From All of Us to All of You—23 Must-Have Books

December 20, 2019December 20, 2019

By D23 Team

Did you enjoy reading our online series The Life and Times of Walt Disney—Across 23 Must-Have Disney Books? Each book excerpt was just a small portion of all the gifts galore within each title. If you want the whole package, unwrap the books below!

We’ve ranked each one, to help you pair the right gift with the special Disney fans in your life (and don’t forget about yourself!).

Excerpt No. 1—A Kiss Goodnight
By Disney Legend Richard M. Sherman and Illustrated by Disney Legend Floyd Norman

BEST FOR DISNEY FAMILIES

Disney Legend Richard Sherman and Disney Legend Floyd Norman bring you a touching story about what inspired legendary songwriter Richard Sherman to write the song “A Kiss Goodnight” and tells how a young Walt Disney was enchanted by fireworks, keeping his promise to send all his guests home with a special “kiss goodnight.”

Excerpt No. 2—Walt Disney’s Alice in Wonderland: An Illustrated Journey Through Time
By Mark Salisbury and with a Foreword by Disney Legend Kathryn Beaumont, as told to Mindy Johnson, and an Introduction by James Bobin

BEST IN FOUNDATIONAL DISNEY HISTORY—PART 1

Nearly 60 years after Lewis Carroll’s literary masterpiece Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland was first published, a new filmmaker named Walt Disney created a silent film about a little girl named Alice and her adventures in Cartoonland. That led Disney down a rabbit hole to form the company that would go on to become synonymous with fairy tales and would bring to life further versions of the Alice story, such as the beloved 1951 animated film, the more-recent live-action versions, and several iconic Disney Park experiences. Delve behind-the-scenes of these whimsical worlds.

Excerpt No. 3—Oswald the Lucky Rabbit: The Search for the Lost Disney Cartoons, Revised Special Edition
By David A. Bossert and with Contributions by David Gerstein, a Foreword by Bob Iger, and an Introduction by J.B. Kaufman

BEST IN FOUNDATIONAL DISNEY HISTORY—PART 2

David A. Bossert’s revised edition updates Oswald’s story, plus includes images from a newly discovered Oswald film, a foreword by Disney Chairman and CEO Bob Iger, and six collectible lithographs. Readers will find this engaging and accessible volume delivers an in-depth look at Walt’s first major animated success and the journey to reclaim the lost Disney films.

Excerpt No. 4—The Walt Disney Studios: A Lot to Remember
By Rebecca Cline and Steven B. Clark

BEST HISTORICAL DISNEY OVERVIEW

Prepare for an insider tour like no other! Abundantly illustrated with behind-the-scenes photographs and artwork from the Studio’s 90-plus years of productions, the deluxe history book celebrates Walt’s dream factory, which has always been and continues to be the heart of The Walt Disney Company.

Excerpt No. 5—Walt Disney Animation Studios—The Archive Series: Walt Disney’s Nine More Old Men—The Flipbooks
By Pete Docter and the staff of the Walt Disney Animation Research Library and with Illustrations by Disney Legend Ub Iwerks; Disney Legend Norman Ferguson; Disney Legend Hamilton Luske; Disney Legend Art Babbitt; Grim Natwick; Disney Legend Vladimir (Bill) Tytla; John Sibley; Hal King; and Disney Legend Fred Moore

BEST DISNEY ART COLLECTION—MULTIPLE ARTISTS

Oscar®-winning filmmaker Pete Docter worked closely with the Animation Research Library at Walt Disney Animation Studios to piece together a breathtaking collection of nine flipbooks from Disney’s early animators. Each features an iconic scene from an animated Disney short or feature in its original line-drawn form, having been selected from among a wide range of films for great movement and classic characters. A booklet by Docter detailing the incredible talents of these animators describes their enduring appeal, precise timing, and focused staging.

Excerpt No. 6—Ink & Paint: The Women of Walt Disney’s Animation
By Mindy Johnson and with a Foreword by June Foray

BEST IN DISNEY ANIMATION HISTORY

Meet the pioneering women who brought hand-rendered animated stories to vibrant, multicolored life at Disney. Extensively researched by film historian Mindy Johnson, this book features a multitude of newly discovered materials and never-before-seen images, redefining the collective history of animation.

Excerpt No. 7—Before Ever After: The Lost Lectures of Walt Disney’s Animation Studio
By Don Hahn and Tracey Miller-Zarneke

BEST IN DISNEY ANIMATION DISCUSSIONS

Discover the rare and previously unpublished lecture notes, photographs, and drawings which reflect the culture of learning that Walt Disney curated to raise the level of his artists in preparation for their first feature: Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. Walt hand-picked instructors from the renowned Chouinard Art Institute, screened films for study, and brought in talent that ranged from architect Frank Lloyd Wright to choreographer George Balanchine to humorist Alexander Woollcott to teach and inspire his team.

Excerpt No. 8—Pencils, Pens & Brushes: A Great Girls’ Guide to Disney Animation
By Mindy Johnson and Illustrated by Lorelay Bové

BEST FOR DISNEY KIDS

Based on Mindy Johnson’s critically acclaimed Disney Editions title, Ink & Paint: The Women of Walt Disney’s Animation and brilliantly illustrated by animator Lorelay Bové, this middle-grade book is a fun and inspiring look at many of the amazing women who have worked at Disney Animation over the years.

Excerpt No. 9—The Illusion of Life: Disney Animation
By Disney Legends Frank Thomas and Ollie Johnston and with Contributions by Disney Legend Hamilton Luske; V Disney Legend ladimir (Bill) Tytla; Disney Legend Fred Moore; Fred Spencer; Disney Legend Norman Ferguson; and Disney Legend Art Babbitt

BEST IN DISNEY ANIMATION TECHNIQUES

The most complete book on the subject ever written, this is the fascinating inside story by two long-term Disney animators of the gradual perfecting of a relatively young and particularly American art from, which no other movie studio has ever been able to equal. The authors, Frank Thomas and Ollie Johnston, worked not only with the legendary Walt Disney himself but also with other leading figures in the half-century of Disney films. Not to be mistaken for just a “how-to-do-it,” this voluminously illustrated volume (like the classic Disney films themselves) is definitely intended for everyone to enjoy.

Excerpt No. 10—Travels with Walt Disney: A Photographic Voyage Around the World
By Jeff Kurtti

BEST DISNEY TRAVEL JOURNAL

Jeff Kurtti assembles seldom-seen and never-before-published photographs, along with eyewitness recollections and enlightening anecdotes, and arranges them into a one-of-a-kind “travel journal,” as if Walt Disney himself might have documented these exciting excursions in one special place.

