How Far I'll Go - Moana

Disney

I do love the music from Moana. "How Far I'll Go" is so hopeful.

Avengers: Endgame On Digital And Blu-ray

Marvel

The moment you've been waiting for is finally here: Avengers: Endgame arrives on Digital today. If you'd prefer the Blu-ray, it won't be released until August 13. A word of warning, if you haven't watched Avengers: Endgame yet don't watch the following trailers! They do contain spoilers.

Both versions include loads of extras including:

• Remembering Stan Lee – Filmmakers and cast honor the great Stan Lee in a fond look back at his MCU movie cameos.
• Setting The Tone: Casting Robert Downey Jr. – Hear the tale of how Robert Downey Jr. was cast as Tony Stark in the original "Iron Man" — and launched the MCU.
• A Man Out of Time: Creating Captain America – Trace the evolution of Captain America with those who helped shape the look, feel and character of this compelling hero.
• Black Widow: Whatever It Takes – Follow Black Widow's journey both within and outside the Avengers, including the challenges she faced and overcame along the way.
• The Russo Brothers: Journey to Endgame – See how Anthony and Joe Russo met the challenge of helming two of the biggest films in cinematic history ... back-to-back!
• The Women of the MCU – MCU women share what it was like to join forces for the first time in an epic battle scene — and be part of such a historic ensemble.
• Bro Thor – His appearance has changed but his heroism remains! Go behind the scenes to see how Bro Thor was created.
• Six Deleted Scenes – "Goji Berries," "Bombs on Board," "Suckiest Army in the Galaxy," "You Used to Frickin' Live Here," "Tony and Howard" and "Avengers Take a Knee."
• Gag Reel – Laugh along with the cast in this epic collection of flubs, goofs and gaffes from set.
• Visionary Intro - Intro by directors Joe and Anthony Russo.
• Audio Commentary - Audio commentary by directors Anthony and Joe Russo, and writers Christopher Markus and Stephen McFeely.

There's also an additional Digital exclusive:

Steve and Peggy: One Last Dance– Explore Captain America and Peggy Carter’s bond, forged in moments from previous films that lead to a momentous choice in “Avengers: Endgame.”

Here's a sneak peek at one of the deleted scenes, "Avengers Take a Knee." I'll warn you, it's a heartbreaker.

Spies In Disguise Trailer

Blue Sky

Spies in Disguise is the next animated film from Blue Sky, the studio behind the Ice Age and Rio films. It looks like this one is going to be hilarious, too.

Here's the official synopsis from BlueSky:

Super spy Lance Sterling (Will Smith) and scientist Walter Beckett (Tom Holland) are almost exact opposites. Lance is smooth, suave and debonair. Walter is... not. But what Walter lacks in social skills he makes up for in smarts and invention, creating the awesome gadgets Lance uses on his epic missions. But when events take an unexpected turn, Walter and Lance suddenly have to rely on each other in a whole new way. And if this odd couple can’t learn to work as a team, the whole world is in peril. SPIES IN DISGUISE is an animated comedy set in the high-octane globe-trotting world of international espionage.

Spies in Disguise arrives in theaters on December 25.

Quote of the Week

Pixar

Be who you are right now.

- Bo Peep, Toy Story 4

Photo of the Week

The Bo Peep you can meet at Hollywood Studios is so cute!

A Dream Is A Wish Your Heart Makes - Cinderella

Disney

I was rewatching Disney's live-action Cinderella the other day, and realized how much I really enjoy this version of one of my favorite Princess stories. The film is truly lovely, and so is the music.

These Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance POPVinyl Are Fantastic

Funko

Funko has created a fantastic collection of Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance POPVinyl. There are five figures in the collection, plus three special exclusive figures. The standard figures include Rian, Deet with an unnamed animal, Hup, a Skeksis Hunter, and Aughra.

Funko

SkekSil the Chamberlain Skeksis is available exclusively at Target. A glow-in-the-dark Deet is available exclusively at FYE. There's also a Skeksis Hunter with a silver mask from the Funko Shop.

Funko

In addition to the POPVinyl figures, there are three POP Pez: Rian, a Skeksis, and Aughra. The POPVinyl figures and Pez should be released to coincide with the show's debut on Netflix on August 30.

