http://sites.google.com/feeds/content/site/marciodisney2012-05-28T06:37:02.684ZPosts of Feature StoryGoogle Sites1http://sites.google.com/feeds/content/site/marciodisney/69419899495531860502010-08-14T17:33:56.098Z2010-08-14T17:34:45.130Z2010-08-14T17:34:45.116ZA Chat with Disney Pin Trading's Steven Miller
It's no wonder Disney provides an incomparable entertainment experience for families around the world – every aspect of the Company is run by employees committed to carrying out Walt Disney's unique vision. To honor that spirit, our Cast Member Series highlights the careers of those behind the famous Disney magic.

Steven Miller presents one the VinylmationsThe Insider sat down with Steven Miller, project manager overseeing Disney Pin Trading and Vinylmation™, two popular items collected by Disney lovers young and old. A native of Columbus, Ohio, Steven's been fascinated with Disney since childhood and recalls his earliest memories.

"My favorite movie was 'The Aristocats' ... I played the 33-1/2-RPM record over and over again on my Mickey Mouse record player. You had to remember everything associated with the movie or look at the books because that's all there was – we didn't have licensed toys, VHS, or DVDs. I also loved 'Hercules' and 'The Black Hole' [his introduction to sci-fi] but the one that's truly memorable is 'Tron.' I watched that movie endlessly and pretended I was Flynn trying to break into the Master Control Program!"

Steven's first trip to Walt Disney World, at age seven, left an indelible impression. "Epcot had opened the year before. My favorite attraction was Journey into Imagination with Figment ... it totally captivated me." Figment's still leading Guests into his upside-down world, but that trip was only the beginning of bigger aspirations for Steven. "All through high school I read about Walt Disney ... everyone knew I was the Disney guy. In the summer of 1997, I applied for the college internship program and went to work at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida – at Pleasure Island merchandise – for three months until school started. I returned for the advanced internship in March 1998 and never went back."

Having studied political science and public relations at Ohio Northern University, Steven considered becoming a Disney attorney, but fell in love with working at Walt Disney World and the whole Guest experience during college. His early jobs included working behind the scenes at the casting center, teaching Disney traditions, merchandise training, and attraction manager. "I really enjoyed helping people join the Disney Family and guiding them through the process ... the rest is a whirlwind experience."

Whirlwind, indeed! With his infectious love for all things Disney, it's no surprise that Steven was selected to be a Disney Ambassador, a prestigious program started by Walt Disney in 1965. "After reading about ambassadors in Dave Smith's 'Disney A to Z,' I thought it would be the coolest job because they travel around and spread the Disney message. In many ways, they represent Walt's passion at various events or speak on behalf of the Cast Members and all the great things they do." During his ambassadorship, Steven attended parades, press events, conducted media interviews, learned how to run the Spaceship Earth attraction, and worked on community events throughout Central Florida – he even met Marty Sklar, the Disney Imagineering Legend instrumental in building Epcot.

"Our role of service as ambassadors stems from a rich heritage ... I was very blessed and honored to be selected for the 2001-2002 team," he says. "You meet so many wonderful Cast Members, hear great stories, and see change through the eyes of people who've worked for the Company many years. We've created a legacy for future generations, so 10 years ago we looked at the program to determine how to keep it relevant for the 21st century – from a diversity standpoint as well as community relations. Not many employees have this opportunity ... it's like a little club."

Since 2003, Steven's worked in Theme Park merchandise, specifically Disney Pins. "Business and politics go hand in hand, so my background's been tremendously helpful since there's a lot of connecting with Fans. Understanding public relations has come in handy with all the blogging, social media, and writing required ... being able to speak about the Company and write press releases shows you just never know what you'll end up doing."

Disney Parks blog readers already know Steven – he's the voice they turn to for news on upcoming, special, or limited-editions pins and Vinylmation figures. "Pin trading and collecting is a highly visible and desired activity that many people enjoy – it's the same with Vinylmation. You meet and connect with individuals interested in these really great collectible items for an awesome Fan experience ... another key aspect of working at Disney."

"Each job's taught me something different. I've learned a lot from the leaders I've worked with ... the nice part is that they've all been supportive from the perspective that they want you to grow. I want to emulate them with Cast Members I lead because you want to see people succeed and insure they're set up for success in what they want to do."

That said, "The Aristocats" is still Steven's favorite animated film – and amazingly enough, his 33-1/2-RPM records (and companion storybooks) have survived the journey. He now shares them with his four-and-a-half-year-old son Athan. "It's nice being able to pass that on to him. I grew up with Disney ... it's always been a part of my life. There are even pictures of me in a Donald Duck tee shirt at six months old. Aren't the memories what Disney's all about?"
Marcio Disneymarciodisney@gmail.comachatwithdisneypintradingsstevenmiller1http://sites.google.com/feeds/content/site/marciodisney/57758860025419863412010-08-03T06:38:12.129Z2010-08-03T06:39:05.406Z2010-08-03T06:39:05.371ZWhat Walt Disney Pictures Has in Store for Fall

See Disney's "Tangled" in theaters November 24!Need something to put a smile back on your face as barbeques, pool parties, and lazy beach days wind down? Summer fun may be coming to an end, but there's much to look forward to this fall. As previewed at San Diego Comic-Con, autumn's most irresistible features just might be the films Walt Disney Pictures has lined up for the year-end homestretch. Prepare for some pixie-dust tricks and big-screen treats, because Disney magic strikes again!

