VIDEO: Disney And Lucasfilm Announce A New Animated Short Series Called “Forces Of Destiny”

WDWNT on April 19, 2017

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Disney and Lucasfilm Celebrate Iconic Heroes from a Galaxy Far, Far Away…with Star Wars Forces of Destiny

Micro-series of original, animated shorts will focus on untold stories of everyday heroism that shape the destinies of Rey, Jyn Erso, Sabine Wren, Princess Leia, Ahsoka Tano and others

Daisy Ridley, Felicity Jones, Tiya Sircar, Ashley Eckstein and Lupita Nyong’o reprise their roles for new series launching in July

Books, apparel and toys including new ‘Adventure Figures’ from Hasbro launching this summer

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3MF2VFgCUSk

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

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

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Developed by Lucasfilm Animation, Star Wars Forces of Destiny will remain true to the Star Wars canon, showing how choices both big and small ultimately shape the destinies of beloved characters. Launching in July, the animated micro-series will be available on Disney YouTube ahead of a two-part TV special featuring eight additional shorts on Disney Channel in Fall 2017. Fans will be delighted to hear familiar voices in the series, including: Daisy Ridley (Rey), Felicity Jones (Jyn), Tiya Sircar (Sabine), Ashley Eckstein (Ahsoka Tano) and Lupita Nyong’o (Maz Kanata as narrator).

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

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“From Princess Leia to Sabine Wren, Star Wars heroines are unique, and we wanted to represent that in the product line for Star Wars Forces of Destiny,” said Jimmy Pitaro, Chairman, Disney Consumer Products and Interactive Media. “The result is the creation of our new ‘Adventure Figures’ that celebrate the power and stories of these incredible characters and allow kids to recreate their most heroic moments at home.”

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The 11-inch figures will depict characters including Rey, Jyn Erso, Princess Leia, Sabine Wren, plus loveable sidekicks and epic villains like BB-8, Chewbacca, Kylo Ren and many more. Hasbro is also rolling out Star Wars Forces of Destiny role play and accessories—from Rey’s Extendable Staff, to a new, electronic Jedi Power Lightsaber toy, which are part of the Star Wars Bladebuilders system.

Adds John Frascotti, President of Hasbro: “As the Star Wars fan base has broadened over the last 40 years, we have continued to add new and exciting play experiences to the Star Wars brand, to engage fans across generations. We’ve worked closely with Disney to bring the storytelling from Star Wars Forces of Destiny to life through this innovative toy line to help connect with new audiences as well as appeal to existing fans.”

Fans attending Star Wars Celebration in Orlando will see a sneak peek of Star Wars Forces of Destiny during the “Heroines of Star Wars” panel on Friday, April 14. The panel, moderated by Amy Ratcliffe – host of “Lattes with Leia” podcast, will feature Carrie Beck – vice president of animation at Lucasfilm and Dave Filoni – executive producer of Star Wars Rebels, as well as Ashley Eckstein, Tiya Sircar and other surprise guests. For a first look at the new Star Wars Forces of Destiny Adventure Figures, stop by Hasbro booth #2744.

ThinkGeek Reveals Their “Star Wars Celebration” Exclusives

WDWNT on April 19, 2017

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ThinkGeek Drops Off Brand-New Star Wars Cargo
at Star Wars Celebration Orlando

Join ThinkGeek and pick up some items exclusive to Star Wars Celebration

Commemorate your time at Star Wars Celebration Orlando with some brand new ThinkGeek products launching at the show.

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Star Wars Geeki Tikis Series 2
There’s something about a tiki bar that just makes us smile. Maybe it’s the vibrant vintage kitsch feel. What better tiki mug to drink from than one that looks like a character from Star Wars? Choose to drink with C-3PO, a Jawa, Tusken Raider, Tauntaun, Wampa or Wicket the Ewok.

