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I know I have been gone a while...and a lot of major stuff has happened at The Walt Disney Company since then.  While I could talk about the Marvel acquisition, the D23 Expo, Dick Cook, Rich Ross, Jay Rasulo, or Tom Staggs, I want to talk about something small.  Elf size as the case may be. 

While it might be early to talk about Christmas, I figured the parks are already decorated so why not.  And what I am most excited about this holiday season.  While I enjoy the synergistic artistry of the Disney Parks Christmas Day Parade (note the name change); I am more excited about another example of different business units working together.  Prep and Landing.

This new Christmas special was made by the folks at Disney Animation Studios and was conceived as a short by Bolt’s director Chris Williams.  But John Lasseter went across Riverside Drive and convinced ABC to air it as a holiday special along with ABC’s strong stable of other specials such as How the Grinch Stole Christmas and A Charlie Brown Christmas.  (We won’t mention Shrek the Halls).  Listening to ABC’s Steve McPherson talk at D23, he didn’t take a lot of convincing on John’s part because the folks at ABC love Disney.

Now I found this interesting...and as I talked to more ABC folks, they told me that they feel integrated with Disney.  Now I am sure since the 1995 acquisition, there were many bumps in the road.  In fact, I’d venture to say that this integration didn’t happen until Bob took the reigns.  Why do I think this?  Well, Bob welcomed ABC employees, of which he was one, in to the Disney service award program.  And isn’t this type of collaboration one of the reasons Bob replaced Dick Cook with Rich Ross? 

There is no longer a separation between Disney and ABC.  And with great shows like V, Modern Family, and Lost, I am proud to be a Disney fan and I include ABC in that fandom.  If ABC is now a fully integrated part of The Walt Disney Company, how can I not?  I can only wonder how long it will be or if it will even be possible for the Marvel acquisition to reach the same level of collaboration.  While I don’t want Disney to ruin the creative culture of Marvel, I do hope they feel like a part of the Disney family. 

As far as the fruit of this integration turns out, you can judge for yourself when the special airs on December 1.  But I got to see the yet to be completed special at D23, and I can only say that I can’t wait to see Lanny and Wayne again. 

Quick Takes:

Parks and Resorts:  The giant gingerbread house opened at the Grand Floridian today.  Personally, I would rather have had the Lights of Winter.  But I might be biased because I hate gingerbread. 

Studio Entertainment:  Mary Poppins opened at the Ahmanson Theatre in Los Angeles on Sunday and is running until February 7.  If you live in the area, check out this show.  I wanted to hate it, but I loved it.  Its not the movie, but it doesn’t turn its nose up to the film either. 

 Disney Interactive Media:  Speaking of Prep and Landing.  Here is Disney.com’s site for the special.  In the recent earnings conference call, future Disney Parks Chairman mentioned that while this segment doesn’t generate a lot of operating income, it does support the rest of the company.   This is just one example. 

Consumer Products: Andy Mooney is going to be the buisness unit head with the most time in their position come January 1.  Andy has been in his role since May 2003 and has been with Disney since January 2000.  I hope he doesn’t start to feel bored in his role.  If he does, he could end up running ESPN. 

Video of the Day: I love this new Disney Parks holiday spot.  Almost as good as the classic Disneyland “Let’s go play” ad.

News from Around the Web:

ABC News:  ABC News is asking if GM will be spending taxpayer money on overseas operations.  The question I want answered is will GM spend taxpayer money on sponsoring an Epcot pavilion.  If so, I want access to the VIP lounge. 

NY Times:  The New York Times reports that GM lost $1.15 billion.  Perhaps they shouldn’t sponsor Test Track. 

USA Today: Sybase CEO, and Disney board member, John Chen shares his inside look on China’s influence.  Hmm, I wonder what his thoughts on Shanghai Disneyland are. 

 LA Times: The LA Times looks at the incredible legs of Disney’s A Christmas Carol.  The film retained  74.2 % of its opening weekend audience.  Somewhere, Dick Cook is on a train enjoying the last laugh. 

Orlando Sentinel:  The Orlando Sentinel looks at the changes to Magic Kingdom’s Space Mountain.  Haven’t done it myself yet, but I can’t wait to give it a whirl.   

Variety:  The much maligned 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea remake has been beached.  Good move Mr. Ross.... Good move. 

Up was the top movie at the box office this weekend, bringing in $68.2 million which beats expectations.  It was also screened at the El Capitan as part of the first D23 members-only event.  Coincidence?  I think not.   While many of us have had our concerns about D23’s early moves, this event was a home run.  It was everything a Disney fan event should be. 

The best part was seeing the movie with fellow Disney fans.  Folks that cheer when the Toy Story 3 trailer premiered, when they showed the Princess and the Frog trailer, and even to my surprise applaud when they screened the G-Force trailer.  But the extra joy of getting to hear from Pixar’s good luck charm, John Ratzenberger as he thanked us for our support was an extra treat..  Also the free soda, popcorn, and pin weren’t bad bonuses considering the event was free.  (I know I paid 75 bucks for the membership, but you know what I mean).

When it came to the movie, I enjoyed it.  But it did have two of my favorite things; dogs and old people.  The movie is unique which makes it hard to rank.  Well actually it won’t be hard, we will just have to wait for the final box office numbers to come in to know where it ranks.  I also enjoyed the short, Partly Cloudy.  I like the shorts, they are like extra innings, frequent flier miles, or AMC First Look... a little bonus to the experience that comes with admission.  I hope eventually all Disney movies have shorts attached. 

Follow me on Twitter.  @figgy999

Quick Takes:

Parks and Resorts: I also attended the D23 event at Epcot to close out the Flower and Garden Festival.  While the event had a smaller scope, it was still fun.  Tony Orlando gave several shoutouts to D23, even wearing Mickey gloves to honor the fans.  Also having some of Walt’s favorite desserts, like Chris’ Cold Pie was a nice touch for a fan event.  I also can’t downplay the value of getting fast passes for Soarin’ when I checked in.  We got a complete set of the D23 promotional buttons as we exited which has been a hidden dream for me.  As far as I am concerned, D23 is two for two. 

Media Networks:  Disney Channel has renewed Sonny with a Chance for a second season and Hannah Montana for a fourth.  More Sonny and Hannah?  It’s like we are getting the best of both worlds. 

 Disney Interactive Media:  Disney has completed the acquisition of parenting related websites from Kaboose Inc.  Hope this is as successful as the Infoseek purchase. 

Consumer Products: Disney Consumer Products has its largest presence this year at the Licensing Show.   They will showcase their franchises like Winnie the Pooh.  Did you know  that they are making a new traditionally animated Pooh movie to be released in Spring 2010?  Don’t get this mistaken with G-Force, that’s  a different kind of pooh.    

Video of the Day: The Jonas Brothers go behind the scenes of their Paranoid music video.  Sorry folks, no trash can in sight. 

News from Around the Web:

ABC News:  The girl that was brought to Walt Disney World as part of an alleged abduction hoax said that the trip was fun.  I am glad that even under bizarre circumstances, Disney World is the place where parents and children can have fun together. 

NY Times:  The New York Times reports on Up’s box office performance.  I bet the New York Times wishes they made as much money as Up did.  Sadly, they are broke.  Maybe they wish THEY bought Pixar.   

USA Today: USA Today looks at Pixar good luck charm and friend to D23, John Ratzenberger.  Did you know he has made more than $3 billion?  That’s like 4 DCAs. 

LA Times: Auditions for season 9 of American Idol have been announced and it looks like you don’t have to take your dream ticket far.  They will have auditions at the Orlando Pyramid July 7^th to July 9^th.  So go to Disney’s Hollywood Studios then high tail it downtown.       

Orlando Sentinel:  The Orlando Sentinel asks if they have changed the direction of the Celebrate a Dream Come True Parade.  The answer is yes.  It now steps off in Town Square.  I feel special for scooping the Orlando Sentinel. 

Variety:  TV Azteca has reached an agreement with Disney to produce a version of Who Wants to be a Millionaire .  Way to jump on a property when it is hot.  Es que su respuesta final?

So Disney has joined an evil plot to destroy the world when they joined Hulu by gaining an equity stake as well as supplying the site with video content from ABC, ABC Family, SoapNet, and Disney Channel.  I think this is a great move.  When ABC launched their video player, they broke new ground.  But when News Corp and NBC Universal started Hulu, they created a destination for professional content online.  And while viewers that want to watch Lost might head to ABC.com, viewers that are looking for something to watch, will go to Hulu. 

Disney also gets a substantial piece of an internet destination.  Go.com failed because internet people will be more successful in creating a web destination.  But entertainment people will be successful in creating an entertainment destination, whether it is a TV network or a website.  Google acquired YouTube for $1.65 billion.  If Hulu is going to rival YouTube, which many pundits believe will happen, how much is Hulu worth?  It’s true that Hulu hasn’t sold a lot of ads, and you make more if people watch the shows on TV than you do if they watch it online; but now would not be the time to judge the success of internet  advertising as the ad market is anything but stable at this point in time.  But if advertisers want to reach people, they will have to migrate to the internet eventually, and Disney needs to occupy many places in that market. 

Disney, now more than ever, needs to create content people want to see.  In the end, I doubt it will really matter if they watch it on TV, iTunes, ABC.com, or Hulu.  As long the public is watching it in some way, Disney will be successful.  So grab your remote or your computer and enjoy. 

Quick Takes:

Studio Entertainment: Looks like Disney ended up planting 2.7 million trees thanks to that many moviegoers seeing Earth during its opening week.  I admit that I am not a True-Life Adventures fan, but I really did enjoy Earth.  I think I can handle one Disney Nature film a year and look forward to Oceans, though I doubt they will plant trees for a film about the Ocean. 

Parks and Resorts:  The Sun Wheel has reopened as Mickey’s Fun Wheel.  This is the first re-branded attraction of the DCA redo, and I have mixed feelings.  I think the Sun Wheel was the one DCA icon that actually worked and developed its identity.  However, I do like the end result and I am sure I will get used to it.  Now if they could only get rid of the Maliboomer..... 

Disney Interactive Media:  Disney 365 talks to Demi Lovato about her upcoming tour.  I’ll be seeing her in August when she comes to the Pyramid. 

Consumer Products: Disney is launching DigiComics which will allow you to download comics to your mobile device.  Do you think it will work? 

Who is Celebrating: Today is Will Arnett’s birthday.  He stars in Disney’s G-Force.  I hope the American League hits a Grand Slam during the All-Star Game so I can see the movie for free.  This time, it counts.   

