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ABC ADDS SERIOUS STAR POWER TO ITS UPCOMING
‘BEAUTY AND THE BEAST: A 30TH CELEBRATION’ SPECIAL’
 
JOSH GROBAN, JOSHUA HENRY AND RITA MORENO JOIN CAST
 
The One-Night-Only Celebration of the Classic Film Airs Thursday, Dec. 15

During today’s panel at D23 Expo 2022, ABC shared a slew of casting announcements for the upcoming animated and live-action blended special, “Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration.” Tony^®-, Emmy^®– and GRAMMY^®-nominated artist Josh Groban, who previously recorded a song for the 2017 “Beauty and the Beast” live-action movie, will play the baneful Beast. Tony- and GRAMMY-nominated acclaimed Broadway star Joshua Henry has been tapped to play antagonist Gaston, while EGOT winner and legend Rita Moreno will serve as the night’s narrator, taking viewers on a journey through the classic enchanted tale. Presented by The Wonderful World of Disney, the highly anticipated two-hour reimagining of the beloved story of “Beauty and the Beast” will be taped in front of a live audience at Disney Studios and will air THURSDAY, DEC. 15 (8:00-10:00 p.m. EST), on ABC and on Disney+ the next day.
 
As previously announced, five-time GRAMMY- and Academy Award^®-winning singer-songwriter H.E.R. will play the role of Belle, with Jon M. Chu set to executive produce the special, and Hamish Hamilton set to direct. Additional talented cast, whose performances will be seamlessly woven through the original feature film, will be announced at a later date.
 
Tony, EMMY, and four-time GRAMMY Award-nominated singer, songwriter, actor and philanthropist Josh Groban possesses one of the most outstanding and instantly recognizable voices in music. Moreover, he continues to captivate fans everywhere as both a powerhouse vocalist and dynamic renaissance man. He has sold over 35 million albums worldwide, headlined legendary venues on multiple continents, and entertained audiences with acclaimed film and television appearances. His catalog spans a series of chart-topping blockbuster albums, including “Josh Groban” (five-time platinum), “Closer” (six-time platinum), “Noël” (six-time platinum), “Awake” (two-time platinum), “Illumination,” “All That Echoes” (gold), “Stages” (gold), his first UK No. 1 album, “Bridges,” and his most recent release, “Harmony.”
 
Extending his repertoire, Groban made his Broadway debut in 2016 with a starring role in “Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812.” He garnered a Tony Award nomination for Best Lead Actor In A Musical. He has expanded his presence with appearances on “Glee,” “The Simpsons,” “The Office,” “CSI: NY,” “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia” and “The Crazy Ones” as well as in the feature films “Coffee Town,” “Muppets Most Wanted” and “Crazy, Stupid, Love.” In addition, he starred in the NETFLIX series “The Good Cop” in 2018. In spring 2023, Groban will once again grace the stages of Broadway in the revival of “Sweeney Todd,” playing the title role. He remains an active arts education philanthropist and advocate, and his Find Your Light Foundation helps enrich the lives of young people through arts, education and cultural awareness.
 
Joshua Henry is a GRAMMY-nominated performer and recording artist best known for his Tony-nominated leading roles in “Carousel,” “The Scottsboro Boys” and “Violet,” as well as for his show- stopping performance as Aaron Burr in the cultural phenomenon “Hamilton” (Chicago/San Francisco/Los Angeles). A BMG recording artist, Henry’s debut album, “Grow,” is available worldwide on all streaming platforms. On screen, he starred as Roger Bart in the Academy Award-nominated film “Tick, Tick, Boom,” directed by Lin-Manuel Miranda. He also starred as Jerlamarel opposite Jason Momoa in two seasons of Apple TV+’s show “See.” Other Broadway shows include “In the Heights,” “Shuffle Along,” “American Idiot,” “Porgy and Bess,” “Bring It On: The Musical,” “Off-Broadway: In the Heights” and “The Wrong Man.” Henry can currently be seen starring on Broadway in “Into The Woods.”
 
Rita Moreno has won all four of the most prestigious awards in show business: two Emmys, a GRAMMY, an Oscar and a Tony. Her countless credits span more than seven decades, beginning with her Broadway debut at age 13. Moreno has starred on Broadway and London’s West End, appeared in more than 40 feature films and countless television shows, and has performed in numerous regional theaters including her one-woman show, “Life Without Makeup,” at the Berkeley Repertory Theatre.
 
