Mickey Mouse Clubhouse: I ♥ Minnie

A new home video from Walt Disney Studios releases this Tuesday, February 7, 2012. Featuring five fun-filled episodes and one special bonus feature that underline the themes of friendship, teamwork, sharing and problem solving, MICKEY MOUSE CLUBHOUSE: I ♥ MINNIE was a sure hit with my little girl and is bound to become a favorite in your home too.

• Mickey Mouse and his Clubhouse friends are planning a surprise party for Minnie’s Birthday. My daughter was truly worried they wouldn’t be able to keep Minnie occupied while they got ready. She worried along with Minnie too, who thought her friends had forgotten her special day, but a happy ending brought a smile back to her face.
• When Daisy discovers her shoe is broken, the Clubhouse friends get creative. My daughter felt like she was really helping with her suggestions on how to fix it, and she had a great time learning the steps to Daisy’s Dance.
• The Pet Parade is almost here, and everyone has a pet to pamper except Daisy. My daughter, who recently got her very own puppy, absolutely loved this episode, because Daisy ends up keeping not just one but three adorable critters for Daisy’s Pet Project.
• Minnie and her friends follow the colorful rainbow that has appeared over the clubhouse and encounter a mischievous leprechaun along the way. At first, my daughter was irritated by the leprechaun, because he kept thwarting their plans, but in the end she and the Clubhouse gang were pleasantly surprised by the special treasure waiting at the end of Minnie’s Rainbow.
• The flower festival is fast approaching, but Minnie’s and Daisy’s flowers won’t bloom. My daughter wanted to run to the store and buy them a bouquet! But in this all new, never-before-seen episode, the two friends are able to coax the clouds to rain on Minnie & Daisy’s Flower Shower. 

The bonus episode makes it personal. You’re Invited to Minnie’s Birthday Party  lets your children join the celebration. My daughter really enjoyed using Toodles’ Mouseketools to RSVP to the invitation, choose the perfect gift for Minnie and decorate a party hat. She made a pink hat with lots of colorful polka dots and oodles of sparkly glitter. She thought Minnie would approve and wished Minnie could see her through the television. The episode ties in to Minnie’s Birthday, wishing the Guest of Honor special birthday wishes.

We were excited to see the bonus sneak peeks at the upcoming Disney Studios All Access offers, Lady and the Tramp and Lady and the Tramp II: Scamp’s Adventure DVD/Blu-ray releases, Lion King 1-1/2 and Lion King 2 combo pack DVD release, and Cinderella DVD/Blu-ray diamond edition, as well as a look at some brand new features that are in the works: Brave (coming to theaters Summer 2012 from Disney-Pixar), Planes (coming to theaters Spring 2013 from Disney-Pixar), and Tinker Bell Secret of the Wings (coming soon to DVD). A Digital Copy is also included for computer download, so we can watch our favorite episodes on the go, but my daughter was most excited about the two complimentary Best Friend necklaces that are packaged with MICKEY MOUSE CLUBHOUSE: I ♥ MINNIE, providing a keepsake memento to share with her BFF. 

Don’t let the party start without you!

For more information on MICKEY MOUSE CLUBHOUSE: I ♥ MINNIE, see press release.

In the next series of iPad apps that I’m reviewing, today I’m going to share with you my impressions of Disney Publishing Worldwide Applications app “Toy Story Showtime“, which is available for $4.99 at the iTunes Store.  Similar to Pooh’s Birthday Surprise, which I recently reviewed, the Toy Story app is an interactive storybook app, designed to help early readers develop some good reading skills while having fun at the same time!  The plot behind the story revolves around all of your favorite Toy Story characters, who are excited because Dolly declares that they should put on a Talent Show!  This excites everyone — except Buzz — who tries to think of all sorts of ways that he can impress Jessie.

What will Buzz do for the talent show?

In the scene above, a spotlight shines, and your child (or you, if you prefer) can move the spotlight around to the other characters, and when it lands on them, you’ll see what they are practicing for the show!

Look at Woody and Bullseye go!

As Buzz checks out what all the others are doing, and comes up with ideas similar to what they are doing (but with him in the scene instead of them), the talent show time gets closer and closer.  Finally, the time has arrived! However, as soon as the music is turned on, a funny thing starts to happen to Buzz.  He starts to dance!

Fortunately for Buzz, Jessie is there to encourage him, and he relaxes and starts dancing to the music!

Buzz takes a bow!

Being interactive, there are several scenes where you can do things with the characters in the book.  Anytime you see golden circles by a character, as illustrated in the image below, you can tap on one of the characters, and they will do a special move.

Touch the circles to see a special action take place.

At the end of the story, you are given a chance to play some special games.  In one of the games, you are told what move Buzz needs to make, and you tap the appropriate move on the screen, as you can see below in this screen shot.

Can you match up the correct dance move for Buzz?

In this next game, you are able to pick moves that you want to see Buzz perform, and then at the end, you press the play button to make Buzz perform your dance steps!

What Dance is Buzz going to perform for Jessie -- you pick the moves!

As with Pooh’s Birthday Surprise, this interactive storybook is for a younger reader, but it should provide plenty of interactive fun for them!

Related articles

• It’s Toy Story Showtime! New Disney Storybook App (chipandco.com)

Episodes & Reels is delivering our monthly Top 10 List a little differently this time around.  We have posted one entry in the countdown each night from Jan 23 – Feb 3 on Chip and Co and now it’s time to finally reveal #1!  Here is our choice for the #1 animated Disney film of all-time:

Toy Story, 1995

#1 -  TOY STORY (1995)
Stars: Tom Hanks, Tim Allen
Director: John Lasseter
Rating: G

To put it simply – this one changed the animation game forever.  Disney/Pixar now has 12 feature films on their resume, with 2 more on the horizon (Brave and Monsters University).  With each of their releases, Pixar seems to elevate the digital animation bar even higher constantly topping themselves (and everyone else in the industry).  Much like our #3 entry (Snow White) changed the traditional hand-drawn, brush-stroked animation forever thrusting us into over 75 years of wonderful cartoons and animated films, Toy Story has done the same with digital or computer-generated animation.  As I already mentioned on this list, I had to limit myself from including more than 3 Pixar films, because if not they would have dominated this countdown.  I would say that at least 5 or 6 of their productions could’ve easily made my top 10 animated films of all-time – they are just that innovative and simply put, good.  Not only is Toy Story a trendsetter and mentor to anything that exists in digital animation today, but it is also a family friendly story of friendship that can easily be enjoyed by any generation.  As a kid, who didn’t talk to their dolls or toys, even if just to have a simple tea-party?  Well, what if those toys came to life at night or when we were gone?  I’m sure every child’s imagination has run in that direction, and with Toy Story we saw it come to life like never before.  With celebrity voices like Tim Allen (Buzz) and the legendary Tom Hanks (Woody) on board, as well as two sequels that are just as good (some may say even better) as the original, this animated giant is destined to remain one of the greatest animated franchises ever created.

