Archive for Scott

Disney Movies Anywhere Adds Its First Multichannel Video Programming Distributor, Fios by Verizon, to Its Ever-Expanding Digital Footprint

Continuing efforts to provide more ways to buy and watch your favorite Disney, Pixar, Marvel andStar Wars movies at home or on the go, Disney Movies Anywhere today announces the addition of Fios by Verizon, the first multichannel video programming distributor to join its cloud-based digital movie service platform.

The launch coincides with today’s digital release of Disney’s hit film The Jungle Book.

Fios by Verizon customers in the U.S. can immediately, seamlessly connect their digital movie collections across the Disney Movies Anywhere ecosystem and watch them from the living room or a wide array of mobile devices, as well as purchase directly from Fios by Verizon on supported Disney Movies Anywhere platforms.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Fios by Verizon to our Disney Movies Anywhere experience,” said Dan Cohen, Executive Vice President, Pay Television and Digital Disney/ABC Home Entertainment and Television Distribution. “This is an invaluable addition as we continue to expand access and connect our customers with their digital movie collections across multiple platforms and devices.”

“Disney Movies Anywhere is the perfect fit for families on the go,” said Tricia Lynch, Executive Director, Content Strategy and Acquisitions for Verizon. “Disney Movies Anywhere will let Fios customers watch all their great Disney movies on their home TVs with Fios on Demand and on their phones or tablets with the Fios Mobile app – anywhere they are. We’re happy to partner with Disney on this ground-breaking innovation for our customers.”

With Disney Movies Anywhere, Fios by Verizon subscribers can enjoy an enriched home entertainment experience with easy access to family-friendly content and watch their interconnected Disney Movies Anywhere library of films through their existing set-top box.

In celebration of this partner launch, for a limited time Disney Movies Anywhere is offering a free digital copy of Disney•Pixar’s Monsters, Inc. to new and existing members who connect an iTunes, Amazon Video, VUDU, Google Play, Microsoft Movies & TV and now Fios by Verizon account to Disney Movies Anywhere. Offer is valid through September 7, 2016.

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3 Great Reasons to Buy Disney Stock Now

Walt Disney Co.(NYSE:DIS) stock has been as much of a delight to investors’ portfolios over the long term as its product offerings have been to people of all ages since its founding in 1923. It’s returned 222% over the 10-year period through Aug. 19, trouncing the broader market’s 108% return.

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Review – Wizard World Comic Con Chicago 2016

Well, another WizardWorld Comic Com is in the books.  WizardWorld Comic Con Chicago 2016 did not disappoint.  We have been attending this Con for several years, and it just seems to get better and better.  With over 100 panels to choose from there was literally something for everyone who loves comics, sci fi, TV and movie pop culture, WWE, and gaming.

The main floors were packed full of merchandise and artwork.  (I even found some merchandise from Hamilton-An American Musical!) The big draw this year was the “mystery box.”  If you are a gambler, this is the purchase for you.  Tshirts, action figures, and random fan favorite souvenirs were guaranteed in the various boxes.  We saw big crowds checking out those who took the plunge and bought a box.  So much fun!

If photos and autographs are your thing, then you certainly need to attend a WizardWorld Comic Con.  The lines of people were just bubbling with excitement as they waited to meet their favorite celebrities.  When we arrived Sunday morning, people were still gushing about the Back to the Future reunion. For those who saw the movie in an actual movie theater as part of our youth this was an outstanding panel.  We also caught a glimpse of some of our favorites from The Walking Dead.  WizardWorld Comic Con is perfect if you are a Daryl Dixon fanatic.

Our oldest daughter was so disappointed that she had to move in at college during WizardWorld Comic Con Chicago because she absolutely LOVES to Cosplay.  She was with us in spirit as we walked to main floors though.  If you are unfamiliar with the magic of Cosplay then I implore you to attend a Con.  People are so happy as they express themselves by dressing as their favorite characters.  We have literally seen our daughter come to life when others ask for a photo or compliment her Cosplay.  There were even panels that taught the basics of Cosplay including sewing and wigs.