Video of the Day: An analyst on CNBC’s Fast Money tells viewers to get off the Disney roller coaster and sell the stock in advance of tomorrow’s earnings announcement.   I hope he is wrong.  We will find out tomorrow.  In any case, I should correct him.  Disney doesn’t have roller coasters.  They have roller coaster type rides. 

News from Around the Web:

ABC News:  The Blackberry Curve outsold the iPhone last month.  See what happens when Steve Jobs goes on leave?  Sigh. 

NY Times:  Ties between Apple and Google are being investigated by the Federal Trade Commission.  See what happens when Steve Jobs goes on leave?  Sigh.

USA Today: USA Today looks at May on TV.  They pick a show for every day of the month and ABC got ten mentions!  Take that CNBC guy.    

LA Times: The LA Times reports that the premiere of Disney Channel’s Jonas did not burn up the ratings being the worst live-action series premiere since 2005’s Life with Derek.  That being said, the show did top the kids and tweens ratings for the night with 4 million viewers.  I guess the trash can needed a bigger part.     

Orlando Sentinel:  The Orlando Sentinel reviewed the new Manta coaster at Sea World.  I got to go to an event tonight and try it.  It is awesome!  The queue, aquariums, the ride, and experience were all the best at the park.  It will probably be my top Central Florida attraction opening this year. 

Variety:  Looks like the studios and the theaters are starting to battle regarding who is going to pay for the 3D glasses you need to watch Digital 3D features.  I think Time Warner should pay for all of them.  Just my two cents.     

Dwayne Johnson appeared at AMC Mission Valley Theater on Friday, March 13^th with Race to Witch Mountain’s director Andy Fickman and producer Andrew Gunn.  This was part of a new program that began with The Jonas Brothers called Disney’s Opening Weekend Surprise.  The idea is that you might get a special treat if you see a Disney film such as seeing The Rock or The Jonas Brothers.

Disney has big plans for this initative with creating a movie going community on Disney.com that will get sneak peeks at upcoming releases as well as hints as to what and where the next surprise will be. 

Is it just me or has Disney decided to create a lot of new communities lately, while creating less and less product.  Don’t get me wrong, along with D23, I like this new idea.  But I can’t help but notice that while Disney Movie Rewards continues to expand, the number of films Disney is releasing shrinks.  And I would much rather see a press release regarding a new attraction instead of another update from the silly Mom’s Panel.

I love the marketing efforts that Disney has undertaken lately.  But the marketing can only be as good as the product.  There is no marketing that is going to turn a bad movie or attraction good.  But we have to notice that the amount of product Disney is releasing is decreasing, at least for now.  So the marketing allows us to stay excited between openings.  The key is not to get carried away with the marketing, and lose focus and investment on the actual product.   

Quick Takes:

Media Networks: Today was “Selection Monday” for the Women’s NCAA Tournament.  Unlike what some shareholders believe, ESPN only has the rights to the Women’s tourney.  All you really need to know is that UCLA didn’t make it this year (again).  But UCF is the 14 seed is the Oklahoma City region.  Good Luck!

Parks and Resorts:  T. Rowe Price has agreed to sponsor an exhibit at Epcot’s Innoventions.  Uhmm, aren’t we in the midst of a financial crisis in which investment companies are being scrutinized how they are spending their money?  Also, will The Great Piggy Bank Adventure theme to Epcot  be about the future?  I don’t know that an attraction featuring rampant inflation will be a big hit amongst Disney Guests. 

Disney Interactive Media:  Disney’s Black Rock Studios announced they will be releasing Spit/Second, a new racing game for Xbox 360, Playstation 3, and the PC.  I can’t help but notice that the game doesn’t involve Disney’s existing franchises and is not being released on a Nintendo platform which Bob Iger recently identified as Disney Interactive Studio’s strategic directives.  I guess there is an exception to every rule.

Consumer Products: DCP and KB Homes have announced that you can now have Disney Dream Rooms based on Hannah Montana, Cars, Pooh, and Disney Princess.  I can’t wait for them to extend their lines.  I can’t wait to live in a home with a D23 room. 

Who is Celebrating: It is Erik Estrada’s birthday.  (Insert own joke here)

Video of the Day: The second Upisode premiered and features Russell trying to use a first aid kit.  It kind of reminds me of my experience the one time I went to first aid at Universal to get a band-aid. 

News from Around the Web:

ABC News:  Former Disney Star, Lindsay Lohan is off the hook after being issued an arrest warrant.  How come I have the feeling she won’t be named a Disney Legend.  Well, I mean you can’t show up if you are in jail, and it’s just a matter of time. 

NY Times: Looks like a treatment for peanut allergies shows promise.  I guess there is hope for me!  Soon, I might be able to enjoy the Peanut Butter and Jelly Shake at the 50’s Prime Time Cafe.  Anyone want to be there when I try for the first time? 

USA Today: Dancing with the Stars contestant, Shawn Johnson, has a blog discussing her Salsa.  I prefer Paul Newman’s Salsa myself, but I’ll give hers a shot. 

LA Times: The LA Times catches up with Kim Richards and Iake Eissisnmann from the original Witch Mountain films.  I learned one thing about each of them that I didn’t want to know.  Kim is Paris Hilton’s aunt.  Iake paints nudes.  I guess there is such a thing as knowing too much about the stars you idolized as a child.   

Orlando Sentinel:  Thomas Kinkade presents Pinocchio in a new painting entitled “Pinocchio Wishes Upon a Star”.  Just a thought... Wasn’t Geppetto the one that wished upon a star?  Pinocchio was the one that went to Pleasure Island and turned in to an.... donkey.     

Variety:  Variety reviews Better Off Ted, and gives it a tepid reception. I am shocked that a comedy on ABC didn’t get glowing reviews.  In related news, ABC announced that the series FINALE of According to Jim will air May 5.    

All I have to say is WOW!  I am so excited for D23 that I can’t remember anything else discussed at the meeting today.  I had a chance to talk to some of the folks behind D23 and I have full faith in them based on their replies.  This isn’t going to be another Disneyana Convention, Disney Magazine, or Disney Club.  This will be better than all of that, because it is being run by fans.  I mean, I have no doubt they will have their bumps, but the look in their eyes while they discussed the club let you know that they want this to be something special.  You can also see how much fun they are having bringing this club to you.

Don’t worry you favorite websites and Disney fan clubs won’t be going anywhere.  The club is meant to compliment them by being the official Disney connection to the fans.  I am so excited.  Forget about the Path to 9/11, the new names of the Disney ships and the clip they showed of Princess and the Frog.  D23 was the real story of the meeting.  I can’t wait to see this develop.  By the way, Disney stock was up today.  I credit D23. 

Well it is Shareholder Meeting Eve and I have made it to my hometown of Oakland, California to be a part of my annual pilgrimage.  BTW, it is going to freeze here tonight.  Why is it that the meeting is always in a cold climate or a warm climate that just happens to be cold?  Anyway, I thought I would lead you through my day as I got ready for one of my favorite days of the year.

5:47 ET: Got upset at the Orlando International Airport for replacing Jack Wagner as the voice of the airport tram.  It was always a great way to get a little Disney before you get to the parks or as your on the way home. 

6:02 ET: Picked up USA Today at the airport, which I think is one of the cardinal rules of going on a buisness trip, and was happy to see the top story in the Life section was for a Disney property.  Dancing with the Stars made the front page (of section D).

6:22 ET: Now I am reading USA Today’s review of ABC’s new show Castle.  Three out of four stars.  That’s better than I expected.

6:30 ET: Boarded my flight to Kansas City.  Not sure if it is Kansas City, Kansas or Kansas City, Missouri.  But then I realized I don’t care.

9:00 CT: Land in Kansas City.  There is only a small area for me to hang out in without having to go through security again.  Luckily, Disney’s Live with Regis and Kelly is on the TV.

9:15 CT: The Rock is a guest to promote Race to Witch Mountain which Regis keeps calling Escape to Witch Mountain.  He mentions his “injury”, but not his cinnamon allergy. 

9:22 CT: Regis and Kelly keep promoting a big announcement they have.  I wonder if they will unveil they are 23.

9:54 CT: Apparently the big announcement is that they will be broadcasting from New Orleans and Miley Cyrus will be a guest.  She is on The View today, but they will be showing The Price is Right in the airport instead.

10:00 CT: The Price is Right has started and here comes Drew Carey.  Time to find something to distract me from this train wreck of a game show host.

10:08 CT: ABC News has a new online series called “The Fix.”  Here is the first installment.  I like it.  It even features Mickey. 

10:17 CT: It looks like Susan Arnold is leaving Procter and Gamble, but she will remain on the Disney board. 

10:45 CT: The announce my flight will be 5 minutes late.  That is 5 minutes of Drew Carey that I’ll never get back.

11:35 CT: Time to board my flight to Oakland

11:55 CT:  I am now able to get in to my carry-on to read my copy of Miley’s “Miles to Go”.  While I expected to get odd looks, the flight attendant says that he picked it up as well and started talking to me about it.  Out of this common bond, I get extra peanuts.  Too bad I’m allergic.

1:54 PT: As I land, all my devices start buzzing regarding Disney’s Corporate Responsibility Report.  We have known that this has been in the works for a while, but I am glad Disney stuck by its guns despite the economic challenges.  You can really tell that Bob still wants Disney to be the most admired company in the world.

2:26 PT: Get to watch The View on ABC.com.  I can’t believe Whoopi hates the small world changes as much as the Disney fans.  Maybe she is just upset that both of her DCA attractions have closed.  Coincidence? 

3:23 PT: Went to Hegen Burger.  The best burger in Oakland.

5:18 PT: The local ABC affiliate is putting their support behind Woz on Dancing with the Stars.  Something tells me, he might not win.

6:02 PT: I finally got to check Disney  stock.  Disney followed the Dow downward.  Disney was doewn .24 points to 15.59.  Not a good way to start your shareholder meeting. 

7:59 PT: Settling in for a night of ABC with Dancing with the Stars and Castle.  Two shows I will probably only watch tonight. 

The excitement is building.  I can’t wait to go to the meeting.  With the D23 Expo, we will now have two Disney pilgrimages this year.  As I am in the hotel room I am watching CNBC giving me grim economic news.  But Disney still has a lot of treats for us, despite the challenges to global economic environment is causing.  I’ll talk to you tomorrow.