Speaking of homestretch, the spectacular, against-all-odds journey of "Secretariat" gallops into theaters – and hearts – October 8. Diane Lane portrays Penny Chenery, a housewife and mother who takes the reins of her father's Virginia-based Meadow Stables in the early 1970s – despite her lack of horse-racing knowledge. Thanks to the help of veteran horse trainer Lucien Laurin (played by John Malkovich), Chenery navigates the male-dominated sport and produces the first U.S. Triple Crown winner in 25 years.

The film was inspired by an incredible true story and suggested by William Nack's book "Secretariat: The Making of a Champion." Here's a fun fact: Keep an eye out for the real Penny Chenery, now 87 years young ... she appears in one of the scenes as an extra and was an important resource while shooting the movie.

On November 24, let down your hair as the enchantment continues with "Tangled," the hilarious, 3D-animated feature that puts a modern twist on the classic tale of Rapunzel – and marks Walt Disney Pictures' 50th full-length animated feature. Zachary Levi provides the voice of Flynn Rider, the kingdom's most notorious (and charismatic) bandit, who hides out in Rapunzel's mysterious tower. Mandy Moore voices the fetching and feisty teen who takes Flynn hostage in a desperate attempt to escape her tower-bound existence. She ultimately strikes a deal with the charming thief, and the two set off on a daring, action-packed adventure ... with 70 feet of magical golden hair in tow.

Directed by Byron Howard and 14-year animation veteran Nathan Greno (both of "Bolt" fame), the film features new songs and a score by eight-time Oscar®-winning composer Alan Menken ("The Little Mermaid," "Beauty and the Beast," "Aladdin," "Pocahontas," "Enchanted"), with lyrics written by Glenn Slater (2008 Tony® and Grammy®-nominee for "The Little Mermaid"). The all-star voice cast includes Ron Perlman, Jeffrey Tambor, Donna Murphy, and Brad Garrett – with talent like that, good hair days are guaranteed!

Hold off on those visions of sugarplums because the 3D, high-tech adventure "TRON: Legacy" hits theaters December 17. Fans may already be familiar with "TRON," but the story picks up 20 years later when Sam Flynn (Garrett Hedlund) is haunted by the mysterious disappearance of his father Kevin (Jeff Bridges), formerly the world's leading video game developer. When Sam is inadvertently pulled into the cyber universe where Kevin's been trapped for 20 years, father and son must escape a ruthless villain determined to keep them captive in a digital realm that's become far more advanced and dangerous than anything Kevin ever created.

In a visually stunning virtual world unlike anything seen before on the big screen, both Jeff Bridges and Bruce Boxleitner (Alan Bradley/Tron) reprise their original "TRON" roles and are joined by Olivia Wilde (Quorra), Michael Sheen (Castor), James Frain (Jarvis), and Beau Garrett (Siren Jem). Directed by Joseph Kosinski and produced by Steven Lisberger (who co-wrote and directed the original 1982 "TRON"), the film's futuristic score was written by the Grammy Award-winning electronic music duo Daft Punk.

One of the most highly anticipated films of the year, "TRON: Legacy" is filled with some pretty impressive firsts. It's the first 3D movie to integrate a character with a fully digital head and body based upon an existing actor, which enabled filmmakers to create the younger version of Jeff Bridges' character. In addition, some of the technological breakthroughs include extensive use of self-illuminated costumes, creating both molds and costumes via digital sculpture technology, and shooting the movie with 35mm lenses and full 35mm chip cameras.

Mark your calendars for Disney's "Secretariat," "Tangled," and "TRON: Legacy" ... three films sure to transport you into fantastical worlds far from the holiday rush!
Marcio Disneymarciodisney@gmail.comwhatwaltdisneypictureshasinstoreforfall1http://sites.google.com/feeds/content/site/marciodisney/31036852169120378962010-07-26T18:33:10.392Z2010-07-26T18:34:34.185Z2010-07-26T18:34:34.118ZTo the Pyramids – and Beyond – with Adventures by Disney®

Adventures by Disney specializes in making the wildest vacation dreams come true – whether it's living a fairytale in Bavaria or experiencing an amazing African safari. These guided group trips turn families into seasoned travelers by providing a chance to see the world in a whole new way with exciting, behind-the-scenes encounters found nowhere else, combined with Disney's famous attention to detail.

A family enjoys an excursion in Egypt offered by Adventures by Disney.And now Adventures by Disney has just announced two brand-new itineraries for 2011 that will give travelers a chance to visit one of the most dreamed-of destinations in the world – Egypt, with its spectacular history and beguiling modern culture. Heather Killingbeck and Bruce Austin of Adventures by Disney told us all about the new trips.

