First Look at the Na'vi Shaman of Songs

Disney

Pandora: The World of Avatar at Animal Kingdom opens in less than a month. Yesterday, Disney released a first look at the Na'vi Shaman of Songs, who appears in the Na'vi River Journey ride. Guests will sail down a river through a bioluminescent rainforest filled with amazing plants and creatures. At the end of the journey, they'll encounter the Shaman, who has a deep connection to the life force of Pandora, which she celebrates through music and song.

The Na'vi Shaman of Songs is the most complicated and impressive Audio-Animatronic ever created by Imagineers. I can't wait to see her. Pandora: The World of Avatar opens on May 27.

Quote of the Week

Will Turner: You want me to find this?

Jack Sparrow: No. You want you to find this, because the finding of this finds you incapacitorially finding and or locating in your discovering the detecting of a way to save your dolly belle, ol' what's-her-face. Savvy?

Will Turner: This is going to save Elizabeth?

Jack Sparrow: How much do you know about Davy Jones?

Will Turner: Not much.

Jack Sparrow: Yeah, it's going to save Elizabeth.

- Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest 

Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales POPVinyl

The POPVinyl figures from Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales look amazing! They should arrive in stores in time for the movie's theatrical release on May 26. The set includes three figures:

Captain Jack Sparrow

the Ghost of Will Turner

and Captain Salazar,

and two special versions: a gold Captain Jack Sparrow 

available exclusively from Hot Topic,

and a chase figure, a ghost version of Captain Salazar. 

Cars 3 Trailer

Pixar 

The newest trailer for Cars 3 is a lot lighter in tone than the previous teaser. Instead of focusing on Lightning's crash and what he may lose, it shows what he's learned and how to be happy as life changes.

Here's the official synopsis from Disney and Pixar:

Blindsided by a new generation of blazing-fast racers, the legendary Lightning McQueen (voice of Owen Wilson) is suddenly pushed out of the sport he loves. To get back in the game, he will need the help of an eager young race technician, Cruz Ramirez, with her own plan to win, plus inspiration from the late Fabulous Hudson Hornet and a few unexpected turns. Proving that #95 isn’t through yet will test the heart of a champion on Piston Cup Racing’s biggest stage.

Cars 3 arrives in theaters on June 16.

Descendants As Told By Emoji

Disney

The latest "As Told By Emoji" short tells the story of Descendants. The scene with Jane wanting Mal's hair and a nose job is too funny!

Tsum Tsum Short: Tsum Cooking

Disney

Watch as the Tsum Tsums make the most adorable meal.

*Unfortunately, Disney has removed this video from YouTube.

Star Wars Little Golden Books

I adore Little Golden Books! I love the retro pictures and classic stories. My favorites feature characters from Disney, Marvel, or Star Wars and are perfect for introducing young kids to these stories.

The latest Star Wars Little Golden Books will be released in July, and they look adorable! The four books include: I am a Hero, Heroes and Villains Collection, The Big Golden Book of Starships, Speeders and Space Stations, and The Big Golden Book of Aliens, Creatures, and Beasts. 

I am a Hero includes scenes from Rogue One, A New Hope, The Empire Strikes Back, Return of the Jedi, and The Force Awakens. The book features brave heroes from the saga, such as Luke, Leia, Han, Chewbacca, Finn, Rey, and Poe.

The Heroes and Villains Little Golden Book Collection features six previously released I am a... stories and the new I am a Hero, all in one hardcover volume. The six other titles are: I am a Jedi, I am a Droid, I am a Pilot, I am a Princess, I am a Sith,  and I am a Stormtrooper. 

The Big Golden Book of Starships, Speeders, and Space Stations is packed with stories about the incredible vehicles of the Star Wars Universe: from A-wings to X-wings and Death Stars to Star Destroyers.

The Big Golden Book of Aliens, Creatures, and Beasts contains stories about amazing Star Wars aliens, from banthas and wampas to Ewoks and Wookies.

Specialty Drinks of Pandora: The World of Avatar

There are a lot of interesting beverages coming to Pandora: The World of Avatar at Animal Kingdom. There are two places to whet your whistle in Pandora: the Satu’li Canteen and Pongu Pongu.

Photos courtesy of Disney

At the Satu’li Canteen, a fast-casual eatery, try the non-alcoholic Pandoran Sunrise, a mix of tropical juices and Powerade Melon. This drink can be purchased with or without a souvenir Satu'li Canteen Flute Flask. If you prefer wine, try Banshee, available in Chardonnay or Pinot Noir. The wine is from a small Napa Valley winery and will be served by the glass.