Excerpt No. 11—The Art and Making of Dumbo
By Leah Gallo and with a Foreword by Tim Burton

BEST MAKING OF A DISNEY FILM

Author and longtime Tim Burton collaborator Leah Gallo, after first setting the stage with a thoughtful history on Disney’s 1941 animated classic, shares a detailed account of how Burton and his talented team reimagined Dumbo into a magical new film.

Excerpt No. 12—From All of Us to All of You: The Disney Christmas Card
By Jeff Kurtti

BEST DISNEY HOLIDAY BOOK

Early in the history of The Walt Disney Studios, annual Christmas-themed greeting cards were created, their designs and illustrations by such legendary Disney artists as Tom Wood, Hank Porter, Bob Moore, Mary Blair, John Hench, and Paul Wenzel. Gift-wrapped and sparkling in the spirit of the season, Jeff Kurtti’s one-of-a-kind collection of familiar, festive, fun, and feeling holiday art shines a light on a remarkable body of work and the people who created it.

Excerpt No. 13—Walt Disney: An American Original
By Bob Thomas

BEST DISNEY BIOGRAPHY

After years of research, Bob Thomas—biographer of Bing Crosby, Fred Astaire, and many other Hollywood legends—produced a definitive biography of the man behind the legend of Disney: the unschooled cartoonist from Kansas City who went bankrupt on his first movie venture and developed into the genius who produced unmatched works of animation, and ultimately was the creative spirit of an international entertainment empire that has enchanted generations.

Excerpt No. 14—Poster Art of the Disney Parks
By Danny Handke and Vanessa Hunt and with an Introduction by Disney Legend Tony Baxter

BEST DISNEY PARK BOOK—MULTIPLE ATTRACTIONS

If you’re as obsessed with Disney Parks as we are, you’ll love this lush compendium of posters from Disney theme parks around the globe, featuring concept art and lively narratives about the development of the stunning posters! Disney Imagineers Danny Handke and Vanessa Hunt give Disney fans an amazing inside look at the beautiful poster art we’ve come to know and love.

Excerpt No. 15—Eat Like Walt: The Wonderful World of Disney Food
By Marcy Carriker Smothers with a Foreword by John Lasseter and an Afterword by Tom Fitzgereld

BEST IN DISNEY CULINARY ARTS

Embark on a culinary tour of Disneyland’s six distinct lands. Every attraction has a story, and so do many of the menu items. With food serving as the lens, Walt’s private and work life are explored and detailed in this book, which also includes recipes from his home, his studio, and his Magic Kingdom.

Excerpt No. 16—Yesterday’s Tomorrow: Disney’s Magical Mid-Century
By Don Hahn

BEST DISNEY ESSAY COLLECTION—SINGLE AUTHOR

Packed with rarely seen Disney art and photography of the mid-20th century, this book by acclaimed film producer and director Don Hahn explores the unique modern style that Walt Disney and his artists contributed to this iconic era.

Excerpt No. 17—The Haunted Mansion: Imagineering a Classic
By Jason Surrell and with Forewords by Disney Legend Marty Sklar and Tom Fitzgerald

BEST DISNEY PARK BOOK—SINGLE ATTRACTION

Shiver as you explore early concept sketches, detailed architectural drawings, and stunning still photography that illustrates the Mansion’s evolution as it was designed and built at each Magic Kingdom park around the world—including Mystic Manor at Hong Kong Disneyland.

Excerpt No. 18—Marc Davis in His Own Words: Imagineering the Disney Theme Parks
By Pete Docter and Christopher Merritt and with a Preface by Disney Legend Bob Gurr, a Foreword by Bob Weis, and Illustrations by Disney Legend Marc Davis

BEST DISNEY ART COLLECTION—SINGLE ARTIST

Authors Pete Docter and Christopher Merritt have created a treasure trove for artists, students, and Disney collectors. Featuring Disney Legend Marc Davis’ groundbreaking work designing Walt Disney’s theme parks, this magnificent two-volume set includes more than 1,500 rare pieces from the Imagineering archives. Also, for the first time, Marc’s design theories and stories of working with Walt are featured in his own words as recorded during hours of interviews by Merritt.

Excerpt No. 19—Practically Poppins in Every Way: A Magical Carpetbag of Countless Wonders
By Jeff Kurtti and with a Foreword by Thomas Schumacher, an Introduction by Rob Marshall, and Contributions by Craig D. Barton; Brian Sibley; Paula Sigman Lowery; Jim Fanning; Cameron Mackintosh; Fox Carney; Gavin Lee; John Myhre; Marc Shaiman; and Greg Ehrbar

BEST DISNEY ESSAY COLLECTION—MULTIPLE AUTHORS

With enlightening observations and vivid visuals, renowned Disney historian Jeff Kurtti showcases the creative forces behind bringing Mary Poppins to life on page, screen, and stage, generation after generation. It is accompanied by informative text, essays, and observations by creative luminaries.

Excerpt No. 20—The Art and Flair of Mary Blair: An Appreciation
By John Canemaker and Illustrations by Disney Legend Mary Blair

BEST IN DISNEY CONTEMPORARY ARTS

For more than a dozen years, a soft spoken, unassuming woman dominated design at The Walt Disney Studios with a joyful creativity and exuberant color palette that stamped the look of many classic Disney animated features. Favorite theme park attractions, most notably the it’s a small world boat ride, were also among her designs. Now the story behind one of Walt’s favorite artists is celebrated in this delightful volume of whimsical art and insightful commentary. As a bonus for the whole family, also get the kids’ picture book version of Mary’s story, by Amy Novesky and illustrated by Brittney Lee, here.

Excerpt No. 21—Walt Disney’s Ultimate Inventor: The Genius of Ub Iwerks
By Disney Legend Don Iwerks and with a Foreword by Leonard Maltin

BEST IN DISNEY VISUAL EFFECTS

Gorgeous never-before-published photographs and fascinating personal memories celebrate the half-a-century career of Ub Iwerks, a self-taught animator, innovator, and all-around technical genius who directly collaborated with Walt Disney to create some of the most loved moments throughout film and theme parks.

Excerpt No. 22—Dream It! Do It! My Half-Century Creating Disney’s Magic Kingdoms
By Disney Legend Marty Sklar and with Introductions by Ray Bradbury and Disney Legend Richard M. Sherman

BEST DISNEY AUTOBIOGRAPHY—PART 1

Disney Legend Marty Sklar’s first memoir is an enlightening tale of Marty’s epic Disney journey. His talents propelled him forward into substantial responsibility, and he became Walt’s literary right-hand man. Over the next 40 years, Marty rose to become president and principal creative executive of Walt Disney Imagineering, devoted to creating, enhancing, and expanding Walt’s magical kingdoms.