Why Egypt? Heather explains, "Egypt is a hugely popular destination for Americans and one that is on most people's 'bucket list.' For us it was a natural fit. Guests have been requesting it."

Bruce describes the two trips. "We'll be offering two Egyptian itineraries filled with daily activities that are fun for the whole family.One itinerary is a one-week program featuring a journey into the heart of Cairo that includes a privately-guided tour of the mummies and ancient artifacts in the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities, an up-close view of the Great Pyramids, and a visit to the tombs of Ramses VI and King Tut, just a few of the highlights. A three-day Nile River Cruise follows on a beautiful ship that sails from Aswan to Luxor."

"The alternate itinerary includes all the same elements, plus an additional two days on the Red Sea in the resort town of Sharm El Sheikh. Sharm is famous for its underwater national park full of coral reefs and arrays of colorful tropical fish, a veritable snorkeling paradise for first-time and veteran snorkelers alike."

No one knows better than Bruce what to expect – as he explains, "I spent five weeks in Egypt split between two trips. The first trip was spent looking at everything from hotels to restaurants, activities, historical sites, museums, and markets. Finding venues that match Disney's standards of family-fun and comfort requires a fair degree of applied due diligence. That level of focus is unique to Disney, and the same degree of attention is applied to every aspect of the trip."

Then the fun begins! He adds, "Once we've done all that, we plan the itinerary in more detail, always with a commitment to maintaining fun, fascination, education, and a natural sense of pacing. Once all those elements are in place, we begin the process of telling the destination's story to engage people's imaginations, whether they're Junior Adventurers or grandparents whetting their appetites for even more stories that our Adventure guides and Egyptologist will share."

Heather joined Bruce for his second, two-week planning trip. She says, "I have traveled much of the world, but had not been to Egypt. It exceeded my expectations in so many ways. I was not expecting the abundance of warmth and hospitality that was bestowed on me by just about every Egyptian I met. I was not expecting English to be as widely spoken as it is. I was not expecting to find Cairo as utterly captivating as it is. And as far as the iconic sites go ... I was thinking before my trip that there was no way they could live up to their hype, but they did and then some! I stood in awe in front of the pyramids, and simply could not stop staring at the Sphinx. And the Red Sea! One of the best seaside resort experiences of my life! There is a feeling of magic when in Egypt, and I really think I had goose bumps the entire trip because I had the sense of being surrounded by so much that is truly ancient but at the same time being in a place that is very much alive today."

Choosing a highlight from such an experience is tough, but Bruce makes a try. "For me it was discovering the astonishing array of the treasures of antiquity, from the pharaonic collections housed in the Egyptian Museum in Cairo to the ancient temples and royal tombs along the banks of the Nile River that we'll see during the cruise portion of our itinerary – not to mention the feelings of astonishment and wonder that come with seeing the great pyramids and mysterious Sphinx for the first time! For others, it may be riding a camel past the pyramids or discovering the amazing cuisine that is unveiled from day to day on our trip. And for the shoppers of the world? Say no more! Come with Disney to the Khan el-Khalili market in Old Cairo, or the colorful souk in Aswan, and I promise that you will get very excited!"

On all Adventures by Disney trips, there are experiences travelers simply can't have with anyone else. Heather shares a few with us. "We bring on an Egyptologist specifically for this itinerary in order to give our Guests more of an in-depth exposure to the country and its bounty of antiquities. We will bring our Guests to one of the most colorful and vibrant markets in Egypt and while we do give them some free time in the market we also give each Guest a small amount of 'purchasing money' to buy a gift for our unique 'white elephant gift swap' activity. This is always a bit of a surprise to our Guests and is an activity that is usually a solid home run. Guests of all ages have fun with it and it also helps to bond the group into one large traveling family. Moreover, we include welcome and farewell entertainment on this trip as well as unique activities such as an Egyptian cooking demonstration and a papyrus-making activity at which Guests make their own souvenir to bring home!"

And, of course, every Adventures by Disney trip, anywhere in the world, has that special Disney touch – and Egypt will be no exception. Heather explains, "We have taken ALL of the guesswork out of planning a family vacation. This is the best itinerary a family will find for an adventure in Egypt. All of the hassle of planning and making reservations has been done for our Guests in advance – their vacation will be seamless. All our Guests need to do after making their reservation is pack and show up!"

Marcio Disneymarciodisney@gmail.comtothepyramids–andbeyond–withadventuresbydisney®1http://sites.google.com/feeds/content/site/marciodisney/11332293777204195072010-07-19T04:06:19.544Z2010-07-19T04:09:20.419Z2010-07-19T04:09:20.370Z"The Sorcerer's Apprentice" Casts Its Spell!