Just recently, Moreno wrapped production on two films: “Eighty for Brady,” starring opposite Sally Field, Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin; and “Fast X,” where she plays Vin Diesel’s grandmother. Last year, she co-starred and served as an executive producer on Steven Spielberg’s remake of “West Side Story.” For four seasons, Moreno co-starred in the critically acclaimed Latinx reimagining of Norman Lear’s classic TV sitcom, “One Day At A Time.” Moreno has received the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President George W. Bush and the National Medal of Arts by President Barack Obama.
 
This year, 2022, marks the 30^th anniversary of when Disney Animation’s “Beauty and the Beast” became the first animated film to be nominated for Best Picture at the Academy Awards. The film went on to win the Golden Globe^® Award for Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy, while the theme song “Beauty and the Beast” won the Academy Award for Best Original Song in 1992.
 
“Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration” is produced by Done+Dusted in association with Walt Disney Television Alternative and Electric Somewhere. Executive producers are Jon M. Chu, Caitlin Foito, Hamish Hamilton, Raj Kapoor, Richard Kraft and Katy Mullan. Hamish Hamilton will serve as director. H.E.R. serves as a producer.
 
About ABC Entertainment
ABC Entertainment’s compelling programming includes “Grey’s Anatomy,” the longest-running medical drama in primetime television; ratings juggernaut “The Bachelor” franchise; riveting dramas “Big Sky,” “The Good Doctor,” “A Million Little Things,” “The Rookie” and “Station 19”; trailblazing comedies “Abbott Elementary,” “The Conners,” “The Goldbergs,” “Home Economics” and “The Wonder Years”; popular game shows, including “The $100,000 Pyramid,” “Celebrity Family Feud,” “The Chase,” “Press Your Luck” and “To Tell the Truth”; star-making sensation “American Idol”; “Judge Steve Harvey,” the network’s strongest unscripted series debut in a year; reality phenomenon “Shark Tank”; family favorites “America’s Funniest Home Videos” and “Holey Moley”; “General Hospital,” which heads into its milestone 60^th season on the network; and late-night talk show “Jimmy Kimmel Live!”; as well as the critically acclaimed, Emmy^® Award-winning “Live in Front of a Studio Audience” specials. The network also boasts some of television’s most prestigious awards shows, including “The Oscars^®,” “The CMA Awards” and the “American Music Awards.”
 
ABC programming can also be viewed on Hulu.
 
About Done+Dusted
Done+Dusted is a global entertainment group with offices in Los Angeles, London and Abu Dhabi and the preeminent producer of live television events in the world; creating and capturing the moments that make headlines and shape culture. Whether it is producing “The Emmys,” “The Little Mermaid Live!,” “Mariah Carey’s Magical Christmas Special,” “The Disney Family Singalong”– or any of the other 300+ productions D+D have bought to life, everything they produce bears the distinct badge of quality that makes it, unequivocally… Done+Dusted.
 
About Electric Somewhere
ELECTRIC SOMEWHERE is the production company of filmmaker Jon M. Chu, who runs the company with his television producing partner Caitlin Foito. Chu is known for impactful representation through meaningful spectacle and Electric Somewhere is building on that brand through their multi-year overall deal with 20th Television where they have set up several high-profile projects including THE COMPANY YOU KEEP starring Milo Ventimiglia for ABC. Other projects are set at Hulu, FX, Disney+, and Netflix.
 
For more information on “Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration” (#BeautyAndTheBeast30th), visit abc.com and follow ABC on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.
 

The post ABC ADDS SERIOUS STAR POWER TO ITS UPCOMING ‘BEAUTY AND THE BEAST: A 30TH CELEBRATION’ SPECIAL’ appeared first on The Nerd Element.