A new Up trailer premiered on Yahoo today.  Now I have no clue why they didn’t premiere it last week attached to the Jonas Brothers 3D film, but what do I know.  In what has become a tradition, the trailer tells you the film was produced by the folks that made other Pixar hits like Toy Story, Monsters Inc., Finding Nemo, and Cars.  I can’t help but notice that A Bug’s Life is not mentioned.   And then I came to the sudden realization; A Bug’s Life is Pixar’s “Rescuers Down Under”.  It is the film that has somehow become forgotten that was released in the middle of a hot streak.  I am not saying A Bug’s Life was flop; and the film lives on in the parks, but it is no Toy Story or Monsters Inc. 

I wonder what film Up will be analogous to.  Will it be Pocahontas?  A film that is successful, but seems to bring about the end of a golden age. Will it be Tarzan?  A bright spot that ends up ushering in an era of mediocrity.  Will it be Dinosaur?  A technical masterpiece that seems to be forgotten.  Or maybe it will be none of those things.  Everyone keeps waiting for Pixar to fail, and some day they will probably miss one.  But why wait around for it?  Enjoy the success while you can.  And I would rather get to see a good movie, then to learn the Pixar is not infallible. 

Quick Takes:

Media Networks: As I write this, I am watching Chinese Taipei vs. China; a World Baseball Classic game on ESPN2.  The international nature of this event makes me wonder what it would be like if ESPN has the Olympics.  Recently, NBC announced that the International Olympic Committee has delayed bidding for the rights because of the economic state.  They hope that if they wait a bit, they can get a better deal.  And while Bob, who worked several Olympics for ABC, doesn’t view the Olympics as a “must have”, he does know the value they have.  It will be interesting to see if Disney can take advantage of GE’s weakened state and snipe the Olympics.

Parks and Resorts:  Disney Parks Merchandise has created a new website at www.artofdisneyparks.com.  The site basically replaces the Disney Gallery website.  Of course, they decide to wait until they announce the Disney Gallery is actually returning, to premiere a new URL. 

Disney Interactive Media:  The folks at Disney.com know that technology can be frustrating at times.  So they have decided to help out by having Dr. Bunsen Honeydew and his assistant Beaker offer tech support.  I didn’t know they lived in India.       

Consumer Products: Anybody been to a Disney Store lately?  I haven’t heard anything about them since Disney reacquired them.  It’s a shame.  They are being underutilized as marketing machines for the rest of the company.     

Who is Celebrating: Once again, there is no joy in Disneyville as Disney stock sunk even lower.  Luckily, DST will cheer me up.    

Video of the Day: American Idol winners, finalists, and judges offer tips on performing at The American Idol Experience.  If these guys were the judges, perhaps that wouldn’t be considered the worst part by nearly everyone that has seen to show. 

News from Around the Web:

ABC News:  Robin Williams, the voice of the Genie, needs an aortic valve replacement surgery.  While he has a bumpy history with Disney; Doobie and I wish him the best.   

NY Times: Michael Jackson will perform his final concerts in London.  Its great to see London is getting a gift......a gift you can hear!  It is amazing how much I don’t miss Captain EO.              

USA Today: USA Today reports that more hotels are facing foreclosure.  This could be a good thing.  That is, of course, if the Swan and Dolphin are included in this trend.    

LA Times: It’s not Disney related, but it is still important.  This Saturday will be the UCLA seniors last game at Pauley Pavilion.  Good luck at the big dance.  Let’s get to another Final Four. 

Orlando Sentinel:  Even the recession has its good points.   As attendance, sales, and profits slip at Universal Orlando.  I take my small victories.   

Variety:  ABC has picked up “Impact”, a four hour disaster mini-series.  I don’t know if it will be good, but I know that Doobie will watch it. 

The Spring television season is upon us, and that means it is time for mid-season replacements.  I thought I would take a look at each of ABC’s upcoming series.  Hopefully, they will be more succesful than ABC’s fall slate (0 for 2).

Better Off Ted:

What ABC Says It Is About: A satirical office comedy about successful good guy, Ted, who runs research and development at the morally questionable Veridian Dynamics.

What Disney Fans Think It Is About: a satirical office comedy about successful good guy, Ted Kryczko, who runs catalog development at Walt Disney Records:

Castle:

What ABC Says It Is About: Wildly famous mystery novelist Richard Castle , who is bored with his own success, learns that a real-world copycat killer has started staging murder scenes depicted in his novels.

What Disney Fans Think It Is About: A reality show depicting the hidden stories of the Cinderella Castle Suite.

Cupid:

What ABC Says It Is About: Trevor Pierce is a larger than life character who insists that he is Cupid, the Roman god of love.

What Disney Fans Think It Is About: John Lasseter is a larger than life character that has made all Disney fans fall in love with him.

In the Motherhood:

What ABC Says It Is About: takes a look at the importance of family and friends while trying to juggle motherhood, work and love lives in an overly complicated modern world.

What Disney Fans Think It Is About: takes a look at how new step-mothers adjust to being sudden parents in an overly simple fairy tale world.

Quick Takes:

Studio Entertainment: Hollywood Records has announced a March 10^th release for the Ballas Hough Band’s freshman album which features Mark Ballas and Derek Hough from Dancing with the Stars.  I think when the professional dancers crossover to actually being a D-list star, the show jumped the shark.   

Parks and Resorts:  So far, the Atlanta Braves are 4-1 in Spring Training games played at Champion Stadium in Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex.  Too bad they can’t play the entire season there.   

Disney Interactive Media:  I have heard some surprisingly good things about the Disney Fairies DS game.  Too bad I could never get myself to buy it.  I’ll stick to the online game and save myself the shame.    

Consumer Products: Do you think they are going to have a lot of Up merchandise?  I mean, I always wanted an Ed Asner action figure.   

Who is Celebrating: I don’t know....but I know who isn’t celebrating...anyone that owns Disney stock.  It reached its lowest point since September 2002. 

Video of the Day: Here is a video about Disney’s California Adventure Food and Wine Festival.  Some great people are behind this, so I hope it continues to be successful.    

News from Around the Web:

ABC News:  An auditor report warns that GM survival is doubtful.  I am guessing now would not be a good time to announce a multi-million dollar extension of their Test Track deal.    

NY Times: The New York Times goes backstage at The Lion King.  The article shows you why Disney doesn’t usually allow its Guests to go backstage.          

USA Today: Jewel and Nancy O’Dell had to bow out of Dancing with the Stars due to injury.  ABC is just lucky they still have the big stars like Mark Ballas and Derek Hough. 

LA Times: The LA Times reports that the producers of Life on Mars are grateful for being able to give the show closure.  They found out they were cancelled in time to shoot a series finale.  It doesn’t really matter to me though.  Since I know that the show isn’t returning I am finally going to delete the episodes that have been accumulating on my DVR.  Now I have room for Better Off Ted, until that gets cancelled as well. 

Orlando Sentinel:  The Orlando Sentinel reports that the sale of SeaWorld could be nearing.  That’s probably  a good decision.  It is a seller’s market.  Oh wait, it’s not.   They might be able to ask for a higher price if they had more than one whale they keep flying around. 

Variety:  ESPN’s film unit is fielding more features with two biopics in development.  I should note one important line in the article: “Funding for any of what Semiao describes as "moderately budgeted" scripted projects has not been secured.”  So basically, don’t hold your breath. 

Over the weekend, at WonderCon, Disney previewed the first 46 minutes of the upcoming Pixar film, Up.  There has been no secret that this movie is not intended to be a franchise.  The different kind of Pixar film doesn’t have a cute character or exciting plot to lure moviegoers.  A film described as an action-adventure film starring an old man doesn’t get me to jump in line to get tickets.  In order to start creating buzz on an inherently buzzless film, Disnsey has been giving sneak peeks at the film that is a new style of marketing for a Pixar release. 

This shows how much confidence in the film.  There have been reports of laughter and tears from the test screening.  Pete Doctor’s other film, Monsters Inc., is one of my favorite Pixar films as I believe it balances the heart and humor brilliantly.  In fact, I think Bolt is more like Monsters Inc. Than most Pixar releases.  I don’t know if I will like the film or not.  But I am encouraged, not only by the reaction to the film from the test screenings, but the fact that they are having test screenings at all.  Bob has talked a lot about managing the relationship Disney has with its base.  If Up succeeds, Bob will have evidence of how important that relationship is. 

Quick Takes:

Media Networks: The High School Musical franchise is returning to Disney Channel in 2010.  High School Musical 4 will feature new cast members but the produces and screenwriter are all set to return.  While no mention of cameo appearances are mentioned, there is an even more glaring omission.  Kenny Ortega!  Forget Zac, Vanessa, Corbin, Ashley, Monique, or Lucas.  Kenny is the key to the franchise and the rest of the entertainment industry has realized this, which means he might to busy to continue with the Disney Channel phenomenon.    

Parks and Resorts:  Disney announced that TrenD will open this summer in the former Summer Sands location. (ironic).  I only hope and pray that TrenD is nothing like Vault 28 at the Disneyland Resort.  I have never been more upset at Disneyland than the first time I entered that store.  Disney should never change its core principles in order to be cool.

Disney Interactive Media:  Disney Interactive Studios is shifting its strategy to focus more on the Wii and less on the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360.  It seems the Wii is the console of choice for Disney’s target demographic.  Poor Sony.  No wonder they are in so much trouble; they are no longer the king of consumer electronics. 

Consumer Products:  Miley Cyrus’s autobiography Miles to Go was released on Tuesday.  I wish I  could write an autobiography at her age.  At 16 , I had a hard time writing a three-page personal statement. (double spaced). 

Who is Celebrating: This Sunday, everyone will be.  It is DST time!  What will you be doing to pass the time away until 3am?  I am going to be play Disney Wheel of Fortune.  Category is Before & After.  The answer is Club Disney Club.      

Video of the Day: Watch an oddly unprofessional video of Jesse McCartney perform his new song, Body Language, live.  I remember seeing him perform at the Hollywood Pictures Backlot to support a Disney Mania and look how far he has come.  He is now a part of the ensemble of AB C Family’s Greek.  You know when you have hit basic cable, you have reached the big time. 

News from Around the Web:

ABC News:  Good Morning America has joined Twitter.  I mention this as an excuse to plug my Twitter account at http://www.twitter.com/figgy999. 

NY Times: Wall Street bounced back today, with the DOW gaining 149.82 points.  Disney  was up .58 points or 3.55%.  Finally, some good news.  See what happens when I right a blog about how great Bob is.        