Nicolas Cage and Jay Baruchel star as Balthazar Blake and Dave Stutler from Disney's "The Sorcerer's Apprentice"Produced by Jerry Bruckheimer and directed by Jon Turteltaub (the team behind the "National Treasure" movies), Disney's live-action film "The Sorcerer's Apprentice" sweeps into theaters July 14 with all the explosive visual effects, car chases, and big-screen brouhaha Bruckheimer's famous for ... not to mention a contemporary twist on spell casting that would make Mickey proud.

The action-packed comic fantasy-adventure introduces Nicolas Cage as Balthazar Blake, a 1,000-year-old master sorcerer determined to defend mankind (and the lower East Side) from the impending chaos wreaked by arch-nemesis Maxim Horvath (Alfred Molina). Their centuries-old rivalry lands the sorcerers (both previously mentored by Merlin himself) in modern-day Manhattan for a good versus evil battle that draws physics nerd Dave Stutler (Jay Baruchel) into the hex-happy mix. Unaware of his own mystical powers, Dave reluctantly joins forces with Balthazar, who proceeds to school him with a crash course in magic. Together they take on Maxim's wrath ... and a few of the fiercest foes that ever escaped from an ancient urn.

One of the biggest challenges was breathing new life into the dancing broom sequence from "Fantasia," 69 years after its initial release. Bruckheimer, who loved the concept of sorcery running amok in the Big Apple, credits the director for making it work on-screen. "It was difficult because the original was so inventive, but Jon's a good storyteller with a great sense of humor ... he figured out a way to make it fresh and interesting for audiences using new technology, CGI effects, and music. We're very happy with the result – he did an amazing job."

"You need a good idea at the core, which is why 'The Sorcerer's Apprentice' works – it's based on something that's classical. We literally built a whole movie around one sequence thanks to a fabulous director, great writers, and actors who fulfilled everyone's vision of what we dreamed of while developing the project."

Stellar casting brought that vision, as well as the film's quirky characters, to life. How did Cage infuse Balthazar with eccentricity and magic? According to director Jon Turteltaub, "Nic's an imposing, intense, powerful presence ... there's something very strong and masculine about him. It was really important that this sorcerer be an intimidating figure. We always feel safe around the dangerous person who's on your side more than the nice person. Nic has an edge without losing his sensitivity, heart, and goodness. Most actors draw on elements within themselves that feel right for the character, then pick moments where they can make it their own – and Nic really knows how to do that."

Computer-generated special effects were interspersed with live mechanical and physical stunts to create some pretty amazing scenes: Balthazar and Maxim's blastastic duels, a parallel-dimension car chase through Times Square, the confetti-strewn Chinatown celebration, and the sorcerers' final blowout in lower Manhattan's Bowling Green Park. Hundreds of artists were led by an Academy Award®-winning visual and special effects team to create a more magical city than most native New Yorkers could ever imagine. The only real obstacles encountered by film crews were high-volume city traffic (pedestrian and vehicular) and 38 straight days of rain.

Set dressers faced another type of problem altogether – finding enough unique, mystical-looking items to fill Arcana Cabana, Balthazar's downtown curio shop. Though filmmakers spent a lot of time looking at potential locations in Greenwich Village, they eventually built the shop's set from scratch because, as Turteltaub puts it, "Most stores didn't want to be set on fire."

With trickery that includes Chinese street dragons-turned-real, telekinetic flying objects, and fire bolts powered by pyrokinesis, the filmmakers and actors all agree that their ultimate goal was simple – to entertain audiences. Nic's quick to add, "I just want to make good films and tried to channel the spirit of Walt Disney and 'Fantasia' ... I think he [Walt] would have been happy with this."

Experience the all-new world of "The Sorcerer's Apprentice" July 14, when ancient spells, dragon rings, and dancing brooms will whisk you away with classic Disney magic!

Marcio Disneymarciodisney@gmail.comthesorcerersapprenticecastsitsspell1http://sites.google.com/feeds/content/site/marciodisney/52272599792879388732010-07-07T18:31:38.132Z2010-07-07T18:32:02.490Z2010-07-07T18:32:02.470ZGet Hands On with Mickey Mouse Art!
From a doodle of a cartoon trickster (who narrowly escaped being named "Mortimer Mouse") to one of the most recognized characters in the world, Mickey Mouse has had a long eventful journey. Over the decades, he's changed dozens of ways, always evolving to meet new roles and new times.

Mickey MouseDisney artist Doug Strayer tells us, "Mickey Mouse has definitely changed in look and personality throughout the years. In his early years he had the coal-eyed look, where he had two large black pupils for eyes. Then there was the "pie-eyed Mickey," where his eyes were two black oval shapes with a pie piece removed from each pupil. Today, we have what we call the "Modern Mickey." This Mickey has a pink face, white eyes, and black pupils. As far as dress, Mickey has always remained in his buttoned shorts, except for the occasional dress change for films and television. As for his personality, well ... Walt Disney wanted Mickey to be relevant to the times, and he is someone that everyone should be able to relate to. So, his personality is very much like ours, changing with the times."