The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance Teaser Trailer

Netflix

The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance is a ten episode miniseries coming to Netflix on August 30. The series is a prequel to one of my favorite childhood movies and I can't wait to see it.

"On August 30, the journey begins as darkness rises."

Behind The Scenes Of The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance

Netflix

Last weekend, Netflix released a behind-the-scenes look at the making of The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance at ComicCon. One of the original designers, Brian Froud, returned to help make this new series look much like the original film.

"On August 30, the resistance begins."

Here's the official synopsis from Netflix:

The world of Thra is dying. The Crystal of Truth is at the heart of Thra, a source of untold power. But it is damaged, corrupted by the evil Skeksis, and a sickness spreads across the land. When three Gelfling uncover the horrific truth behind the power of the Skeksis, an adventure unfolds as the fires of rebellion are lit and an epic battle for the planet begins.

Netflix

This new series looks amazing and I can't wait to see it! Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance debuts on Netflix on August 30.

Marvel's Phase 4 MCU Lineup Looks Amazing

Marvel

Marvel announced Phase 4 of the Marvel Cinematic Universe at ComicCon earlier this week. It's quite the movie lineup!

Here are the release dates announced so far:

• May 1, 2020 - Black Widow
• November 5, 2020 - The Eternals
• February 12, 2021 - Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings
• May 7, 2021 - Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness
• November 5, 2021 - Thor: Love and Thunder

In addition to these, there's also Black Panther 2, Guardians of the Galaxy 3, Captain Marvel 2, and Blade. And that's just the films. There are also several TV shows coming to Disney+.

• Fall 2020 - The Falcon and the Winter Soldier
• Spring 2021 - WandaVision
• Spring 2021 - Loki
• Summer 2021 - WhatIf
• Fall 2021 - Hawkeye

It looks like there are many more stories to tell in the MCU.

Quote of the Week

Disney

Look inside yourself, Simba. You are more than what you have become.

- Mufasa, The Lion King

Photo of the Week

The Incredibles in the "Wonderful World of Animation" show at Hollywood Studios.

The King Has Returned

Disney

Disney's The Lion King is a new take on a classic favorite. With an amazing cast and stunning images, this film looks like it may live up to the name.

Here's the official synopsis from Disney:

Director Jon Favreau’s all-new The Lion King journeys to the African savanna where a future king is born. Simba idolizes his father, King Mufasa, and takes to heart his own royal destiny. But not everyone in the kingdom celebrates the new cub’s arrival. Scar, Mufasa’s brother—and former heir to the throne—has plans of his own. The battle for Pride Rock is ravaged with betrayal, tragedy and drama, ultimately resulting in Simba’s exile. With help from a curious pair of newfound friends, Simba will have to figure out how to grow up and take back what is rightfully his. The all-star cast includes Donald Glover as Simba, Beyoncé Knowles-Carter as Nala, James Earl Jones as Mufasa, Chiwetel Ejiofor as Scar, Seth Rogen as Pumbaa and Billy Eichner as Timon. Utilizing pioneering filmmaking techniques to bring treasured characters to life in a whole new way, Disney’s The Lion King roars into theaters today, July 19.

Reinventing Hakuna Matata Featurette

Disney

The cast of Disney's upcoming The Lion King appear to have had a lot of fun making the movie. And perhaps most importantly, deciding how to reinvent iconic moments like the "Hakuna Matata" scene while still honoring the original.

You can listen to the full song below.

Disney's The Lion King arrives in theaters tomorrow, July 19.

The Muppet Movie Has Turned 40!

Jim Henson Company

Can you believe it's been 40 years since The Muppet Movie made its big screen debut? How time flies! I remember watching the Muppets' madcap adventures as a little girl and loving every minute. "Rainbow Connection", which was an important part of the film, remains one of my favorite songs.

This Toy Story 4 Song Makes Me Smile

Disney

I'm finally heading to the theater to watch Toy Story 4 today. I can't wait to see where this new song, "I Can't Let You Throw Yourself Away", pops up.

Poor Woody. I think Forky is quite a handful. Toy Story 4 is in theaters now. 

This The Lion King Clip Is Hilarious

Disney

Disney's new The Lion King arrives later this week and if this clip is any indication, Timon and Pumbaa are as funny as ever. "Fred" indeed!

The Lion King roars into theaters on Friday, July 16.