USA Today: Robin Williams had to cancel comedy shows in Florida due to illness.  I can’t blame him.  I felt ill after seeing the first clips of Old Dogs, the Touchstone film being released that stars the voice of the Genie and the voice of Bolt. 

LA Times: Here is an LA Times article about the recent installment of The Bachelor.  Sigh.  I am so glad Michael Eisner stuck to his guns and didn’t let ABC sink to the level of having to air bad reality television.    

Orlando Sentinel:  The Orlando Sentinel is asking if it is time for GM’s last lap on Epcot’s Test Track.  Now I know GM is facing hard times and it might not make sense to renew their sponsorship.  But I have to ask, what will Disney executives do without their free Cadillac?  First Yamabuki closes for lunch and now this.  It is not a good time to be a Disney suit. 

Variety:  The Disney’s studios U.K. head, Robert Mitchell has suddenly left his post.  As I said before, it is not a good time to be a Disney suit. 

Today, Bob Iger participated in a Q&A session at the Deutsche Bank Media & Telecom Conference.  Now, I can’t say I speak for Bob Iger, but with the economy still in a troubled state, and with the shareholder meeting a week away, I thought it would be a good time to take his answers and create a “State of Disney” from Bob’s perspective.  I do not necessarily agree with everything Bob says, but I do have great faith that he is the best person to run The Walt Disney Company at this time.  So with apologizes to one of my heroes, here is the state of Disney from Bob’s point of view:

There is no question that we face challenging economic times.  But despite this, the strategy of The Walt Disney Company remains the same; create shareholder value through high quality branded creative content.  But we always need to examine how we do this.  Everything by our commitment to quality and integrity is on the table.  While we most always examine our businesses, our company is still strong and we expect to emerge from these tough times even stronger.   Creativity is the key to everything we do, and that is why I spend over 50 percent of my time encouraging creativity and making sure it is clear that it is our number one goal. 

While some might say we are in a creative lull, I couldn’t disagree more.  It is true that our businesses have good years and bad years. Luckily none of the businesses have bad years at the same time, while they have had great years at the same time.  Our studio is strong with Up, Princess and the Frog, A Christmas Carol, sequels to Cars, Toy Story, and Pirates, as well as Tron and Alice in Wonderland.  Disney Channel continues to be on a roll with Sonny with a Chance and JONAS.  ABC has Lost, Desperate Housewives, Grey’s Anatomy, and Dancing with the Stars.  And while ABC has not had shows of the caliber premiering recently, I know they will come.  We continue to create creative capital inside and outside the US.

In addition to the cyclical challenges, we must be aware of secular changes to our businesses.  I recently commented on secular changes in the home entertainment business.  The competition for consumers’ time has grown quite strong.  While we have moved content to many platforms, technology has enabled many new entrants to the entertainment marketplace giving consumers and abundance of choice.  People can now go to You Tube to be entertained by others home videos.  Who knew when I put America’s Funniest Home Videos on the air twenty years s ago, I would be ahead of the curve.  We need to adjust to a world where the computer is more of an entertainment device than the TV.  In a recent study 80% of millennials believed that.  Piracy is also a challenge and we need to avoid the mistakes the music industry made.  We need to offer our content on new platforms at an affordable price in order to make piracy less appealing.  While this might affect margins, but sacrificing some home video sales; the alternative is to force customers to piracy.  Not making content available online does not save DVD sales, it just encourages piracy. 

I believe the challenging advertising market is experiencing a cyclical change.  Many believed we would see a profound change in advertising.  But those that need to sell products and services need to market themselves.  This makes advertising necessary.  So while we see the cyclical change due to automotive, consumer electronics, and financial services sectors advertising less, companies still need to advertise. 

While the abundance of choice changes our business, it does not weaken our business.  The more players that are out there, brands become more important.  The ability to stick out of the crowd is invaluable.  Our brand is particular strong.  People will always have babies.  The babies become children and want to be entertained.  Since my grandparents time, Disney has been the most important brand in family entertainment.  Through the simple act of childbirth, though I don’t know that it is that simple, our brand keeps replenishing its value. 

Let’s take a look at how our brand helps our home entertainment business.  The average home owns 80 DVDs.  They probably are starting to think twice before that start adding titles to their library.  However our titles , particularly animated films, are collectable and easily playable, which is important for families.  The advantage our Disney branded films have in this market is significant.  This is why we will continue to invest in Disney branded films.

Our brand also allows us to experiment.  This is a part of our heritage which goes back to Walt’s time.  The strength of our brand allows us to try and share our content in new ways.  For example, I would love to see an online Disney movie club where you pay a subscription fee to view our films.  The strength of our brand makes this a possibility.   This is why we are looking at investing our CRM structure including affinity clubs.  In fact, you will hear about the creation of such a club in a matter of days.  A consumer is not a consumer of one of our businesses.  Most are consumers of all of our businesses.  This means it is critical that we maintain our relationship with our customers. 

There have been some questions about growth at ESPN.  The rights fees we pay create a strategic advantage for the worldwide leader in sports.  We believe ESPN will continue to grow due to its value to its viewers, distributors, advertisers, and sports organizations.  And while the Olympics are not a “must have”, we believe ESPN could do great things for the Olympic Movement by giving them a constant outlet for Olympic sports, such as we did on ABC’s  Wide World of Sports. 

At our parks, attendance is on par with last year, but with heavy discounting.  In addition, per capita spending at the parks is slightly down.  That being said, we continue to invest in new experiences such as The American Idol Experience which recently opened at Disney’s Hollywood Studios and the two new Disney Cruise ships.  We need to remain focused on the long term, by investing in our company and our franchises.  With Toy Story 3, Cars 2, a new Winnie the Pooh feature, and the initiatives surrounding Mickey Mouse, we establish strong franchises that not only help our Consumer Products business, but all of our businesses. 

Despite tough times, the state of The Walt Disney Company is strong.  In order to remain strong, we need to continue to invest and foster creativity.  This is the key to our brand.  In tough times, it is easy to try and just hang on, but if you do not continue to invest and grow, you will be a victim of atrophy.  We will continue to examine our businesses and find the best and most efficient ways to grow and create the creativity we are known for.  By continuing to improve our foundation during the tough times, you will be able to better reap the awards of the great times. 

What do Miley Cyrus, Jay Leno, Sally Field, Calista Flockhart, Jimmy Kimmel, Heidi Montag, Spencer Pratt, Patrick Dempsey, Kyle McLaughlin, Doug Savant, Maurice Benard, and Lady Gaga have in common?  They are all going to be guests on The View when it broadcasts from The Walt Disney Studios March 9-13.  Now I won’t get started on how they are defiling Legends Plaza by interviewing folks from “The Hills” there, but I do find this whole thing to be quite interesting.  Here is a quote from the press release: “All week long the co-hosts will celebrate the history and magic Disney has to offer, including appearances by some of the world’s most beloved characters, retrospectives of classic Disney and Pixar films, fun factoids, a private tour of the Disney archives, music and TV stars from Disney/ABC, behind-the-scenes of some popular primetime shows, giveaways, surprise guests and more!”

Since when did “The View” feel the need to pay tribute to its owner’s history and heritage?  Now this might just be a bizarre sweeps marketing ploy, as they moved Sweeps from February to March because of the digital transition that never happened.  But I can’t help but notice that this also coincides with the “Are You 23?” announcement.  It’s like Disney has finally realized that the public has an affinity for it’s brand, history, and traditions.  They want to transition Disney to a company where the customers are profoundly loyal like Lucas Film, Apple, or Southwest Airlines; a company where the public loves the company as much as the executives do.  Will it work?  Maybe… Could it hurt?  Probably not.  So it’s worth a shot.

Bob Iger wants Disney to be the most admired company in the world.  Part of that process is to make you feel a connection to the wonderful world of Disney.  “Are You 23?” is one way, The View is another, and who knows what else might be up his sleeve.  In any case, as “charter Disney fans,” we should be in for some neat surprises in the near future.   

Quick Takes:

Studio Entertainment: The Jonas Brothers 3D Concert Experience did not mean box office projections.  In it’s opening weekend, with a $12,510,374 opening weekend, which includes $765,000 from IMAX screenings.  I know why the film underperformed.  It didn’t feature the trashcan.  That would have made a huge difference. 

Parks and Resorts:  There was a steel cutting ceremony at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany for the two new Disney Cruise ships.  I can’t wait!

Disney Interactive Media:  Another month, another contest.  Click here for the Celebrate Your Dream Sweepstakes where Disney Store is giving you a chance to win one of ten magical Disney celebration vacations in 2009.   

Consumer Products:  DisneyShopping.com has a Pinocchio Store, on their site.  It features collectibles and apperal featuring the film that is being released on DVD and Blu-Ray next week.  In addition, the mini-site features, I kid you not, Gepetto on DVD.  So if you are in the mood for a bad telefilm featuring a bad game show host on DVD, here is your chance. 

Who is Celebrating: March 2^nd is Daniel Craig’s birthday.  He really doesn’t have much of a Disney Channel connection, but 007 is just cool.    

Video of the Day: In case you haven’t heard, Disney Parks are asking What Will You Celebrate?  Here is a video with Guests answering that question.  Notice that none of them say, “The amazing new attraction Disney Parks opened this year”.   

News from Around the Web:

ABC News:  ABC News, on the heels of Beverly Hills Chihuahua being released to DVD and Blu-Ray offers a look at famous dog lovers including Mickey Rourke and his Chihuahuas.  Let’s just be glad the movie features the cute dogs and not Mickey Rourke.

NY Times: Paul Harvey, from ABC Radio, died at the age of 90.  When Disney first purchased ABC, I turned on ABC Radio and the first voice I heard was Paul Harvey.  His news and commentary, as well as the “Rest of the Story” was unique and harkened back to a day gone by.  While he was no longer a part of Disney as a result of the ABC Radio spinoff, he will still be missed.      

USA Today: It looks like politicians aren’t the only ones that have a problem paying their taxes.  Dancing with the Stars champ and race car driver, Helio Castroneves began his tax evasion trial on Monday.  I guess he learned he should have kept his fancy moves on the dance floor and not on his tax return. 

LA Times: The LA Times reports on Siegfried & Roy returning to the Vegas stage for a farewell performance.  The 10-minute act will air on ABC’s 20/20 (Cause a magic trick is news).  Here is another Disney connection for you.  Their show was produced by Feld Entertainment, the folks behind Disney on Ice. 

Orlando Sentinel:  Virgin Megastores, including the one at Downtown Disney, are closing.  The last day for the Disney location is May 31.  I don’t know what will take its place, but I have made no secret about what I want.  IMAX!!!