Again, WizardWorld Comic Con Chicago had something for everything.  If you missed the Chicago convention, don’t worry.  You still have time to join other fans in this awesome experience as it moves around the country. Check out the WizardWorld website http://www.wizardworld.com for a location near you.  As the slogan goes, “beware of herds of nerds.”  I guarantee you will have a great time!

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Thirty years of Pixar: from Toy Story to Finding Dory, the studio’s biggest hits

Thirty years ago this week, Pixar released its first computer-animated short film, and therewith started a new era. To honour the anniversary, we compare the success of the 17 animated feature films published by Pixar in the last three decades.

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This incredible Disney employee was asked to retire but has showed up every day for 16 YEARS

They say if you do what you love, then you’ll never have to work a day in your life. For one Disney employee, that saying rings true. Even though 81-year-old Floyd Norman was fired from his job at the “happiest place on Earth,” he hasn’t stopped working at Disney studios in California.

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DON’T FORGET! ENJOY NEW ACTS AT LA NOUBA BY CIRQUE DU SOLEIL WITH HALF-PRICED TICKETS FOR KIDS

For a limited time, you can enjoy half-price savings off a child’s ticket for La Nouba™ by Cirque du Soleil® at Disney Springs™ when you purchase an adult ticket for shows through Dec. 16, 2016. Child-priced tickets start as low as $24 for Category 4 seats.

Whether you have seen La Nouba before or are first-timers, this is a great opportunity to escape to the wondrous world of make-believe. And, it’s a great time for you to experience the newest La Nouba acts – daring aerial bamboo artists and high-energy break dancers.

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CHECK OUT WHAT’S IN STORE FOR YOU AT DISNEY SPRINGS

As we’ve shared over the last several months, Disney Springs has doubled in size, growing from about 75 locations to over 150. There are now five James Beard-Award Wining Chefs represented on property (Chefs Art Smith, Rick Bayless, Masaharu Morimoto, Wolfgang Puck and Tony Mantuano) making Disney Springs an unparalleled destination for dining. And, the addition of over 50 total retailers has made the area a shopper’s delight. The waterfront property is a vibrant mix of stores, restaurants and entertainment spread through four distinct neighborhoods. Check out this quick look at what’s in store for you:

Town Center – The newest addition to Disney Springs is a shopping mecca that has recently welcomed over 30 new brands, including anchor stores UNIQLO, Anthropologie, UNDER ARMOUR BRAND HOUSE and ZARA. Pepper in new eateries like Sprinkles Cupcakes, Blaze Pizza, Amorette’s Patisserie and Frontera Cocina and you could easily spend a few hours in this neighborhood alone.

The Landing – Here you will find a diverse array of restaurants including Paradiso 37, The BOATHOUSE, Raglan Road, Morimoto Asia, STK Orlando and Chef Art Smith’s Homecoming, along with niche retailers such as The Art of Shaving, Havaianas and Chapel Hats, to name just a few.

Marketplace – This family-friendly spot for Disney lovers is home to World of Disney, the world’s largest Disney Merchandise store, plus other familiar favorites like The LEGO Store, Rainforest Café and Disney’s Days of Christmas. It’s a must-see destination for Clients visiting with little ones, thanks to the Marketplace Carousel and Train and the new Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique.

West Side – This lively entertainment hub has something for everyone. Options range from bowling at Splitsville Luxury Lanes to movies at AMC Dine-In Theatres, from “La Nouba” by Cirque du Soleil to five floors of gaming awesomeness at DisneyQuest. That’s in addition to some of the staples you’ll continue to find here: Fit2Run, Curl by Sammy Duvall, House of Blues, Wolfgang Puck and Bongos Cuban Café, for example.

And, whether you have a set itinerary for your visit or prefer to meander along and discover its charms as you stroll, Disney Springs is not-to-be-missed!

Remember, transportation is available from all Disney Resort hotels, and self-parking is complimentary on the surface lots and both parking garages, making the arrival experience easier and more convenient than ever.

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Can Walt Disney World really make a Guardians of the Galaxy theme park ride?