Now Disney.com Guests can create their own visions of Mickey and share them with the world. At Disney.com/Create, visitors can use electronic art tools and virtual stickers to create cool homages to Disney's iconic Mouse, then post them on a virtual "wall" for all to admire. Whether you see an uber-hip Mickey or want to make a revamped Steamboat Willie, they can become part of the online collage. It's a very public way to shape your own Disney dream!

Doug can attest to the rewards of drawing Mickey. "Drawing Mickey Mouse is an amazingly fun experience, because, Mickey is able to get involved in almost any situation. When I draw Mickey Mouse relaxing on the beach, surfing, skydiving, or riding a motorcycle, I have the chance to escape and imagine myself doing the same thing!"

But the biggest reward is one closer to his heart. "I know that it may sound like the typical Disney artist statement – however, I have been a huge fan of Disney since I was a child. I had a passion for art and animation and grew up with the dream of attending art school and getting a chance to work for Disney as an artist."

As an artist who works closely with images of Mickey, Doug has gotten very familiar with all of his incarnations. "My favorite Mickey style is the 'sorcerer's apprentice.' designed by Fred Moore. Walt Disney requested a redesign of Mickey Mouse to give him more emotion and style for his appearance in the movie 'Fantasia.' So, this is where the 'Modern Mickey' was born. But I do have a big place in my heart for the art style of Mickey Mouse in his first movie, 'Plane Crazy.'"

No matter how much Mickey changes, some things are indispensable. Doug explains, "Mickey should always have fun, and his life should be an adventure!"

And what could be more fun than turning you, the Disney fans, loose to craft your own Mickey art? While Doug is hard at work at his drawing board, helping the creative team at Disney dream up new adventures for Mickey, you can create your own piece of Mickey magic.
Marcio Disneymarciodisney@gmail.comgethandsonwithmickeymouseart1http://sites.google.com/feeds/content/site/marciodisney/57957415366016957082010-06-04T00:43:45.155Z2010-07-06T14:53:58.297Z2010-06-04T00:44:27.840ZIgnite Summer Nights with Disney Magic!
June 1, 2010

Lighting the FireworksLooking for summer excitement? The Disney Theme Parks provide options galore by celebrating the sun-lovin' season with events that'll keep fans of all ages in a "pixie dust state of mind." "Summer Nightastic!" – the popular nighttime entertainment extravaganza – returns with a V.I.P. (Very Important Party) schedule you won't want to miss. From Disneyland to Walt Disney World, there's something for everyone looking to forego the typical sand-in-your-sandwich beach escape. Here's the 411 straight from Park insiders ... and there's plenty of family fun to choose from!

DISNEYLAND RESORT

From June 11 through August 29, "Summer Nightastic!" takes center stage at Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure in Anaheim, California. Brand-new shows join old favorites to spark the nights with pure Disney magic. Fantasy springs to life in the highly anticipated "World of Color," an original nighttime water spectacular with more than 1,200 choreographed fountains, 30 high-definition projectors, music, and animated Characters from timeless Disney tales like "The Lion King," "The Little Mermaid," Disney·Pixar's "Finding Nemo," "Wall-E," and "Toy Story." Held nightly at Paradise Bay in Disney California Adventure, "World of Color" promises to transport audiences into another dimension of classic Disney storytelling, so nestle in early for the perfect viewing spot.

In Disneyland Park, "Fantasmic!" applauds the triumph of good over evil as a 40-foot, fire-breathing Maleficent battles Mickey while towering over pyrotechnics, video, water, live actors, and 3-D animation along Frontierland's Rivers of America. Insider tip – the best viewing is along the River, near the less crowded Haunted Mansion area. Pixie Hollow Enchantment is Fantasyland's must-see, fully orchestrated show aglow with lights, color, and pure Disney magic. Photos with Tink and her Fairy friends are available before 8 p.m., but the show runs continuously throughout the night.

Shake your groove thing at Tomorrowland's TLT Dance Club from sundown to closing time. Local DJs spin today's hottest dance music during the week, while live bands rock the weekends. Cap off the night with "Magical," a fireworks display bursting with color, music, pyrotechnics, and a special appearance by Peter Pan and Dumbo. Here's an added bonus for pin collectors – commemorate your visit with a special limited-edition "Summer Nightastic" Disneyland pin featuring Dumbo flying over Sleeping Beauty Castle.

While you're here, check out an attraction inspired by the carnival-style games that epitomize summer. "Toy Story Mania!" at Disney California Adventure delivers midway amusements with an interactive, 4-D twist. Join Woody, Buzz, and the gang as they introduce their new "Toy Story 3" pals Buttercup, Trixie, Dolly, and Mr. Pricklepants at Disney California Adventure.

WALT DISNEY WORLD RESORT

For the first season ever, "Summer Nightastic!" lands at Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida, from June 6 through August 14. Guests will be treated to all-new entertainment as well as additions to old favorites ... with a few surprises guaranteed to make the night sizzle.