Variety:  Last nights two hour episode of “Brothers &Sisters” won the ratings last night despite not having Desperate Housewives as a lead in.  The show films on the Disney lot.  In fact, I think you can see a picture of the Zorro Parking Structure in the article. 

Its that time again.  An event so amazing that Doobie and I just call it “The Weekend”.  That’s right, its ESPN: The Weekend.  We started our day at Mike and Mike where we saw Sal Pal from NFL Live and Peter Gammons and Steve Phillips from Baseball Tonight.  We also saw Mike Schmidt, Scottie Pippen, and Kurt Warner.  What a lineup?!?!  Then I headed to Inside NFL Live where Trey, Mark, and Sal had four amazing NFL players for a Q&A.  I then saw Mike Greenberg and a Disney Guest “Stump the Schwab” and also saw the Baseball Tonight crew interview Ricky Henderson and Dennis Eckersley.  It was a sports fan dream, and it has only been day one. 

While meeting the athletes and ESPN personalities is fun, there are two parts of ESPN: The Weekend that I enjoy even more.  The first would be seeing sports fans, who are not usually Disney fans, talking about how amazing their experience at Walt Disney World has been.  We are used to hearing Disney fans talking about their experiences, but it is great to see fans of other things to be passionate about having a great time at a destination we hold dear. 

My other favorite part is watching Disney Guests being able to play with Pro Atheletes at the ESPN Sports Zone.  Imagine watching your son rebounding a shot from Scottie Pippen or catching a football from Kurt Warner.  That is truly a reason to celebrate. 

Now  I wouldn’t be a Disney fan if I didn’t offer my two cents on how to improve the event.  First, bring back the fireworks show.  There is something special watching fireworks with your favorite sports calls and your favorite sports anthems.  Also, how about ESPN American Idol?   I would love to see Mike Golic take on Mike Greenberg in a sing off.  Even if it is really bad, it would be really good.  And finally, start showing us different ESPN commercials before each show.  I attend several events each year and see the same commercials several times.  ESPN has some great commercials...show us more than the same three.

Well here is to two more days.  I am participating in the first ESPN 5K to support to V Foundation tomorrow.  I will finish.  I won’t give up.  I will never give up. 

Quick Takes:

Studio Entertainment: The Jonas Brothers 3D Concert Experience is released today.  Due to my commitments to ESPN: The Weekend, I will not see it till tomorrow, but I can hardly wait.  The movie does have something going for it.  It didn’t get a 0% Rotten Tomatoes score like “Street Fighter: Legend of Chun-Li” did.

Media Networks:  Speaking of the Jonas Brothers, they will be stopping by Good Morning America Weekend Edition in order to support their film.  Once again I ask, shouldn’t synergy stop at the news division?

Disney Interactive Media:  Don’t have much to say today, but this segment might become more interesting on March 10^th.    

Consumer Products:  Disney Consumer Products is launching four lines based upon Walt Disney World Resorts at JCPenny.com.  Home furnishing based upon The Animal Kingdom Lodge, Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, Yacht Club Resort and Polynesian Resort are available at JCPenny.com and there is also contest to win a Walt Disney World vacation so you can sleeping in that bedding without having to pay for it.    

Who is Celebrating: February 28^th is Gilbert Gottfried’s birthday.  To celebrate the voice of Iago’s special day, I have decided to spend the whole day being very annoying. 

Video of the Day: The trailer to the Hannah Montana Movie is available on You Tube.  So if you are not able to see the Jonas Brothers film, you can just watch it here.  But who isn’t going to see The Jonas Brothers movie anyway? 

News from Around the Web:

ABC News:  It looks like GM is still losing billions.  How could a company that sponsored an attraction as stable as Test Track, be so badly mismanaged.  It is one of life’s great mysteries. 

NY Times: GE, owner of NBCUniversal, has announced that they are cutting their quarterly dividend by 68%.  While Disney might have hit a rough patch, at least they were able to maintain their dividend.  Just another reason why Disney is better than Universal.    

USA Today: The Jonas Brothers surprised fans at the midnight screening of their film at the El Capitan Theatre.  Rumor is they might stop by Orlando...but will the trash can?

LA Times: Want more of the brothers?  Here is the LA Times coverage. 

Orlando Sentinel:  The Orlando Sentinel has a shot of a Harlem Globetrotter at SeaWorld Orlando.  I find this an odd choice.  The Globetrotters are participating at ESPN: The Weekend.  In addition, they are owned by Roy Disney.  Isn’t it a little strange that they decided to do their photo op for their Orlando stop at SeaWorld?

Variety:  Variety uses the Jonas Brothers flick as an example of how good the movie business is doing with attendance up 9.3% in January and February.  Apparently, folks go to the movies when times are tough.  Unfortunately, Variety used Disney’s Confessions of a Shopaholic as an exception to the rule, since the film has only made $28.3 million since its Feb 13 release.  If only that film had......the trash can! 

So it’s Oscar Night and here are my picks with why I picked them.  Just remember, all that matters is that The Walt Disney Company beats the Weinstein Company:

Best Picture: Slumdog Millionaire- (It promotes Who Wants to be a Millionaire which is distributed in the US by Disney’s Buena Vista)

Directing: Slumdog Millionaire- (see above)

Actor in a Leading Role: Sean Penn- (Milk takes place in San Francisco and I am from there, so it is my hometown pick)

Actress in a Leading Role: Meryl Streep- (Miramax released Doubt, and anything that can get Disney more awards than the Weinstein Company is good in my book)

Actor in a Supporting Role: Phillip Seymour Hoffman- (For Doubt; see above)

Actress in a Supporting Role: Amy Adams- (For Disney’s Doubt, in addition, I loved Enchanted)

Writing (Adapted Screenplay): Doubt- (Once again, see above)

Writing (Original Screenplay): Wall-E (Go Pixar!)

Animated Feature: Bolt (While Wall-E has better chances, I liked Bolt better)

Short Film (Animated): Presto (I really enjoyed this Pixar short.  I liked how it was just a funny cartoon)

Short Film (Live Action): The Pig- (I don’t know any of the nominees in this category, so I am going with the one that sounds the most fun.  Pigs remind me of Porky Pig, and who doesn’t love him)

Foreign Language Film: Walk with Bashir- (It is animated, and I have to stick up for that)

Documentary Feature: Encounters at the End of the World- (Sounds like is made to promote Disney/Pixar’s upcoming Up movie, maybe it will be on the DVD J)

Documentary Short: The Witness- From the Balcony of Room 306- (Perhaps this is about the construction of the DVC units at the Contemporary.  I mean, DVC has the money to sponsor a documentary about themselves)

Music (Score): Wall-E (At least it wasn’t Randy Newman).

Music (Song): Down to Earth (Not only is it from Wall-E, it is also sung by Pita Gabriel from Food Rocks fame)

Art Direction: Revolutionary Road (What better way to welcome Dreamworks to Disney then by supporting them on Hollywood’s biggest night)

Cinematography: The Dark Knight (I have to support my favorite Non-Disney film of the year.  It should have been nominated for Best Picture)

Costume Design: Revolutionary Road (Did I mention, I love having Dreamworks to help pay for Disney’s distribution and marketing infrastructure)

Film Editing: The Dark Knight (Loved this movie!!!)

Makeup: The Dark Knight (My love for this film is only matched for my dislike of the other two films in this category; The Curious Case of Benjamin Button and Hellboy 2).

Sound Editing: Wall-E (This film actually deserves this award.  They did amazing things to make up for the fact that there was no talking).

Sound Mixing: Wall-E (Well maybe it deserves this award.  I really don’t know the difference between sound editing and sound mixing.  On second thought, Wall-E should win both)

Visual Effects: The Dark Knight (This film was beyond awesome.  It was Be-Awesome)

Quick Takes:

Media Networks:  It looks like Russia’s anti-monopoly agency rejected Disney’s attempt to start a joint-venture broadcast network.  Disney is trying to establish themselves in Russia and a network is a good way to reach the most people.  It will be interesting to see what Disney’s next move is.   

Studio Entertainment:  Disney Vacation Club announced they will be opening up a second “Doorway to Dreams” in the Roosevelt Field mall in Long Island, N.Y.  Is anyone surprised that DVC is the one unit of the company that still gets to expand?  I am not.   

Disney Interactive Media:  Disney Interactive Media announced they are releasing a new game in the Spectrobes franchise for the Wii.  This is Disney’s first, and most successful, attempt at creating new intellectual property in video games.  I hope Disney stays committed to developing new IP as well as using existing franchises.  I think this could be a smart move for Disney.  Spectrobes : Origins will be coming to the Wii this Fall. 

Consumer Products:  Here is an interesting look at the Walt Disney Signature furniture collection.  While this product line is not well known, it has been successful.  This is despite the fact that there is no character presence on the product.  I think it shows that if the product uses Disney’s commitment to quality, you don’t need to rely on any franchise. 

Who is Celebrating: Ellen Greene, from Pushing Daisies, is celebrating her birthday.  I miss that show.  Did you catch the Pete’s Dragon inspired episode? 

Video of the Day: Learn how to do the Hoedown Throwdown from Miley Cyrus.  It is the new dance number from Hannah Montana: The Movie.  You better learn it before you take your next  Disney Cruise. 

News from Around the Web:

ABC News:  ABC News looks at the 11 folks that are trying to revive the Oscars.  I have any idea.   Nominate films people actually like.     

NY Times: Remember when Meg Whitman was considered to be the head of Disney?  Well that didn’t work out, so now she wants to be Governor of California.  I just hope Eisner doesn’t get any ideas.  California is in enough trouble. 

USA Today: Miley Cyrus says there is nothing weird about her relationship with her dad in her autobiography which Disney is releasing next month.   Why is this news? 

LA Times: Looks like we are in for the long haul, as SAG has turned down the studio’s offer.  Now SAG will start negotiating with commercial producers so we won’t be getting a contract anytime soon.  Sigh. 

Orlando Sentinel: A gas leak at the Harry Potter site, led to a brief evacuation of Universal’s Islands of Adventure.  Insert own joke here.               

Variety:  ABC has cut back its pilot order for the upcoming season.  The network had a hefty slate to make up for last year’s slim haul due to the writers’ strike.  Remember they premiered only two shows and only one is still on the air. 

A few years ago, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts decided to initiate a segment level structure that allowed the organization to leverage initiatives at both Disneyland and Walt Disney World.  This is how Disney was able to initiate the Where Dreams Come True marketing message with the Year of a Million Dreams, open Toy Story Midway Mania at both coasts at the same time, and share entertainment like the High School Musical Pep Rally. 