For something unique, there's the Dreamwalker Sangria, made a lovely shade of blue with a splash of Blue Curaçao. Two ales round out the menu: Hawkes' Grog Ale, green in color with a fruity hops flavor and notes of apricot, peach, and a hint of wheat, and Mo'ara High Country Ale, a malty amber ale with notes of caramel, toffee and nuts. The ales are also available from Pongu Pongu.

Next door is Pongu Pongu, the drink station run by an expat who fell in love with Pandora, and chose never to leave. Here you can try the nonalcoholic Night Blossom, a mix of limeade with apple and desert pear flavors topped with passion fruit popping boba balls. The drink can be purchased with or without a souvenir Pongu Pongu mug made "bioluminescent" with a glowcube. For the adventurous, try the Mo'ara Frozen Margarita featuring Sauza Commemorativo Anejo Tequila with strawberry and blood orange flavors, topped with strawberry popping boba balls. It will also be available in the Pongu Pongu mug.

Which drink are you looking forward to trying? I cant wait to taste the Night Blossom. Pandora: The World of Avatar opens on May 27.

Cloak and Dagger Trailer

Marvel

Disney and Marvel have released the first look at Cloak and Dagger, a new series coming to Freeform next year. The show tells the story of Tandy Bowen (Olivia Holt) and Tyrone Johnson (Aubrey Joseph), teenagers with unexpected superpowers, who fall in love. Ten episodes have been ordered, which will air early in 2018.

Here's the official synopsis:

This exciting new series is an adaptation of the beloved Marvel characters aimed squarely at young adults. This live-action interracial romance follows Tandy Bowen and Tyrone Johnson, two teenagers from very different backgrounds, who find themselves burdened and awakened to newly acquired superpowers while falling in love. Tandy can emit light daggers and Tyrone has the ability to engulf others in darkness. They quickly learn they are better together than apart—but their feelings for each other make their already complicated world even more challenging.

Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales TV Spot 4

The newest TV spot for Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales is intriguing. It looks as though young Henry Turner will be reunited with his father, Barbossa will be thrust into a battle not of his making, and Jack will be his usual irreverent self. In other words, more pirate-y fun!

Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales arrives in theaters on May 26.

Keira Knightly Returns to Pirates

Disney

The latest international trailer for Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales features a brief glimpse of a familiar face.

It appears that Keira Knightly will be returning as Elizabeth Swann, although I'm wondering if her role in the film will be all too brief as well. Only time will tell. Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales arrives in theaters on May 26.

Star Wars Rebels Season 4

Lucasfilm

Well, it had to happen eventually. It looks like Star Wars Rebels will end next year at the end of Season 4. I've loved watching this show, which takes place between Revenge of the Sith and A New Hope. I'll be sad to see it go.

Tsum Tsum Vacation Collection

The Tsums are ready to travel in this latest collection from the Disney Store. The collection includes Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, Donald, Daisy, Chip, Dale, and Dumbo all dressed for their vacation. I love how over the top their outfits are.

Two other sets that will be released this week are part of the new micro series. First up is an Ice Cream Truck that includes Donald, Daisy,  Stitch, and Angel, dressed up for ice cream fun.

The second set is a Circus tent that includes Mickey, Minnie, Pluto, and Goofy dressed as circus performers. The micro Tsum Tsums are so teeny and cute!

Star Wars Forces of Destiny

All images:  Lucasfilm

Disney and Lucasfilm have created a new series of animated shorts featuring the heroic ladies of the Star Wars Universe.  The series will launch in July, and a two-part tv special will air on the Disney Channel this fall. They've also created "Adventure Figures" (a cross between dolls and action figures) of the heroines that look amazing.

For more details, check out the press release below:

Disney and Lucasfilm today announced Star Wars Forces of Destiny, a new initiative celebrating the inspiring stories of iconic heroes from across the Star Wars universe. An original series of animated shorts (each 2-3 minutes in length) will explore exciting, all new adventures of key characters including Rey, Jyn Erso, Sabine Wren, Princess Leia, Ahsoka Tano and others, ahead of books and a TV special later in the year. The stories will also be supported by a line of toys from Hasbro, including new ‘Adventure Figures’ – a fusion between traditional dolls and action figures, creating a whole new way to play Star Wars.

“Star Wars Forces of Destiny is for anyone who has been inspired by Leia’s heroism, Rey’s courage, or Ahsoka’s tenacity,” said Kathleen Kennedy, President of Lucasfilm. “We’re thrilled that so many of the original actors are reprising their roles in these shorts which capture the small moments and everyday decisions that shape who these characters are. It is a fun new way for people to experience Star Wars.”