Good evening everyone! Today I want to discuss what picks I got correct and which ones I got wrong! So, let’s get started! I predicted that the Dolphins would beat the Ravens 19-13, but the final score was 42-38 Dolphins over the Ravens in a shootout. The Dolphins came back from being down 35-14 and scored 28 unanswered points in the second half. It looked like the Ravens were going to win the game and could have won it, but they blew their chance. I predicted that the 49ers would beat the Seahawks 27-23, but the final score was 27-7 49ers over the Seahawks. I predicted that the Patriots would beat the Steelers 29-22, but the final score was 17-14 Patriots over the Steelers. I predicted that the Rams would beat the Falcons 31-27, and guess what the final score was?! 31-27 Rams over the Falcons!! My prediction was exactly on the money!!!! I can’t believe I got that pick exactly correct!!! The Rams almost blew the game as the Falcons came up just short. I predicted that the Cardinals would beat the Raiders 23-17, but the final score was 29-23 Cardinals over the Raiders in overtime in a crazy game. The Raiders were up 20-0 in the first half and the Cardinals came back and scored 29 unanswered points in the second half. The Cardinals offense played better and so did their defense and they have one of the most complete comebacks in NFL history!! The Cardinals are now 1-1 on the season and the Raiders are 0-2. I predicted that the Broncos would beat the Texans 34-17, but the final score was 16-9 Broncos over the Texans. The win though was kind of ugly for the Broncos and they were actually booed by the fans because they were expecting the offense to be on fire and many fans are wondering that the Broncos head coach Nathaniel Hackett should change up his play calling. What’s also interesting is that the Broncos offense is struggling to score a touchdown in the red zone. They got to score touchdowns in the red zone because you are not going to win games with field goals and that’s why the fans were not happy about it. I predicted that the Cowboys would beat the Bengals 34-31, but the final score was 20-17 Cowboys over the Bengals. I predicted that the Packers would beat the Bears 30-16, but the final score was 27-10 Packers over the Bears. A very close prediction. And I predicted that the Eagles would beat the Vikings 31-20, but the final score was 24-7 Eagles over the Vikings.

I predicted that the Browns would beat the Jets 31-7, but the final score was 31-30 Jets over the Browns in a very close game. The Browns blew a 13 point lead because the running back Nick Chubb scored a touchdown instead of sliding down and they missed an extra point. They also could not recover an onside kick and the Jets had life because of it. The game was an easy win for the Browns, but they allowed the Jets to play good, making them look like a playoff team. The Jets to their credit put up a good fight, but still the Browns should have won the game. I predicted that the Colts would finally beat the Jags 25-17, but the final score was 24-0 Jags over the Colts. Man, the Colts really do struggle in Jacksonville and the Jags defense seems to be pretty good this season. I guess I underestimated the Jags a bit. And I predicted that the Saints would beat the Bucs 34-29, but the final score was 20-10 Bucs over the Saints. The Saints were holding the Bucs pretty good for a while until late in the 4^th quarter as they gave up to lose. The Bucs defense intercepted Jameis Winston 2 times and they forced a fumble. So, that is 3 turnovers in total. You can’t win games when you turn the ball over. I predicted that the Titans would beat the Bills 26-23, but the final score was 41-7 Bills over the Titans in a blowout. The Titans offense and defense did not play well at all and the Bills played well on all positions.

So overall, I have gotten 9 out of 13 picks correct!! I did better than last week’s predictions. Now let’s get to NFL week 3 picks, shall we?! The first game I will predict is the Bills @Dolphins game, the divisional rivalries. I think that this should be a really good game. I think the Dolphins will beat the Bills in a close game 27-24 to hand the Bills their first loss of the season. The next game I will predict is the Bengals @Jets game, a rematch. The Jets shockingly beat the Bengals last season. Although I do think that the Bengals will get their rematch by beating the Jets 25-16. The next game I will predict is the Raiders @Titans game, the 0-2 teams. Both of these teams are coming off with brutal losses last week. So, who will get their first win of the season and who will go 0-3 on the season? Someone has to go 0-3. I think that the Titans will beat the Raiders in a close game 31-28. The next game I will predict is the Saints @Panthers game, the divisional rivalries. I think the Panthers will get their first win of the season by beating the Saints in a close game 23-20. The next game I will predict is the Ravens @Patriots game. I think the Ravens will beat the Patriots 37-26. I think the Ravens will be desperate to win this game because they know that they should have won last week and they will this time. The next game I will predict is the Lions @Vikings game, the divisional rivalries. I think the Vikings will beat the Lions in a close game 26-23. The next game I will predict is the Eagles @Commanders game, the divisional rivalries. I think the Eagles will beat the Commanders 31-21. The next game I will predict is the Chiefs @Colts game. I think the Chiefs will beat the Colts 38-22. The Colts have not been playing good so far this season and the Chiefs are rolling as of right now. I just don’t see the Colts winning this game unless they find a way to turn it around. The next game I will predict is the Jaguars @Chargers game. I think the Chargers will beat the Jags 30-20.