Disney, being faced with the hard economic times, is taking this integration to the next level.  While Ed and Meg remain, Erin Wallace will now be in charge of integrating attractions; entertainment & imaging; food and beverage; merchandise; lodging; animal programs/environmental initiatives and support lines of business such as industrial engineering, operations training and labor between Disneyland and Walt Disney World.  WDI will integrate its Resort and Park design branches, and Nick Franklin will manage the Global Development business.  Basically, Global Development will create projects, WDI will design them, Erin Wallace’s team will manage operations, and the existing Disneyland and Walt Disney World leadership will handle day-to-day management. 

There was a lot of movement and big changes, especially where DCA is concerned.  I can’t go in to every move, but the next six weeks will be interesting as this scheme is integrated.  The one thing I keep hearing from folks inside the company is that the Guest experience will not be sacrificed in any way.  In fact, I hear that they are now focused on improving the experience of visiting a Disney destination.  Only time will tell, if and how this will all work out, but it is certainly not all doom and gloom. 

Quick Takes:

Media Networks:  Disney’s SoapNet is premiering a new original series, “Being Erica”.  The show follows the life of single, funny and sexy 32-year-old Erica Strange who, during each episode, goes back in time and relives various events from her past that caused regret and attempts to fix them.   While I pride myself on being versed on all aspects of The Walt Disney Company, SoapNet is definitely the hardest brand to keep my interest.  This show isn’t helping that fact. 

Studio Entertainment:  There is a YouTube contest for ‘Race to Witch Mountain.”  Here is the link: http://www.youtube.com/racetowitchmountain

Disney Interactive Media:  The new ESPN.com has really grown on me.  Can’t say the same thing for the SoapNet website.     

Consumer Products:  Disney Consumer Products is thrilled to have a new princess coming our way.  At Toy Faire, they went all out.  DCP will introduce an extensive line of The Princess and The Frog-inspired toys, apparel, accessories, home décor, consumer electronics, school supplies and personal care products arriving to retailers nationwide this fall. Disney Publishing Worldwide will launch an assortment of titles including story and activity books. In malls across North America and Canada, Disney Stores will also celebrate the debut of Princess Tiana and The Princess and the Frog with window displays and merchandising. The one-of-a-kind product assortment designed by Disney Store will offer something for everyone including Halloween costumes and role-play dresses.

Who is Celebrating: Eduardo Xol from Extreme Makeover: Home Edition is celebrating his birthday.  This is not to be confused with Jay Rasulo from Extreme Makeover: Disney Parks Edition. 

Video of the Day: Jeff, from Disney’s Hollywood Studios, hosts a video featuring performances from "The American Idol Experience" World Premiere. 

News from Around the Web:

ABC News:  The Dow closed at a six-year low.  But Disney, which is part of the Dow, closed up .06 points.  Of course this is a small victory, since Disney hit its 52-week low yesterday.   

NY Times: The New York Times thinks that the frivolity of the Oscars might be what the nation needs at this time.  Since the telecast airs on ABC, I hope they are right. 

USA Today: USA Today examines the Jonas Brothers phenomenon in advance of their upcoming 3D concert film.  But no mention of the trashcan. 

LA Times: Kirk Douglas, from Disney’s 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, will perform at the Kirk Douglas Theatre.  In related news, Esmerelda- The Trained Seal will be performing at the Esmerelda- The Trained Seal Theatre.

Orlando Sentinel: The Orlando Sentinel has some details of the executive shuffle at Disney Parks.  See how many names you recognize.             

Variety:  SAG and AMPTP have resumed talks which gives hope that we might finally have a resolution to this long, drawn out process.   Next thing you know, they might actually rename the Disney-MGM Studios.  Oh wait, that finally happened too. 

Today Toon Disney became Disney XD.  While Toon Disney launched with the Sorcerer’s Apprentice sequence from Fantasia, Disney XD kicked off with an episode of Phineas and Ferb.  Toon Disney began when everyone was trying to launch new cable channels.  CNNSI anyone?  But the channel struggled to gain an identity.  Now Disney XD exists to succeed where Disney Channel can’t find success; targeting boys.  Now Fox Family tried to launch separate Boyz and Girlz channels when they were trying to create their own family franchise.  That didn’t work.  But then again, neither did Fox Family. 

While Disney won’t segregate their cable channels to cater to a particular gender, there is no question that the channels have distinct identities.  Even the websites, while linked, are distinct.  And while I watch Disney Channel, I feel more comfortable watching Disney XD and being on DisneyXD.com as they showcase the types of shows and video games I enjoyed as a tween.  Will Disney XD succeed?  I have no clue.  But if it does, the upside could be huge.  Imagine Disney having a franchise that is as big of a hit with boys as Hannah Montana is with girls?  Aaron Stone will probably not be Disney XD’s first smash show, but it might be a stepping stone to something really big.

A few notes from DisneyXD’s launch day:

·         The last show on Toon Disney was The Incredible Hulk.  This show, while not “Disney” will fit right at home on Disney XD.

·         Apparently boys don’t mind commercials since Disney XD has ads unlike Disney Channel.  For the record, the first ad on Disney XD was for the Snuggie.

·         Twice during its launch day, Disney XD aired the first Narnia film.  I wonder if the XD people wish Disney kept the Narnia away from Fox, which ironically originally owned ABC Family. 

Quick Takes:

Parks and Resorts:  It looks like we are seeing the fallout from the “buy out” offered to Disney executives.  President of the Disney Cruise Line Tom McAlpin has left the company to be replaced by Karl Holz, who is also President of New Vacation Operations which includes things like the Hawaii Resort and Adventures by Disney.  DCL fans shouldn’t worry though, Karl Holz used to be President of DCL until he was succeeded by Tom McAlpin. 

Studio Entertainment:  Here is something interesting: See the Jonas Brothers 3D movie at the El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood on opening day -- Friday, February 27th -- and get a special signed and dated commemorative photograph of the Jonas Brothers!  The exclusive commemorative photo is only available on opening day, starting with the first show at 12:01am (Midnight) Thursday night, February 26th!

Disney Interactive Media:  ESPN.com launched a new version of their website a little while ago trying to make the site simpler while still offering a wide variety of content.  Maybe Disney.com will do something similar so Rebekah’s dream of being able to deep link will come true. 

Consumer Products:  Disney Store recalled the Playhouse Disney “Handy Manny” Toy Tool Set.  Apparently the tools have eyes that could detach causing a choking hazard.  Am I the only one that finds it ironic that toy tools was not manufactured correctly? 

Who is Celebrating: Today is Phill Lewis’s birthday.  The Suite Life star appears in the Disney Channel Original Movie, “Dadknapped” which premieres on Monday.    

Video of the Day:   Taking the day off.  It is a holiday weekend.  (President’s Day, not Valentine’s Day)

News from Around the Web:

ABC News:  In a victory to those of us that are allergic.  A peanut company has filed for bankruptcy.  See what happens when you are focused on an evil food.  I am sure not having proper safety protocol doesn’t help either. 

NY Times: Disney sponsor, GM, is eliminating 10,000 salaried workers.  This can’t be a good sign for them to continue their Test Track sponsorship.  Luckily, I am sure there are many auto companies that would love to sponsor a stable attraction like Test Track.  Perhaps we should start by seeing if Chrysler or Ford is interested? 

USA Today: For millions, the digital switch is now, despite the fact that a Disney backed extension was signed by the President.  Some stations decided they are going to turn off their analog signal anyway.  Is anyone not ready for this?  How could you miss it.  If you aren’t ready, you don’t deserve to watch TV.  You should read books trying to develop the intellect to not have your head in the sand. 

LA Times: The LA Times reports that the biggest obstacle to a Johnny Quest movie is the dismal performance of Speed Racer.  Perhaps some studios haven’t learned the lesson Disney keeps saying.  Quality is the best plan.  Don’t worry about the franchise; just make a good movie in the franchise.  You would think Warner Bros would get that.  Case in point....Catwoman vs. The Dark Knight  If the films is good, it will most likely be successful. 

Orlando Sentinel: The Orlando Sentinel covered the opening of The American Idol Experience.  I can’t wait for the next Walt Disney World attraction to open.  Well, I can’t wait for the next Walt Disney World attraction to be announced.           

Variety:  Variety does some reporting on the Disney/Dreamworks deal.  While I support the deal, I have no doubt it will provide some interesting “conflicts” in the next six years.  The question is will Bob and Steven be able to handle it. 

Well I have to admit I haven’t posted anything in the last few days because I have been sad about Disney’s bad earnings announcement on Tuesday.  With that being said, Disney definitely tried to cheer me up today with each segment giving me a reason to be excited.  Even if it’s a tough economy, it is still a great time to be a Disney fan.  I might not like everything Disney is putting out there, but at least they are still trying.  

Let’s start off at Parks and Resorts.  Disneyland premiered the new “enhanced” it’s a small world today.  I don’t hate it, but I don’t like it.  Let me start by saying I do not believe Disneyland should be a museum.  I like change, but it doesn’t mean I like all change.  After watching the video, to be fair I have not yet experienced the reopened attraction, I just don’t see the point.  The classic universal nature of it’s a small world doesn’t need to have a hide and go seek element.  It doesn’t need familiar tunes to be intertwined with the classic Sherman Brothers song.  The whole project just doesn’t seem necessary.  I don’t think the attraction is any more relevant today than it was before it closed.  Part of the beauty of the original attraction was that its message and themes are always relevant. 

My thoughts about this are very similar to my thoughts about the American Idol Experience.  It’s not that I hate the experiences created, its just that there are better places to spend the money.  There are attractions that need “plussing” and iasw was not one of them.  But while I wish they would spend their money elsewhere, I am also just glad that they are still spending money.

Quick Takes:

Media Networks:  The latest Disney Channel Original Series premieres on Sunday at 8 with back to back episodes.  I saw the first episode of “Sonny with a Chance” on iTunes and I was less than impressed.  First of all, I loved Demi Lavato’s performance.  I really do think she has talent.  Unfortunately comedic talent is best used with funny material, which was lacking.  The show is set at a sketch comedy show, even though the title suggests Demi is a weather girl, but all the sketches they showed were awful.  You’re talking SNL during the Dick Ebersol years.  The cast was great, the writing was not.