Excerpt No. 23—Travels with Figment: On the Road in Search of Disney Dreams
By Disney Legend Marty Sklar and with a Preface by Bob Weis

BEST DISNEY AUTOBIOGRAPHY—PART 2

Disney Legend Marty Sklar’s final book is a collection of captivating and untold tales from his storied career. In his 54 years at Disney, Marty travelled the globe—creating Disney magic, committing his adventures to memory, and bringing them together in this fresh volume.

If you missed on our weekly sneak peaks, you can catch up on your reading here!

8 Most Memorable Moments of the Star Wars Saga So Far

December 20, 2019

By Tim Lammers

More than 42 years after writer/director George Lucas took us on his first momentous trip to a galaxy far, far away with the first film in his Star Wars saga, Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker is finally here. Each film—from the classic trilogy and prequel trilogy to episodes 7 and 8—has had its share of defining cinematic moments, which all told explains why Star Wars has been hailed by countless critics and moviegoers as one of the greatest sagas ever put on film.

So, as director J.J. Abrams and company prepare to release Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker to the masses, here’s a look back at 8 of the most memorable moments of the Star Wars saga from episodes 1 through 8.

Episode I—The Phantom Menace: Blades of Glory
While the film introduced us to such legendary characters as the young Anakin Skywalker (Jake Lloyd), Padme Amidala (Natalie Portman), the young Obi-Wan Kenobi (Ewan McGregor), and Jedi Master Qui-Gon Jinn (Liam Neeson), it was the “Duel of the Fates” scene and its searing theme by composer John Williams where Darth Maul (Ray Park) made it clear that there was plenty of room for another iconic villain to roam the Star Wars landscape after Darth Vader and Emperor Palpatine. While Maul’s said duel with Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon qualifies as the most memorable scene in the film, it was the moment when the horned Sith lord revealed his double-bladed lightsaber to his Jedi opponents that towers over all of the rest. Punctuated by high-energy, martial arts moves that left previous lightsaber battles far in its wake, the “Duel of the Fates” scene showed us that lightsaber duels in the Star Wars saga would never be the same again.

Episode II—Attack of the Clones: Fury of Fett
True, both the grown-up Anakin (Hayden Christensen) and Amidala came of age and sowed the seeds of their relationship that would eventually bring us twins Luke Skywalker and Leia Organa, but it was the trauma experienced by the child of another principal character in the film that helped develop the back story of the galaxy’s most-feared bounty hunter. The child was Boba Fett (Daniel Logan), whose father, Jango Fett (Temura Morrison), was cut down by Jedi Master Mace Windu (Samuel L. Jackson) near the conclusion of the Battle of Geonosis—leading to the formative years of Boba Fett before his appearance in The Empire Strikes Back. And while Boba Fett’s story ended in Return of the Jedi, his appearance as both a child and adult culled enough fan fascination for Lucasfilm and Disney to explore “the way” of the mysterious band of warriors in the new Disney+ series The Mandalorian.

Episode III—Revenge of the Sith: Birth of Evil
The final film in the prequel trilogy concludes with the foundation being laid for Episodes 4, 5, and 6, beginning with Padme giving birth to twins Luke and Leia and how they were kept hidden from their fallen Jedi father; and subsequently, the fateful duel between Obi-Wan and Anakin on the fiery planet of Mustafar that left the Jedi apprentice burned, broken, and maimed—but rescued by Emperor Palpatine (Ian McDiarmid). And while Anakin was dubbed “Darth Vader” by Palpatine earlier in the film, it wasn’t until his operatic transformation into a mask-wearing, heavy-breathing and electronically enhanced Sith Lord on an operating table that made the birth of evil complete, thus becoming the film’s defining moment.

Episode IV—A New Hope: The Force is with Us
When the first film in the classic Star Wars trilogy was released in 1977, Lucas introduced moviegoers to Tatooine farm boy Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill), who learns from reclusive Jedi Knight Obi-Wan Kenobi (Sir Alec Guinness), the ways of the Force, “an energy field created by all living things. It surrounds us and penetrates us. It binds the galaxy together.” Luke experienced just how powerful the Force was when Obi-Wan sacrificed himself in a lightsaber duel with Darth Vader (David Prowse/voice of James Earl Jones) in order to help Luke, Han Solo (Harrison Ford), and Princess Leia (Carrie Fisher) escape from the Death Star, but there was more: In the stunning conclusion of the film, Luke listened to the spirit of Obi-Wan and opted to trust his feelings and use the Force and turned off the targeting computer in his X-Wing Fighter. Taking a deep breath as he fired two proton torpedoes into a tiny exhaust port that set off a chain reaction to blow up the evil Empire’s planet-destroying Death Star, Luke once again hears Obi-Wan, telling him, “The Force will be with you … always.”

Episode V—The Empire Strikes Back: All in the Family
Jedi Knights have to get their powers from somewhere, and George Lucas explored that notion with one of the most shocking reveals in cinematic history in the third act of Episode V. After all, Luke was led by Obi-Wan to believe his father was killed by Darth Vader (he was, in the metaphorical sense—we just didn’t know it yet), so there was no reason for any audience member to suspect Darth Vader to tell Luke, “I am your father” as he invites him to join the Empire after battering his son in lightsaber duel in Cloud City. The moment added a whole new dimension to the story and suddenly changed the young Jedi’s perspective of the Sith lord. Running a close second for most memorable moment for Episode V: Han Solo and Princess Leia’s unexpected exchange before Han was encased in carbonite, where Leia proclaimed, “I love you,” to which the nerf-herding scoundrel replied, “I know.”

Episode VI—Return of the Jedi: Darth Vader’s Redemption
Although he lost his right hand to his father in a near-deadly lightsaber duel in Episode V, Luke knew that there was still good in Darth Vader and reluctantly went to battle with the Sith lord once again, but this time in front of Emperor Palpatine on the Death Star II. This time, however, Luke was the victor, but when he defied orders from Palpatine to destroy his father, the emperor tried to kill Luke—until he was thwarted by a broken and battered Vader, who tossed the Sith master to his apparent death in a bottomless chasm. Vader didn’t complete his redemption, though, until he requested his son to remove his helmet so he could look at him through Anakin Skywalker’s (Sebastian Shaw) eyes, confirming there was still good in him as he tells Luke, “You were right about me. Tell your sister, you were right.” Enhancing the moment was the thrilling shot of the spirits of Anakin, Obi-Wan, and Yoda (voice of Frank Oz) appearing before Luke during the Rebels’ victory celebration on Endor.

