Nomination
Outstanding Character Voice-Over Performance: Leslie Odom Jr.

Godfather of Harlem
Outstanding Main Title Design

Homeland—1 Nomination
Outstanding Directing for a Drama Series: Lesli Linka Glatter (“Prisoners of War”)

The Politician—5 Nominations
Outstanding Guest Actress in a Comedy Series: Disney Legend Bette Midler (“Vienna”)
Outstanding Contemporary Hairstyling: “Pilot”
Outstanding Main Title Design
Outstanding Contemporary Makeup (Non-Prosthetic): “The Assassination of Payton Hobart”
Outstanding Contemporary Costumes: “Pilot”

The Simpsons—3 Nominations
Outstanding Character Voice-Over Performance: Nancy Cartwright (“Better Off Ned”)
Outstanding Character Voice-Over Performance: Hank Azaria (“Frinkcoin”)
Outstanding Animated Program (“Thanksgiving of Horror”)

Tales from the Loop—2 Nominations
Outstanding Cinematography for a Single-Camera Series (One Hour)
Outstanding Special Visual Effects in a Supporting Role: “Loop”

This Is Us—5 Nominations
Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series: Sterling K. Brown
Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series: Ron Cephas Jones (“After the Fire”)
Outstanding Guest Actress in a Drama Series: Phylicia Rashad (“Flip a Coin”)
Outstanding Contemporary Hairstyling: “Strangers: Part Two”
Outstanding Original Music and Lyrics: “Strangers” (Song Title: “Memorized”)