Disney News

Tag: star wars

  • 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.”

  • Disney Reveals Details of Oga’s Cantina Coming To Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge

    Disney Reveals Details of Oga’s Cantina Coming To Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge

    No matter how far far away the galaxy’s newest outpost might be, it wouldn’t be complete with out a cantina! Today, Disney revealed details on a watering hole fit for a smuggler that is set to open at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge coming to Disneyland and Walt Disney World.

    Black Spire Outpost at Galaxy’s edge will be home to Oga’s Cantina, which will be serving pilots, bounty hunters, smugglers, locals and galactic travelers alike, when it opens in 2019.

    Visitors come to this notorious local cantina, conduct shady business, and maybe even encounter a friend…or a foe. Run by an intriguing alien proprietor, Oga Garra, the cantina adheres to a strict code of conduct that tries to keep its unruly patrons in check. But with a history of being a smugglers’ safe haven and a popular stopping point for those seeking to avoid the authorities, you can bet that the cantina has a story or two to tell.

    Oga’s Cantina is the kind of establishment that attracts some of the most interesting and disreputable characters in the galaxy. And you never know when a stormtrooper or a familiar face will show up. Patrons of the cantina come from across the galaxy to sample the famous concoctions created with exotic ingredients using “otherworldly” methods, served in unique vessels. With choices for kids and libations for adults, the cantina will make for a great stop!

    Musical entertainment is provided courtesy of RX-24, the former StarSpeeder 3000 pilot droid we first met in Star Tours, who has re-envisioned himself as the cantina’s DJ. As quirky and talkative as ever, he’s still trying to do his best on the job.

    Get ready to listen to some unique music, taste the best drinks in the galaxy, and surround yourself with a colorful cast of characters. You never know what will happen at the cantina!

    Oga’s Cantina opens its doors at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge in 2019 at both Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort.

  • Disney Drops Trailer for ‘The Force Awakens’ Prequel Series ‘Star Wars Resistance’

    Disney Drops Trailer for ‘The Force Awakens’ Prequel Series ‘Star Wars Resistance’

    Friday, we got our first look at Star Wars Resistance, the new anime-inspired animated series, and a promise of more to come when the series debuts on Sunday, October 7th at 10 p.m. EST on Disney Channel, DisneyNOW, and Disney Channel VOD, with subsequent airings on Disney XD.

    The trailer comes complete with familiar faces like Poe Dameron and everyone’s happily-beeping buddy, BB-8; a glimpse at the new cast of characters including Kazuda Xiono, the young pilot recruited by the Resistance; and an introduction to the Colossus, a massive refueling platform on an outer rim ocean planet. The series, set prior to the events in The Force Awakens, also welcomes Oscar Isaac and Gwendoline Christie to the voice cast, reprising their roles as Poe and Captain Phasma, respectively.

    See the trailer for yourself below:

    We’re also thrilled to bring you intel on the first episode! In the one-hour premiere “The Recruit,” Poe and BB-8 assign Kaz to the Colossus, where he meets a cast of colorful new aliens, droids and creatures. While undercover to spy on the growing threat of the First Order, Kaz works as a mechanic and lives with Poe’s old friend Yeager — a veteran pilot who operates a starship repair shop run by his crew: Tam, Neeku and a battered old astromech called Bucket.

    “Can you imagine what it’s like to be an ace pilot?” Kaz asks.

    This fall, imagine no more. Welcome to the Resistance!

  • Galaxy’s Edge Construction Update As Seen From Toy Story Land

    Galaxy’s Edge Construction Update As Seen From Toy Story Land

    Toy Story Land Just had its grand opening on June 30th, but a new presence in the force is on the horizon. Construction on Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge has been underway since April 2016 and the progress is astonishing. Especially from the perspective of a toy.

    As Buzz Lightyear towers over Andy’s playground you can see what the construction looks like from his point of view as he seemingly welcomes their new neighbors.

    Take a look at the photos below for some close up shots of exactly how the new land is shaping up.