Episode VII—The Force Awakens: Han Solo’s Demise
The long-awaited follow-up to Episode VI 36 years later introduced us to three new heroes in the Star Wars universe—Rey (Daisy Ridley), Finn (John Boyega) and Poe (Oscar Isaac)—but also said goodbye to an old one. Even though Harrison Ford decades ago reportedly requested George Lucas kill off Han in the classic trilogy, his demise at the hand of his and Leia’s son—the former Ben Solo who turned to the dark side and became Kylo Ren (Adam Driver)—was shocking, nonetheless. As devastating as it was to see Han go, it was a necessary plot twist to demonstrate just how evil being inhabited by the dark side could be.

Episode VIII—The Last Jedi: Leia is Never Really Gone
While Mark Hamill and Carrie Fisher both appear in the new Star Wars trilogy, the Skywalker siblings don’t actually have a scene together until the third act of Episode VIII during the Battle of Crait. While the Resistance is hunkered down in a former Rebel outpost, Luke, in holographic form, reunites with his sister to essentially say goodbye as he was preparing to exhaust his Jedi powers to defeat Kylo Ren. And while Luke’s line, “No one is ever really gone” is in response to Leia lamenting, “My son is gone” after she realizes Kylo Ren has consumed the essence of Ben Solo, the line became all the more poignant by the tragic loss of Fisher a year earlier. Proof positive that Leia is never really gone is Fisher’s powerful, final movie appearance in The Rise of Skywalker thanks to unused footage from The Last Jedi, cementing once and for all that the princess-turned-general is and will always be the heart of that galaxy far, far away.

Gaze Upon Onward’s Latest Magical Trailer—Plus More in News Briefs

December 20, 2019December 20, 2019

By Courtney Potter

Disney and Pixar offer up another peek at Ian and Barley Lightfoot’s extraordinary adventures, and construction begins on the Zootopia-themed land at Shanghai Disney Resort… Read more, along with other news from around Disney, in this week’s news briefs!

**Adventure Awaits in Brand-New Onward Trailer and Posters**

The new decade is just over the horizon, and there’s so much Disney fun to look forward to! Here’s a perfect example: Onward, Disney and Pixar’s next animated adventure. And to help keep our whistles wet ’til its spring debut, they just this week released a brand-new trailer—as well as some colorful new character posters—for the film. Check out the clip, above!

Set in a suburban fantasy world, Onward introduces two teenage elf brothers, Ian and Barley Lightfoot (voices of Tom Holland and Chris Pratt, respectively), who embark on an extraordinary quest to discover if there is still a little magic left out there.

Directed and produced by the team behind Monsters University—and also featuring the voices of Julia Louis-Dreyfus as Ian and Barley’s mom, Laurel Lightfoot; Octavia Spencer as Manticore; Mel Rodriguez as Officer Colt Bronco; Lena Waithe as Officer Specter; and Ali Wong as Officer Gore—the film opens in theaters on March 6.

Save the Date!
Be sure to mark these upcoming Disney events on your calendar:

D23 and Walt Disney Archives
January 8, 2020
D23 Gold Member Mixer in Kapolei, Hawai’i
January 17, 2020
Get VIP Tickets to Disney’s Frozen The Hit Broadway Musical
January 31, 2020
Disney’s Aladdin the Hit Broadway Musical VIP Tickets
August 9, 2020
Adventures by Disney Rhine River Cruise Presented by D23
Parks
November 8, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 19, 21, 22, 24;
December 1, 3, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, 13, 15, 17, 19, 20, 22, 2019
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom park
November 8—January 6, 2020
Holidays at the Disneyland Resort
November 29—December 30, 2019
2019 Epcot International Festival of the Holidays
January 17, 2020
Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance opens at Disneyland park
January 17—February 9, 2020
Lunar New Year returns to Disney California Adventure park
January 17—February 24, 2020
Epcot International Festival of the Arts
February 28—April 21, 2020
Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival returns to the Disneyland Resort
March 4—June 1, 2020
Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival at Walt Disney World Resort
March 4, 2020
Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway opens at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Studios
December 20, 2019
Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker opens in U.S. theaters
March 6, 2020
Onward opens in U.S. theaters
March 27, 2020
Mulan opens in U.S. theaters
May 29, 2020
Artemis Fowl opens in U.S. theaters
Television
December 25, 2019 (10 a.m.—12 p.m. EST, 9—11 a.m. CST/MST/PST; airtimes vary, check listings)
Disney Parks Magical Christmas Day Parade airs on ABC
January 10, 2020 (8:45 p.m. ET)
The Owl House premieres on Disney Channel and DisneyNOW
February 14, 2020 (8 p.m. EST/PST)
ZOMBIES 2 premieres on Disney Channel and DisneyNOW
February 16, 2020 (8 p.m. EST/ 7 p.m CST)
American Idol returns to ABC
Disney+
December 20, 2o19
Togo premieres
December 20, 2019
Pick of the Litter premieres
January 17, 2020
Diary of a Future President premieres

**Constructions Begins For Zootopia-Themed Land at Shanghai Disney Resort**

Our pals over at the Disney Parks Blog recently announced a major milestone for Shanghai Disney Resort: Main construction on the all-new Zootopia-themed land has officially begun! The eighth themed land will be an immersive “mammal metropolis” that brings a variety of fan-favorite Zootopia citizens to life.

This thrilling expansion will allow guests to experience signature offerings like new Zootopia-themed merchandise, entertainment, and delicious cuisine. And that’s not all: The land will also feature a new major attraction!

See some of your favorite Disney pals meet up with Zootopia faves Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde in the new video, above; looks like everyone’s getting into the “Try Everything” spirit! Watch this space for more breaking news on the land’s construction—as well as about Shanghai Disney Resort—in the coming months.

**Disney+’s Diary of a Future President Premieres January 17**

If you’ve been following along with D23’s Disney+ coverage, you know that there’s a ton of incredible content coming to the streaming service next year. One series we’re excited to see is Diary of a Future President (formerly titled Diary of a Female President)—and now we have an official premiere date: January 17!

Inspired by the childhood of series creator Ilana Peña (Crazy Ex-Girlfriend)—and told from the narration of her diary—the show follows Elena (newcomer Tess Romero), a 12-year-old Cuban-American girl, as she navigates the ups and downs of middle school and begins her journey to become the future president of the United States. Series producer Gina Rodriguez (Jane the Virgin), who also directs the first episode, will guest star as adult Elena, who (not-really-a-spoiler alert) has indeed become the Commander in Chief.