The next game I will predict is the Rams @Cardinals game, the divisional rivalries. Both of these teams are coming off with the wins last week. The Rams do not look the same as they did last season so far as they have lost their offensive lineman Andrew Whitworth. They are also banged up in the secondary. Of course they still have Cooper Kupp, Aaron Donald, and Bobby Wagner. Meanwhile, the Cardinals on the other hand are getting some of the injuries back such as Andy Isabella and Treyvon Mullen. Although, Rondale Moore will be out still. The Rams have already ruled out 4 players including David Long. So in order for the Cardinals to win on Sunday, they need to get off to a good start and don’t get down like they did last week. They should try and score first because it would likely benefit for the Cardinals. The Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford is actually pretty good when he sees the blitz especially on 3^rd down because he manages to find his favorite target Cooper Kupp. The Cardinals offense should block Aaron Donald and the defense has to shut down Cooper Kupp. You are not going to shut him down easily as he will always find a way to get open, but don’t let him get too many yards. The defense should be really careful with how they want to blitz Stafford because he will see you coming and he gets the ball out pretty quick especially on third downs. They have to get off the field and not make too many miscommunications. Don’t even try to cover Tyler Higbee with a slow linebacker because it is a mismatch. The Cardinals have not beaten the Rams since 2014 at home. This has to somehow stop for the Cardinals. The Rams have a really good record when they lead in the second half. So, who will win on Sunday? Well, I am going to pick the Cardinals to beat the Rams 27-20 because I just believe that the Cardinals really want to snap the losing streak at home vs the Rams. Hopefully the Cardinals will get off to a fast start with no more slow starts and no more mistakes in back to back weeks as they have been outscored 43-7 so far. The next game I will predict is the Packers @Buccaneers game. I think the Bucs will beat the Packers in a close game 35-27. The Bucs seem to play pretty well against Green Bay so far. The next game I will predict is the Falcons @Seahawks game. I think the Seahawks will beat the Falcons 23-17. The next game I will predict is the 49ers @Broncos game on Sunday Night Football. I think the 49ers will beat the Broncos 29-17. The Broncos so far have not shown that they can be a dangerous team and the 49ers seem more physical as a general. The last game I will predict is the Cowboys @Giants game, the divisional rivalries on Monday Night Football. I think the Cowboys will give the Giants their first loss of the season by beating the Giants 29-26 even without Dak Prescott.

So, what do you guys think about the NFL week 3 picks?! I would love to hear lots of comments, thoughts, opinions, questions, or concerns down below!

Stay tuned for NFL updates.

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Wednesday Addams is finally getting her own series and we cannot wait to see her solve mysteries at Nevermore Academy. So far, Netflix has given us small tidbits of the Jenna Ortega-led show, including cast photos and a delightfully chaotic first trailer. But, the one thing fans wanted the most is a release date and maybe a little sneak peek into Wednesday. Thankfully, Netflix’s TUDUM event gave us both… and the series is not arriving when we thought it would. Curious things, indeed.

First, let’s talk about this kooky clip. Wednesday is already at Nevermore Academy (against her will, it seems) and in her room when she hears/smells something strange. It is none other than Thing, the weird hand that’s a part of the Addams family. Wednesday gets a hold of him, saying she could smell its hand cream.

She knows her parents sent Thing to spy on her, telling the appendage that it has two options. Thing can either be locked in her desk drawer until it ruins its nails and skin trying to climb out. Or, Thing can promise to be loyal to her and help her escape Nevermore Academy. We are sure Thing will make the right choice and stick by Wednesday’s side. And, even though she wants to escape her new school, we know she will find her place there… and solve a massive family mystery along the way.

The Wednesday series clip ends with revealing the show’s November 23 release date. It’s shocking for many fans who just knew this show would come during spooky season. But at least the date is on a Wednesday and gives us a chance to devour all eight episodes during Thanksgiving break. It’s time for murder, mystery, and mayhem with a supremely sinister (and now psychic) TV daughter.

The post WEDNESDAY Drops Kooky Clip and Reveals Surprising Release Date appeared first on Nerdist.

DISNEY LIVE ACTION, PIXAR AND WALT DISNEY ANIMATION STUDIOS PRESENT UPCOMING SLATE OF MOVIES AND SERIES TO FIRED-UP CROWD AT D23 EXPO 2022
 
Studio Leaders Introduce Major Stars, Reveal New Details and Share Sneak Peeks and Trailers for Theatrical and Disney+—Closing Event with a Magical Performance Celebrating Disney Animation’s Upcoming Feature Film “Wish”

ANAHEIM, Calif. (Sept. 9, 2022) — The Walt Disney Studios turned up the volume in Hall D23 at the Anaheim Convention Center today where thousands of fans gathered at D23 Expo 2022 to be the first to hear big announcements, new details and future plans for Disney Live Action, Pixar and Walt Disney Animation Studios. The showcase began in true Disney style with a look back at special moments in Studio history and Cynthia Erivo’s breathtaking performance of the classic Disney song “When You Wish Upon a Star” from Disney’s all-new live-action version of “Pinocchio,” now streaming on Disney+.

“What a way to kick off the show,” said Alan Bergman, chairman of The Walt Disney Studios. “Of course, ‘When You Wish Upon a Star’ was first heard in the animated film ‘Pinocchio’ in 1940. It’s a motto about dreaming big, dreaming the impossible and making those dreams come true. And that’s something we try to do each and every day at the studio.”

Fans in Hall D23 were among the first to see a brand-new logo introduction of the iconic Disney castle—now platinum in honor of Disney’s 100 Years of Wonder celebration. Created by Disney Studios and Industrial Light & Magic, and featuring an all-new arrangement of “When You Wish Upon a Star” by award-winning composer Christophe Beck (“Frozen,” “WandaVision”), the new Disney castle introduction will play in front of all Disney theatrical and streaming releases starting this fall.

Bergman called on Sean Bailey, president of Walt Disney Studios Motion Picture Production (Disney Live Action); Pete Docter, chief creative officer of Pixar Animation Studios; and Jennifer Lee, chief creative officer of Walt Disney Animation Studios to walk fans through a powerful lineup of streaming and theatrical titles. The event included the following highlights.

DISNEY LIVE ACTION
Sean Bailey greeted excited fans with a nod to Erivo’s stunning performance and this week’s Disney+ debut of the beloved tale of the wooden puppet who longs to be a real boy. “PINOCCHIO” stars Tom Hanks as Geppetto and Erivo as the Blue Fairy, and features the voices of Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Benjamin Evan Ainsworth as Jiminy Cricket and Pinocchio, respectively. Bailey reflected on the Studio’s incredible live-action history, “My team and I feel so lucky that we get to continue that tradition.”

Bailey queued up three more streaming titles: “We love making movies for the big screen and we have some incredible ones coming up,” he said. “But what’s so exciting about Disney+ is that it gives us a lot of freedom to tell an even bigger range of stories. We continue to explore reimaginings that honor our Disney legacy, and we can also create the next generation of Disney original stories. And of course, we have the chance to explore new chapters of stories we all know and love.”

• Fans got a wicked greeting from “HOCUS POCUS 2” stars Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker and Kathy Najimy, who appeared magically via video to surprise the room with a new trailer. It’s been 29 years since the 17^th-century sisters have been resurrected and they are looking for revenge. It’s up to three high-school students (Whitney Peak, Belissa Escobedo, Lilia Buckingham) to stop the ravenous witches from wreaking a new kind of havoc before dawn on All Hallow’s Eve. Directed by Anne Fletcher and produced by Lynn Harris, “Hocus Pocus 2” also stars Sam Richardson, Tony Hale and Hannah Waddingham. It debuts exclusively on Disney+ Sept. 30.  
• Up next, Bailey welcomed to the stage stars from “DISENCHANTED,” including Amy Adams, Patrick Dempsey, Maya Rudolph, Gabriella Baldacchino, James Marsden, Idina Menzel, Yvette Nicole Brown and Jayma Mays. Featuring music from Alan Menken and Stephen Schwartz, the musical comedy picks up 15 years after Giselle (Adams) and Robert (Dempsey) get married when their family heads to suburbia in search of happily ever after. Fans were among the first to see the first trailer of the film, which is directed by Adam Shankman, produced by Barry Josephson, Barry Sonnefeld and Adams, and features new music from the greats, Alan Menken and Stephen Schwartz. “Disenchanted” streams on Disney+ beginning Nov. 24. 
• “PETER PAN & WENDY” spotlights iconic characters in a whole new way. Joining Bailey on stage were cast members Alexander Molony (Peter Pan), Ever Anderson (Wendy), Alyssa Wapanâtahk (Tiger Lily) and Captain Hook himself: Jude Law. The new film dives deeper into Wendy’s story as she joins the boy who refuses to grow up on a magical journey to Neverland and reveals the history behind Peter Pan’s rivalry with one of Disney’s most memorable villains. The cast discussed what fans can expect from the new film and revealed an exclusive first look at the film for the D23 audience. Directed by David Lowery and produced by Jim Whitaker, the live-action reimagining of the 1953 animated classic begins streaming on Disney+ in 2023.

Bailey concluded his presentation with four highly anticipated titles heading to theaters in 2023 and 2024:

• “HAUNTED MANSION” director Justin Simien—who actually used to work at Disneyland—joined Bailey to discuss the ghostly adventure. Inspired by the classic theme park attraction, “Haunted Mansion” is about a woman and her son who enlist a motley crew of so-called spiritual experts to help rid their home of supernatural squatters. They shared a sneak peek of the film exclusively with the D23 Expo crowd, then welcomed the queen of scary movies, Jamie Lee Curtis, who made an unforgettable entrance aboard a Haunted Mansion doom buggy. Curtis plays Madame Leota in the film, which releases next year. 
• “MUFASA: THE LION KING,” a prequel to “The Lion King,” won’t release until 2024, but director Barry Jenkins was on hand to show a never-before-seen sneak peek and share a little about the film, which is currently in production. Told in flashbacks—Rafiki, Timon and Pumbaa tell the story of Mufasa to a young lion cub—“Mufasa” reveals the rise of one of the greatest kings of the Pride Lands. 

• “SNOW WHITE” is a live-action reimagining of the classic tale starring Rachel Zegler in the title role and Gal Gadot as Snow White’s Stepmother, The Queen. The film’s two stars joined Bailey to talk about their roles and to share a very early glimpse at the iconic characters in the 2024 film, which is directed by Marc Webb, produced by Marc Platt and features new songs by Tony®-, Grammy®- and Oscar®-winning songwriters Pasek and Paul. 
• “THE LITTLE MERMAID” director Rob Marshall took a break from post-production under the sea to share more about the live-action version of the beloved tale. He played the “Part of Your World” sequence for fans in Hall D23 and invited on stage Ariel herself, Halle Bailey, who shared her excitement about her new role. Marshall concluded by introducing the new teaser trailer, available worldwide today. Featuring fan-favorite songs plus four new songs penned by Alan Menken and Lin-Manuel Miranda, the feature film also stars Melissa McCarthy as Ursula and Javier Bardem as Triton. “The Little Mermaid” swims onto the big screen next summer. 

PIXAR ANIMATION STUDIOS
Pixar’s Pete Docter was excited to share the upcoming slate for the Emeryville-based animation studio. “These last few years have been a time of great change in the world,” said Docter. “And it’s led us at Pixar to think about the future. Or, if I’m channeling my inner Joe from ‘Soul,’ I’d ask: ‘Why are we here? What’s our purpose?’ Well, for us, it’s to tell great animated stories. Whether those are theatrical feature films, streaming series or shorts, we think telling stories is foundational to who we are as people. They really define us. And we believe in the power of animation to capture and reflect the stories of our own lives.”

First up, filmmakers Peter Sohn and Denise Ream joined Docter on stage to discuss “ELEMENTAL,” an all-new, original feature film releasing on June 16, 2023. Sohn, who directs the film, shared the personal inspiration behind the film—a story of immigrants pursuing dreams in beautiful neighborhoods where language and cultures come together. Filmmakers introduced the characters in “Elemental,” which is set in a city where fire-, water-, land- and air-residents live together. Ember is a tough and fiery young woman, and Wade is a fun, sappy, go-with-the-flow guy. Helping bring them to life are Leah Lewis and Mamoudou Athie, who were warmly welcomed to the Hall D23 stage. Audience members got an exclusive look at the film and received a mini-poster featuring Ember and Wade. 

“WIN OR LOSE” directors Carrie Hobson and Michael Yates provided a closer look at Pixar’s first-ever long-form series and what inspired it. “Win or Lose” follows the Pickles, a co-ed middle school softball team, in the week leading up to their championship game. Each episode takes place that same week, highlighting the perspective of a different main character—players, their parents, the umpire—each reflected in a unique visual style. Hobson and Yates revealed that Will Forte will voice Coach Dan in the series, and shared a shout-out Forte recorded for the occasion, followed by a special clip just for fans. “Win or Lose” streams on Disney+ in Fall 2023.

Following flickering lights and an ominous message reading “Bring Us Your Leader,” Docter welcomed to the stage director Adrian Molina and producer Mary Alice Drumm to showcase for the first time ever plans for the original feature film “ELIO.” In the story, 11-year-old dreamer Elio is artistic, creative and an avid INdoorsman who finds it hard to fit in. Meanwhile Mom Olga, who runs a top-secret military project, is working to decode a strange signal from outer space. But it’s Elio who makes contact, gets beamed into space and is subsequently mistaken for an intergalactic Ambassador for Earth. The voice of smart and super-confident Olga, America Ferrera, was invited on stage alongside Yonas Kibreab, who lends his voice to Elio himself. Kibreab revealed to the audience that “Elio” releases Spring 2024.