We hope you enjoyed our Top 10 Countdown of Disney’s best movies.  Need a re-cap?  Just click HERE to view the entire Top 10 List at Episodes & Reels, and if you’re up for it “Like” us on facebook.

Watch the TOY STORY Trailer

Episodes & Reels is delivering our monthly Top 10 List a little differently this time around.  We will post one entry in the countdown each night from Jan 23 – Feb 3 on Chip and Co until we finally reveal #1!  Now back to the countdown with our #5 animated Disney film of all-time:

Monsters Inc, 2001

#5 -  MONSTERS INC. (2001)
Stars: John Goodman, Billy Crystal
Directors: Pete Docter, David Silverman
Rating: PG

By 2001, Disney/Pixar already had six years of pitch-perfect animated storyboards under their belt featuring the Toy Story franchise and A Bug’s Life (1998).  But, this was the year that it all got kicked up a notch with their instant-classic, Monsters Inc.  Did your kids (or you) ever get scared at the thought of monsters under the bed or in the closet?  Did you ever hear that the “boogie man” was going to get you?  Well, the genius minds over at Pixar thought up the brilliant faux world of “Monstropolis,” where these monsters are actually more afraid of humans, in particular young children, than we ever were of them.  It acts as not only a triumphant and hilarious Disney film, but also a lesson for kids that they don’t have to be afraid.  Somehow they got the animation even better as this was their most crisp and colorful yet.  Disney once again implored celebrities to voice the main characters, led by John Goodman and Billy Crystal.  With the announcement of a “pre-quel” that is being released in 2013 (Monsters University), this movie franchise will prove to be so-good-it’s-scary.

Watch the Trailer

Check back tomorrow night for our #4 entry, and check us out on facebook.

Episodes & Reels is delivering our monthly Top 10 List a little differently this time around.  We will post one entry in the countdown each night from Jan 23 – Feb 3 on Chip and Co until we finally reveal #1!  Now, on to our #9 animated Disney film of all-time:

The Incredibles, 2004

#9 – THE INCREDIBLES (2004)
Stars: Craig T. Nelson, Holly Hunter
Director: Brad Bird
Rating: PG

Ok, I had to limit myself to just three Disney/Pixar films for the top 10, of which The Incredibles is the first.  Down the line, I will make a top 10 of solely Pixar movies, but for now I wanted to be fair to the rest of the world of Disney animation and hold back.  Disney/Pixar have been trend-setters and innovators since the early 1990s thanks to basically creating digital animation (at least on a broad media scale).  In 2004 they merged the world of digital animation with the world of comic book/superhero lore.  What we got was one of the most exciting, funny, heart-felt and triumphant movies in Disney’s illustrious catalog.  The Incredibles features a family of superheroes who are trying to live everyday lives with the rest of the commoners.  However, when “Mr. Incredible” (voiced by Craig T. Nelson) becomes restless and begins to miss his crime-fighting days, hilarity and adventure take over and the family must come together like never before.  The animation is stellar and among one of the best of all-time.  This movie was also named #3 on my top 10 superhero movies (read the full top 10 Superhero here).

Watch the Trailer

Check back tomorrow night for our #8 entry, and check us out on facebook.

Beauty and the Beast 3-D (Jan 13)

Walt Disney Animation Studios’ magical classic “Beauty and the Beast” returns to the big screen in Disney Digital 3D, introducing a whole new generation to the Disney classic with stunning new 3D imagery. The film captures the fantastic journey of Belle (voice of Paige O’Hara), a bright and beautiful young woman who’s taken prisoner by a hideous beast (voice of Robby Benson) in his castle. Despite her precarious situation, Belle befriends the castle’s enchanted staff—a teapot, a candelabra and a mantel clock, among others—and ultimately learns to see beneath the Beast’s exterior to discover the heart and soul of a prince.

The Secret World of Arrietty (Feb 17)

Residing quietly beneath the floorboards are little people who live undetected in a secret world to be discovered, where the smallest may stand tallest of all. From the legendary Studio Ghibli (Spirited Away, Ponyo) comes “The Secret World of Arrietty,” an animated adventure based on Mary Norton’s acclaimed children’s book series “The Borrowers.”

John Carter (March 9)

From Academy Award-winning filmmaker Andrew Stanton comes “John Carter”—a sweeping action-adventure set on the mysterious and exotic planet of Barsoom (Mars). “John Carter” is based on a classic novel by Edgar Rice Burroughs, whose highly imaginative adventures served as inspiration for many filmmakers, both past and present. The film tells the story of war-weary, former military captain John Carter (Taylor Kitsch), who is inexplicably transported to Mars where he becomes reluctantly embroiled in a conflict of epic proportions amongst the inhabitants of the planet, including Tars Tarkas (Willem Dafoe) and the captivating Princess Dejah Thoris (Lynn Collins). In a world on the brink of collapse, Carter rediscovers his humanity when he realizes that the survival of Barsoom and its people rests in his hands.

Chimpanzee (April 20)

Disneynature takes moviegoers deep into the forests of Africa with “Chimpanzee,” a new True Life Adventure introducing an adorable baby chimp named Oscar and his entertaining approach to life in a remarkable story of family bonds and individual triumph. Oscar’s playful curiosity and zest for discovery showcase the intelligence and ingenuity of some of the most extraordinary personalities in the animal kingdom. Working together, Oscar’s chimpanzee family—including his mom and the group’s savvy leader — navigates the complex territory of the forest.

Marvel’s The Avengers (May 4)

The Avengers is an upcoming American superhero film produced by Marvel Studios and distributed by Walt Disney Pictures¹, based on the Marvel Comics superhero team of the same name. It is the sixth installment in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, which crosses over several Marvel superhero films including Iron Man (2008), The Incredible Hulk (2008), Iron Man 2 (2010), Thor (2011) and Captain America: The First Avenger (2011). The film is written and directed by Joss Whedon and features an ensemble cast, which includes Robert Downey, Jr., Chris Evans, Mark Ruffalo, Chris Hemsworth, Scarlett Johansson, Jeremy Renner and Samuel L. Jackson. In The Avengers, Nick Fury, director of the peacekeeping organization S.H.I.E.L.D., recruits Iron Man, Hulk, Thor, and Captain America to save the world from destruction.