Studio Entertainment:  It looks like Disney is in talks to partnering with Dreamworks.  First thing is first, this has nothing to do with Dreamworks animation which was spun-off as an IPO.  But partnering with Spielberg does offer Disney a unique opportunity.  Not only do they get to use their distribution structure with minimal financial exposure, the genius Iger might use the negotiations as an opportunity.  Spielberg and Disney co-own Roger Rabbit, and the difficulty of the partnership has caused the rabbit to have minimal exposure recently.  Perhaps Disney could get the full rights as part of the agreement.  We all know, Disney knows how to acquire rabbits from Universal. 

Disney Interactive Media:  In the earnings call, Bob discussed investing in Disney.com for its CRM capabilities.  I need to be vague on this, but put two and two together and you will solve a mystery.

Consumer Products:  It looks like teen properties are doing better than most when it comes to retail sales.  Maybe that’s part of the reason Disney is the only large entertainment company to make money last quarter.  Take that News Corp. 

Who is Celebrating: One of my best friends, Doobie is celebrating his birthday.  Congrats big guy. 

Video of the Day:   The first music video from Corbin Bleu’s new album, “Speed of Light”, is on You Tube.  The song “Celebrate You” is kinda familiar.  c drops March 10.       

News from Around the Web:

ABC News:  James Whitmore passed away at the age of 87.  While he played Captain Ewell on “The Tenderfoot” which was a miniseries on the Disney anthology television program, you probably know him as the spokesman for Miracle-Gro.

NY Times: Ford’s Theater, the site of the Lincoln assassination, is reopening after 18 months of work.  I can think of another Lincoln exhibit that should reopen.  Cough…Disneyland…cough.

USA Today: Miley Cyrus won two Kid’s Choice Awards.  I love it when the Nickelodeon awards show honors Disney Channel stars.  It is one of the best feelings in the world. 

LA Times: The LA Times has more details and background on the Disney-Dreamworks deal.  I want that rabbit.        

Orlando Sentinel: A new exhibit, “Jim Henson’s Fantastic World” opened at the Orange County Regional History Center, just a few miles north of Walt Disney World.  Walt Disney World also recently announced a Muppet presentation for Annual Passholders.  I wonder if all this Muppet visability is building up to something.         

Variety:  The 3-D Jonas Brothers film is heading to IMAX.  This poses a huge dilemma for me.  Do I see it at Downtown Disney or do I go up to Pointe Orlando and see it in IMAX.  This decision would be easy if they would just build an IMAX theater at Downtown Disney.  I wonder if Virgin has any long term plans? 

So what is Super Bowl MVP Santonio Holmes going to do next?  He is going to celebrate at Walt Disney World of course.  In what has become tradition Holmes and Pittsburgh Steeler Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger announced that they were going to go to whatever Disney park was closest to the Super Bowl site.  But for some reason Roethlisberger didn’t make it.  But that’s ok.  There are plenty of people that would be willing to take his place.

Bruce Springsteen announced that he is going to go to Disneyland during his Halftime performance.  Serena Williams proclaimed the catch phrase after she won the Australian Open.  For some reason Quarterbacks just don’t seem eager to go these days.  It took Eli Manning a few months to finally visit Disneyland after he won last year’s Super Bowl.  But my question is do they really want to upset Disney.  Disney does own ESPN, and when it comes time to contract negotiation time, it is probably good to have some positive buzz.  But to be fair, QBs tend to have a hard time figuring out what they are going to do.  Just look at Brett Favre.

Quick Takes:

Studio Entertainment:  Just found this out from Disney: “On Tuesday, Feb. 10, Joe, Kevin and Nick Jonas will be hanging with us for an exclusive Moviefone Unscripted interview, asking each other questions submitted by fans. (That's you.) If your question is selected, you'll not only get the thrill of having the Jonas Brothers say your name -- you'll also get to attend the live taping of the interview in Los Angeles. Yes, that's right. You, Joe, Kevin and Nick, chillin' in L.A. with about 50 other JB aficionados.  You can submit your question here:
http://www.moviefone.com/insidemovies/2009/01/27/contest-ask-the-jonas-brothers-a-question/”

Disney Interactive Media:  At Disney.com you can enter the Magical Celebration contest every day in February for your chance to win one of five magical Disney vacations.  Quarterbacks need not enter. 

Consumer Products:  I hear Disney will be working with Lego on toys for Toy Story 3.  While Lego has stores at both Downtown Disneys, this is the first time the Consumer Products division will be working with the brick people.  I am really excited about this. 

Media Networks:  “The View” will be broadcasting from Disney Legends Plaza on The Walt Disney Studios lot from March 9-13.  I love the quote from executive producer Bill Geddie, ““For everyone who hasn’t figured this out yet, Disney is ‘The View’s’ parent company. Spending five days on The Walt Disney Studios lot affords us countless ways to impress the bosses. In exchange we have agreed to keep the mouse jokes to a minimum and allow Sherri Shepherd to be used as a theme park character,”

Who is Celebrating: Lindsey Black, from Disney Channel’s “As the Bell Rings” is celebrating her birthday today.  Yeah, I don’t care either.

Video of the Day:   Like I was going to pick anything else.  For the record...I do not condone the release of balloons in to the environment.      

News from Around the Web:

ABC News:  ABC News has a list of 10 surefire ways to score Oscar recognition.  Maybe Harvey Weinstein should read it.  Oh yes, I went there.        

NY Times: Speaking of the Oscars, The New York Times asks if people will watch the telecast.  I hope so, since they air on ABC.  They discuss some of the changes being made this year, but I have a suggestion.  Nominate movies people have seen.  I go to the movies every week and have seen none of the nominees.  Either I see bad movies, or they don’t know what a good movie is.  Beverly Hills Chihuahua was snubbed. 

USA Today: USA Today reports that a third of adults without Internet, don’t want it.  Apparently they have heard of my blog. 

LA Times: The LA Times looks at the new ESPN Zone that opened at LA Live.  Someday they will open one at WDW and my dreams will come true.      

Orlando Sentinel: It looks like everyone that requested a free ticket after half time to Universal won a 7 day ticket.  I hear second prize was a 14 day ticket.       

Variety:  Variety reports that despite layoffs at Disney Interactive Studios, they are moving forward with a new TRON game.  If it does well, they might make a game based on The Black Hole.  Can’t wait!  (Kidding, my movie taste is not THAT bad) 

 Extra Note: I have signed up for a Twitter account so you can keep tabs on what I am focused on in the worlds of Disney, ABC, ESPN, and ABC News.  Check me out! 

Today was the premiere of the Celebrate Disney Dreams Come True Parade, which is the third parade in the Dreams Come True trilogy that started with the Share a Dream Come True Parade and was followed by the Disney Dreams Come True Parade.  I hear next, Disney will premiere Dreams Come True: Episode 1 where they will add a new character that everyone hates.If you are expecting a new parade, I am afraid you are out of luck. 

The first float, the Mickey float got a Celebration redo and Mickey and Minnie are now wearing the Liberace Celebration outfits.  The finale float, the Castle float, got some clouds and balloons added to it.  Of course, would it be a Magic Kingdom parade without the Castle float? 

There is one thing missing from the parade...characters.  There are characters on the floats, but none of the street to provide some personal interaction.  But there are dancers...lots and lots and lots of dancers...  The music is good and each float has its own music so the parade seems less repetitive.  The music and dancing is upbeat and high energy which is also a nice change of pace.  They also added show stops, but I don’t know that they are necessary since the floats don’t do any tricks.  They just allow the dancers to shake their groove thing to the Celebrate You. 

All in all, I think the changes to the parade are an improvement, but I wouldn’t go so far as to say it is a new experience.  You can change the costumes, you can change the music, but if you don’t change the floats, it is still the same parade that has paraded through the Magic Kingdom for the last 8 years.  Whenever I see it, I still think of it as the “snow globe” parade. 

Quick Takes:

Studio Entertainment:  So I went to Disney.com today and they had a link to the webpage for the High School Musical 3 DVD.  So color me surprised when I went to this page and they were promoting the DVD release of “High School Musical 2: 2 Disc Dance Edition”, which comes with a free movie ticket to see High School Musical 3.  Of course the offer expired 11/21/2008.  You would think they would check the timeliness of the webpage before the linked to it from their home page.  They really need to get their head in the game. 

Disney Interactive Media:  Speaking of High School Musical, Disney Interactive Studios announced the upcoming release of Disney Sing It: High School Musical 3: Senior Year on February 17^th.  I must say, I am a little hesitant to pick up this title.  You see, I bought High School Musical 3: Dance It and almost broke my TV when I almost through my wiimote through my TV screen.  I am concerned that if I attempt to sing, I might shatter my TV which barley escape harm last time.  So instead of trying to sing, I am just going to stick to the status quo (I know, I know)

Consumer Products:  Speaking of High School Musical, Disneyshopping.com has a deal where you save 10 dollars if you purchase the DVD of HSM3 with any HSM CD or video game.  With that kind of deal, Disneyshopping.com is going to bop to the top. (OK, I’m done).

Media Networks:  During halftime of the Super Bowl, ABC will air Wipeout Bowl I: Cheerleaders vs. Couch Potatoes.  This is so exciting!  So switch channels during the “Big Game” (since ABC can’t use the SB word) and watch the return of Disney produced half time shows.  I promise, none of the couch potatoes will have a “wardrobe malfunction”.      

Who is Celebrating: January 23 is perennial Candlelight Narrator, Chita Rivera’s 76^th birthday.  

Video of the Day:   Here is the music video for Tonight by the Jonas Brothers, featuring scenes from their upcoming Disney Digital 3D concert film.  Look closely and you can see the Trash Can.  The album drops February 24^th and features a new studio recording, a duet with Taylor Swift, and a Shania Twain cover.  The film comes out on February 27^th.    

News from Around the Web:

ABC News:  Speaking of the Jonas Brothers, this page on ABC News says that the Jo Bros and Demi Lavato will be on Good Morning America in March.  What a coincidence!  I wonder if they even know Disney owns ABC News.      

NY Times: The New York Times discusses the portrayal of 1973 New York City on ABC’s “Life on Mars” which returns on Wednesday.  The paper gives the show quite a lot of attention, which might be more than viewers will do after it returns from a two month hiatus. 

USA Today: It appears that the Senate is close to an agreement on a bill that would delay the digital transition from February 17^th to June 12^th.  While I am tired of seeing those ads reminding me to make sure I am ready, Disney is supporting a delay so I am supporting a delay.  I wish Disney would make all my political decisions for me.   