    Galaxys_Edge_Construction

    Photo: @bioreconstruct

    These rocky spires in Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge will actually be petrified tree trunks making it look as if trees equivalent to Earth’s 300+ ft Redwoods once towered over the space.

    When you enter Toy Story Land look to your left for a view of Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge.

    Galaxys_Edge_Construction
    Photo: @bioreconstruct

    Here is a view of the detailed painted rock work in Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge from Toy Story Land on July 4.

    Galaxys_Edge_Construction
    Photo: @bioreconstruct

    Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge will open in late fall 2019 at Walt Disney World Resort, when guests will land in the middle of the action as they live their own Star Wars stories. Stay tuned for more construction updates as the new land continues to develop.

  • Felicity Star Keri Russell In Talks To Join Cast of ‘Star Wars: Episode IX’

    Felicity Star Keri Russell In Talks To Join Cast of ‘Star Wars: Episode IX’

    Actress Keri Russell may be headed to a galaxy far far away as she is reportedly in talks to join Disney and Lucasfilm’s Star Wars: Episode IX.

    The actress, who is well-known for playing the title role in Felicity, just wrapped the six seasons of The Americans and has reportedly been cast for an action-oriented role in J.J. Abrams’s Star Wars Episode IX, according to Variety.

    Abrams and Lucasfilm execs met with several actresses for the role in the past two months and settled on Russell right before the Fourth of July holiday. Abrams will likely cast two more actors by the time the film begins production at the end of the month.

    Star Wars: Episode IX is set to start production this summer ahead of its December 2019 release. The Force Awakens director J.J. Abrams is returning to the director’s chair and is already turning to familiar faces to fill new roles in the film.

    Abrams and Russell have a long history of working together. They first teamed on The WB drama series Felicity way back in 1998, and then reunited for Mission: Impossible III, which served as Abrams’ feature directorial debut. When Abrams was prepping what would become Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Russell made it clear that she’d do anything to be a part of his take on the Star Wars universe and now it looks like she may get her chance.

    Daisy Ridley, John Boyega, Oscar Isaac, and Kelly Marie Tran are all expected to reprise their roles as the heroes of the Resistance, facing down the First Order now under the command of Adam Driver’s Kylo Ren. But a full cast list has not yet been confirmed.

  • Star Wars Father’s Day Gift Guide 2018

    Star Wars Father’s Day Gift Guide 2018

    Father’s Day is approaching Sunday, June 17! And if you were thinking of heading to Tosche Station to pick up some power converters as a gift for Dad, you may want to consider some of the other out of this galaxy Star Wars merchandise out there.

    Below you find a stellar guide to all you’re Father’s Day needs for those Star Wars loving Dads.

    Kessel Run Socks

    They’re the socks that made the Kessel Run in less than 12 parsecs. (Sort of.) The unstoppable team of Han and Chewie is here to save our skins by keeping dad’s feet warm, dry, and ready for adventure. Available at Stance.

    Han Solo Faux Suede Replica Jacket

    When Han strides in to the cantina, you know he means business. This faux suede jacket, a replica of Alden Ehrenreich’s from Solo: A Star Wars Story, evokes that same sense of bravado (and all without the bounty on dad’s head). Available at ThinkGeek.

    Yoda ”Best Dad Ever” T-Shirt

    Honor one of the smartest people you know with Master Yoda and a dad-approved pun. Available at shopDisney.

    Darth Vader Sentry SS SW, 42mm Watch

    This watch is impressive. Most impressive. And perfect for your modern Sith lord. Available at Nixon.

    Camp Shirt for Men

    Blast off in a Disney Parks exclusive shirt in a playful pattern featuring the fastest hunk of junk in the galaxy, the Empire’s elite TIE fighters, a squad of X-wing fighters, and…is that a moon? Available at shopDisney.

    Solo: A Star Wars Story Dice Cufflinks

    He won’t need any tricks up his sleeve with Han’s lucky dice right on his cuffs. They’re as classy as a special occasion cape, but a little more subtle. Available at shopDisney.

    Darth Vader Ice Mold Set

    If Darth Vader were throwing a dance party, we imagine he might chill the refreshments with ice cubes created in his powerful image. Available at Williams-Sonoma.

