Disney News

Category: Star Wars

  • BREAKING: Disney Announces Opening Dates for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resort

    BREAKING: Disney Announces Opening Dates for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resort

    Disney Parks announced today it will open Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge ahead of schedule at Disneyland Park in California on May 31 and at Disney’s Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida on Aug. 29.

    On opening day for phase one, guests will be transported to the remote planet of Batuu, full of unique sights, sounds, smells and tastes. Guests can become part of the story as they sample galactic food and beverages, explore an intriguing collection of merchant shops and take the controls of the most famous ship in the galaxy aboard Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run.

    Phase two, opening later this year, will be Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, the most ambitious, immersive and advanced attraction ever imagined, which will place guests in the middle of a climactic battle between the First Order and the Resistance and will blur the lines between fantasy and reality. In light of tremendous demand, Disney made the decision to open the land in phases to allow guests to sooner enjoy the one-of-a-kind experiences that make Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge so spectacular.

    Guests planning to visit Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland Park between May 31 and June 23, 2019, will need valid theme park admission and will be required to make a no-cost reservation, subject to availability, to access the land. Information on how to make a reservation will be available at a later date. Guests staying at one of the three Disneyland Resort hotels during these dates will receive a designated reservation to access Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge during their stay (one reservation per registered guest); valid theme park admission is required.

    Once guests step foot on Batuu, they will be part of the action as it unfolds around them. They may choose to aid a smuggler, join the Resistance or pledge their loyalty to the First Order. In this all-new environment, guests can make choices about their experience that could impact their adventures as they travel throughout the land by using the Play Disney Parks mobile app in a whole new way. This depth of storytelling is part of the total immersion that will distinguish the two, 14-acre lands – the largest and most technologically advanced single-themed land expansions ever in a Disney park – from any other themed land in history.

    The new lands build off decades of collaboration between Walt Disney Imagineering and Lucasfilm Ltd., a global leader in film, television and digital entertainment production, including the Star Wars franchise. The work on Star Wars between these two creative powerhouses dates back to 1987, when the groundbreaking Star Tours attraction opened at Disneyland Park in California.

  • Review of the Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular Dessert Party

    Review of the Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular Dessert Party

    We recently got invited to the dessert party at Hollywood Studios and I can tell you this – if you’re looking for an experience that’s out of this Galaxy, look no further than the Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular Dessert Party at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. 

    Check in is right outside Star Wars Launch Bay, starting around 6:45pm. You’ll receive a special souvenir lanyard to wear. I recommend showing up as early as possible to have plenty of time to enjoy the party.

    Once you’re checked in you’ll head inside the Launch Bay where a member of the crew will give you your table assignment.

    The desserts are plentiful. We saw assorted cheesecake bites, chocolate cupcakes with peanut butter icing, a Death Star sized bread pudding that can be topped with vanilla ice cream, and many more. You can even enjoy your very own Blue Milk panna cotta!

    If you’re looking for more savory options there were plenty of those too. Smoked sea salted flatbread, sliced prosciutto, hummus, mozzarella cheese, and more.

    There is also a great drink selection, all included in the price of the party. Non-alcoholic options included a specially made punch, soda, coffee, and tea, while guests over 21 can choose from several themed cocktails. Make sure you bring your ID to this party, the Stormtroopers will be checking!

    Another perk of this party is that it’s a great opportunity to meet the characters in Launch Bay with little to no wait. You’ll have a designated time to meet the Commander on Deck, aka Kylo Ren, and Chewbacca and BB-8 are available to meet during the party. Also, Stormtroopers patrol the room, providing a lot of great chances for pictures and interactions. The Stormtroopers are usually on the move when patrolling Hollywood Studios, so this is a special treat for all you First Order subjects.

    After you’re done stuffing yourself with dessert and punch it’s time to head out to your reserved fireworks viewing area, where you’ll get to experience Disney Movie Magic and Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular. On the way out you get a souvenir drink stein to commemorate your experience.

    I’ve heard people say that the viewing area is too close to the fireworks, but I disagree. I think it’s a prime spot that puts you front and center for the entire show. It really feels like you’re surrounded by the show.

    If you have any questions about the Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular Dessert Party or would like to start planning your next Disney trip, contact Kimberly at Enchanted Kingdom Vacations with Kimberly.

    The Details:

    If you’re a Stars Wars fan who wants the best spot for fireworks without waiting, no lines to meet Star Wars characters, and delicious desserts, then this is the Party you’ve been looking for!

    • The price is $79.00 per adult (age 10 and over) and $45.00 per child (age 3 to 9); tax and gratuity are included.
    • Disney’s Hollywood Studios admission is also required and is not included in the price of A Galactic Spectacular Dessert Party at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
    • Disney Dining plan entitlements may not be redeemed for this event
  • RUMOR: George Lucas Returning to Star Wars to Help Fix Episode IX

    RUMOR: George Lucas Returning to Star Wars to Help Fix Episode IX

    Star Wars: The Last Jedi received a lot of backlash and divided Star Wars fans on a whole new level. Now a new rumor claims that Disney may be bringing in George Lucas to help JJ Abrams on Episode IX and to help fix the franchise.

    According to a recent report by Express, “a leak claims George Lucas is closely involved with JJ Abrams on Episode IX and will help bring Luke Skywalker’s character back to his original vision following The Last Jedi fan backlash.”

    The report says that the director will work closely with the godfather of Star Wars that they have very exciting plans for Luke Skywalker and the other legacy characters.

    As with all rumors, you can take this with a grain of salt, but taking advice from the man who invented the galaxy far far away might not be a bad idea.

    The leak said: “George Lucas was involved in numerous sequences to fine-tune some of the legacy characters and their interactions with some of the sequel trilogy characters.

    George Lucas directed and guided JJ Abrams with Mark Hamill in exactly how the character of Luke Skywalker should be done.

    He will also be involved in some of the reshoots and editing techniques he will be overseeing during the reshoots in April and post production, which is set to end all the way in September and into October this year.”

    It’s all speculation at this point, but it was already widely reported that Lucas had a role as consultant on the franchise after Disney purchased Lucasfilm in 2012, so it isn’t that far of a stretch to imagine that they might return to the source to help bring the saga home.

  • Trip Report: The Star Wars Guided Tour at Hollywood Studios

    Trip Report: The Star Wars Guided Tour at Hollywood Studios

    If you’re looking for a Tour that is out of this Galaxy, then look no further than the Star Wars Guided Tour offered at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

    This tour gets you exclusive, VIP access to everything Star Wars Hollywood Studios has to offer, with some backstage magic thrown in. Be ready to start early because this tour starts with a 7:30am check-in time, at the front of Hollywood Studios. You’ll be given a personalized lanyard and a listening device to wear around your neck so won’t miss any of the details provided by your two tour guides.

    Personalized Lanyard: EKVwithKimberly

    Our first stop was launching into hyperspace aboard a Starspeeder 1000 on Star Tours – The Adventures Continue. We were the first guests to ride that day and our guides took time to show us all the hidden Easter eggs in the ride queue. I don’t want to give away too much, but we even got a backstage peek at the inner workings of the ride!

    After our Starspeeder landed safely we had a private screening of the movie, ‘Star Wars: Path of the Jedi,’ which is currently not available to regular guests.

    Then we headed over to the Launch Bay for some character meet and greets. While we were waiting we got harassed by a couple First Order Storm Troopers, so make sure you keep your identification with you at all times!

    In the Star Wars launch bay we met Chewbacca, Kylo Ren, and BB-8. All without a wait. Chewbacca gives the best hugs! Kylo Ren is a little intimidating, and BB-8 is super cute. He IS the droid you’ve been looking for! During his meet and greet the Cast Members help translate and he interacts with each guest differently.

    Before leaving the Launch Bay our guides gave us a private tour of the exhibits featuring replica props, models, concept art and artifacts from the movies; some of which are on loan from Lucas Films.

    If you lean toward the Dark Side you’ll love the next part of the tour. We were invited to be part of the March of the First Order! As Captain Phasma and her Storm Trooper guards made their way down Hollywood Boulevard we marched behind them; all the way to a reserved viewing area for the live stage show.

    After the show it’s time to sink your jawas into a delicious meal at Backlot Express. Lunch includes reserved seating and any non-alcoholic drink of your choice. As a thank you for restoring freedom to your galaxy you will receive a souvenir of your tour to commemorate your adventures.
    During lunch you’ll also get another surprise character interaction. These characters can be a little demanding when it comes to pledging your loyalty, so make sure you know if you’re Dark side or Light side!

    When lunch is over it’s time to be Kylo Ren-dered speechless while witnessing another live stage show; ‘Star Wars: A Galaxy Far, Far Away. This show features all your favorite characters, past and present, including Darth Vader, Rey, and Darth Mal.

    Now, if you have younglings ages 4 through 12 in your party, this is the time for them to participate in Jedi Training: Trials of the Temple. Normally you have to sign up for this experience, and slots fill up very fast, but you’re guaranteed a spot for all Padawan’s on the Star Wars Guided Tour.

    Later in the evening you get to experience the last part of this Out of This World Guided Tour – a reserved viewing of the obi-wan and only Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular nighttime fireworks event where you’ll be front and center with the best view in the park for the fireworks.

    The Details:

    I have to say that you can definitely enjoy the full Force of Star Wars fun happening at Disney’s Hollywood Studios with this all-access tour. If you have Star Wars fans in your party it’s worth of the cost of $99 per person.

    ** $99 (with tax) for Adults & Kids
    ** Right now, during the introductory period, AP Holders and DVC members can receive a 15% discount.
    ** Tours are not available on Sundays.
    ** Admission to Hollywood Studios is not included in the price.

    Contact Kimberly at Enchanted Kingdom Vacations for more details or to add this tour to your vacation package.

    Let us know in the comments if you’d like to do this tour and if you’d be Dark Side or Light Side!

  • Star Wars Day at Sea and Marvel Day at Sea Return in 2020 to Disney Cruise Line

    Star Wars Day at Sea and Marvel Day at Sea Return in 2020 to Disney Cruise Line

    On Disney Cruise Line, you can sail to places far, far away, and in 2020, Star Wars Day at Sea and Marvel Day at Sea Return to Disney Cruise Line.

    That’s right, the epic adventures at sea return to Disney Cruise Line next with limited engagements of two popular experiences – Star Wars Day at Sea and Marvel Day at Sea. Back by popular demand, these five- and seven-night sailings on the Disney Magic and Disney Fantasy, respectively, combine the splendor of a Disney Cruise Line vacation with a special day at sea filled with unique character encounters, live shows and action-packed entertainment.

    Celebrate legendary adventures and iconic characters from the Star Wars saga on special seven-night Disney Fantasy sailings from January to March 2020, taking you to the Caribbean for an out-of-this-galaxy experience!

    In addition to encounters with the galaxy’s most formidable and heroic characters, including Darth Vader, Kylo Ren, Chewbacca, C-3PO and R2-D2, this cruise features a full day of Star Wars activities including live shows, Star Wars-themed family and kids’ activities, unique food and beverage and special merchandise offerings. The day ends with “Summon the Force,” a deck party that celebrates the Star Wars universe and caps off the night with a fireworks show of galactic proportions.

    Marvel Day at Sea

    From January to early March 2020, special five-night Disney Magic sailings will combine the excitement of a Disney cruise to the Caribbean and Bahamas with the thrills of renowned Marvel comics, films and animated series for an action-packed, day-long celebration of the Marvel Universe.

    Join the largest assembly of Marvel Super Heroes and Villains, including the recent addition of Captain Marvel, along with Captain America, Spider-Man, Iron Man and more, highlight an all-day entertainment lineup that includes live shows for the whole family, an extraordinary deck show, Marvel-themed activities for kids and families, special merchandise and unique food and beverage offerings.

    The Avengers aren’t the only ones who will assemble on Disney Cruise Line in 2020 – your family can too!

    If you need help booking your magical vacation, contact Enchanted Kingdom Vacations with Vikki for help. My services are completely free and I will always find you the lowest rates. Let me do all the work so you don’t have to!

  • Disney Reveals First Up Close Look at the Millennium Falcon at Hollywood Studios

    Disney Reveals First Up Close Look at the Millennium Falcon at Hollywood Studios

    Disney Parks has released a first close-up look at the Millennium Falcon in a behind-the-scenes look at development on Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Hollywood Studios.

    Guests can take the controls of the fastest ship of the galaxy in Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run, one of two signature attractions coming to Galaxy’s Edge. This attraction will put guests behind the controls of the most famous ship in the galaxy. There will be three unique flight crew roles guests will be able to take on.

    The second attraction is called Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance. Guests will be in the middle of an epic battle between the Resistance and the First Order in this attraction.

    This all-new land opens at Disneyland (summer 2019) and Walt Disney World (fall 2019).

  • VIDEO: Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge Attractions’ Names Revealed and More

    VIDEO: Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge Attractions’ Names Revealed and More

    At the recent D23’s Destination D event, Disney Parks, Experiences and Consumer Products Chairman Bob Chapek shared exciting new details about Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge including the names of the new land’s two marquee attractions.

    Disney Parks released a few videos that will give you a sneak peek into the two major attractions coming to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland Resort and Disney’s Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World Resort. Take a look at the names of the attractions and the videos below:

    MILLENNIUM FALCON: SMUGGLERS RUN

    This attraction will put guests behind the controls of the most famous ship in the galaxy. There will be three unique flight crew roles guests will be able to take on. Honestly, it sounds like a dream come true to this Star Wars fan!

    STAR WARS: RISE OF THE RESISTANCE

    Guests will be in the middle of an epic battle between the Resistance and the First Order in this attraction. The sneak peek above was shot in the actual attraction!

    We also learned that the legendary John Williams will be creating new and original Star Wars themes exclusively for the land. Prepare your emotions for this preview of the all-new music, recorded by the London Symphony Orchestra at Abbey Road Studios:

    The attractions are to open at Disneyland Resort in summer 2019 and at Walt Disney World Resort in the fall.

  • A Second Live-Action Star Wars Series Based on ‘Rogue One’ is in the Works

    A Second Live-Action Star Wars Series Based on ‘Rogue One’ is in the Works

    Disney Chairman and CEO Bob Iger announced yesterday that Lucasfilm is in development of a second Star Wars live-action series for the company’s new direct-to-consumer streaming service called Disney+.

    The series, which will go into production next year, follows the adventures of rebel spy Cassian Andor during the formative years of the Rebellion and prior to the events of Rogue One: A Star Wars Story. Diego Luna will reprise the role of Andor.

    “Going back to the Star Wars universe is very special for me,” said Luna. “I have so many memories of the great work we did together and the relationships I made throughout the journey. We have a fantastic adventure ahead of us, and this new exciting format will give us the chance to explore this character more deeply.”

    The rousing spy thriller will explore tales filled with espionage and daring missions to restore hope to a galaxy in the grip of a ruthless Empire.

    A release date for the series has not yet been announced. Stay tuned to Disney Dorks for the latest updates.

  • FIRST LOOK: New Star Wars TV Series Name Revealed As Production Begins

    FIRST LOOK: New Star Wars TV Series Name Revealed As Production Begins

    Production on the first Star Wars live-action series has begun as you can see in this recently released set photo! Iron Man director Jon Favreau took to social media last week to announce that the title of the live-action scripted Star Wars TV series for Disney’s new streaming service will be: The Mandalorian!

    As we previously reported, the live action series was confirmed by Walt Disney Company chairman and CEO Bob Iger on a quarterly earnings call with investors last November and will debut on Disney’s digital streaming service.

    “The Mandalorian”, focuses on a “lone gunfighter” in the era after the events of “Star Wars: Return of the Jedi.” After the stories of Jango and Boba Fett, another warrior emerges in the Star Wars universe.”The Mandalorian” is set after the fall of the Empire and before the emergence of the First Order. We follow the travails of a lone gunfighter in the outer reaches of the galaxy far from the authority of the New Republic.

    The series will be written and executive produced by Emmy-nominated producer and actor Jon Favreau, as previously announced, with Dave Filoni (Star Wars: The Clone Wars, Star Wars Rebels) directing the first episode. Additional episodic directors include Deborah Chow (Jessica Jones), Rick Famuyiwa (Dope), Bryce Dallas Howard (Solemates), and Taika Waititi (Thor: Ragnarok). It will be executive produced by Jon Favreau, Dave Filoni, Kathleen Kennedy, and Colin Wilson. Karen Gilchrist will serve as co-executive producer.

    In early March, Lucasfilm announced that Emmy-nominated producer and actor Jon Favreau has signed on to executive produce and write a live-action Star Wars series for Disney’s new direct-to-consumer platform. Favreau is no stranger to the Star Wars galaxy having played roles in both the Star Wars: The Clone Wars animated series and in the upcoming Solo: A Star Wars Story.

    “I couldn’t be more excited about Jon coming on board to produce and write for the new direct-to-consumer platform,” says Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy. “Jon brings the perfect mix of producing and writing talent, combined with a fluency in the Star Wars universe. This series will allow Jon the chance to work with a diverse group of writers and directors and give Lucasfilm the opportunity to build a robust talent base.”

    Favreau is thrilled to be returning to the Star Wars galaxy: “If you told me at 11 years old that I would be getting to tell stories in the Star Wars universe, I wouldn’t have believed you. I can’t wait to embark upon this exciting adventure.”

  • ‘Star Wars’ Chief Kathleen Kennedy’s Lucasfilm Deal Extended for Three Years

    ‘Star Wars’ Chief Kathleen Kennedy’s Lucasfilm Deal Extended for Three Years

    The force is strong with Kathleen Kennedy who took command of Lucasfilm after Disney’s $4 billion acquisition from George Lucas in 2012. Kennedy has renewed her contract to remain president of Lucasfilm for another three years, through 2021.

    The move is a vote of confidence in Kennedy, who has had a tumultuous year following the disappointing box office returns that “Solo: A Star Wars Story,” suffered and behind-the-scenes drama after the studio dismissed directors Phil Lord and Chris Miller well into production. They were replaced by Ron Howard, who was tasked with bringing home the pricey standalone which came with a $250 million price tag.

    Kennedy weathered the storm following the drama and backlash, but many fans were left contemplating what her future with the company would be.

    Kennedy’s stamp has been on every project post-Disney, including the behemoth “Star Wars: The Force Awakens,” Gareth Edwards’ “Rogue One,” and Rian Johnson’s “Star Wars: The Last Jedi.”

    A spinoff development slate, which included a possible standalone for “Star Wars” character Boba Fett, has been shelved. Her attention will now be directed to a new core trilogy beginning with “Star Wars: Episode IX” directed by J.J. Abrams.

    Kennedy counts eight Academy Award nominations for Best Picture as a producer, including films like “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button.”