Brave (June 22)

Merida is a skilled archer and impetuous daughter of King Fergus and Queen Elinor. Determined to carve her own path in life, Merida defies an age-old custom sacred to the uproarious lords of the land: massive Lord MacGuffin, surly Lord Macintosh and cantankerous Lord Dingwall. Merida’s actions inadvertently unleash chaos and fury in the kingdom, and when she turns to an eccentric old Witch for help, she is granted an ill-fated wish. The ensuing peril forces Merida to discover the meaning of true bravery in order to undo a beastly curse before it’s too late.

The Odd Life of Timothy Green (August 15)

Academy Award nominated director/writer Peter Hedges (Dan in Real Life, Whats Eating Gilbert Grape?) brings enchantment to the screen with The Odd Life of Timothy Green, an inspiring, magical story about a happily married couple, Cindy and Jim Green (Jennifer Garner and Joel Edgerton), who cant wait to start a family but can only dream about what their child would be like. When young Timothy (CJ Adams) shows up on their doorstep one stormy night, Cindy and Jim and their small town of Stanleyvillelearn that sometimes the unexpected can bring some of lifes greatest gifts.

Finding Nemo in 3-D (September 14)

Classic tale we all know and love!

Frankenweenie (October 5)

Frankenweenie is an upcoming 3D black and white stop motion film and remake of the 1984 short film of the same name. Like the 1984 version, it is a parody of and an homage to the 1931 film Frankenstein based on Mary Shelley’s book of the same name In the film, a boy named Victor loses his dog and uses the power of science to bring it back to life. Once the others learn of his secret, they set out to create their own monsters, each based on their respective pets and personalities. It is being directed and produced by Tim Burton, and it is scheduled for release on October 5, 2012.

Wreck-It Ralph (November 2)

Wreck-It Ralph is an upcoming 2012 3D computer-animated feature film produced by Walt Disney Animation Studios and directed by Rich Moore, a former animation director of The Simpsons and Futurama. Its working titles were Joe Jump and Reboot Ralph. It will be the 52nd animated feature in the Walt Disney Animated Classics series. The film will feature the voices of John C. Reilly, Jack McBrayer, Jane Lynch and Sarah Silverman. The film tells the story of Wreck-It Ralph (Reilly), an arcade game bad guy, who is determined to prove he can be a good guy.

Related articles

• Pixar’s The Brave Trailer & Synopsis (chipandco.com)
• Beauty & the Beast Real 3D is coming January 13th, 2012 (chipandco.com)

Marvel and Disney announced today that they’ll be working together to publish the wildly popular ‘Toy Story’ series in a brand new comic series. With Marvel now part of Disney, this is a great way for Disney to continue telling stories from some of their favorite characters. Here’s hoping that this leads to a relaunch or continuation of the BOOM! Studios Disney Afternoon series featuring ‘Darkwing Duck’, ‘Ducktales’, and ‘Chip and Dale: Rescue Rangers’. All the series just recently wrapped, ending with a crossover between ‘Darkwing Duck’ and ‘Ducktales’ in an arc called ‘Dangerous Currency’. I really like that Marvel and Disney will be working together now to bring us new stories featuring some of the characters. It really shows that Marvel and Disney are working very much in harmony together, and both parties are really benefiting from the merger. Can’t wait to see how the series turns out. Check out the full press release after the jump.

Marvel and Disney Publishing Launch All-New TOY STORY #1 Comic

Buzz Lightyear, Woody, and the rest of the gang lead readers to infinity and beyond as Marvel and Disney Publishing debut TOY STORY #1 (of 4). Featuring Toy Story characters from the Disney-Pixar films, Toy Story #1 delivers entirely new content and stories to comic fans.

“Everyone loves Toy Story, so we’re excited to team with our friends at Disney-Pixar to bring readers all new stories of our favorite characters from these blockbuster films,” said Axel Alonso, Editor in Chief, Marvel Entertainment. “TOY STORY allows us to bring great new material to the market that’s not only perfect for kids, but also a great read for fans of all ages. What’s next for Woody and Buzz in these stories? We can’t wait for you to find out!”

Andy’s new puppy, Buster, loves to play with toys — but if Woody, Buzz and the gang can’t control the playful pooch, all that chewing and shaking will leave them in a world of hurt! Will our heroes make it through in one piece with batteries intact? Find out this March in TOY STORY #1!

TOY STORY #1

Written by TEA ORSI

Penciled by ANTONELLO DALENA & TERESA QUEZADA-GEER

Cover by MARCO GHIGLIONE & SILVANO SCOLARI

All Ages…$2.99

ON-SALE IN MARCH 2012

Related articles

• Boom! Comic Studio Ends ‘Ducktales’ and ‘Darkwing Duck’ Comics With a Crossover (chipandco.com)
• New Disney/Pixar Game ‘Rushing’ Over To XBox 360 (pixartimes.com)

I recently had an opportunity to chat with actress Amy Smart who stars in the new ABC Family Original Movie 12 Dates of Christmas along side co-star Mark-Paul Gosselaar. The interview was originally slated to be a solo call for Amy, however during the interview she was “punked” by Gosselaar. The interview originally aired on Sorcerer Radio’s “WDW Tiki room” show December 9, 2011 and will soon be available for download on the Sorcerer Radio Network’s “Weekend Expedition” Podcast (SRSounds.com).

Amy Smart best known for her role in the film The Butterfly Effect opposite Ashton Kutcher started gaining attention in the late 1990′s in Starship Troopers and hit teen films Varsity Blues and Outside Providence. Smart also appeared in the series Felicity, as a girlfriend of Scott Foley’s character. More recently she co-starred with Ryan Reynolds in the romantic comedy film Just Friends, the sitcom Scrubs, Crank, and Crank: High Voltage. She also voices characters in the animated series Robot Chicken.

Mark-Paul Gosselaar is perhaps best known for his roles as Zack Morris in NBC’s Saved by the Bell. He is also known for his dramatic portrayal of Detective John Clark in NYPD Blue, Jerry Kellerman in TNT’s Raising the Bar, and more recently Peter Bash in TNT’s Franklin & Bash.

Here’s an excerpt of my interview with Amy and Mark-Paul for Sorcerer Radio and Chip and Company.

Aljon Go: What’s the story about?