    Star Wars Bluetooth Item Finders

    For the dad who tends to lose things — like maybe his beloved ship, wagered in a game of Sabacc? — comes the ideal counterpart. In the image of our favorite droids, Wookiee, other characters, these handy bluetooth-enabled buddies mean he can always locate his most prized possessions after he misplaces them. Available at Amazon.

    Chewbacca RARRRGGHH! 3D card

    Raise your arms in triumph and let loose a Wookiee roar (you know, assuming you speak a little Shyriiwook). You’ve found the perfect co-pilot in this adorable, 3D card, complete with a flock of friendly porgs. Available at Lovepop.

     

    Stormtrooper Lounge Pants

    When dad gets off duty, after a long day patrolling Mos Eisley for missing droids or wherever his work may take him, he deserves to get comfortable in some patterned lounge pants. Available at shopDisney.

     

    Darth Vader Lightsaber Lamp

    An elegant lamp for a more civilized home or office. Just be careful when you’re flipping the switch — people have been known to lose a hand when lightsabers are involved. Available at shopDisney.

    Han Solo Baseball Cap

    You love him. He knows. Available at shopDisney.

    LEGO Star Wars Kessel Run Millennium Falcon

    Together, you can build your own Corellian freighter with the style of Lando’s Millennium Falcon in Solo: A Star Wars Story, featuring exquisite yellow accents, a cozy bunk, and a Dejarik table. Don’t forget to repair the hyperdrive before you take it for a spin. Available at shopDisney.

     

    Star Wars: Jedi Challenges Augmented Reality Experience

    This will be a day long remembered. Challenge your father to a lightsaber duel with some of the most skilled warriors in the galaxy. Available at Best Buy.

    Hasbro Star Wars: The Black Series 6-inch Figures

    Even the most serious mind enjoys a few action figures — for collecting in a display, desk decoration, or defending the rebel base. Capture your favorite characters from Solo: A Star Wars Story (including an exclusive Chewbacca complete with snazzy goggles!) and beyond. Available at Target.

  • UPDATE: Latest On Galaxy’s Edge Construction at Hollywood Studios

    UPDATE: Latest On Galaxy’s Edge Construction at Hollywood Studios

    Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge will open in late fall 2019 at Walt Disney World Resort, when guests will land in the middle of the action as they live their own Star Wars stories. Construction for the massive project is of galactic proportions and these are the updates you are looking for.

    The grand opening is just over a year away and anticipation is building just as fast as the construction is coming along. These aerial photos of the site gives a great view of just how much progress is being made on the upcoming land.

    Below you can see some aerial views of the arched structure for the Battle Escape attraction which will be a trackless ride that puts guests in the middle of a fight between the First Order and The Resistance.

    Galaxy's Edge
    Photo: @bioreconstruct

    And here you can see a wider angle that shows the scope of this attraction.

    Galaxy's Edge
    Photo: @bioreconstruct

    The tunnel between Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge and Grand Avenue is also coming along and here you can some of the newest concrete forms being added.

    Here’s a great shot of the infamous stop for traders, adventurers, and smugglers known as Black Spire Outpost!

    Here’s another angle that also shows that the rock-work on the Millennium Falcon is to be eroded petrified trees, or black spires.

    Galaxy's Edge
    Photo: @bioreconstruct

    Plans for an immersive Star Wars-inspired resort at Walt Disney World Resort were unveiled last summer and below you’ll see an aerial view of the site with Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge at the top. At the center is path where a raised conveyor belt transferred dirt from a staging area on the West side of World Drive.

    star wars hotel
    Photo: @bioreconstruct

    This week Disney announced the exact location of the new resort which is currently under development on the south side of Disney’s Hollywood Studios, just east of World Drive. Here is another aerial overview of Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge and you can see the Star Wars Resort site is upper right.

    star wars hotel
    Photo: @bioreconstruct

    The progress on Galaxy’s Edge and the Star Wars Resort is just amazing to see and if you want to see how its been shaping up take a look back at our previous updates: