The Great Movie Ride

 

The Great Movie Ride is one ride I try never to miss at Hollywood Studios. The ride is located inside a reproduction of the famous Grauman's Chinese Theatre. Hand-prints and signatures of some of Hollywood's most famous stars can be found in the courtyard. Costumes and props from films, both classic and modern, can be found in the queue. After passing through the lobby area, you wind back and forth through the queue to the boarding area.

Disney recently updated the Great Movie Ride in partnership with Turner Classic Movies. I had a chance to ride it 2 days after they'd added the new voice-over, and I must say, I love the changes. Beginning with the pre-show you can watch in the queue, Robert Osborne, the host of TCM, shares a bit of the history of the movies, with clips of several classic films. After boarding your touring tram, which has bench seats and no restraints, you begin your wonderful journey through the history of the movies. The new voice-over, again by Robert Osborne, takes you deeper into each genre you pass through. You begin with the early musicals, then move into classics like Singing in the Rain. From there, you move into mob movies. There are two different skits that the cast members perform that remain unchanged. The first begins in the mobster scene. The second starts in the next scene, which represents classic westerns. (If you haven't seen both of them, be sure to ask a cast member if you can be seated in a specific show. They usually don't mind requests unless there is a problem with a particular skit that day.) Next up, you move into a scene from Alien, which no longer seems hokey thanks to Osborne's voiceover about the Sci-Fi genre. 

 

From there you move through an Indiana Jones scene and into the classic horror genre, where the cast members' skit continues. 

Next, you journey through adventure movies and into a scene from Casablanca, complete with dialogue from the "Here's looking at you, kid" speech. After a brief glimpse of Mickey Mouse in Fantasia, you head into the final scene. This is a full room recreation of Munchkinland from the Wizard of Oz, complete with the Wicked Witch of the West. The ride ends with a montage tribute to the movies in general. It has been updated to include additional films, such as Guardians of the Galaxy and Frozen. It's fun to see how many of the films you can name. (I can name most of them, although I'm not sure what that says about the number of movies I've seen.) A new photo spot has also been added near the exit. Now you can act the star and have your photo taken while pressing your hands into the (dry) cement.

The Great Movie Ride is an 18 minute journey through the history of the movies. I highly recommend it. Not only is it a fun and interesting ride, but it's a great chance to get out of the heat. If you want to skip the lines, FastPass+ is available. There are no height restrictions, but the scenes from Alien and the classic horror movies may be frightening for young children. Guests may remain in a wheelchair on the ride.

RIP Robert Osborne

Robert Osborne was a film historian and host of Turner Classic Movies. His passion for preserving and sharing classic films earned him fans around the globe. He shared his knowledge of stars and directors each night on TCM. In 2015, he became the host of the Great Movie Ride at Disney's Hollywood Studios. I loved the new behind the scenes facts and history he added to the ride. Sadly, Robert Osborne passed away yesterday, at the age of 84.

Today we say good-bye to a dear member of our TCM family. Our thoughts are with all who love, as we do, Robert Osborne. #TCMRemembers pic.twitter.com/egWsPRGnJb

— TCM (@tcm) March 6, 2017

TCM has released a tribute video to Osborne as well as the following statement from general manager Jennifer Dorian:

"All of us at Turner Classic Movies are deeply saddened by the death of Robert Osborne. Robert was a beloved member of the Turner family for more than 23 years. He joined us as an expert on classic film and grew to be our cherished colleague and esteemed ambassador for TCM. Robert was embraced by devoted fans who saw him as a trusted expert and friend. His calming presence, gentlemanly style, encyclopedic knowledge of film history, fervent support for film preservation and highly personal interviewing style all combined to make him a truly world-class host. Robert’s contributions were fundamental in shaping TCM into what it is today and we owe him a debt of gratitude that can never be repaid. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this time."

Mickey & Minnie's Runaway Railway

Mickey & Minnie's Runaway Railway has a fantastic neon marquee. Mickey and Minnie wave as the flourishes at the top dance and change color. While I still miss the Great Movie Ride, this ride is actually pretty fun.