Is a Guardians of the Galaxy roller coaster about to replace Ellen’s Energy Adventure at Walt Disney World’s Epcot?

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Planet Hollywood Joins Forces With Celebrity Chef, Guy Fieri at Disney Springs

Planet Hollywood, America’s preeminent restaurant destination dedicated to celebrating the entertainment industry, announced today that dynamic chef, restaurateur and television personality Guy Fieriwill introduce a flavor-packed burger and sandwich menu as part of their larger menu offerings for the transformed Orlandoflagship location, set to reopen this fall as the Planet Hollywood Observatory at Disney Springs. Repeatedly at the forefront of industry trends, Robert Earl, the entrepreneur, restaurateur and star of the Cooking Channel’s “Robert Earl’s Be My Guest®,” reached out to Fieri because of their shared passion for food.  In addition to the section designed by Fieri, the Planet Hollywood Observatory will soon reveal the entire new menu featuring a wide variety of offerings and bold flavors.

Guy Fieri has created an impressive culinary empire and has built an incredible TV following with several food-themed shows, so it was a no-brainer to invite him to create a special menu for Planet Hollywood Observatory. This partnership only furthers our commitment to refresh our guest experience while continuing to offer freshly-prepared, pleasing dishes,” said Planet Hollywood International Founder and Chairman Robert Earl.

Fieri, a chef, entrepreneur and New York Times bestselling author, has brought his signature blend of authentic-meets-surprising flavors to new dishes such as the Prime Time American Kobe-Inspired Burger and the Turkey Pic-a-nic Sandwich, a perfect accompaniment to Planet Hollywood’s creamy hand-dipped milkshakes. The menu will also feature new over-the-top creations that will have guests craving more after the first bite.

“It’s awesome to be working with Robert Earl and the Planet Hollywood Team,” states Fieri. “For the Planet Hollywood Observatory, I’m bringing a big time burger and sandwich menu with real deal flavors for everyone.”

Opening this fall, the Planet Hollywood Observatory is centrally located and will overlook the heart of Disney Springs with a newly expanded outdoor terrace and bar. Within the sophisticated entertainment emporium, patrons of all ages will be invited to “Dine Amongst the Stars” through distinctive indoor and outdoor bar and lounge options, an imaginative new merchandise line, and a host of all-star celebrity collaborations.

New dining options will highlight Planet Hollywood’s timeless classics and introduce Fieri’s updated creations. A curated beverage program will feature a variety of milkshakes, smoothies, wines, bottled and draft beers, as well as cocktails served in specialty glassware to cater to the needs of all guests, from groups with small children to young adults and seniors. Spacious dining rooms ensure comfort for family meals while various bar spaces set the mood for a perfect date.

The exterior will be reminiscent of a turn-of-the-century observatory with a modern design aesthetic, while the interior’s refurbished upholstery, spherical planet-shaped lighting fixtures and stylish finishing will create a welcoming atmosphere for fans to celebrate a new generation of superstar entertainers.

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Countdown to 2016 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival: New Dining, Tasting and Chef Experiences Add Culinary Cachet

Top celebrity chefs, brand new Disney resort cooking and dining experiences and irresistible Eat to the Beat dining packages will add fresh twists to the 21st Epcot International Food & Wine Festival presented by Chase at Walt Disney World Resort.

The annual Disney celebration of global flavors, running 62 days from Sept. 14-Nov. 14, has become one of America’s top food festivals and features inspired sips and bites at more than 30 marketplaces. And for the second consecutive year, ABC’s Emmy Award-winning lifestyle series, “The Chew,” will produce a full week of programs from the festival. “Chew” hosts Mario Batali, Carla Hall, Michael Symon, Clinton Kelly and Daphne Oz will share their Disney culinary adventures and tasty recipes before Epcot audiences Oct. 5-7 in shows scheduled to air Oct. 10-14.