One glance at the Twilight Zone® Tower of Terror after dark and it's clear something strange is brewing at Disney's Hollywood Studios. As an eerie green glow emanates from the abandoned shafts, a host of unexpected sights, sounds, and sensations – including four frightful new drops – are sure to thrill night crawlers right out of their seats.

Epcot's "Sounds Like Summer Concert Series" headlines some of the area's best tribute bands as well as several new acts – Beginnings (A Tribute to Chicago), Satisfaction (A Tribute to the Rolling Stones), and Karin Lawson (A Tribute to Janet Jackson). Where to go and when? Relive the carefree memories of summers past at the America Gardens Theater adjacent to the American Adventure Pavilion from June 12 to July 31.

Brighten your nights at the Main Street Electrical Parade and the Summer Nightastic! Fireworks Spectacular, both at the Magic Kingdom. The return of the Main Street Electrical Parade features thousands of dazzling LEDs lighting up new floats inspired by Pinocchio and Snow White, with Tinker Bell leading the way. Music and bursts of color will dazzle at Summer Nightastic! Fireworks Spectacular, the perfect ending to a lazy summer day.

Though Disney Water Parks are not specifically part of the "Summer Nightastic!" event, Guests can meet Lilo & Stitch at Typhoon Lagoon or giggle with Goofy over at Blizzard Beach from mid-May through the end of August. Best times to hit the Water Parks? After 2 p.m. to avoid the morning crowds. Schedules subject to change.

Cruise over to Disney Parks for the hottest summer fun this side of the equator ... just don't forget your sunscreen!
Marcio Disneymarciodisney@gmail.comignitesummernightswithdisneymagic1http://sites.google.com/feeds/content/site/marciodisney/70942968242531703922010-06-13T17:38:31.131Z2010-07-06T14:50:52.241Z2010-06-13T17:39:10.064ZKeeping Father's Day All in the Family


A father and son enjoy a thrill ride at a Disney Park.What's Father's Day really all about? Is it mostly a chance for millions of tacky ties to change hands? An excuse to break out the barbecue (as if one was needed!)? A holiday to fill in that gap between Memorial Day and the fabulous Fourth?

We like to think that Father's Day is something a little more special – a chance to celebrate the great family bond between dads and their kids. The guy who gets down on the floor and races toy cars, lets his darling daughter plaster him with makeup, gives the best horsey rides in town, and always knows how to make sense of homework deserves a day that's really memorable.

There's nothing wrong with ties and barbecue. We love 'em both! But this year, why not celebrate what makes Dad a dad – his special time with his family? We have a handful of suggestions that Dad will love, and so will the kids and Mom.


Playtime with Pop

Finding a new activity that Dad and the kids (and maybe Mom as well) can enjoy is a real treat. For starters, why not try logging on to Disney Toontown Online for a free trial and finding a new way to play? The family that tosses pies together can have a whole barrel of fun. Dads with older kids might get a swashbuckling kick out of Disney Pirates of the Caribbean Online as well. Both of these games are "massively multiplayer" – that means that the whole family can meet at once in a virtual world and collaborate with (or compete against!) each other.

Another possibility is getting outside for some old-fashioned playtime. Family Fun has tons of suggestions for games and sports the whole family will enjoy.


DIY (Do It Yourself ... for Dad!)

DisneyFamily.com rides to the rescue! Everything you need to help the kids whip up a handmade Father's Day is right there in their special Father's Day Craft Collection. From cards to photo frames, desktop keepsakes to key chains, nothing will mean as much to a father as a present made by his own children – and making something special for Dad will be a real labor of love for kids.


Road Trip!

For a lavish Father's Day celebration – and one he will always remember – the Disney Parks are unbeatable. Although a trip to Disneyland or Walt Disney World Resort is always fun, there are certain attractions that are packed with extra dad appeal.

If the pop in your family is a thrill-seeker, hit the fast and furious attractions. In California, the Maliboomer, Grizzly River Run, and California Screamin' are just the E-Ticket! In Orlando, tackle Expedition Everest and the Rock 'n' Roller Coaster. In both Resorts, you can't go wrong with any attraction that includes "Mountain" in its title, from the Matterhorn Bobsleds to Splash Mountain, or with the spectacularly spooky Twilight Zone Tower of Terror.

Fathers and kids have been delighted by the Autopia attraction for generations, so let Dad and his offspring hit the road in these drive-yourself roadsters.

Sports-loving families will find plenty to cheer about at the ESPN Zone in Downtown Disney at Disneyland. At Walt Disney World, don't miss Disney's Wide World of Sports – there are also world-class golf facilities to try.