Christmas Movies for Kids Part 2

And now onto movies for kids aged 6 and up. While some of these movies would be appropriate for a younger audience, I believe older children will get more out of them. Also, several of these films question the existence of Santa Claus, who, by the way, I firmly believe in. As such, I would recommend that you show these at what you consider to be an appropriate age.

Beauty and the Beast: Enchanted Christmas - This film was just recently released on Blu-ray and DVD. I love this story of how Beauty and the Beast came together at Christmas and learned what is truly important about the season, sharing love with others. Featuring the original cast of voices as well as introducing a few new characters, such as Maestro Forte, voiced by the inestimable Tim Curry. Full of songs and a beautiful message of hope and love, this is a great movies to share with children. It does have a few moments that may be scary to young viewers, so I would recommend you watch the film first so that you can gauge how appropriate this may be for your child.

 Yes, Virginia - Based on the true story of a letter written by young Virginia O'Hanlon in 1897 to the editor of the New York Sun, this story is perfect for those children who are beginning to question the existence of Santa Claus. Created by Macy's as part of their Believe campaign, the story of Virginia and her young friend Ollie and their search for the "truth" is a very sweet retelling of this heartwarming tale. Featuring the vocal talents of Neil Patrick Harris, Jennifer Love Hewitt, and Alfred Molina, this is one story every child should know.

The Santa Clause Trilogy - I love the Santa Clause movies. At first, I wasn't too sure about Tim Allen as Santa, but after the first film, I loved him as Santa. The first film tells about how an executive for a toy company became Santa, much to the delight of his son Charlie. The second tells the story of how Santa must seek a wife or he'll have to stop being Santa. The third tells about Santa and Mrs. Claus and their baby that will soon be born. Will Santa stay Santa or will he employ the "Escape Clause?" They are great films that support the existence of Santa Claus in an ever changing form.

The Life and Adventures of Santa Claus - Based on a story by L. Frank Baum, author of the Wizard of Oz series, this movie offers a unique explanation for Santa's origins. According to Baum, Santa began life as an infant abandoned near an enchanted forest. Baby Nicholas was taken in by a wood nymph named Nyseal who raised him in a magical world. The Great Ak, leader of the forest teaches Nicholas about the sad and difficult world of humans, leading him to his lifelong gift-giving mission. This film features an amazing cast of voices, including Robby Benson, Dixie Carter, and Hal Holbrook.

Santa and Pete - This unique film has been one of my favorites since the first time I saw it. This is the story of the Dutch Santa (the amazing Hume Cronyn) and his helper, Black Peter. The story begins with master storyteller James Earl Jones as a Grandfather teaching his grandson about Santa and Pete. Full of wonderful references the historical Santa, this story tells about what happens when Santa and Pete arrive in the New World. Although Santa is rather set in his ways, their adventures in New Amsterdam force him to rethink his Christmas traditions.

The Polar Express - I still remember fondly the first time I heard the story of the Polar Express. The story, although brief, was wonderful, with beautiful pictures. The story soon became a phenomenon, with trains being transformed into the Polar Express for one night of Christmas fantasy for lucky boys and girls. To make the story long enough for a movie, they expanded on many of the scenes and added some new ones that fit within the feeling of the original. This is the tale of an incredible journey and the boy who isn't sure what to believe about Santa. Every child has a "critical year" where they question the existence of Santa. Can you imagine what would happen if every child could ride the Polar Express? Maybe everyone would believe. After watching this film for the first time, young Bean became obsessed with it. For Christmas that year, I gave her a golden ticket (a bookmark from Hallmark I think) and her own special bell. I wrapped the bell in candy cane striped paper and labeled it "Found this on the seat of my sleigh. Fix that hole in your pocket. Mr. C" just like in the book and movie. She still loves the bell, several years later, and always talks about how sad it is that some grown ups can't hear it ring, but she'll always be able to. This may be our favorite family Christmas movie.

Christmas Movies for Kids, Part 2

Are you ready for a few more of my favorite Christmas movies? These movies are my recommendations for kids aged 6 and up. While some of these movies would be appropriate for a younger audience, I believe older children will get more out of them. Also, several of these films question the existence of Santa Claus, who, by the way, I firmly believe in. As such, I would recommend that you show these at what you consider to be an appropriate age.