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Star Wars Jabba the Hutt and Salacious Crumb themed Geeki Tikis

These two characters are special. You already knew that. But they’re extra special as Geeki Tikis because the Jabba and Salacious Crumb themed ones are only available on the site and at our booth and are limited to a single run.

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Nixon Rey Kensington Watch
Never lose track of time while scavenging a Star Destroyer on Jakku again. This limited edition Nixon Kensington watch will look great even if you are fixing up the Falcon or out saving the galaxy.

More Loot
In addition to these items, ThinkGeek is offering an enamel Jabba the Hutt and Salacious Crumb pin as a gift with purchases of $50 or more, a Star Wars Celebration Zeb pin, the Hope Leia poster by artist Russell Walks, and R2-D2 and BB-8 mini backpack keychains.

501st Legion Bash: Showdown at the Cantina
While at Star Wars Celebration Orlando, join the 501st Legion at the 501st Bash: Showdown at the Cantina, with support from ThinkGeek, for an immersive Mos Eisley Cantina Experience. Expect exclusive gifts and prizes and a private performance by 501st Legion honorary member “Weird Al” Yankovic. For more information on the 501st Legion and the Showdown at the Cantina, visit the event website here.

ThinkGeek is also hosting contests sweepstakes throughout the celebration online and in-person at Booth #2532, so be sure to stop by the booth and check ThinkGeek.com for additional information.

About ThinkGeek
ThinkGeek is the premier retailer for the global geek community. Since 1999, ThinkGeek has been creating a world where everyone can express and celebrate their inner geek, turn their interests into passions, and connect with one another. We are obsessed with creating and sharing unique and authentic experiences that stimulate our fans’ imaginations and fuel their geek core. We believe there is a geek in everyone and invite you to Join In. Geek Out. Learn more at ThinkGeek.com.

BREAKING: Walt Disney World Adding Club 33, Locations at All 4 Parks Coming

WDWNT on April 19, 2017

Later this Fall, the Walt Disney World Resort will present its own version of Club 33, the unique membership club founded by Walt Disney at the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California.

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The former entrance to Club 33 at Disneyland

At Walt Disney World, members will enjoy the legendary guest service at four themed locations (one in each of the theme park) uniquely themed to Walt and Lillian’s world-wide adventures, in addition to other unannounced benefits.

Guests interested in joining can email WDWClub33@disneyworld.com for more information.

The membership will be site specific and will not include access to the other Club 33 locations worldwide.

More details will be revealed about the Club in the fall of 2017.

VIDEO: Beauty and the Beast Grosses Over $1 Billion Worldwide

WDWNT on April 19, 2017

Disney’s latest live-action remake has officially crossed the $1 billion mark globally at the box office, making it 2017’s biggest release thus far.

Not only is Beauty and the Beast 2017’s biggest movie, it’s also the highest grossing live-action musical of all time.

To celebrate this achievement, Disney has put together a video showcasing the movie’s launch all around the world. Take a look.

http://https://youtu.be/jn0RH10tJYY

 

Apple Buying Disney Rumors by Wall Street Analysts Gaining Momentum

WDWNT on April 19, 2017

Last month, we covered a report by Yahoo Finance that RBC Analyst Stephen Cahall was speculating that Apple might use its $237 billion pile of cash to buy The Walt Disney Company. Today this story has resurfaced in many media outlets (Barron’s, Variety, /Film, TheStreet, and BusinessInsider, to name a few), after three RBC analysts released an extensive report on the possibility.

“We have seen increased discussions among investors regarding ‘How could AAPL gain scale in media/content and what could it do with potential cash repatriation?’ Media assets could be part of AAPL’s M&A strategy and [CEO] Tim Cook has noted that deal size isn’t a negating factor,” RBC analyst Amit Daryanani wrote in a note Thursday.