Before Docter could wrap Pixar’s portion of the show, he heard a voice from inside his head. Fortunately, it was actually the voice of Joy, Amy Poehler, who arrived on stage to huge applause—especially when she informed the audience that “INSIDE OUT 2” is in the works at Pixar. Director Kelsey Mann, producer Mark Nielsen and writer Meg LeFauve are hard at work on the all-new adventure inside the head of now-teenager Riley—who may or may not be feeling all kinds of new Emotions. “Inside Out 2,” the follow-up to 2015’s Oscar®- and Golden Globe®-winning feature film, is slated for release Summer 2024. 


WALT DISNEY ANIMATION STUDIOS
Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Chief Creative Officer Jennifer Lee received a warm welcome from fans who were delighted to hear details about the studio’s plans for the yearlong 100-year anniversary celebration. “At Walt Disney Animation Studios, the studio that started it all, on the eve of our 100^th anniversary, we see today as a moment of privilege and promise,” said Lee. “A privilege to be stewards of a studio and a dream that Walt and his brother, Roy, started a century ago. And a promise to continue to take risks in our storytelling—and to explore and expand and turn the possible into the actual, just as Walt did.”

Lee discussed the opportunities Disney+ has created at Disney Animation, reviewing the slate of shows heading to the streamer, including new series like “ZOOTOPIA+,” launching on Disney+ Nov. 9. Fans saw a trailer for the new short-form series, which heads back to the fast-paced mammal metropolis, diving deeper into the lives of some of the Oscar®-winning feature film’s most intriguing residents.

Coming to Disney+ in 2023 is “IWÁJÚ,” an all-new original long-form series created in collaboration with Pan-African comic book entertainment company Kugali. Lee invited to the stage Kugali filmmakers Olufikayo Ziki Adeola, Hamid Ibrahim and Tolu Olowofoyeku, who introduced the setting of the series—a love letter to Lagos, Nigeria. Olowofoyeku and Ibrahim described the world of “Iwájú” as a futuristic depiction—a world bursting with color, unique visual elements and technological advancements inspired by the spirit of Lagos, which is physically divided into an island and a mainland separated by both water and socio-economic status. The coming-of-age story introduces Tola, a young heiress from the wealthy island, and her best friend Kole, a self-taught tech expert and loving son from the mainland. Filmmakers shared a first look of the new series. 

Lee then set the tone for Disney Animation’s next feature film, introducing the filmmakers behind “STRANGE WORLD.” Director Don Hall and co-director/ screenwriter Qui Nguyen revealed their personal connections to the film that’s about an incredible family who must get past their differences to save a strange world full of danger and surprises. The audience was treated to an all-new trailer from Disney Animation’s 61^st feature film before voice cast members Jake Gyllenhaal (Searcher Clade), Dennis Quaid (Jaeger Clade), Jaboukie Young-White (Ethan Clade) and Lucy Liu (Callisto Mal) joined the festivities. Fans also got a glimpse at an action-packed sequence from the film and received an exclusive poster. Produced by Roy Conli, “Strange World” also features the voice of Gabrielle Union (Meridian). The film opens in theaters Nov. 23, 2022. 

In the finale moment of the presentation, Lee returned to the stage to officially unveil Disney Animation’s next original feature film, “WISH,” set to release Fall 2023, during the Studio’s 100^th year. A film that could only come from Walt Disney Animation Studios, the epic animated musical is inspired by the legacy of films from the studio and asks the question: “How did the wishing star, upon which so many characters wished, come to be?” Directors Chris Buck and Fawn Veerasunthorn outlined the story, which is set in Rosas, the kingdom of wishes where wishes can literally come true. Attendees were introduced to 17-year-old Asha—an optimist with a sharp wit who cares endlessly about her community. In a moment of desperation, Asha makes an impassioned plea to the stars, which is answered by a cosmic force, a little ball of boundless energy called Star. Together, they face the most formidable of foes to save her community and prove that when the will of one courageous human connects with the magic of the stars, wondrous things can happen. Disney Animation good-luck-charm Alan Tudyk joined filmmakers on stage to share an animation test for his newest character, a goat named Valentino. Buck, Veerasunthorn and Lee then introduced the voice of Asha, actress Ariana DeBose, who brought down the house singing an all-new original song written by Julia Michaels, who’s writing all of the songs for “Wish.” DeBose’s captivating performance of “More for Us” closed the showcase in signature Disney style. Lee is a writer on the film, Peter Del Vecho produces and Juan Pablo Reyes co-produces. 