Make sure to add Diary of a Future President to your Disney+ queue next month! We certainly will…

Did You Catch This Sneak Peek at Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway?

It’s the first-ever ride-through attraction featuring Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, and it’s set to open in just a few months’ time… In case you missed this special sneak peek at Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway (coming very soon to Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and then to Disneyland park in 2022)—hosted by ZOMBIES 2 stars Milo Manheim and Meg Donnelly—that aired during the recent Disney Channel Holiday Party @Walt Disney World special, we’ve got it for you, above!

The colorful state-of-the-art attraction will draw guests inside a Mickey cartoon for a fun-filled adventure where “Mouse rules apply”—and literally anything can happen. Keep your eyes trained on D23.com (see what we did there?!) for more Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway updates as they become available.

Epcot Reveals Garden Rocks Concert Series Schedule

The longest-running annual festival at Epcot, the International Flower & Garden Festival, is returning for its 27th year from March 4 through June 1. And that means weeks and weeks of super delicious food, fragrantly colorful displays, and the ever-popular Garden Rocks Concert Series… the schedule for which has just arrived! And it’s chock full of fantastic artists from all manner of genres. Ready to mark those calendars?

March 4–5 – Peabo Bryson NEW
March 13–16 – Simple Plan
March 17–19 – STARSHIP featuring Mickey Thomas
March 20–23 – Mark Wills NEW to Garden Rocks
March 24–26 – The Spinners
March 27–28 – Sister Hazel
March 29–30 – The Pointer Sisters
March 31–April 2 – Former Journey Lead Vocalist Steve Augeri
April 3–4 – Blood, Sweat & Tears
April 5–6 – Exposé
April 7–9 – Berlin
April 19–20 – Rick Springfield
April 24–27 – Plain White T’s
April 28–30 – Don Felder, formerly of The Eagles
May 1–2 – Don McLean NEW
May 5–7 – Ambrosia with Peter Beckett NEW
May 8–9 – Thelma Houston NEW
May 10–11 – The Allman Betts Band NEW to Garden Rocks
May 12–14 – Air Supply
May 15–18 – Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone
May 19–21 – Mike DelGuidice & Big Shot NEW to Garden Rocks
May 24–25 – Daughtry NEW
May 26–28 – Marshall Tucker Band
May 31–June 1 – Survivor

There are still more artists to be announced—so keep an eye out for further news as the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival gets closer… And don’t forget, come March 4, to be on the lookout for the brand-new Remy topiary—which will be unveiled during the Festival as the centerpiece of the Ratatouille Garden at the France pavilion. C’est magnifique!

Punch It! Meet the New Characters of Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker

December 20, 2019December 19, 2019

By Savannah Salazar

When it comes to Star Wars, there’s a lot to love—from unforgettable moments and locations to beautiful music, and, of course, a roster of the most lovable characters in the galaxy. With Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker coming to theaters soon, that list is about to grow, so we’ve put together a guide to the new characters in a galaxy far, far away.

Jannah
From the oceanic moon Kef Bir, Jannah is a new ally for the resistance. Wielding a bow and arrow, this freedom fighter is ready to lead a band of warriors against the forces of the First Order.

Zorii Bliss
Mysterious and masked, Zorii Bliss (played by Keri Russell) is a Scoundrel with connections to ace fighter pilot Poe Dameron. She roams the snowy planet of Kijimi, leading a band of Spice Runners.

D-O
Cobbled together in a droidsmith’s workshop, the impressionable droid becomes enamored with our favorite rolling droid, BB-8—because who isn’t?

Allegiant General Pryde
Mum’s the word on Richard E. Grant’s new character, but we do know that Pryde joins General Hux in the wake of Kylo Ren’s rise to Supreme Leader.

Knights of Ren
While seen briefly during Rey’s vision in Star Wars: The Force Awakens, the Knights of Ren have been notably absent. Now back for the final film, the masked warriors stand alongside Kylo Ren in mismatched garb carrying specialized weaponry.

First Order Jet Troopers
“They fly now?” “They fly now!” Finn and Poe yell to each other—seen in a clip for Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker—during a zippy chase on the planet Pasaana between our heroes and the First Order’s latest stormtroopers: the jet troopers.

Sith Troopers
Along with the jet troopers come a crimson-colored group of soldiers to help the First Order push for galactic conquest. This elite squadron draws their inspiration from a dark and ancient legacy.

Babu Frik
A skilled droidsmith, Babu Frik works on the planet Kijimi and can help modify any droid. Sounds most impressive…

Klaud
Oh, Klaud. This odd creature mistakenly joins the Resistance but proves to be a welcome ally to the freedom fighters.

Billy Dee Williams Teases Lando’s Return in Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker

December 20, 2019December 19, 2019

By Zach Johnson

Everything you’ve heard about Lando Calrissian is true—just ask Billy Dee Williams, who reprises his role in Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker. The final episode of the seminal Skywalker Saga marks his first onscreen appearance as the character since 1983’s Star Wars: Return of the Jedi. According to Williams, it was “a lot of fun” to pilot the Millennium Falcon once again. “I was really looking forward to it. I had a good time.”

Lucasfilm’s Star Wars: The Force Awakens, released in 2015, saw the return of fan-favorite characters like Han Solo (Harrison Ford), Leia Organa (Disney Legend Carrie Fisher), C-3PO (Anthony Daniels), Chewbacca (Peter Mayhew and Joonas Suotamo) and—eventually—Luke Skywalker (Disney Legend Mark Hamill). For The Rise of Skywalker, Abrams couldn’t resist the charm of another charismatic character: Lando. “Working with JJ was really an extraordinary experience,” Williams says. “He’s a lot of fun, and he makes everything really very interesting. I had a lot of fun doing this movie.”

In the highly anticipated film, Lando shares scenes with newer characters, including Rey (Daisy Ridley), Finn (John Boyega), and Poe Dameron (Oscar Isaac). “They were great,” Williams says. “They’re great people and great actors.” To preserve the mystery surrounding the film, Williams is keeping things close to the vest. “I’m going to surprise the fans,” he says. “I’m not going to divulge anything—and if I do, I’ll get hit by lightning!”