“AAPL’s focus on services and its inability (so far) to replicate its music/iTunes strategy into content/media make acquiring DIS logical in our view. This is particularly true if AAPL can access $200B+ offshore cash via repatriation holiday. There are plenty of factors to consider, but such a deal would create a tech/media juggernaut like no other and instantly scale AAPL’s services, content, and media portfolio, which would make the case for a higher valuation.”

Even though Disney stock hit a 52-week high today at $113 and change, and analysts predict Apple paying a 40% premium, the analysts conclude that while “odds are low,” the possibility of a takeover is “greater than 0%”. However, for Apple to be able to spend that $237 billion in cash, it will have to repatriate much of it from overseas. Under current tax laws, this would be prohibitively expensive (hence the cash is still overseas). However, if the US government provides a “tax holiday” for US corporations to repatriate cash to the US at a far smaller tax rate, Apple could end up with $220 billion in cash in the US to make an acquisition.

The analysts go on with the strategic rationale for the merger:

“The best justification for such a mega deal, in our view, is the ability to do things together that neither company, nor any other company, could do. The sheer scale of a combined company offers some unique opportunities, and we’ve tried to identify some of the more compelling ones below.

“More importantly, Apple and Disney are each not just industry leaders in their own right but titans of industry on a global scale with truly unique products and services. Few people on earth are not already familiar with both companies’ products, yet they don’t compete in any meaningful sphere at the moment. The question therefore becomes what can they do together that they can’t do apart? The answer is they can do just about anything given the technology and financial resources.”

So, while the “odds are low” at the present time, I fully expect this story to gain a lot of traction if there is a corporate tax holiday for US companies to repatriate overseas cash. Right now, investors want Apple to spend its cash, but it’s not a wise move at the current tax rate. If the tax rate ceases being a roadblock, investors are going to clamor for Apple to do something with its cash that will bring a greater return to the company. So even if it doesn’t buy Disney, expect Apple to make some major moves if it can access the overseas cash cheaply.

Hostess with the Mostess – Top 5 Star Wars Experiences

WDWNT on April 19, 2017

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Episode V: Return of the Hostess with the Mostess

Ba ba ba bahhh bah, ba ba ba bahhh bah, ba ba ba bahhh bah, ba ba ba bahhhhhhhh!!

In a galaxy far far away … (ok, maybe not so far away) we are bringing you this special galactic edition of WDWNT’s Hostess with the Mostess. In honor of Star Wars’ 40th Anniversary I am bringing you my top five favorite Star Wars experiences in Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

So grab your nearest furry co-pilot, warm up the sublight engines, and let’s make our jump to light speed! #InLessThanTwelveParsecs

5. Jedi Training: Trials of the Temple

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I know what you are thinking … isn’t this just for kids? Yes, unfortunately it is. The Jedi Council will not accept a woman in her twenties … I have tried. But even though this experience is reserved for the younger Jedi, force wielders of all ages should stop by to enjoy this show at least once. Not only is it entertaining and often times hilarious to watch kids try and fight with lightsabers, but it is also so much fun to see Jedi Masters and their Padawans go up against Darth Vader and the Sith. Located right next to the Star Tours attraction, this training is conducted multiple times a day giving you plenty of opportunities to stop by and cheer the younglings on.

 

4. Star Tours: The Adventure Continues

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Watching young Padawans learn to become Jedi is certainly fun, but for anyone else who is still itching to be a Jedi Knight, a Star Fighter Pilot, a Service Droid, or even a Rebel Spy, Star Tours is for you!  With dozens of different combinations, Star Tours is a unique ride because you never get the same story twice. Each ride consists of a beginning, middle, and ending sequence that rotate for each new ride experience. You may find yourself being interrogated by Darth Vader, escaping to help the Wookies on Kashyyk, and skidding to safety in the hanger bay on Naboo. This ride is always so much fun and to top it off, you exit the attraction right into Tatooine Traders where you can build your own lightsaber!