Quote of the Week

Disney

I'm only brave when I have to be. Being brave doesn't mean you go looking for trouble.

- Mufasa, The Lion King

Photo of the Week

The queue for Kali River Rapids has surprises around every corner.

"Never Too Late" From The Lion King

Disney

Here's another new song from The Lion King. "Never Too Late" was written and performed by Elton John, who also wrote and performed songs in the original animated film.

The rest of the album, which was released yesterday, can be heard on YouTube as well as several streaming services.

The First New Song From The Lion King Has Arrived

Disney

Disney is releasing two new albums for their live-action The Lion King. The first is a standard soundtrack and the second is called The Lion King: The Gift, an collection of music inspired by the film and curated by Beyonce Knowles-Carter. Her song, "Spirit", appears on both albums. You can listen to it below.

The Lion King soundtrack debuts today. Both The Lion King film and The Lion King: The Gift will arrive on July 19.

Marvel Holiday POPVinyl From Funko

All Images: Funko

Funko has created a ridiculously adorable collection of Marvel holiday POPVinyl characters. Captain America appears as a very cute snowman.

 Rocket Raccoon is riding around on a snowmobile.

Baby Groot makes the sweetest little Christmas tree.

 Thanos is wearing an appropriately ugly Christmas sweater.

And Deadpool is making the turkey. These holiday POPVinyl will arrive in stores this October.

This Maleficent: Mistress of Evil Trailer Is Dark And Delightful

Disney

Disney has released the first full trailer for Maleficent: Mistress of Evil and it looks both dark and delightful. "On October 18, go beyond the fairytale."

Here's the official synopsis from Disney:

Maleficent: Mistress of Evil is a fantasy adventure that picks up several years after Maleficent, in which audiences learned of the events that hardened the heart of Disney’s most notorious villain and drove her to curse a baby Princess Aurora. The film continues to explore the complex relationship between the horned fairy and the soon to be Queen as they form new alliances and face new adversaries in their struggle to protect the moors and the magical creatures that reside within. The film is directed by Joachim Rønning from a story by Linda Woolverton and a screenplay by Linda Woolverton and Micah Fitzerman-Blue & Noah Harpster, the film is produced by Joe Roth, Angelina Jolie and Duncan Henderson with Matt Smith, Jeff Kirschenbaum and Michael Vieira serving as executive producers.

The First Teaser Trailer And Poster For Mulan Are Here

Disney

Disney's live-action Mulan won't arrive in theaters until next year, but we're finally getting our first look. So far, it looks amazing!

Here's the official synopsis from Disney:

When the Emperor of China issues a decree that one man per family must serve in the Imperial Army to defend the country from Northern invaders, Hua Mulan, the eldest daughter of an honored warrior, steps in to take the place of her ailing father. 

Disney

Masquerading as a man, Hua Jun, she is tested every step of the way and must harness her inner-strength and embrace her true potential. It is an epic journey that will transform her into an honored warrior and earn her the respect of a grateful nation…and a proud father. “Mulan” features a celebrated international cast that includes: Yifei Liu as Mulan; Donnie Yen as Commander Tung; Jason Scott Lee as Böri Khan; Yoson An as Cheng Honghui; with Gong Li as Xianniang and Jet Li as the Emperor. The film is directed by Niki Caro from a screenplay by Rick Jaffa and Amanda Silver and Elizabeth Martin & Lauren Hynek based on the narrative poem “The Ballad of Mulan.”

Mulan arrives in theaters on March 27, 2020.

Quote of the Week

Disney

All the adversity I’ve had in my life, all my troubles and obstacles, have strengthened me…. You may not realize it when it happens, but a kick in the teeth may be the best thing in the world for you. 

- Walt Disney

Photo of the Week

I do love this view of the Haunted Mansion from the queue.

The Lion King Cast Photos

All Images: Disney

Disney has released several new images for the upcoming live-action film The Lion King, and they are stunning. All of the main actors appear opposite the characters they portray. Above is Donald Glover with Simba.

Beyonce Knowles-Carter with Nala

Chiwetel Ejiofor with Scar

Billy Eichner, Seth Rogen, and John Oliver
with Timon, Pumbaa, and Zazu

Alfre Woodard with Sarabi

Keegan-Michael Key, Florence Kasumba & Eric Andre
with Kamari, Shenzi, and Azizi

JD McCrary and Shahadi Wright Joseph
with young Simba and Nala

The Lion King arrives in theaters on July 19.