Amy Smart: It’s about this journey of Kate Stanton who is really set in her ways and trying to make her life right and get her ex-boyfriend back. She journeys and figures out that the way her Type A personality is not actually helping her get what she truly needs in her life. Through the journey she takes, it allows her to see other people’s perspective and a window into how other people really are. It’s incredibly humbling and enlightening and fun, and a journey everyone takes where you think you know what you want and then something in your life makes you fall on your … and you can see clearer about what life is really about and what really matters.

Aljon Go: What was it about the character of Kate that kind of endeared you to the project?

Amy Smart: I really liked Kate because first of all, she has such a three-dimensional character. She’s still hopelessly in love with her ex-boyfriend and wants him back so badly. She’s stubborn. She’s work-driven and stubborn. She just wants what she wants. She kind of has that tunnel vision and doesn’t see past that.

What I liked about this project is that I liked that Kate has to go through this transformational journey where she is pushed to her limits and has to keep reliving Christmas Eve over and over and over again until she can start to expand her horizons and see that maybe what she thinks she needs is not really what she’s going after. She’s given this chance to explore other possibilities that are better for her and her life that open her up and humble her.

Aljon Go: Do you have a favorite scene in the film?

Amy Smart: I had such a great time working with Mark-Paul. He’s a wonderful actor and we had fun ice skating and being freezing at night walking down the street, and decorating Christmas trees, and picking them out. It’s hard to say because I really liked so many different scenes. I thought it was also fun when my character kept running into her ex-boyfriend and trying to fix—in order to fix her relationship with him so she can win him over and get him in the next night.

Aljon Go: What’s one of your favorite Christmas traditions?

Amy Smart: I love baking little Mexican wedding ball cookies. I love cooking during Christmas, all smells like the hot apple cider, the hot spiced wine.

Aljon Go: In the movie, your character relives Christmas Eve until she gets it right. If you could do over any one day in your life, which day would you choose?

Amy Smart: Wow. That’s a good question. It’s funny, because in hindsight, we have so much fear and anxiety about our future, the next day, or what’s happening in our lives. When you have that 20/20 hindsight that everything was going to be fine, you’re going to be okay, I don’t know of one specific day, but just trusting more in life and your journey.

I know that sounds airy-fairy, but really just knowing if I could go back and know everything was going to be okay in certain circumstances; not to stress out about it. I think if anything, the best gift we can have is living in the present moment and really enjoying it for what it is; and, not being in our heads and getting sidetracked.

Aljon Go: The movie is great fun.

Amy Smart: Thank you. It was the first film that I’ve ever done where I was in every single scene. I really poured my heart and soul into this film. Honestly, I loved the script. I thought all the characters were so three dimensional and they all have their own voice. I like any story that starts one place and really takes a huge journey to a whole new place; that people in their life want to take that journey. They want to be able to find things in their life that aren’t working and work through them to a new place of change.

Aljon Go: How much of your own personality is reflected in your character of Kate?

Amy Smart: I think as an actor, you naturally bring a lot of yourself, as much of yourself as you can in different circumstances. So, I focus more on what the differences are because I’ll inherently bring what I can relate to more so. I feel like there are definitely parts of Kate that I completely relate to, but not necessarily the parts where she has lost her mom and she’s grieving the loss of that and trying to find someone in her life so she won’t feel alone.

But, there were definitely parallels in my life during this film because I’d gotten out of a long-term relationship and fell in love with a new man who I married. So, I could relate to her on that place of spending so much time trying to make something work that wasn’t meant to work.

Aljon Go: As an actress, is there a particular comic inspiration for your work? Or, is there a particular actor that you draw influences from; especially in regards to taping this new Christmas classic, 12 Dates of Christmas?

Amy Smart: Honestly, there are so many wonderful female comediennes that I love. But, I’m not necessarily trying to copy any one. I feel like it really has to be an authentic experience yourself as an actor. So, I really find a lot of humor all over life. I love more than anything watching people be scared or trip and fall. I don’t know why, maybe it’s a bad thing. So, for me, it’s not necessarily that I’m trying to imitate or copy other amazing actors. But, I just try to have the experience myself.

Aljon Go: Is there a particular actor/actress that really makes you laugh out loud?

Amy Smart: Lucille Ball, who is so incredible and so over the top, but who could just hold that stage in all these funny, ridiculous scenarios. I think she was such a great woman to really bring comedy to females to start it off. There are tons of others. I thought Bridesmaids was such a funny, female driven comedy where all the women that you truly believe; they are such good actors because you really believe that they were living this hilarious journey.

Aljon Go: Did you have any issues with mixing up what you say in different scenes because they are so similar?

Amy Smart: That got really technical because it was the director, myself and the script supervisors really making sure that we, yes it was hard because there were just so many, it was written really well. So in the story and in the dialog, it’s all mapped out. But, as far as the attitudes and where she was at emotionally at that point, it was definitely challenging, too, to switch gears so many times.

Aljon Go: How did you get involved with the movie?

Amy Smart: I actually got offered this role. I read the script and I really, really loved it and wanted to do it. Then, I was so happy that Mark-Paul signed on to do it afterwards because I think he’s so talented. Everyone’s a huge Zack Morris fan. So, that’s kind of how I got involved.

Aljon Go: What’s your favorite holiday film?

Amy Smart: I have a few that I love. I really like A Christmas Story.

Mark-Paul Gosselaar (Surprise Guest Caller)
This is Miles Meyer from ABC’s Family. I have a question. Can you elaborate further on how talented and handsome your co-star, Mark-Paul Gosselaar, was?

Amy Smart: Mark-Paul is one of the nicest people I’ve ever met. He is such a generous actor, so caring. He definitely is a male. He’s not a boy. He’s a man.

Mark-Paul Gosselaar Oh, really? He’s a man. Yes. Oooh, that sounds so sexy. I mean the man has the nicest butt in Hollywood. Did you ever get a look at it?

Amy Smart: No. I did not. I’m sorry.

Mark-Paul Gosselaar Was he wearing snow pants?

Amy Smart: No. He wore jeans most of the time.

Mark-Paul Gosselaar Does he have nice feet?

Amy Smart: Honestly, I did not check out his feet.

Mark-Paul Gosselaar Yes, he’s got great hair, too. He’s just the perfect man.

Aljon Go: Amy, I think we have a mystery guest. The previous caller was actually complimenting himself.

Amy Smart: Are you serious?!

Aljon Go: Mark-Paul Gosseler has just surprised us on the line. Hello, Mark-Paul. How are you?

Mark-Paul Gosselaar Hi, Amy. It’s “Miles Meyer.”