 

3. Star Wars Launch Bay

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Everything we have talked about so far is just scratching the surface. If you really want to immerse yourself into the galaxy of Star Wars visit the Launch Bay. Ever wonder what it would be like to interact with a Storm Trooper, see Rey’s speeder up close, shake hands with a Wookie, or relive the fateful meeting between Han Solo and Greto in the Cantina? #HanShotFirst You can do all of those things at the Launch Bay! Meeting Chewbacca and Kylo Ren was one of the coolest meet and greets I have done. And now I am very much looking forward to meeting BB-8!

You can also grab a seat in the Star Wars Launch Bay Theater to watch a short film on the creation and legacy of the Star Wars universe. Packed to the gills with props, decorations, scenes, and even characters, the Star Wars Launch Bay is a must do experience!

2. Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular Dessert Party

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So far we have watched Star Wars, rode Star Wars, lived Star Wars, now (my favorite) let’s eat Star Wars. I bought this experience for my husband for our anniversary last year and he absolutely loved it. This party gives you VIP access to the Launch Bay and a special viewing area for the Galactic Spectacular show. We had an absolute blast at this thing! The desserts and drinks were out of this world with theming and taste.

Storm Troopers walked around heckling guests and Jawas were hanging out in the Cantina ready for pictures. And yes! We did get that awesome Chewbacca mug in the picture. To top the night off, we watched Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular from a VIP viewing area. And the show was soooo good, it received the number one spot on my list all by itself.

 

1. Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular

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The force is truly strong with this one. This nighttime fireworks event includes projections, lighting, lasers, and pyrotechnics making it a unique and epic experience. Iconic images from the films play on the Chinese Theater and are accompanied by John William’s memorable score. This spectacle comes at you from all angles, immersing you into the action. When the X-Wings and Tie Fighters are engaged in combat, the lasers are coming right at you, making you feel like you are in the middle of the attack. #PewPew #ItsATrap

My husband and I were pleasantly surprised at how good this show really was. All of the special effects are orchestrated together so perfectly that the entire spectacle was amazing. I cannot wait to see it again on my next trip!

 

All of the Star Wars Experiences are so fun! Which made making this list so hard! But in the end, these are my top five favorites!

Now it is your turn to vote! Remember, if your favorite experience is not on the list, you can select “other” and comment below.  I cannot wait to see how you vote! May the Force Be With You!

Extra Magic Tip: Be sure to go on Star Tours: The Adventure Continues more than once! With unique beginnings, middles, and ends, there are over 50 different combinations you can experience.

[poll id=”6″]

Full Schedule and List of Events Released for Star Wars Galactic Nights; Rock ‘N’ Roller Coaster Overlay Returns

WDWNT on April 19, 2017

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The very first Star Wars Galactic Nights event at Disney’s Hollywood Studios is taking place on April 14th, 2017 as part of Star Wars Celebration Orlando, but it is now expected that the event will become a regular offering for the park in the weeks to come. Disney has released a full schedule and list of events for the evening (finally) ahead of the debut just hours away:

Entertainment

Stars in Cars – 8:05PM
Motorcade Route (Stars near Main Entrance)

Grab your spot to view a star-studded motorcade featuring a galaxy of your favorite Star Wars celebrities. The motorcade begins at the front of Hollywood Boulevard and travels towards Star Tours: The Adventures Continue.

Inside the Saga – Celebrity Chat Show – 9:00, 10:00, 11:00PM
Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Theater (Pre-show begins 10 minutes before show time)

Hear from host Vanessa Marshall and Star Wars cast members and go behind the scenes of “Rogue One: A Star Wars Story” to learn what it takes to make remarkable cinematic moments. 30 minutes long.

Celebrate the Saga – 9:15 & 11:15PM
Rebel Base

Take an interactive journey that chronologically celebrates the milestones of 40 Force-filled years of Star Wars

DJ Dance Party – 7-7:25PM, 9:45-10:25PM
Rebel Base

Sway the night away at a galactic dance party.