Suotamo, who inherited his role from the late Mayhew, was slightly more forthcoming. Still, the actor was careful not to share any spoilers. “The only definitive thing I can say is fans will be excited, because it’s such a multifaceted story. Everything is coming together,” he teases. “The most important thing is that the gang is back together now; Chewie is there and everyone else is there, too. We’re going on a new adventure. We don’t know how this is going to turn out, but it’s going to be exciting for the whole ride.”

Being part of the Star Wars universe is a proof that “dreams can come true,” Suotamo adds. “You never know what life is going to offer to you. The Star Wars family is the best family in the world. We’re grateful to tell these stories and to have genius minds coming up with great turns of events for our characters. It’s exciting to be a part of that.”

Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker opens in U.S. theaters today.

The Epic Premiere of Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker Was a Celebration of the Star Wars Family

December 19, 2019December 19, 2019

By Jocelyn Buhlman

This past Monday, an event the size of a supernova was being contained inside a tent next to the El Capitan Theatre: the Skywalker Saga was ending. Cast, crew, and fans alike made the hyperspace jump to Hollywood, California, for the world premiere of Star Wars Episode IX: The Rise of Skywalker, and we were no exception! D23 hit the blue carpet to see the stars, spaceships, and droids who were attending to celebrate the end of a legendary era.

The night opened with an intimidating march of stormtroopers down the blue carpet, including the new red-armored Sith troopers that were first revealed at Comic-Con.

Of course, where there’s the First Order, you know the Resistance isn’t too far behind…

Human-Cyborg Relations

Star wars: The Rise of Skywalker premiere — BB-8, D-O, R2-D2, and C-3PO pose for a quick blue carpet pic

The blue carpet festivities continued with some intergalactic superstars—namely, some of our favorite droids from the Star Wars galaxy, including BB-8, R2-D2, newcomer D-O, and C-3PO! Later on in the evening, we had the chance to catch up with the actor behind C-3PO himself, Anthony Daniels, who is one of the few to have been in every single movie in the Skywalker Saga! With a more than 40 year-long history with the galaxy, we needed to know how he felt about the saga concluding tonight:

Intergalactic Friends Forever!

One thing we can’t wait to see develop in The Rise of Skywalker is the friendships between Rey, Finn, and Poe during this final adventure—and seeing the three of them on the carpet was already taking our excitement to intergalactic levels! (And that’s before the movie even started.)

We weren’t the only ones who were excited—we had the chance to chat with John Boyega (Finn), and he agreed: “It’s the best thing about it! I love Oscar, I love Daisy,” he told us when we asked about sharing a Star Wars adventure with the actors across three films. He added: “We’ve had such a solid friendship.”

That wasn’t the only thing Boyega was excited about in The Rise of Skywalker—check out our video below to find out how he feels about the end of the Saga and to find out which character he was most excited to see in the film.

New Faces with Big Smiles

Out on the carpet and looking as dazzling as the iconic Star Wars starfield itself were newcomers Naomi Ackie and Richard E. Grant, who play brand-new characters in The Rise of Skywalker.

Ackie—wearing an elegant white dress that Princess Leia would definitely approve—was beaming as she shared her excitement to join the ranks of Star Wars heroines as her character, Jannah: “I had such good examples to follow from Leia to Rey to Rose, and I felt like I was just adding to what has been a brilliant legacy for women in this franchise.”

She had firsthand experience with some of these role models—Kelly Marie Tran, who portrays Rose Tico in the film, was spotted palling around with Ackie throughout the night, providing a warm welcome into the ranks of Star Wars heroines.

Over on the Dark side, Richard E. Grant portrays the villainous First Order officer Allegiant Admiral Pryde. While his character promises to be a stern force of villainy, Grant was grinning ear-to-ear to be at the premiere. Why? Well, as a huge Star Wars fan, he’s absolutely living his dream. “It’s off-the-charts exciting,” he explained of walking onto the film’s iconic sets and seeing the world come to life. “I loved all of it. Like a complete geek!” You’re not alone there, Grant!

An Animated Selection of Special Guests

Everyone from the Star Wars family was out to celebrate the finale of the Skywalker Saga, which meant we got to catch up with some very animated friends—namely, some of the cast from the animated series Star Wars: The Clone Wars and Star Wars Resistance!

Ashley Eckstein, voice actress of Ahsoka Tano (and judge for the D23 Expo Mousequerade costume contest!), stopped by to say, “hi!” and show off her extremely cool custom suit inspired by the character and design of Ahsoka. “I wanted to look Ahsoka-chic for the occasion,” said the actress, who will be reprising her voice role of Ahsoka for season 7 of Star Wars: The Clone Wars, set to debut in February 2020 on Disney+.

Ahsoka’s adventured far and wide across the Star Wars galaxy—and been essential to many parts of the Star Wars story that are coming to an end with The Rise of Skywalker. As a self-proclaimed geek, we needed to know how Ashley felt about the Saga’s end:

Ashley wasn’t the only familiar face—er—voice at the premiere! James Arnold Taylor and Catherine Taber, the voices of Obi-Wan Kenobi and Pamdé Amidala in Star Wars: The Clone Wars, stopped by to say, “Hello there!” to us on the blue carpet. They called the night “bittersweet,” as they were ringing in the end to many stories—season 7 of Star Wars: The Clone Wars will be the final one of the series, on top of the main Skywalker Saga coming to a close with Rise of Skywalker.

“I’m in denial about that,” Taber admitted. “The Saga’s not over!”

Taylor also offered a tantalizing hint for sharp-eared listeners attending the screening of the film: “Listen for my voice in the film! There might be a couple stormtroopers, good guys, or bad guys.” (Plus, if you plan on riding Star Wars: The Rise of the Resistance over at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, you might recognize him as the voice of Lieutenant Bek, as well.)

Representing the cast of Star Wars Resistance, Myrna Velasco, the voice of the spunky pilot Torra Doza, stopped by to talk about what being in the Star Wars Saga meant to her—and reveal that her very first Stars Wars movie was Caravan of Courage: An Ewok Adventure.

See what she has to say about being part of the Star Wars universe:

Mandalorian Mania

Also joining us on the carpet from the Star Wars family were two ladies leading the action in The Mandalorian, one on-screen and one off-screen. Disney Legend Ming-Na Wen, who just wowed fans with a fun turn as the devious Fennec Shand on The Mandalorian, stopped to tell us about her first Star Wars movie—which just happened to be the one that made her a massive fan of the franchise. See what she said in the video below:

Deborah Chow, director of Chapters 3 and 7 of The Mandalorian, stopped to chat about joining the Star Wars universe: “It’s been pretty special—it’s felt a lot like joining a family,” she told us. When asked if she was personally more team Dark side or Light side, she admitted to being “kind of a goth kid growing up,” but while she’s usually Dark side, she has moments where she’s called to the Light.