Amy Smart: No way! I was like who is this crazy guy who wants to be Mark-Paul?

Mark-Paul Gosselaar I love how you didn’t want to take it at all. You’re like, “I have the feeling that you’re trying to get me to say really risqué stuff.” I was like, yes, I am. Oh, man.

Amy Smart: Oh, well, if it’s you.

Mark-Paul Gosselaar What do I call this? It’s like a photo-bomb, but it’s like an interview bomb.

Aljon Go: Mark-Paul, what was your favorite part about filming this movie?

Mark-Paul Gosselaar Well, it was a pleasure working with Amy. My co-star that I’m currently working with now worked with her and always spoke very highly of her. Working with her was a pleasure. So, the reason I came on board with this film was because she was attached to it. So, for her to follow-through with all the high praise that she’s gotten from so many people that I know was something that I appreciated. Yes, I think it shows on the film, too, that we enjoyed each other. We had a great working chemistry.

Aljon Go: What has been the best date that you’ve ever had?

Mark-Paul Gosselaar I don’t know. I haven’t dated a lot. I can’t really answer that question, but I would say that the date that my fiancée went on was pretty damn good and that’s why we’re still together now. Yes. I would say the date that I had with her.

Aljon Go: What are your favorite Christmas traditions?

Mark-Paul Gosselaar Usually decorating the tree after Thanksgiving. We just did that with the kids. I love the way the house smells during the holidays. We try to light as many scented Christmas-y candles as possible, the pine cones. We’ll put on the stove cinnamon and cloves and heat those up. I like the music, too. I just like the atmosphere of Christmas.

Aljon Go: How do you deal with a bad date? Have you ever been on a blind date and do you have any advice for people that have gone or will go on blind date or a date and how to deal with it if it turns south?

Mark-Paul Gosselaar I don’t like confrontation. I’ve been on a few bad dates, but nothing horrible, but knowing there was no chemistry there. I have such a hard time letting that person know that this is not going to work, unlike your character in the movie who was very honest and said this isn’t going to happen.

I tend to just put my head into the sand and hope it goes away, which sometimes makes it even worse. It elongates the issue. But, I tend to just turn my back and hope that the scary thing goes away.

Aljon Go: Amy, how about yourself?

Amy Smart: I, again, haven’t had as many dates because I’ve been in long term relationships, but I just remember this one date I went on that I had no interest. So, he was nice. But, I think it’s worth being kind to the person that you’re on a date with, but also being pretty honest so you don’t lead people on.

Aljon Go: If you could portray any Disney character, animal or human, in an upcoming remake what character would it be?

Mark-Paul Gosselaar Oh, wow. Amy, you got something off the top of your head while I think about that one?

Amy Smart: I’m sitting here thinking, you have The Little Mermaid.

Aljon Go: Yes, Little Mermaid. Absolutely. You could be Ariel.

Amy Smart: I would be Ariel. I love her.

Mark-Paul Gosselaar I’m trying to think. They’ve done The Jungle Book, right? They’ve made a remake of that.

Aljon Go: Well, if you like Mowgli, you could definitely do that if you wanted to (laughs).

Mark-Paul Gosselaar Yes. Mowgli—no, Mowgli has his shirt off. I don’t want to have to work out. Gosh. We’ll do The Little Mermaid together. You can be Ariel. I don’t even remember what her name was though.

Amy Smart: You could be Prince Eric.

Aljon Go: Ariel and you could be Prince Eric. How about that?

Mark-Paul Gosselaar What was it? It was Eric, really? Wow, look at that.

Amy Smart: I have to say I’ve thought of my favorite Christmas movie that I love to watch almost every Christmas, which is Christmas Vacation.

Mark-Paul Gosselaar The best. All right, Amy. I’ve got to go.

Amy Smart: All right. See you next week.

Aljon Go: Thanks for talking with us, Mark-Paul!

Mark-Paul Gosselaar All right. Cool. Thanks for letting me interview bomb you.

Aljon Go: Amy- You’ve been in so many different roles. Do you have a dream role or part that you would love to play?

Amy Smart: I don’t have a specific dream role that I would like to play. I just always yearn for new roles that have incredible actors and great writing that challenge me; that push me out of my comfort zone. So, for me, I really enjoy going back and forth through all the different genres from drama to horror to comedy to doing some—I always am drawn back to comedy to be honest. I love doing comedy. So, that would be probably my first thing. But, I would love nothing more than to work with the most incredible actors on some great piece of film.

Aljon Go: Can you talk about any other projects you’re currently working on?

Amy Smart: I actually just finished working on a horror film that the Japanese director Takashi Shimizu directed. He did The Grudge. It was with Leslie Bibb and Ryan Kwanten and a bunch of other great actors. It all takes place in an airplane. That comes out next August, I think.

Then, I had a re-occurring on the second season of Shameless. That’s really fun to work on.

Aljon Go: If you had to tell viewers one thing to get them to watch the film, what would it be?

Amy Smart: I think what’s endearing about this film is two people keep missing each other, who are meant to fall in love, but things keep going awry. It’s like this funny tale about two people wanting to connect and they always keep missing each other.

Tune-in to the world premiere of ABC Family’s New Original Movie 12 Dates of Christmas on Sunday, December 11th at 8/7c as part of the ABC Family’s 25 Days of Christmas!

25 Days of Christmas Official Site: http://abcfamily.go.com/specials/25-days-christmas

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Pixar’s Finding Nemo is a masterpiece and one of Disney’s most popular films! Disney and Pixar are brilliant in their ability to weave humor, drama, and touching storylines into beautiful films that every member of the family can enjoy.

Since Finding Nemo is so popular, I decided to have a little fun and mention a few things I learned from this magnificent film. So check out my Top 10 list of things I learned from Finding Nemo!

10.Fish are friends, not food. Towards the beginning of this film, Bruce showed us that even sharks engage in self-improvement and join support groups to deal with their issues. Just remember, “I am a nice shark, not a mindless eating machine.”

9. Clownfish are not very funny. But hey, we can’t blame Marlin because human clowns aren’t that funny either.

8. Fish are smarter than we are. Seriously. Ocean life must have a high literacy rate because all throughout this film, the intelligence of the characters continually brought me to shame. I mean, Nemo goes to school, the Tank Gang is highly knowledgeable in regards to dentistry, and Dory is both literate and bilingual. Remember, she speaks whale!