Beauty and the Beast: Enchanted Christmas - This film was just recently released on Blu-ray and DVD. I love this story of how Beauty and the Beast came together at Christmas and learned what is truly important about the season, sharing love with others. Featuring the original cast of voices as well as introducing a few new characters, such as Maestro Forte, voiced by the inestimable Tim Curry. Full of songs and a beautiful message of hope and love, this is a great movies to share with children. It does have a few moments that may be scary to young viewers, so I would recommend you watch the film first so that you can gauge how appropriate this may be for your child.

 Yes, Virginia - Based on the true story of a letter written by young Virginia O'Hanlon in 1897 to the editor of the New York Sun, this story is perfect for those children who are beginning to question the existence of Santa Claus. Created by Macy's as part of their Believe campaign, the story of Virginia and her young friend Ollie and their search for the "truth" is a very sweet retelling of this heartwarming tale. Featuring the vocal talents of Neil Patrick Harris, Jennifer Love Hewitt, and Alfred Molina, this is one story every child should know.

The Santa Clause Trilogy - I love the Santa Clause movies. At first, I wasn't too sure about Tim Allen as Santa, but after the first film, I loved him as Santa. The first film tells about how an executive for a toy company became Santa, much to the delight of his son Charlie. The second tells the story of how Santa must seek a wife or he'll have to stop being Santa. The third tells about Santa and Mrs. Claus and their baby that will soon be born. Will Santa stay Santa or will he employ the "Escape Clause?" They are great films that support the existence of Santa Claus in an ever changing form.

The Life and Adventures of Santa Claus - Based on a story by L. Frank Baum, author of the Wizard of Oz series, this movie offers a unique explanation for Santa's origins. According to Baum, Santa began life as an infant abandoned near an enchanted forest. Baby Nicholas was taken in by a wood nymph named Nyseal who raised him in a magical world. The Great Ak, leader of the forest teaches Nicholas about the sad and difficult world of humans, leading him to his lifelong gift-giving mission. This film features an amazing cast of voices, including Robby Benson, Dixie Carter, and Hal Holbrook.

Santa and Pete - This unique film has been one of my favorites since the first time I saw it. This is the story of the Dutch Santa (the amazing Hume Cronyn) and his helper, Black Peter. The story begins with master storyteller James Earl Jones as a Grandfather teaching his grandson about Santa and Pete. Full of wonderful references to the historical Santa, this story tells about what happens when Santa and Pete arrive in the New World. Although Santa is rather set in his ways, their adventures in New Amsterdam force him to rethink his Christmas traditions.

The Polar Express - I still remember fondly the first time I heard the story of the Polar Express. The story, although brief, was wonderful, with beautiful pictures. The story soon became a phenomenon, with trains being transformed into the Polar Express for one night of Christmas fantasy for lucky boys and girls. To make the story long enough for a movie, they expanded on many of the scenes and added some new ones that fit within the feeling of the original. This is the tale of an incredible journey and the boy who isn't sure what to believe about Santa. Every child has a "critical year" where they question the existence of Santa. Can you imagine what would happen if every child could ride the Polar Express? Maybe everyone would believe.

After watching this film for the first time, Bean became obsessed with it. For Christmas that year, I gave her a golden ticket (a bookmark from Hallmark I think) and her own special bell. I wrapped the bell in candy cane striped paper and labeled it "Found this on the seat of my sleigh. Fix that hole in your pocket. Mr. C" just like in the book and movie. She still loves the bell, several years later, and always talks about how sad it is that some grown ups can't hear it ring, but she'll always be able to. This may be our favorite family Christmas movie.

Photo of the Week

I'm going to miss The Great Movie Ride. 

Photo of the Week

I love the Great Movie Ride! Though I don't know which story is better: the Cowboy or the Gangster.

Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM! at Hollywood Studios

Disney

A new holiday show is coming to Hollywood Studios this year. "Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!" will be a new nighttime spectacular, featuring projections in the Chinese Theater, special effects, and of course, fireworks, all set to seasonal music.