Star Wars: A Galaxy Far, Far Away – 7:45, 8:50, 10:50PM
Rebel Base

Experience a live stage show of high energy film clips that juxtapose action-filled character moments on stage, including Chewbacca, Darth Vader, Kylo Ren and many more! (Enhanced for Event)

Galactic Nights Epilogue – 11:40pm
Rebel Base

Prior to the evening’s grand finale, join our event hosts as you marvel at a spotlight of Star Wars Galactic Nights event highlights from the fans!

Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular – 11:45PM
Rebel Base

Watch the fireworks above bring the entire Star Wars saga to life in a spectacular multimedia experience! (Enhanced for Event)

Jedi Training: Trials of the Temple – 7:45, 8:45, 9:45, 10:45PM
Near Star Tours- The Adventures Continue

Witness the future of the Force, as younglings face their fears at the sacred Jedi Temple. 25 minutes in length. Visit Indiana Jones Adventure Outpost to reserve a spot in the training. Participants ages 4-12 must be present to register. Space is limited. (Enhanced for Event)

March of the First Order – 8:30 & 10:30PM
Hollywood Boulevard

Captain Phasma leads a unit of First Order Stormtroopers down Hollywood Boulevard to the Rebel Base, stopping for a demonstration of their power and strength.

Imperial March – 7:25, 9:25, & 11:25PM
Starts near Star Tours and travels to Rebel Base

The Sith Lord himself, Darth Vader, leads a battalion of Stormtroopers on a dramatic Imperial March to the Rebel Base.

Characters

The following Star Wars characters will be at the event to meet guests:

  • Darth Vader
  • Chewbacca
  • Kylo Ren
  • BB-8
  • Boba Fett
  • Jawas
  • Ewoks
  • Imperial Troopers
  • AWR Troopers

The following Disney characters will be available in their standard locations:

  • Mickey & Minnie Mouse
  • Olaf
  • Buzz Lightyear & Woody
  • Moana

Scavenger Hunt

Guests are invited to collect a piece of the saga at photo backdrops featured throughout the Park and affix each piece to your Star Wars Galactic Nights Credential! Disney
PhotoPass Photographers will also be at each location to capture your favorite moments.

Locations:

  • Jabba the Hutt’s Palace (Near Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster)
  • Han Solo Frozen in Carbonite (Near Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster)
  • Hoth Wampa Cave (Muppets Courtyard)
  • Trash Compactor (Left of Great Movie Ride)
  • Emperor’s Throne Room (Echo Lake)
  • Rogue One (Near One Man’s Dream)
  • Speeder Bike (Across from Star Tours)

Attractions

Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster: Star Wars Edition is a special experience just for the event. Take a journey through hyperspace in this not-to-be-missed Star Wars experience. A version of this experience was run during The Force Awakens premiere hard-ticket event which was held in December 2015.

 

Other attractions that will be operating are:

  • The Great Movie Ride
  • Star Wars: Path of the Jedi
  • Star Tours – The Adventures Continue
  • Muppet-Vision 3D
  • Toy Story Mania!
  • Walt Disney: One Man’s Dream
  • Voyage of The Little Mermaid
  • Star Wars Launch Bay
  • The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror

Food and Beverage

Skywalker Vineyards wines will be available at the bars located near the Rebel Base. Snack carts located throughout the park will feature specialty cupcakes, lightsaber churros, Chewbacca steins, and TIE Fighter popcorn buckets.

Merchandise

Special event merchandise will be available at the following locations:

  • Legends of Hollywood
  • Mickey’s of Hollywood
  • Keystone Clothiers
  • Launch Bay Cargo
  • Tatooine Traders

WDWNT will be on the scene tonight to bring you all of the action, so stay tuned for live streams on our social media counts and much more, as well as plenty of photos, videos and thoughts after the event concludes.