From the simplest homemade card to the most lavish vacation getaway, there are a million ways to make Dad feel like a king this Father's Day. Nothing beats letting him know how special he is to the whole family – we hope that your day, and his, is truly magical!
Marcio Disneymarciodisney@gmail.comkeepingfathersdayallinthefamily1http://sites.google.com/feeds/content/site/marciodisney/78799559052092734552010-06-22T16:43:56.450Z2010-07-06T14:46:30.817Z2010-07-06T14:46:30.815ZDirector Lee Unkrich Talks "Toy Story 3"
June 22, 2010



New and old Characters come together in Disney·Pixar's "Toy Story 3"Many parents fear empty nest syndrome, but what happens to those destined to "empty toy box syndrome"? When Disney·Pixar's "Toy Story 3" premieres June 18, Woody, Buzz, and the gang face that fateful prospect as Andy prepares for college – and the reality of losing their child to adulthood is just too much for their near mint-condition hearts to bear. Lee Unkrich ("Toy Story 2," "Monsters, Inc.," "Finding Nemo") talks with the Insider about toys, inspiration, and directing the latest of the talking toy trilogy.

"We made another 'Toy Story' because we really loved the characters and their world ... no one wanted to let them go. Many years had passed since the second film, so we thought a new story idea was needed, something other than what we originally imagined 'Toy Story 3' would be." Lee felt this film should be a continuation of the first two – almost like all three told one big story. "As a result, it was much more poignant than if we had gone with some other random adventure."

Yes, Andy's on the verge of leaving home and his childhood toys agonize over what will become of them, but their ensuing excursion to Sunnyside Daycare is hilarious, action-packed, and touching. Lee explains that one of the new characters, Lotso Huggin' Bear, was actually conceived back when John Lasseter, Andrew Stanton, and Pete Docter were brainstorming for Pixar's first feature.

"Lotso was an idea way before 'Toy Story' even existed. John, Pete, and Andrew envisioned a big, toy store-like city, where he led a gang of bargain-bin toys that raided different neighborhoods at night. Nothing came of it, but once we decided the toys would end up at a daycare, we immediately thought of bringing Lotso back ... he's very 'grandfatherly.'"

Besides Lotso, fans will be introduced to many new faces – Ken, Stretch, Chatter Telephone, and Big Baby, to name a few. When asked for one-word personality descriptions, Lee happily obliged. "Ken – shallow, Big Baby – innocent, Mr. Pricklepants – pompous. Giving pre-existing toys [like Ken and the Chatter Telephone] a personality adds lots of responsibility." He points out that audiences will then always connect them to their "on-screen personas."

"Barbie was such a big hit that we knew Ken would be fun. In determining his personality, we wondered what it felt like to be a guy who's a girl's toy. He's really just an accessory to Barbie – no more important than shoes or a purse. Smug yet insecure fit perfectly. Knowing the comic potential, Michael Keaton [Chick Hicks in 'Cars'] topped our list ... we suspected he'd be hilarious, but Michael actually made Ken much funnier than we ever imagined."

How were the types of toys selected for the film? "One of the great things in the 'Toy Story' universe is mixing toys we've invented with those that we nostalgically remember from our own childhoods. Sometimes we take elements of our toys and utilize them to create new ones."

Sometimes nothing beats real life for inspiration – and Lee drew on his own memories to enhance the story. "There's a scene where the toys accidentally get thrown away in a garbage bag, which actually happened when my wife and I were first married and moved to a new apartment. She had packed all her stuffed animals in a garbage bag, while I diligently cleaned the apartment. You know where this is going, right? She's never let me forget it. I like to think that by putting that idea in 'Toy Story 3,' I've at least immortalized her toys and their untimely demise at the landfill wasn't in vain."

Lee admits the animators' research wasn't as exciting as in previous films – eating at four-star Parisian restaurants for "Ratatouille" or traveling to Venezuela for "Up." "We visited landfills and daycares for inspiration. Every daycare had dirty, unclothed baby dolls ... many broken or covered in pen marks. Funny thing is that they tower over all the other toys, which led us to the character of Big Baby." Fisher-Price's Chatter Telephone, another perennial classic, also showed up in daycares everywhere, making it another obvious choice.

Unglamorous as the settings may be, "Toy Story 3" still pushes the creative envelope. "Over the past 15 years, each film has surpassed the previous, both in technology and artistry. 'Ratatouille,' 'Wall·E,' and 'Up' are just gorgeous. My challenge with 'Toy Story 3' was taking advantage of our amazing artists while remaining true to the 'Toy Story' aesthetic." Lee worked with the production designer from the first two films to adhere to the same stylized, slightly caricatured look, while incorporating the Studio's more sophisticated texturing and lighting techniques.

Leading such a talented team of artists proved to be eye-opening for Lee. "This is the first film I directed solo, which forced me to step out of my comfort zone quite a bit, especially since it was a 'Toy Story' sequel. Directors often have lots of great ideas thrown at them from different people. Part of my job was to sort through and distill them into concepts that worked best for the story we wanted to tell. My favorite thing was pushing myself through the challenges ... difficult situations are always the most rewarding. Looking back, this was an amazing experience."