Disney

The story behind the show is that Santa Claus has gone missing.  And it's up two his two best Prep and Landing elves, Wayne and Lanny, to find him in time for Christmas Eve. Along the way, they'll discover memorable moments from classic Disney Christmas films, such as: Mickey's Christmas Carol, Beauty and the Beast: Enchanted Christmas, Pluto's Christmas Tree, The Nightmare Before Christmas, and many more. And for a really tinsel finale, there will be snow! This special holiday show can be viewed nightly from November 14 to December 31.

Disney

For even more fun, a Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM! Holiday Dessert Party will also be offered. Featuring multiple food stations with both savory and sweet treats, such as the Santa Mickey cupcake with peppermint bark, a nitrogen dessert station, specialty beverages such as cocktails, beer, wine, and non-alcoholic drinks including cocoa, and much more, the party is held in the courtyard of the Great Movie Ride. A special character will be on hand to mingle with guests before they're escorted to the reserved viewing area for the show. Each guest will recieve a pair of 3D HoloSpex to use during the show. They transform any bright point of light into holographic illusions of gingerbread men, candy canes, snowflakes and ornaments.

Disney

The Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM! Holiday Dessert Party is available on select nights. Party pricing is $69 per adult, $39 per child for dates between November 14 and December 17. It goes up to $79 per adult and $45 per child December 18-31. Tickets are available from Disney, but be sure to book early, as they sell out quickly.

Photo of the Week

"I'm singin' in the rain, just singin' in the rain..." I still miss the Great Movie Ride at Hollywood Studios.

D23 Live Action Movie Update

All images: Disney

I wish I could have gone to the D23 Expo this year; there was a lot of amazing news shared these past 3 days. However, I'd like to share what I think will be the most fun: the live action movies. Here's a little preview of what you can expect in the next few years.

First up was Thor: The Dark World. I love Marvel movies in general, and I can't wait to see this one. The second film in Phase Two of the Avengers Initiative, this film will see the return of all of the great actors that made the first film such a success. Thor returns to Earth to see Jane Foster and bring her to Asgard. Together, Thor and his companions must risk everything to face an enemy even Odin and the Asgardians cannot defeat. Thor: The Dark World arrives in theaters November 8th.

Next up was Into the Woods. I saw Into the Woods on stage when I was about 13. It wasn't entirely appropriate, but a lot of the inuendo was over my head at the time. I must say I'm a little concerned that Disney is making this film. After all, this particular Sondheim musical is a very dark take on classic fairy tales. By the second act, you realize that no one has had a happily ever after, and all of the characters are completely miserable. All that aside, this film is an example of some really amazing casting. Actors include Anna Kendrick as Cinderella, Chris Pine as Cinderella's Prince, Christine Baransky as Cinderella's Stepmother, Johnny Depp as the Wolf, and Meryl Streep as the Witch who is trying to teach them all a lesson. It should be fun! Into the Woods arrives in theaters in December 2014.

Directed by the legendary Kenneth Branagh, Disney's next adventure is the live action Cinderella. This version is expected to follow the traditional story, so it will be up to the casting to set this film apart. The cast includes: Helena Bonham Carter as the Fairy Godmother, Cate Blanchett as Lady Tremaine (Cinderella's wicked stepmother), and Stellan Skarsgard as the Grand Duke (an adviser to the king). Lily James (Lady Rose on Downton Abbey) and Richard Madden (Robb Stark on Game of Thrones) round out the cast as Cinderella and her Prince Charming.  Disney's Cinderella arrives in theaters in March 2015.

We've now arrived at what may be the most intriguing of these live action films: Maleficent. Following the story of Maleficent, rather than Aurora, this is an interesting spin on the classic tale of Sleeping Beauty. Starring Angelina Jolie in the title role, Maleficent will show us what events led up to her becoming evil and ultimately caused her to curse a tiny baby, the Princess Aurora. Maleficent arrives in theaters on July 2, 2014.