PHOTOS, VIDEO: Disney Previews Future Theme Park Star Wars Merchandise Releases at Celebration Orlando

WDWNT on April 19, 2017

Yesterday at Star Wars Celebration Orlando, we got a special look ahead at all of the awesome Star Wars merchandise coming to Disney Parks over the next year during a special panel. Below are photos and video of everything of interest that we saw. Enjoy!

Droid Factory

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The droid Factory line, started a few years ago, has allowed guests to build their own Astromech Droids at locations at both the Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resorts. Disney has also released one-of-a-kind droids in special packs, as pictured above.

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Several pieces were released at Star Wars Celebration Orlando, including this two-pack with R2-D2 and C-390…

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As well as Chopper from the television series Rebels. Not pictured above is the red protocol droid C-3D0 from The Force Awakens which was also released this weekend at the convention.

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Starting Friday, April 14th at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, guests will be able to build protocol droids at the experience as well, with over 70 pieces to choose from. This will also be rolled out to additional locations and at the Disneyland Resort in the next few days.

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Several more pre-packaged Astromech Droids are coming this year, with a D23 Expo exclusive…

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A Halloween season piece…

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A Christmas season piece…

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And bb-8 will be introduced to the line at the Disneyland Resort during the week of the D23 Expo.

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While they wouldn’t show us exactly what it looks like, guests will soon have a Jawa’s Sandcrawler as a playlet for all of their Droid Factory toys.

Upcoming Star Wars Events at Disney Parks

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Next weekend, the Star Wars Half Marathon – The Dark Side will unleash a new line of merchandise.

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These Imperial Dooney and Bourke bags titled “The Dark Side” will be released at the event.

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With the first event taking place on April 14th (with more likely to be announced), Star Wars Galactic Nights has plenty of goodies for guests to bring home. NOTE: They blurred out the mug and shirt to keep the logo a surprise.

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The 2018 Star Wars Day at Sea merchandise for Disney Cruise Line was also previewed.

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On May 4th, 2017, Disneyland and Disney’s Hollywood Studios will celebrate Star Wars Day with exclusive merchandise.

Other Merchandise 

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The 13th Ewok plush in the collection will be released at the D23 Expo this year.

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Starting today, guests will find these phone cases celebrating 40 years of Star Wars at the D-Tech on Demand kiosks at Star Wars Launch Bay.

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“I Love You” and “I Know” hats will join the t-shirts later this year.

VIDEO: Disneynature Announces It’s Next Film For Earth Day 2018, “Dolphins”

WDWNT on April 19, 2017

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DISNEYNATURE HEADS UNDER THE SEA WITH “DOLPHINS”

With just a week until Earth Day and the theatrical debut of the fun and breathtaking new movie “Born in China,” Disneynature reveals a sneak peek at its next movie, “Dolphins,” which comes out in time for Earth Day 2018.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wtdo1qDMQto&feature=youtu.be

From a year in the lives of a family of Alaskan brown bears to the plight of a baby chimpanzee who finds himself all alone, Disneynature blends state-of-the-art nature filmmaking with Walt Disney’s signature storytelling. In 2018, Disneynature dives under the sea to frolic with some of the planet’s most engaging animals: dolphins. Echo is a youngster who can’t quite decide if it’s time to grow up and take on new responsibilities—or give in to her silly side and just have fun. Dolphin society is tricky, and the coral reef that Echo and his family call home depends on all of its inhabitants to keep it healthy. But Echo has a tough time resisting the many adventures the ocean has to offer. Through the eyes of a carefree dolphin, enjoy Disneynature’s next True Life Adventure–coming Earth Day 2018.

“Dolphins” is directed and produced by the same team who brought “Bears” and “African Cats” to the big screen in 2014 and 2011.

You can see the trailer play in front of Disneynature’s “Born in China” starting April 21 in theatres nationwide.

Source: Disney Movie Trailers