LA Times: This isn’t really Disney related, but I still find it amusing.  Do you remember Brian Dunkleman?  Apparently the genius is trying to make a comeback.  Check it out.    

Orlando Sentinel: The Orlando Sentinel lives the spy life with Kim Possible at Epcot.  They experience the new interactive attraction based off of the newest....err...recent....err....past hot Disney Channel franchise.  Despite the fact, KP may be passé.  I really enjoyed this attraction, and am glad to see it open at Epcot.  I love it when the best new Disney attraction of the year opens at Epcot.     

Variety:  Variety has a list of the Razzie nominations, and I am pleased to say Disney received 0 nominations.  I wonder how many The Weinstein Company received. 

Today, on Good Morning America, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced the nominations of the 81^st Annual Academy Awards.  And while Disney did not have any nominees for Best Picture, in fact I have seen none of the films nominated, Disney did score 14 nominations as listed below:

Performance by an actor in a supporting role - Philip Seymour Hoffman in Doubt (Miramax)
Performance by an actress in a leading role - Meryl Streep in Doubt (Miramax)
Performance by an actress in a supporting role - Amy Adams in Doubt (Miramax)
Performance by an actress in a supporting role - Viola Davis, in Doubt (Miramax)
Best animated feature film of the year – WALL·E (Walt Disney), Andrew Stanton
Best animated feature film of the year - Bolt (Walt Disney), Chris Williams and Byron Howard
Achievement in music written for motion pictures (Original score) - WALL·E (Walt Disney), Thomas Newman
Achievement in music written for motion pictures (Original song) - "Down to Earth" from WALL·E (Walt Disney), Music by Peter Gabriel and Thomas Newman, Lyric by Peter Gabriel
Best animated short film - Presto (Walt Disney) A Pixar Animation Studios Production, Doug Sweetland
Achievement in sound editing - WALL·E (Walt Disney), Ben Burtt and Matthew Wood
Achievement in sound mixing - WALL·E (Walt Disney),Tom Myers, Michael Semanick and Ben Burtt
Adapted screenplay - Doubt (Miramax), Written by John Patrick Shanley
Original screenplay - WALL·E (Walt Disney), Screenplay by Andrew Stanton, Jim Reardon, Original story by Andrew Stanton, Pete Docter
Original screenplay - Happy-Go-Lucky (Miramax), Written by Mike Leigh

Of course of equal importance is that Disney beat The Weinstein Company, which only garnered 6 nominations.  Not that I am vindictive or anything.  Best of luck to all of Disney’s nominees.  I will be cheering you on while I watch the telecast on ABC.

Quick Takes:

Parks and Resorts:   Hong Kong Disneyland  is celebrating being named “The Most Influential Theme Park” in China by an association of Chinese media, branding, and technology groups.  My only question is, did they have much competiton?  Isn’t this kind of like being named “The Most Influential Theme Park in Anaheim” 

Disney Interactive Media:  Disney.com is showcasing  clips of Disney’s Oscar nominated films, which of course are Wall-E and Bolt.  Disney did limit themselves to their Disney-branded nominated films, which was probably a good idea.  I don’t know how streaming clips of Miramax’s “Doubt” might go over.  But then again, there is only one way to find out...   

Consumer Products:  ESPN and Mattel have announced a line of X Games toys.  This might be the best X Games brand extension since the X Games Xperience at DCA.  How could it fail?

Media Networks:  ABC Media Group announced they will be coming ABC Studios and ABC Entertainment in to the new ABC Entertainment Group which is under the wing of ABC’s Steve McPherson.  The idea is to “streamline the creative process” and is expected to not result in any immediate layoffs.  Streamlining without layoffs just doesn’t sound like a good idea.  Not that I want folks to lose their jobs, but since ABC is the most challenged of Disney’s businesses, it might not be a bad idea to trim a little pork.  

Who is Celebrating: January 22 is Balthazar Getty’s, from ABC’s “Brothers & Sisters” 34 birthday.   

Video of the Day:   The Hannah Montana movie trailer is now online.  I can’t wait.  You get to see a TV character you love and have the fun of going to the movies.  It’s like getting the best of both worlds.     

News from Around the Web:

ABC News:  Today Meryl Streep broke her own record with her 15^th acting nomination for her performance in Miramax’s “Doubt”.  Of course we all know the person who has won more Oscars than anyone else with 26 awards.    

NY Times: The New York Times reports  on Gustavo Dudamel’s first season as the leader of the Los Angeles Philharmonic which performs at the Walt Disney Concert Hall in L.A.  Of course, when I look for news on the LA Philharmonic, I turn to the NY Times.   

USA Today: USA Today reports on the deep freeze that is chilling Florida.  Three nights of below freezing temperatures that result in the closure of Blizzard Beach and the cancelation of Spirit of Aloha shows are putting the chill on my Disney vacations.  I wonder if they make a celebration button for frost bite. 

LA Times: The LA Times, in an opinion piece, suggests that President Obama should be like President Reagan.  Sadly, this will not be possible.  As we all know, The Great Communicator began his path to the White House by hosting the opening of Disneyland.  As far as I know, our new President hasn’t even appeared on Disney Inside Out.  Of course, I guess he could always host a Disney Parks You Tube video on his instillation at the Hall of Presidents. 

Orlando Sentinel: Universal Orlando laid off 70 employees as a response to the tough economic times.  The weird thing is that 70 also happened to be the number of Guests that were in the park last time I went to Universal Studios.  I guess I see the problem.   

Variety:  Apple reported record profit from record sales of iPods and of content on iTunes.  Of course the big question is the health of Steve Jobs, who did not participate in the earnings conference call.  Disney’s largest shareholder took a leave of absence from Apple through June.  This brought questions about whether he should remain as a Director on Disney’s board.  If Disney can have the success Apple had last quarter, I say yes.   

Well it is time to start celebrating.  The New Year started off good since my second favorite team played in the Rose Bowl for the fourth straight year.  I figured I would have a great time cheering my team while watching the game on “ESPN on ABC”.  However, stupid USC decided to win the game and it put me in a bad mood.  And to add insult to injury, the game was filled with Disney Parks commercials that kept reminding me that I should be celebrating in 2009.But alas, there was a reason to celebrate. 

Alas, help was on the way.  After the game, ABC aired America’s Funniest Home Videos.  If you can’t celebrate the small things in life such as pets doing silly things and images of folks you don’t know hurting themselves, why bother celebrating anything at all.  ABC knows how to mend my heart, and for a moment made me think that the Years of Two Million Dreams might not be over, because my dream had come true.     

Quick Takes:

Parks and Resorts:   So “What Will You Celebrate” has started, and since it is not my birthday yet, and the entertainment associated with the celebration doesn’t start until the Spring, all I really have to talk about is the new buttons.  What started as the basic Birthday button got expanded with the Year of a Million Dreams and they have added more for the new celebration.  Some of the new ones include, Just Engaged, Family Reunion, and Magical Triumph.  My favorite is the “Happily Ever After” button which I want to wear at my funeral.  Hopefully that will not be what I am celebrating this year. 

Disney Interactive Media:  Disney.com has an exclusive video of Miley Cyrus singing “7 Things” on GMA.  With the Hannah Montana film being released soon and additional episodes being ordered, Disney is trying to have the Miley Cyrus phenomenon last just a little bit longer.   

Consumer Products:  We all know the Disney Princess franchise is huge for Disney.  Recently, Disney launched a new Disney Princess website.    It includes Princess products from all parts of Disney and also includes a section on parenting a princess.  I wonder if they would consider adding a section about being married to a princess.  Rebekah could use it to help with being married to Doobie.  (Yes, I did not swap the names).

Studio Entertainment:  Here is the new G-Force trailer.  I was really excited to see this movie...until I saw the trailer.  But who knows, maybe G-Force will be this year’s Beverly Hills Chihuahua

What to Watch:  Its New Years so the pick for January 2^nd has to be a Bowl Game.  And since ESPN doesn’t get the BCS Bowls until next year, check out the 50^th Anniversary Autozone Liberty Bowl as Kentucky takes on East Carolina.  For those of you that don’t follow College Football, all you need to know about the whole season is that UCLA did not lose a Bowl game. 

Video of the Day:   Hear is a special New Year’s wish from Kermit the Frog.  I hope it warms your heart.   

News from Around the Web:

ABC News:  ABC News has a video feature on the top movies of 2008.  Disney’s Wall-E and Miramax’s Doubt are amongst those listed.  I still ask, should they be eligible?  Isn’t there an inherent conflict of interest?  I wonder what their favorite morning show of 2008 was.   

NY Times:  Viacom and Time Warner reached a deal to keep popular cable channels on Time Warner’s system.  Viacom tried to make their case for increasing fees by having advertising that featured Sponge Bob and Dora the Explorer crying because the mean cable operators wouldn’t agree to Viacom’s terms.  Could you imagine if Disney sunk this low during their negotiations with Time Warner?  Viacom’s Sumner Redstone is now on my list.  You shouldn’t use cartoon characters as a part of contract negotiations. 

USA Today: Times Square revelers left 40 tons of trash after their celebration.  Your might think this is excessive, but you probably only know half the story.  The Jonas Brothers performed live in Times Square and the celebrants brought all that trash to give to the true star of the group.  But the Trash Can was nowhere to be found.  You see, Trash Can’s birthday is January 1^st, so he ditched the gig in order to get in to the Magic Kingdom for free.  With all that trash, and no Trash Can, the New Yorkers had no other choice but to leave it behind.  And now you know the rest of the story.  Good day.   

LA Times: Page 2.  The sun shined on the 120^th Rose Parade in Pasadena.  Disney  has a long association with the New Year’s tradition, and this year was no exception.  Cloris Leachman, best known for her role on ABC’s Dancing with the Stars was Grand Marshall.  Trivia question for you.... Which is older; the Rose Parade or Cloris Leachman?

Orlando Sentinel: The Orlando Sentinel has a picture of the first Walt Disney World “free-on-your-birthday) ticket recipient.  Seattle resident, Andrew DaCosta, got his ticket at the Magic Kingdom at 7:31am.  And while I would love to go to the Kingdom for free, what I really want is Andrew’s hat.  Now that, is a reason to celebrate. 

Variety:  Variety reports that the holiday brought a box office boost which means that ticket sales in 2008 will probably break last year’s record, despite the tough economy.  For example, Disney’s Bedtime Stories made $56.7 million in the first seven days of release.  This shows that the holidays are a great time for family films.  I can’t help but wonder if Disney released Prince Caspian at the holiday season, would they be producing a third film?