Next up was Muppets: Most Wanted. As with all Muppet movies, this one looks to be a wild ride. Following that great Muppet tradition, this film will star all your favorite Muppets alongside great guest stars like Ricky Gervais, Ty Burrell, and Tina Fey. I'm not sure what this one will be about, other than pure Muppet madness, but I'm sure it will be a blast to watch! Muppets Most Wanted arrives in theaters in Spring 2014.

For more Marvel fun, we have Captain America: The Winter Soldier. In this film, Cap will once again be battling against injustice, cynicism, and intolerance in defense of the American dream. Teaming up once again with Black Widow, he will have to fight a friend from his past in order to save the future. Captain America: The Winter Soldier arrives in theaters April 4, 2014.

Next up is Saving Mr. Banks. The film stars Tom Hanks as Walt Disney and Emma Thompson as PL Travers, the author of Mary Poppins. It is the story of how Walt promised his daughters that he would turn their favorite book into a movie, without knowing how hard PL Travers would fight to prevent it. In two short weeks in 1961, Walt does his best to change her mind, with the help of the Sherman brothers and their amazing songs. However, it's not until he thinks back on his own childhood that he begins to understand the ghosts that haunt her and how they can work together to create something amazing. Saving Mr. Banks arrives in theaters December 20, 2013.

Other project, which I will admit I know very little about, include Tomorrowland, a science fiction film with an unknown story, and Bears, a Disney Nature film. Tomorrowland stars Britt Robertson (Angie on Under the Dome) as the film's heroine, George Clooney as an inventor, and Hugh Laurie as the villain. Tomorrowland arrives in theaters on December 12, 2014. Bears, a film about the lives of a group of Alaskan bears, arrives in theaters on April 18, 2014. I look forward to seeing these films and will be sure to pass along additional information as I find it.

Santa Claus Is Coming To Town

Disney

There are so many fantastic Christmas movies. And many of them feature one of the most recognizable figures of Christmas: Santa Claus. Whether you know him as Santa, Father Christmas, or Saint Nicholas, his stories and adventures, both old and new, can make for great holiday watching. Here are a few of my favorite movies starring the loveable gift-giver with the belly that shakes like a bowl full of jelly.

First up are several different versions of Santa's origin story.

Santa Claus Is Comin' To Town - Fred Astaire, as the Postman, tells the story of how a baby named Claus became Santa in this Rankin Bass movie. After he's taken in by a family of toy-making elves and renamed Kris Kringle, he begins bringing toys to the village of Sombertown to bring joy to the children there. A series of adventures, and misadventures, lead him to meet the future Mrs. Claus, move to the North Pole, and become the jolly fellow we know and love. 

The Life and Adventures of Santa Claus - In this story by L. Frank Baum, author of the Wizard of Oz series, Santa began life as an infant abandoned near an enchanted forest. Baby Nicholas was taken in by a wood nymph named and raised him in a magical world. He learns about the sad and difficult world of humans, leading him to his lifelong gift-giving mission. This film features an amazing cast of voices, including Robby Benson, Dixie Carter, and Hal Holbrook.

Santa & Pete - This unique film has been one of my favorites since the first time I saw it. It tells the story of the Dutch Santa (portrayed by the amazing Hume Cronyn) and his helper, Black Peter. The story begins with master storyteller James Earl Jones as a Grandfather teaching his grandson about Santa and Pete. Full of wonderful references to the historical Santa, this story focuses on what happens when Santa and Pete arrive in the New World. Although Santa is rather set in his ways, their adventures in New Amsterdam force him to rethink his Christmas traditions.

Klaus - While rather unusual, this film is absolutely charming. Told by Jesper, the unwilling Postman of Smeerensburg, it's a story that proves "a true act of good will always spark another." Klaus is a lonely woodsman who lives far from town. Through a chance encounter, Jesper and Klaus begin delivering toys to the children of Smeerensburg, changing all their lives in the process.

And here are a few where Santa struggles with the dwindling Christmas spirit in the world.

The Year Without A Santa Claus - This is another classic from Rankin Bass. When Santa wakes up with a cold in December, he decides he won't deliver gift this year. In an effort to change his mind and show him that he's truly needed, Mrs Claus sends two elves, Jingle and Jangle, to Southtown. They get into all sorts of trouble along the way, meeting the Miser Brothers and Mother Nature before finally convincing Santa to take his annual Christmas ride.