More news fresh from festival planners:

  • Iron Chefs Geoffrey Zakarian and Masaharu Morimoto, “Chopped” judge Maneet Chauhan and other celebrated chefs including Elliott Farmer and Graham Elliot will fire up the burners to host their very first festival special events. Other chef icons like Robert Irvine, Cat Cora, Norman Van Aken, Elizabeth Falkner, Buddy Valastro and Jamie Deen will return to entertain guests and inspire their palates at premium events that include Party for the Senses grand tastings featuring new entertainment.
  • Nearly 50 percent of the global marketplace food items are new or reimagined dishes. Just some of the new flavors include: hard soda floats at Desserts & Champagne, savory vegan “nachos” at the Greece marketplace, sweet quesitos with guava sauce at the new Islands of the Caribbean kiosk and peanut butter and white chocolate mousse at The Chew Collective. Festival guests can pair food with wines, beers, cocktails and ciders as they stroll the promenade guided by a complimentary festival passport.
  • First-time festival resort experiences include Brunch with a Twist at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa; Culinary Adventures with a Master Chef for a hands-on chef’s table experience in a professional working kitchen; The Secret of Flavor three-course lunch that gives guests a “sensory-food connection” at Yachtsman Steakhouse; and a tropical “Zombie” encounter during Behind the Scenes at Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort.
  • For a second year, global marketplaces will extend into Future World to offer a wider range of taste sensations. New this year in Future World are: The Chew Collective, the Wine & Dine Studio, Chocolate Studio and Greenhouse Guru; plus Islands of the Caribbean marketplace debuts in World Showcase.
  • Eat to the Beat Dining Packages give music fans a chance to guarantee seats at an Eat to the Beat concert and enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner at one of many popular Epcot restaurants, including Chefs de France, Le Cellier and Spice Road Table.
  • Speaking of Eat to the Beat, multiple new Eat to the Beat concert acts debut; fan favorites return to play 186 festival concerts in all –Wang Chung (Everybody Have Fun Tonight!) will open the Eat to the Beat concert series Sept. 14-15. Eight new acts in the concert series lineup — including Wang Chung, Plain White T’s, Delta Rae and Toad The Wet Sprocket – will rock their chart-topping tunes. Other popular acts, including Wilson Phillips, Boyz II Men and Jeffrey Osbourne, will return to the America Gardens Theatre stage this fall.
  • Celebrity chefs, wine experts and mixologists join the fun – Celebrities ranging from Rock Harper to master sommelier Andrea Robinson will share their food and beverage know-how during culinary demos, beverage seminars and a variety of other events spanning the festival’s 62 days.
  • The popular Festival Private Label California Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon are back and available by the bottle or by the glass.
  • Ratatouille returns — Chef Remy of “Ratatouille” returns with his fun-for-the-family culinary scavenger hunt that features six brand-new collectible pins this year.
  • Festival Center buzzes with activity–Festival Center highlights will include new festival merchandise, the complimentary Back to Basics weekend series featuring epicurean tips and tricks from the pros, book and bottle signings and The Chocolate Experience: From Bean to the Bar, hosted by Ghirardelli and offering guest samples.
  • Premium events like Rockin’ Burger Block Party and Party for the Senses grand tastings will showcase creative bites and palate-pleasing sips from eminent chefs and beverage experts plus new live entertainment.
  • Intimate dining and tasting events to book will include the “Umami” Tokyo Pairing and other Epcot restaurant experiences as well as multi-course lunches and dinners at Disney Springs and resort restaurants.
  • Members can rest and recharge at the Chase Lounge – Chase debit and credit card members –including Disney Visa card members — will find complimentary non-alcoholic refreshments, a charging station and comfortable seating for a relaxing break at the Chase Lounge at The American Adventure pavilion.

Included with Epcot Admission:

Back to Basics series, special book signings, Eat to the Beat concerts, cultural adventures, Festival Passport and all attractions and park entertainment are included with regular Epcot admission.

Special Programming by Reservation:

The Party for the Senses and Rockin’ Burger Block Party grand tasting events, signature dinners and other special wine and culinary programs require reservations and separate event admission. Guests can call 407/WDW-FEST (939-3378) for reservations and get details at epcotfoodfestival.com.

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