Happy Fourth of July!

Disney

Let independence be our boast,

Ever mindful what it cost.

Happy Fourth of July!

Disney Parks Fourth of July Fireworks

Disney

It's time to celebrate the birth of America. Tomorrow, July 4th, Disney will live stream “Disney’s Celebrate America! A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky” from the Magic Kingdom. The live stream, which can be viewed on the Disney Parks Blog, begins at 9:10PM Eastern Time. Expect a grand display of booming fireworks to patriotic music, a perfect way to celebrate the Fourth!

Muppet Stars and Stripes Forever

Only the Muppets could make John Philip Sousa's anthem so funny.

Patriotic Movies For A Festive Fourth

It's that time of year again. Time to dust off favorite patriotic movies and celebrate the old red, white, and blue. I love watching what I consider to be great holiday movies for the Fourth of July. Many of these movies are ones I've watched hundreds of times, and I still love them.

Let's with the family friendly films:

My favorite is still Stars and Stripes Forever, which is a fantastic musical about the life of the March King, John Phillips Sousa. I've always been especially fond of his "ballads".

Liberty's Kids is my favorite series for teaching kids, both young and old, about the Revolutionary War. The stories followed three kids: Sarah, a British subject from England, James, an American-born orphan, and Henri, a French orphan, as they sought to tell the stories behind the Founding of America.

The American Girl movies, especially Felicity, Kit, Samantha, or Molly. Each shows what life was like for kids living in America during a particular era, from the Revolutionary War to WWII.

Schoolhouse Rock: America is educational with a fun twist. These shorts help introduce kids to interesting facts about our country with catchy songs and fun animation. I still remember watching the one about how a bill becomes a law.

I grew up watching Disney's American Legends, a simple retelling of stories that have grown to become legend. From the true story of Johnny Appleseed and Casey Jones, to the tall tales of Paul Bunyan and John Henry, and John Henry, these family friendly stories will help kids get a glimpse into American history.

National Treasure 1 and 2 are a fun mix of historical fact and fiction. I love the idea that the Founding Fathers left clues to a treasure of significant importance hidden in some of our most beloved national symbols. The first movie also provides a glimpse into the wisdom and foresight of the men who created our system of government. The second looks into events from the end of the Civil War and the long lasting effects they've had on America, as well as the search for another treasure.

Captain America: The First Avenger is an action packed look at what could have happened if a man who simply wanted to fight for his country was given an unexpected advantage to do so. Most of the film takes place during WWII, with Steve Rogers proving that sometimes it's what's in your heart that matters the most.

And now films that are more appropriate for teens and adults:

1776 is another musical, which takes place, as the title suggests, during the Continental Congress of 1776. The film stars William Daniels (better known to Boy Meets World fans as Mr. Feeny) as John Adams, along with most of the original Broadway cast. It's a wonderful sneak peek into the minds of the Founding Fathers at one of the pivotal moments in our nation's history.

The Patriot, although somewhat depressing, is an intense look at one family's struggles during the American Revolution. While not appropriate for children, it's a fascinating look at our fight for independence.

Glory, while definitely not for children, is one of the best Civil War movies. Its an intriguing look at the first all-black volunteer company that fought for the Union. This movie is intense, but also a very interesting look at what these men had to overcome to fight for what they believed in.

The John Adams mini-series is told from the perspectives of both John and Abigail Adams, and how each worked, both separately and together, to forge our nation.

Independence Day is an alien invasion movie with action, adventure, and a hefty dose of comedy. It also has my favorite presidential speech of all time. Its sequel, Independence Day: Resurgence, isn't as good as the first, but the story is pretty decent and they kept a lot of the original cast.

Cinderella Man is a look at the true story of one man's life during the Depression. A former boxer whose fallen on hard times, James Braddock, with the help and support of his family, overcomes the odds to become a champion and a national inspiration in the 1930s.

Forest Gump, while not obviously patriotic, shows American society at its best and worst over several decades. It is the story of the American Dream, and the wisdom that the attainment of that dream isn't always what you expect.

If you're like me, you see nothing wrong with celebrating our freedom and this great country of ours for an entire month, or maybe even longer. So I hope you will watch at least a few of these great films. And who knows, maybe you'll find a new favorite, too.