7. Anemones are valuable real estate. No real estate crisis here, unless you are trying to say anemone that is.

6. The life expectancy of sea turtles is surprisingly high. Still young at 150?  Sweeeet, dude!

5. Sea Gulls are the least intelligent of the bird world. Can you still hear that “Mine! Mine!” in your head? Me too.

4. Don’t shake the bag! Don’t be a Darla and don’t let your kids be one either. I mean, hasn’t Nemo gone through enough?

3. Fish are mentally and emotionally complex. Everyone probably felt like shedding a tear a time or two during this film, such as when Marlin lost his wife and when he grappled with letting his son grow up. Didn’t expect that kind of depth and angst from that goldfish of yours, did you?

2. Sea Turtles are the Dr. Spock’s of the ocean world. Need parenting advice? Find a laidback, surfing sea turtle to put things in perspective.

1. When life gets you down you should just keep swimming. Just keep swimming, swimming, swimming! Sometimes the wisest individuals are those you least expect.

Is Finding Nemo one of your favorite films? If so, leave us a comment and let us know!

Finding Nemo–The Musical

Beauty and the Beast, Finding Nemo, Monsters Inc., and Little Mermaid Will Make 3D Theatrical Debut in 2012 and 2013

Make Your Own Magic: Mickey Christmas Ornaments (aglassslippervacation.com)

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“The yuletide adventures of Christmas elves Lanny and Wayne continue this season. With the Big 2-5 fast approaching, Wayne and Lanny must race to recover classified North Pole technology that has fallen into the hands of a computer-hacking Naughty Kid! Desperate to prevent Christmas from descending into chaos, Wayne seeks out the foremost Naughty Kid expert to aid in the mission, a bombastic member of the Coal Elf Brigade who also happens to be his estranged brother, Noel.”

Disney Prep & Landing: Naughty vs. Nice (http://abc.go.com/shows/prep-and-landing/ ) airs tonight, December 5 @ 8:30pm/7:30pm Central.

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Most of you have already heard about the character situation at Disney’s Animal Kingdom…many of the characters are no longer going to be doing meet n’ greets at the popular character locations. When we heard this news there was no rumor of who would take the place of whom, but on the heels of what I can only assume was a huge backlash, Disney has thrown us a bone and announced that the characters from Pixars “UP” will soon be joining our friends at Animal Kingdom for meet n’ greets.

For some of you, Carl Fredrickson and Dug won’t ease your pain over the loss of Jiminy Cricket but the good news is at least it seems we might not be loosing as many characters as we thought…perhaps they are just relocating and bringing in fresh faces. Ok, that’s mostly probably a lie but I’ll miss Jiminy too!

This coming week Jiminy Cricket, Pochahontas, Turk, Lilo and Stitch will say goodbye to the Animal Kingdom. Along with the character loss “The Adventure Begins” welcoming show and the “Adventurers Celebration Gathering.”

What characters would you like to see come to Animal Kingdom?

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Yes you read that title right. Pixar is in the oil business but its not the Pixar that we all know and love. It seems Paramount Resources Ltd (which is obviously a rip off of Paramount Studios) is changing it’s name to Pixar Petroleum Corp. A sort of homage of sorts to the beloved Cartoon Studio.

Here is part of the press release:

Paramount Resources Ltd. (TSX:POU) (“Paramount” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce the reorganization of all of the Company’s oil sands and carbonate bitumen interests into a new wholly-owned subsidiary, Pixar Petroleum Corp. (“Pixar”). The reorganization is being undertaken to create a focused, self-funding oil sands entity in order to accelerate the development of Paramount’s bitumen interests. Dr. William Roach has been appointed as Pixar’s President and Chief Executive Officer. In addition, the initial independent resource estimates for the Saleski and other carbonate bitumen properties have now been completed and the Company is pleased to announce the results.

REORGANIZATION

Upon completion of the reorganization in early-December, all of Paramount’s oil sands and carbonate bitumen leases will be owned by Pixar – including Paramount’s Hoole and Saleski leases.

In total, Pixar will own approximately 275 sections of Crown oil sands leases in the western Athabasca region of Alberta, the majority of which are 100 percent owned. These leases are prospective in multiple formations, primarily for thermal in-situ development, but also have potential for cold production.

PIXAR’SEXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP TEAM

Mr. James Riddell, Paramount’s President and Chief Operating Officer, has been appointed the Executive Chairman of Pixar.

Dr. William Roach has been appointed President and Chief Executive Officer of Pixar. From 2004 to 2010, Dr. Roach served on the Board of Directors and as President and Chief Executive Officer of UTS Energy Corporation (“UTS”), which at that time was a publicly listed energy company focused on the exploration, development and production of oil sands deposits in the Athabasca Oil Sands Area of northeastern Alberta. During his tenure, the market capitalization of UTS increased from $50 million to over $1.75 billion. Prior to UTS, Dr. Roach had a successful 20-year career directing and managing the design, construction and delivery of large capital-intensive national and international upstream oil and gas projects. In the coming year, Dr. Roach will primarily focus on overseeing the submission of a development application for Pixar’s Hoole oil sands property and building the team necessary to execute that development.

Mr. Martin Sandell has been appointed Senior Vice President, Development of Pixar. Mr. Sandell was previously Vice President Engineering of UTS and has 25 years of experience leading large diverse oil and gas projects from conception to operation in Canada, the United Kingdom, the North Sea and the Gulf of Mexico.

Mr. William Robinson has been appointed Vice President, Geoscience of Pixar. Prior to joining Pixar, Mr. Robinson oversaw the exploration and delineation of Paramount’s oil sands assets.

PIXAR’S PROPERTIES

Pixar’s properties will include approximately 56 sections of land at Hoole, which are primarily prospective for bitumen in the Grand Rapids formation and the carbonate properties, which are primarily prospective for bitumen in the Grosmont formation. The carbonate properties will include approximately 15 sections of land at Saleski and 186 sections of land in other areas (the “Other Carbonate Leases”), including leases at Orchid, Granor and House. The new subsidiary will also own approximately 18 additional sections in the Athabasca Oil Sands Area of northeastern Alberta. Pixar’s near-term plans are expected to focus on the development of its 100 percent owned oil sands leases at Hoole and the further delineation of its carbonate bitumen leases at Saleski.

I don’t know about you but that is a dirty little trick to capitalize on the Disney Brand. Oh well I think I will go eat a Dove Ice Cream bar then jump in the shower and use my Dove Shampoo. (Not owned by the same Company)

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Disney releases Prep & Landing on DVD today.