Developed by Lucasfilm Animation, Star Wars Forces of Destiny will remain true to the Star Wars canon, showing how choices both big and small ultimately shape the destinies of beloved characters. 

Launching in July, the animated micro-series will be available on Disney YouTube ahead of a two-part TV special featuring eight additional shorts on Disney Channel in Fall 2017.

Fans will be delighted to hear familiar voices in the series, including: Daisy Ridley (Rey), Felicity Jones (Jyn), Tiya Sircar (Sabine), Ashley Eckstein (Ahsoka Tano) and Lupita Nyong’o (Maz Kanata as narrator).

Star Wars Forces of Destiny will also be supported by global product extensions, such as books, apparel, bedding, and toys – including the new line of ‘Adventure Figures’ created by Hasbro, which bridges the gap between traditional action figures and dolls. Each individually designed figure features dynamic action, like Rey swinging her lightsaber, along with multiple points of articulation to help recreate the characters’ adventures and heroic moments with different poses.

“From Princess Leia to Sabine Wren, Star Wars heroines are unique, and we wanted to represent that in the product line for Star Wars Forces of Destiny,” said Jimmy Pitaro, Chairman, Disney Consumer Products and Interactive Media. 

“The result is the creation of our new ‘Adventure Figures’ that celebrate the power and stories of these incredible characters and allow kids to recreate their most heroic moments at home.”

The 11-inch figures will depict characters including Rey, Jyn Erso, Princess Leia, Sabine Wren, plus loveable sidekicks and epic villains like BB-8, Chewbacca, Kylo Ren and many more. 

Hasbro is also rolling out Star Wars Forces of Destiny role play and accessories—from Rey’s Extendable Staff, to a new, electronic Jedi Power Lightsaber toy, which are part of the Star Wars Bladebuilders system.

Adds John Frascotti, President of Hasbro: “As the Star Wars fan base has broadened over the last 40 years, we have continued to add new and exciting play experiences to the Star Wars brand, to engage fans across generations."

"We’ve worked closely with Disney to bring the storytelling from Star Wars Forces of Destiny to life through this innovative toy line to help connect with new audiences as well as appeal to existing fans.”

Hoppy Easter!

Rabbits soft and cuddly

Baby chickens, too.

Easter eggs for baskets

White and pink and blue.

Easter cards of greeting,

Music in the air,

Lilies just to tell us

It's Easter everywhere.
- Anonymous

Star Wars: The Last Jedi Poster and Trailer

Lucasfilm

The first poster and teaser trailer for Star Wars: The Last Jedi was released Friday as part of the Star Wars Celebration in Orlando.

It looks incredible, but it poses more questions than it answers. It's going to be a long wait for December.

Carrie Fisher Tribute from Lucasfilm

Lucasfilm

Lucasfilm released this beautiful tribute to Carrie Fisher yesterday as part of the opening of "Star Wars Celebration" in Orlando.

Pentatonix Bohemian Rhapsody

Pentatonix

I've always loved Bohemian Rhapsody. Just hearing it makes me smile. For their new album, PTX Vol. IV - Classics, the a capella group Pentatonix decided to cover what they consider the classics, including Bohemian Rhapsody. They did a fantastic job.

Sneak Peek of Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales

For the last few years, Disney has been offering sneak peeks of upcoming movies in the parks. I love to watch these brief glimpses, and its a great way to build excitement for the film. Starting April 21, guests can preview scenes from Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales at Disneyland, Hollywood Studios, and on Disney Cruise Line.

At California Adventure, the 3D preview will feature special in-theater effects at the Sunset Showcase Theater. At Hollywood Studios, guests can see clips from the film at One Man's Dream. Guests on Disney Cruise Line can enjoy a sneak peek on all four ships on select summer sailings.

Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales arrives in theaters on May 26.

Thor: Ragnarok Trailer and Poster

Marvel

Marvel has released the first trailer for Thor: Ragnarok. It looks hilarious! Especially when Thor realizes he will be fighting the Hulk. "I know him! He's a friend from work."

Thor: Ragnarok arrives in theaters on November 3.

Coco Teaser "Dante's Lunch - A Short Tail"

Pixar

This new teaser short for the Pixar film Coco is hilarious. And it really packs a lot of Dia de los Muertos imagery into a small space. Poor Dante! He just wants to eat that bone.

Beauty and the Beast As Told By LEGO

LEGO

It's time for more "As Told By LEGO" fun. This story tells the, now humorous, tale of Beauty and the Beast. The Gaston stapler is hilarious.

Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales Character Posters

The new Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales posters feature the five main characters from the new film: Captain Jack

Captain Barbossa

Captain Salazar

Henry Turner

and Carina Smyth.

Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales arrives in theaters on May 26.