"I want audiences to be entertained and feel it's worthy of sitting alongside the first two 'Toy Story' films. Hopefully they'll also look at their own lives a bit – I think that's the hallmark of a good story. We've explored mortality and the idea of change, hitting different phases of life and coping with it. The characters, both toy and human, go through a lot and find the most important thing for them is family. I hope people can relate to that idea."
Marcio Disneymarciodisney@gmail.comdirectorleeunkrichtalkstoystory32http://sites.google.com/feeds/content/site/marciodisney/43525018238727246082010-05-27T02:59:26.629Z2010-05-27T03:31:44.322Z2010-05-27T03:31:44.244ZDirecting an Epic Adventure – Mike Newell on "Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time"

Jake Gyllenhaal and Gemma Arterton star as Dastan and Princess Tamina in Disney's "Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time" – In Theaters May 28."I thought my job was to make it all feel real to an audience, so they wouldn't stand outside the story saying 'Look what they're doing now! My word, don't they think they're clever?'" so says acclaimed director Mike Newell, discussing his new film "Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time," an epic adventure inspired by the classic video game. Opening Friday, "Prince of Persia" features the sumptuous sweep of a classic adventure film surrounding a story of magic, combat, adventure ... and a mystical dagger that defies the laws of time itself. Prince Dastan and Princess Tamina journey through mystical lands of ancient Persia, battling assassins and dark magic, to recover that magic dagger, and discover love, treachery, and responsibility (plus a little ostrich racing for good measure).

With so much action and fantasy, "Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time" is great fun to watch – and according to Mike, great fun to make. "In this film, we were able to do huge, epic things like cavalry charges and the attack on a city and these huge magic sequences. It has all the elements of a big epic drama – it has a very good romance, there is some marvelous comedy. It is obviously a dream for people who enjoy combat and athleticism, but it is all rolled into this epic fable." It is also a film that brings the impossible to magnificent life on-screen, with stunning visual moments. However, as his comment above suggests, he wanted the movie to be more than a festival of special effects, leaving audiences exclaiming "Don't they think they're clever!"

Over his career, Mike has crafted many intimate dramas, and he understood that casting great actors was key to giving the universe of "Prince of Persia" heart and depth. His first choice for Prince Dastan was an acclaimed actor not known for his action credentials. "I knew that I'd better have somebody in mind when I talked with Jerry Bruckheimer and Disney, so rather surprisingly, I suppose, I came up with Jake [Gyllenhaal]," he explains. "I thought he was a marvelous actor, absolutely terrific. I thought he looked exactly the way you would want a kid who is a kind of rebel, and as if he had come from the streets, rather than being an aristocrat. I didn't know whether he could do the athleticism, but by main force of will he taught himself to be the kind of athlete he needed to be for an action picture! He gave us this dynamic cocktail of acting and sensitivity on the one hand, and real tough stuff on the other."

Equally important was the role of Princess Tamina. "I went all around the world and looked at Iranian girls, Egyptian girls, Israeli girls, I was going to go to Bollywood ... but then one day in walked [Gemma Arterton]," says Mike – and he knew at once that he had his princess.

Mike placed his talented cast, also including legendary actors Ben Kingsley and Alfred Molina, in a world that, although fantastic, is grounded in a lot of genuine elements. Much of the stuntwork was inspired by the French street sport parkour, which Mike describes as "broadly speaking, throwing yourself off a roof and living to tell the tale!" The great parkour expert David Bell worked with the film crew to teach the stunt crew – and Jake – to perform the jaw-dropping leaps you see on-screen. Mike assures that "They were actually doing these stunts – as was Jake, from time to time. Jake was very involved in doing this stuff!"

The otherworldly scenery of "Prince of Persia" was actually created by using the very real landscapes in the Atlas Mountains of Morocco, where the crew braved temperatures above 130 degrees, torrential rainstorms followed by flash floods, and what Mike airily describes as "a snake or two and a scorpion or two." By the end of some days, the crew found their eyes crusted almost shut by dried salt. However, the payoff is on the screen, in stunning vistas of mountain and rock. Plus, Mike found Morocco and its people enchanting. "Every one of the extras was a full-on actor, and they were just great. All the costume makers and the weapons makers were all hugely skillful. We had a lot of that work done locally [while in Morocco]. And all the technical people as well. I'd go back like a shot!"

Even the film's hilarious ostrich-racing sequence was achieved by placing jockeys on trained ostriches – no computer wizardry here! Although Mike admits it wasn't easy working with animals whose "brains weigh less than their eyeballs."

In the end, Mike says, what brings the film to life is what you don't see on-screen. "There's a huge number of interlocking people and talents without whom the film could not have been as it is. Every time a sword is used, that sword had to be designed by an armorer – and a very good armorer, too. The sets are imaginative projections of what reality might have been, but they're not simply taken from a book – everything has to be imagined. So those guys whom you never see, the designers and armorers and second-unit directors and assistant directors – have to be enthused about the movie or it simply will be dull. Those guys need a big loud round of applause for this film!"

When the curtain rises on "Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time," this Friday, May 28, that applause should be very loud indeed.
Marcio Disneymarciodisney@gmail.comdirectinganepicadventure–mikenewellonprinceofpersiathesandsoftime1