Prep & Landing is an adorable holiday story about a high-tech team of elves who ensure homes around the world are properly prepared for their visit from Santa. After working for a tireless 227 years, an elf named Wayne (voiced by Dave Foley) is upset when he doesn’t receive an expected promotion. Instead he is partnered with an idealistic rookie elf named Lanny (voiced by Derek Richardson) to execute a special Christmas Eve mission. While on their journey, Wayne and Lanny encounter unexpected challenges that push them to their limits and ultimately threaten Christmas for children around the world. But in the end, these two elves work together to guide Santa through a raging snowstorm in order to save Christmas.

Prep & Landing – BONUS CLIPS!

“Dash Away”

“Secret Mission”

“Gift Exchange”

“Tiny’s Big Adventure”

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Beauty and the Beast 3D, 2012

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST (1991)
3-D Release Date: January 13, 2012
Stars: Paige O’Hara, Robby Benson
Directors: Gary Trousdale, Kirk Wise
Studio: Walt Disney Pictures

I have never made a blu-ray purchase quicker than the one I made on October, 5^th of last year when Disney released Beauty and the Beast from the dreaded Disney Vault.  I remember the date vividly because that also happened to be my daughter’s 9^th birthday, and of course she too loves the classic Disney movie just as much as I do.  Well, now the mastermind geniuses over at Disney are giving us another “red-letter date” to look forward to – January 13, 2012, when they will re-release Beauty and the Beast in theatres, and this time in 3-D!

Disney is obviously one of (if not the) the most well-known movie studios in the entire world.  Their niche in taking classic fairy tales and re-inventing them for new generations is unmatched by any other studio or franchise.  They have embedded Disney imagery in our minds with classics such as Snow White, Cinderella, Tangled, and of course, Beauty and the Beast.  The movie is a triumphant story of finding love in the most unexpected of places.  It is even more about friendship, companionship and the bond of family.  The classic fairy tale (originally written in 1740) is much darker, but of course Disney’s version is filled with nothing but joy and heartfelt emotion.  Belle is one of the most recognizable “Disney Princesses” of all-time, which is quite a feat since she is not really an actual Princess.  The movie is filled with colorful characters who are all household names – Lumiere (the candlestick), Cogsworth (the clock), Mrs. Potts (the teapot), Chip (the teacup) and the film’s token villain, Gaston, who is just as hilarious as he is sinister.

If you have small kids who have not yet experienced the classic film Beauty and the Beast, then Disney has just given you a real gift in the form of the re-release on January, 13^th of next year.  And, even if you or your kids have seen it, it has never been seen in 3-D before, and judging by the success of the 3-D release of Lion King recently, it will only come with a wave of fandom, both young and old, so get your tickets early and often, because if one thing is for sure, Beauty and the Beast will be a magical movie-going experience…again.

When visiting Walt Disney World’s Epcot, there are a few things that every guest “must-do” in order to have a true Epcot experience. So if you’re an Epcot rookie, or just a big fan, check out my list of Epcot “Must Dos!”

10. American Adventure-This spectacular audio-animatronic show, which serves as the American Adventure pavilion’s centerpiece, is hosted by Mark Twain and Benjamin Franklin and features stirring moments of our nation’s history. The American Adventure features amazing sets and audio-animatronics and is just as good, if not better, than the Magic Kingdom’s Hall of Presidents! It’s definitely a “must do” for any Epcot guest!

9. Ride the Monorail-While guests can enjoy the monorail at the Magic Kingdom or it’s deluxe resorts, perhaps no where else on property does this futuristic form of transportation look more at home than at Epcot! The monorail loop also encircles the park’s icon, Spaceship Earth, for an aerial view of Future World!

8. Living with the Land-This leisurely boat ride floats through scenes that educate guests about the land and how we use it. The highlight of this attraction is a float through the greenhouses where Epcot shows new, innovative ways to produce food and even real Mickey shaped pumpkins and tomatoes!

7. Chat with a World Showcase Cast Member-The Cast Members at the World Showcase pavilions are actually from the countries in which they are working! Not only are they there to help you, but they can also answer any questions you might have about their country and culture. Chatting with a Cast Member and learning about their country is an amazing cultural experience and what Epcot’s World Showcase is all about!

6. Eat a Pastry at Boulangerie Patisserie or Kringla Bakeri Og Kafe-These two bakeries, located at the France and Norway pavilions respectively, are famous at WDW! At these bakeries, you can enjoy treats that are both familiar to our tastes and native to France and Norway. Norway’s School Bread is famous among Disney regulars! You can also snack on sandwiches and other items at these stops as well.

5. The Seas with Nemo and Friends-This pavilion begins with a calm, colorful ride under the sea with characters from Pixar’s Finding Nemo! Towards the end of the ride, you will se Finding Nemo characters swimming in an aquarium with real fish! It’s a really cool effect! Once you exit the ride, you are free to explore the massive aquarium and pavilions showcasing ocean life. It’s a lot of fun for both adults and kids!

4. World Showcase-This part of Epcot is extremely popular and for good reason! Located around the World Showcase Lagoon, World Showcase consists of different pavilions representing different countries from around the world, as well as their architecture, cuisine, products, and history. It’s like a mini trip around the world in the heart of Disney magic!

3. Test Track-This popular Epcot attraction lets guests experience what it’s like to be a crash test dummy! (But don’t be concerned, no one gets hurt!) On this ride, guests get to experience what tests cars go through before they are approved for sale. Your car will go through terrain and brake tests, as well as a high speed ride outdoors where you will reach 65 mph! Test Track is a blast and is definitely an Epcot “must do!”

2. Soarin’-This attraction is one of Disney’s best and is extremely popular! On Soarin’, you get to experience what it’s like to hanglide over California. You truly feel like you are flying and the scenery on the screen before you is beautiful! Exhilaring, yet great for everyone in the family, Soarin’ is sure to be a favorite! Also, at the very end, you even get to fly over Disneyland during the fireworks!

1. Spaceship Earth-This attraction educates guests through history to educate riders about communication. This slow moving ride featuring scenes and audio-animatronics which really capture the spirit of Epcot and is great way to get off your feet! Wondering why it’s at the top our list? This ride is located inside of Epcot’s giant icon!

The next time you visit Epcot, be sure to enjoy these “must do” activities and attractions; and be sure to share with us if any of these are on your own “must do” list too!

Countdown to Disney: How You Know You’re at the Magic Kingdom (aglassslippervacation.com)

Disney World Fun Facts – Epcot

Epcot’s Future World (West)

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Disney’s Prep & Landing is coming to DVD just in time for the holidays. This modern take on Christmas first debuted on ABC in November 2009 and was the network’s first animated television special produced by Walt Disney Animation Studios.