Too see more of the dazzling moments from the night, check out our gallery:

This Is the Way to “The Child” Merchandise from The Mandalorian

December 19, 2019January 6, 2020

By Zach Johnson

The Child, a curious and mysterious alien pursued by bounty hunters on behalf of Imperial interests, made its surprise debut in the premiere episode of the Disney+ original series The Mandalorian. Now, fans of The Child can get their hands on a bounty of official merchandise! New toys and plush inspired by the character are available for pre-order on shopDisney.com.

Why the wait? “It was important to us that the reveal of the new character, the Child, be a special moment for fans, and we could not be more thrilled with the response,” Paul Southern, senior vice president, Licensing and Franchise, Lucasfilm, tells our friends at StarWars.com. “Today, we’re excited to release new products for pre-order on shopDisney.com, and are continuing to work closely with our licensees and retailers to roll out additional items including toys, collectibles, plush, games, apparel, and more, allowing fans to celebrate the newest addition to Star Wars.”

Hasbro’s Star Wars: The Black Series The Child figure will ship on approximately May 4, 2020.

Hasbro’s The Child Talking Plush Toy will ship on approximately May 18, 2020.

Hasbro’s The Bounty Collection—three packs featuring 2.2-inch collectible figures in six fun poses—will ship on approximately May 25, 2020.

Hasbro’s The Child 6.5-inch figure will ship on approximately May 11, 2020.

Hasbro products are available for pre-order now at:

These are the shopDisney iPhone cases you were looking for:

Star Wars: The Mandalorian iPhone Case (6 Plus/6s Plus/7 Plus/8 Plus, XR/11, X/Xs/11 Pro)
The Child iPhone Case (6/6s/7/8, 6 Plus/7 Plus/8 Plus, Xr/11, X/Xs/11 Pro, Xs Max/11 Pro Max,
The Child 3-D iPhone Case (6/6s/7/8, 6 Plus/7 Plus/8 Plus, XR/11, X/Xs/11 Pro, Xs Max/11 Pro Max)

Decorate your landspeeder with one of two car magnets from shopDisney:

Funko The Child Pop! and 10” Super-sized Pop! collectibles will ship in February 2020.

The Mattel 11” The Child plush toy will ship in February 2020.

A Buffalo Games puzzle is available for preorder on Amazon, and will ship in late December.

Products from Hasbro will start hitting shelves later next year. Fans will enjoy a range of items from The Black Series and Vintage Collections, as well as new, unique expressions of the Child. New products inspired by the Child will arrive in 2020 from shopDisney.com, LEGO, and others.

As previously announced, fans can already choose from several shirts and pullovers, as well as other items like Popsockets, tote bags, mugs, and more that feature variations of concept art from series concept supervisor Christian Alzmann. Products are available to purchase online now from Amazon, Design by Humans, Hot Topic, shopDisney, Walmart, Zazzle, 80s Tees, Hot Topic, and BoxLunch.

Disney+’s Pick of the Litter is the Dog-useries You Need to Stream

December 19, 2019December 19, 2019

By Beth Deitchman

A new cast of characters makes their Disney+ debut Friday, December 20, and the lovable stars of Pick of the Litter are very real dogs with an important purpose: Paco, Pacino, Tulane, Raffi, Amara, and Tartan are all in training to become Guide Dogs for the Blind. The brand-new docu-series from Disney+ and ABC Studios chronicles the pawsitively inspiring journey that takes them—hopefully!—from family pet to the ultimate canine career. The series has the makings of so many of our favorite Disney stories, including suspense, truly heartfelt emotion and even a little chewing of the scenery. (We’re talking to you, Raffi—put down that slipper!)

Pick of the Litter executive producers Dana Nachman and Don Hardy first explored the world of guide dogs in their 2018 documentary of the same name. The docuseries introduces Paco, Pacino, Tulane, Raffi, Amara, and Tartan when all of the pups are just about 15–17 months old and their very distinct personalities have emerged. This delightful group of pups has been living with a truly special group of families who, as Pick of the Litter begins, are about to find out whether their dogs have acquired the necessary skills to return to the campus of Guide Dogs for the Blind (GDB) and begin formal training, with the hope of becoming a guide to someone who is blind or visually impaired.

pick of the litter disney plus cast — (L-R) Executive producer Don Hardy joined the Dupuy family and executive producer Mary Celenza and Chris Benninger, Guide Dogs for the Blind CEO at a recent screening of *Pick of the Litter*.

It takes a “huge communal vision” for a puppy to achieve the skills necessary to succeed as a guide dog. Benninger estimates that approximately 50 people are part of the process that takes a dog from puppy to guide. Some breeds are better suited than others to be guide dogs, Benninger explains, and GDB’s dogs are all Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, and a cross of the two. “Only the best of the best of the best actually can be a guide dog, and that’s because guide work is the most challenging of all service work,” GDB CEO Chris Benninger states. A good guide dog can focus, is not distracted, and has the courage to make independent decisions when necessary. This is important, Benninger stresses, because, “The dog has to disobey a command if it believes that command is going to put their person in harm’s way.”

“All of our puppy raisers are incredibly special,” says Benninger of the families who open their homes to these puppies, knowing that ultimately the dogs aren’t theirs to keep.

Veteran puppy raisers Roger and Sue Dupuy view themselves as volunteers in support of GDB’s mission to help those who are blind and visually impaired gain independence through the use of a guide dog, but Sue emphasizes that she and their four teenagers have benefited as much—if not more—than the people who have ended up with the dogs they’ve helped train. When they initially considered adding a dog to their family, they thought, why not serve the community and do a good turn, as well? “Bringing a puppy into our home has been life changing for us, and as much as we put into the dog, we feel like we get so much more back,” Sue shares.

And while the Dupuys are always sad when it comes time to give the dogs up, Roger stresses that it helps to see the amazing group of people who are waiting for these new canine companions. “There is a sting. There is a sadness that’s there, but that’s also part of life. Sometimes when you give, there are sacrifices,” he says. Throughout Pick of the Litter’s six episodes—and, in fact, throughout the training process, there are ups and downs and difficulties, but Roger notes, “Done right, people can learn and grow from that—and we want our kids to do that, too.”

As viewers will discover on Pick of the Litter, there are many reasons why a dog might be “career changed,” as GDB calls it when a dog is removed from the program—including poor house skills, incompatibility with cats or other dogs and medical issues, to name a few. Even after a puppy is successfully returned to GDB for the start of formal training, there are many hurdles to jump—literally and figuratively—before they can become a guide dog.