Miracle on 34th Street - This is a wonderful story that can make anyone believe again. When he is hired to be Santa in the Macy's Thanksgiving day Parade, Kris Kringle is so wonderful, that they decide to keep him on as the official Santa of Macy's. With his help, everyone begins to put the spirit back into Christmas. But when he angers one of the employees, he is put on trial for insanity. Can his lawyer prove that he is "the one and only Santa Claus" or is he "just a nice old man with whiskers like mother said"?

Violent Night - This movie is definitely not for kids. It is rated R for violence and language. Santa is feeling very disillusioned with the world when he accidentally stumbles into a hostage situation involving a little girl who truly believes in Santa Claus, and her horrible extended family. In this version, Santa was once a Viking warrior, and he must put his old skills to work to save young Trudy and her family. It was recently announced that a sequel will be coming to theaters next Christmas. 

Next up, we have stories of new people taking on the role of Santa Claus, willingly or not.

The Santa Clause -  There's a lot to enjoy here with three movies and a two season series. Starring Tim Allen as Santa, these are great stories that support the existence of Santa Claus in an ever changing form.

• The Santa Clause tells how Scott Calvin, an executive for a toy company, became Santa, much to the delight of his son Charlie. 
• In The Santa Clause 2, Santa must seek a wife or he'll have to stop being Santa. 
• By The Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause, Santa and Mrs. Claus are expecting a baby. Will Santa stay Santa or will he employ the "Escape Clause?" 
• The Santa Clauses Season 1 sees Scott Calvin once again struggling to stay Santa. He and his family love living at the North Pole, but worry that it might be time to hand the reins to someone new.
• In The Santa Clauses Season 2, Mad Santa seeks to take back the job of Santa Claus as Scott Calvin tries to prepare his son Cal for the role.

Arthur Christmas - This is a wonderful story about Christmas, magic, and the importance of family. Arthur is Santa's youngest son. He's a bit of a klutz and afraid of everything, but he has a good heart. On Christmas Eve, Santa and his oldest son, Steve, head out in a spaceship sleigh to deliver presents to the children of the world, with an efficient and modern flair. But this Christmas, a gift was left undelivered, and it seems only Arthur understands the importance of finding a gift from Santa under the tree on Christmas morning. So, Arthur, Grandsanta, and a wrapping elf named Bryony set out to make things right.

Noelle - Santa's daughter is full of the Christmas spirit, but a bit lost when it comes to her role at the North Pole. When her brother Nick begins training to become Santa, the results are disastrous, so she tries to help by suggesting he take a little vacation. Unfortunately, he decides not to come back, so Noelle must find him and convince him to return to save Christmas.

The Claus Family Trilogy - Young Jules is feeling lost after the sudden death of his father. His family has recently moved and he has just discovered that his grandfather Noël is Santa Claus. When he learns that he is meant to take over as Santa in a few years, he rebels, but eventually discovers the magic of Christmas. In the second film, Jules tries to help a young girl bring her family back together. And in the third, Jules' little sister Noor discovers that Noël is Santa, but can she keep the secret? 

And finally, we have the movies that are about Santa, but are told by Santa's companions.

Prep & Landing - When Prep and Landing Elves arrive in a child's home, their job is to get everything ready for the arrival of Santa. But when Wayne the elf is passed over for a promotion, he decides not to do his job, with disastrous results. 

Prep and Landing: Naughty vs Nice - There are two types of Elves that visit homes on Christmas Eve: Prep and Landing Elves who visit nice kids, and the Coal Elf Brigade who visit naughty kids. This year, Wayne must work with his Coal Elf baby brother Noel to stop a naughty kid from ruining Christmas for kids everywhere.

Red One - This is a wild and crazy ride of a movie, with lots of mythological Christmas characters and a fun story.   When Santa, code name Red One", goes missing, Calum Drift, his head of security, immediately begins searching for him. After reluctantly teaming up with bounty hunter (and Level 4 Naughty Lister) Jack O'Malley, they head off on an adventure to save Santa.