Prep & Landing is a holiday story about a high tech team of elves that must prepare homes all over the world for the arrival of Santa. Their mission statement: Get in. Get out. Never be noticed. After working for a tireless 227 years, an elf named Wayne (voiced by Dave Foley) is upset when he doesn’t receive an expected promotion. Instead he is partnered with an idealistic rookie elf named Lanny (voiced by Derek Richardson) to execute a Christmas Eve mission. While on their journey, Lanny helps Wayne rediscover his love for his job while helping Santa get through a snowstorm to deliver a little boy’s Christmas gift.

Disney’s Prep & Landing has quickly become one of my favorites. This holiday special won an Emmy Award in 2010 for Outstanding Animated Program. The humor alone makes it worth while to watch and I have found myself quoting the movie on multiple occasions. One of my favorite parts is when the elves are revving the engines, the reindeer, for the sleigh. I could not stop laughing the first time I watched it and it is still funny after multiple viewings. I also really enjoyed the music from Michael Giacchino (Cars 2, Up, Ratatouille).

The DVD also includes several bonus features:
Prep & Landing Stocking Stuffer Shorts:

• “Tiny’s Big Adventure” – The assistant to the North Pole Christmas Eve Command Center is trying to make a pot of coffee and in the process, accidentally ruins the elves’ break room.
• “Operation Secret Santa” – Lead elves Lanny and Wayne are sent on a special assignment by Mrs. Clause (voiced by Betty White) into Santa’s office.
• Prep & Landing Kringle Academy Training Videos – Elf training videos shot in Santa’s workshop.
• Welcome to Kringle Academy
• Equipment Training
• Dos and Don’ts
• North Pole News – Newsreel with big stories for the tiniest elf.
• North Pole Commercials – Three ads straight from the North Pole.

I really liked the Stocking Stuffer Shorts. Tiny’s Big Adventure is short but sweet and funny. Operation Secret Santa is also a great addition to the DVD. Wayne and a nervous Lanny help Mrs. Clause retrieve something from Santa’s office. It is a heart warming short that illustrates the spirit of the Christmas season. The training videos and commercials are a fun addition but not something I would watch multiple times.

The DVD also features Disney’s FastPlay which lets you watch the feature and the bonus features from beginning to end without having to touch a button on your remote. It is a nice touch since the running time for Prep & Landing is only 22 minutes.

You can pick up your copy of Disney’s Prep & Landing on November 22, 2011. As Lanny would say, that is so tinsel!

For more information on the release you can visit www.disney.com/PrepandLanding.

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Last week we reported on this new Toy Story Toon that will be playing before the Muppets. We were able to get our hands on a Sneak Peek of Small Fry below. I hope you enjoy it!

Buzz Lightyear is left behind at a fast food restaurant when a kids’ meal toy version of Buzz takes his place. While Bonnie’s toys are stuck with the annoying three-inch-tall Buzz impersonator, the real Buzz is trapped in therestaurant at a support group for discarded toys. As Woody and the gang devise a way to rescue their friend, Buzz tries to escape the toy psychotherapy meeting.

“Small Fry” is scheduled to release in cinemas with Disney’s “The Muppets” on February 10, 2012.

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In anticipation of Disney’s November 22nd release of Prep & Landing on DVD, check out these film and bonus clips that are sure to put you and your family in the holiday spirit!

“Prepping The House”

“Dash Away”

“Secret Mission”

“Gift Exchange”

“Tiny’s Big Adventure”

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Merida is a skilled archer and impetuous daughter of King Fergus and Queen Elinor. Determined to carve her own path in life, Merida defies an age-old custom sacred to the uproarious lords of the land: massive Lord MacGuffin, surly Lord Macintosh and cantankerous Lord Dingwall. Merida’s actions inadvertently unleash chaos and fury in the kingdom, and when she turns to an eccentric old Witch for help, she is granted an ill-fated wish. The ensuing peril forces Merida to discover the meaning of true bravery in order to undo a beastly curse before it’s too late.

Brave opens in US theatres June 22, 2012.

Like Brave on Facebook: https://facebook.com/PixarBrave

Official Brave Website: http://disney.com/Brave

Celebrating the journey of its Disney•Pixar Cars die-cast vehicle collection, Mattel, the #1 toy maker, will unveil a one-of-a-kind exhibit at Los Angeles’ iconic Petersen Automotive Museum beginning November 12, 2011 appropriately titled: From Silver Screen to Die-cast: Disney•Pixar Cars Imagined by Mattel.

Sincethe launch of the first Cars film in June 2006, Mattel has produced more than 200 million die-cast Cars vehicles featuring more than 500 unique designs that represent the many beloved characters from the films. This special exhibit, that will be part of the Petersen Automotive Museum’s “Hollywood Gallery,” includes a comprehensive collection of the Disney•Pixar Cars die-cast vehicles and gives Cars fans and collectors an entertaining and informative glimpse into the history of Mattel’s blockbuster toy line.

Exhibit highlights include:
• Diorama Movie Scene Recreations Featuring Cars Vehicles: Hundreds of die-cast vehicles representing the many beloved characters from Cars and Cars 2 – from the popular Lightning McQueen and Mater to the big-wheeled Haulers and their corresponding racers. Each display showcases the character’s distinct automobile model and design bringing their personalities and storylines to life.

• Rare and Never-Before-Seen Cars Vehicles: Highlights of some of the most exclusive and never released Cars die-cast vehicles such as the elusive “Apple Car” from the Speedway of the South set, to special collections never released to the general public including Trev Diesel and others. Each display also features the behind-the-scenes stories that make these collectibles so rare.

• Evolution of Cars Die-cast Packaging: Display features the evolution of the Mattel product packaging from the original Cars design introducing fans to Radiator Springs in 2006, to how the franchise’s unique merchandising revolutionized the die-cast packaging category.

• Cars Super Chase Die-cast Collection: For the die-hard collector, a first look at Mattel’s ultra-exclusive 2012 line of die-cast cars that will feature one-time only, limited-run vehicles of very special Cars 2 characters. Display will include first Super Chase vehicle to launch – Flash – inspired by the real-life race car driver exclusively featured in the Swedish version of Cars 2.

• Lightning McQueen Alive Showcase: A celebration of the innovative technology used to authentically bring the big personality of Lightning McQueen from the film screen into the playroom in miniature 1:55 scale. Product design highlights the cutting-edge micro-technology developed to create the life-like mouth, eye and shoulder movements of this little electronic vehicle that will be sure to top wish lists this coming holiday season!

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