To capture as much of the training process as possible without getting in the way of the dogs or the teachers, the filmmakers had to get creative about the production process. Hardy explains that they implemented a special camera rig that could be used at dog level and allowed the crew to move as quickly as the dogs did. “They train really fast,” Hardy emphasizes, and fellow executive producer Mary Celenza reveals that the filmmakers would rack up 20,000 steps on a typical day following the pups. “Wear comfortable shoes,” was among the instructions Hardy would convey to the docuseries crew.

Though the team avoided distracting the dogs as much as they possibly could, Benninger believes their presence might have had an unexpected benefit: “Part of being a guide dog is learning how to focus—ignoring the cat and the dog, as well as the camera.”

Only 300 out of every 800 dogs born into the Guide Dogs for the Blind’s program every year eventually become guide dogs—and we won’t find out the fate of Pick of the Litter’s canine cast until the final episode. “I feel like all the endings are happy in their own way. I think that’s what’s wonderful about guide dogs,” says Celenza, noting that a career change could lead a dog to another kind of service, or even find the dog returned to his or her puppy raisers to be their fur-ever pet.

To learn more about the guide dog program and the puppy-raising process, Benninger urges fans to visit GuideDogs.com. And to find out what the future holds for Paco, Pacino, Tulane, Raffi, Amara, and Tartan, watch a new episode of Pick of the Litter every Friday on Disney+.

The Daredevil Filmmaking Behind Togo

December 19, 2019December 19, 2019

By Jim Frye

How’s this for a sandbox?

With the release of the first trailer for the upcoming Disney+ original movie Togo, fans got their first glimpse at Willem Dafoe as Leonhard Seppala, the champion dogsled trainer who, together with his dynamo lead dog, Togo, barreled through sub-zero gale-force winds and punishing storms for hundreds of miles to help deliver a serum that saved the town of Nome, Alaska, from a deadly diphtheria outbreak in 1925. Dafoe’s character is seen fighting the elements, mushing his team across the edge of treacherous mountain passes and across a perilous stretch of the semi-frozen Bering Sea—just as it begins to crack into pieces. The scenes are all the more impressive because they were actually shot on location in the great white North of the Canadian wilderness (Alberta)—not in a green-screened studio. For the adventurous people who made this film, it was quite an impressive sandbox to be playing in.

“It was really nice to shoot on location,” Dafoe tells D23. “Every day you’d wake up and you’d look out the window to see what your day was going to be like. Sometimes I’d look at the temperature gauge, and it was 50 degrees below zero. A couple times we couldn’t work because it was too dangerous for frostbite.

“We were up in those mountains,” he continued. “Sometimes we were shooting above 8,000 feet and we’d spend part of the day getting up there and sometimes we’d just have a four-hour window to shoot in before we had to go back down the mountain just to be safe. But it was fantastic! Beautiful.”

The movie is a harrowing adventure filled with hold-your-breath moments, such as when Seppala hangs perilously off the side of a mountain thousands of feet up; or when the sled team sprints across a massive expanse of frozen ocean, trying for all their lives not to fall through the cracking chunks of ice. Such a daring script naturally called for a daredevil director. Enter: Ericson Core, director of such high-octane movies as Point Break (2015), and Disney’s Invincible, and cinematographer for The Fast and the Furious and, of course, Daredevil. “I seemed like the kind of person who knew how to work in extreme environments and inspirational tales,” said Core.

He sharpened his extreme style of filmmaking on these films, especially Point Break. “I did a lot of crazy things, all in real locations,” he tells D23. “From the bottom of the ocean to hundred-foot waves to mountains and jungles and all that. But for me, it came down to the script. I read it, and I was wrecked by the end of it. It was very, very powerful, a great character-driven drama. It seemed grounded and had a lot of truth to it.”

One of the biggest, most hair-raising scenes in the film is the death-defying trek across the frozen ocean. In the scene, Seppala decides he cannot spare the extra time it would take to go around an ocean inlet, so instead, he pushes his team directly across the frozen water. But the glassy surface starts cracking and giving way, and Seppala and his team must navigate around the splintering ice or risk being lost to the deep. According to Core, even though special effects were used, the scene was actually filmed atop a real frozen body of water—Abraham Lake in the Canadian Rockies—the largest ice lake in the region. “We shot on ice, and it was a big challenge,” said Core. “We weren’t sure at first if the dogs were going to want to run on the ice since they were used to running in the snow, but they wound up being great at it. So we actually shot on ice—that ice lake is real.”

Of course, the cracks and gaps in the ice were added using special effects in post-production. They shot on that ice lake for 10 days, with the ice measuring around two feet thick in most places. Core would helicopter out over the lake each morning, search for the clearest spot he could find, and land there. “I would sit there alone for 45 minutes to an hour, waiting for the first trucks to arrive. It was rather an extraordinary effort to make that happen.”

Core says that his best memories on set involved, what he called, some of the more extreme “stuff,” such as when they had to travel up Mount McKinley. “It was very extreme,” he laughs. “We had to take snowmobiles to the top of a mountain about three and half miles out and then a professional snowmobile ride up an almost vertical slope—it was about a 75-degree slope. You hold on to the handlebars and say, ‘Whatever you do, don’t let go.’” The professional rider would then deposit Core on the ridge of a mountain. They’d then have to make their way to the top of the mountain.

There’s a particular scene in the film when Dafoe’s Seppala character is dangling from a rope off a mountainside. “We actually did that on a mountain,” Core says, animated at the thought. “That was not a sound stage. That was not a little hill with catering and craft services next to it. It was in very, very extreme conditions. But one of the most beautiful places I’d ever seen. And to be in the middle of the beautiful Alpine circumstances with Willem up there and the dogs, it was crazy. But beautiful. And it’s what gave a reality to that scene. It was me playing in the sandbox of my youth.”

Hear more about Togo on our latest podcast episode here.

The Mandalorian Concept Art Every Fan Needs to See

December 19, 2019October 16, 2020

By Jocelyn Buhlman

WARNING: This gallery contains spoilers for Chapters 1-4 of The Mandalorian

Since the launch of Disney+ last week, our thoughts have been consumed with nothing but mysterious helmeted figures, expansive desert planets, and a certain irresistibly cute baby alien. If you’re experiencing something similar, no worries—we’ve got just the thing to help. Check out this stunning gallery of concept art from Chapters 1 and 2 of The Mandalorian, and check back here for more art from new chapters in the upcoming week!

View the images and see artist credit