About The Walt Disney Studios:
For over 95 years, The Walt Disney Studios has been the foundation on which The Walt Disney Company was built. Today it brings quality movies, episodic storytelling and stage plays to consumers throughout the world. The Walt Disney Studios encompasses a collection of respected film studios, including Disney, Walt Disney Animation Studios, Pixar Animation Studios, Lucasfilm, Marvel Studios, Searchlight Pictures and 20th Century Studios. It is also home to Disney Theatrical Group, producer of world-class stage shows.

AboutDisney Live Action:
Disney’s live-action legacy dates back it its first completely live-action film, “Treasure Island” in 1950, and its collaborations with renowned artists and filmmakers have resulted in some of the most successful and unforgettable family film in history. Across pirate-laden high seas or down a mysterious rabbit hole, the studio brings powerful storytellers together with leading-edge technology to produce a wide range of films for theatrical release and streaming that are uniquely Disney, from the beloved “Pirates of the Carbbean” films and “Jungle Cruise,” to an immensely popular collection of live-action reimaginings of classic tales—including “Alice in Wonderland,” “Maleficent,” “The Jungle Book,” “Beauty and the Beast,” “The Lion King,” “Aladdin,” “Lady and the Tramp,” “Mulan” and “Cruella”—to uplifting, character-driven stories such as “Better Nate Than Ever,” “Hollywood Stargirl” and “Rise.”

AboutPixar AnimationStudios:
Pixar Animation Studios, a wholly owned subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company, is an Academy Award®-winning film studio with world-renowned technical, creative and production capabilities in the art of computer animation. The Northern California studio has created some of the most successful and beloved animated films of all time, including “Toy Story,” “Monsters, Inc.,” “Cars,” “The Incredibles,” “Ratatouille,” “WALL•E,” “Up,” “Brave,” “Inside Out,” “Coco” and “Turning Red.” Its movies and technology have won 40 Academy Awards® and the films have grossed more than $14 billion at the worldwide box office. “Lightyear,” Pixar’s 26th feature, is now streaming on Disney+.

About Walt Disney Animation Studios:
Combining masterful artistry and storytelling with groundbreaking technology, Walt Disney Animation Studios is a filmmaker-driven animation studio responsible for creating some of the most beloved films ever made. WDAS continues to build on its rich legacy of innovation and creativity, from the first fully-animated feature film, 1937’s “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,” to 2019’s “Frozen 2,” the biggest animated film of all time, to the 60th animated feature, “Encanto.” Among the studio’s timeless creations are “Pinocchio,” “Sleeping Beauty,” “The Jungle Book,” “The Little Mermaid,” “The Lion King,” “Frozen,” “Big Hero 6” and “Zootopia.” 

About Disney+:
Disney+ is the dedicated streaming home for movies and shows from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic, along with The Simpsons and much more. In select international markets, it also includes the new general entertainment content brand, Star. The flagship direct-to-consumer streaming service from The Walt Disney Company, Disney+ is part of the Disney Media & Entertainment Distribution segment. The service offers commercial-free streaming alongside an ever-growing collection of exclusive originals, including feature-length films, documentaries, live-action and animated series, and short-form content. With unprecedented access to Disney’s long history of incredible film and television entertainment, Disney+ is also the exclusive streaming home for the newest releases from The Walt Disney Studios. Disney+ is available as a standalone streaming service or as part of The Disney Bundle that gives subscribers access to Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+. For more, visit disneyplus.com, or find the Disney+ app on most mobile and connected TV devices.

AboutD23 Expo 2022:
The largest Disney fan event in the world, D23 Expo Presented by Visa celebrates the wonderful worlds of The Walt Disney Company, including Disney, Marvel, Pixar, and Star Wars across film, television, theme parks, and more! VISIT D23 EXPO.

About D23:
The name “D23” pays homage to the exciting journey that began in 1923 when Walt Disney opened his first studio in Hollywood. D23 is the first official club for fans in Disney’s 90-plus-year history. It gives its members a greater connection to the entire world of Disney by placing them in the middle of the magic through its quarterly publication, Disney twenty-three; a rich website at D23.com with members-only content; member-exclusive discounts; and special events for D23 Members throughout the year. Fans can purchase an individual plan ($99.99/year for one Gold Membership) or a duo plan ($129.99/year for two Gold Memberships) at D23.com. To keep up with all the latest D23 news and events, follow DisneyD23 on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

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