“Bob passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by love and comfort.”
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The legendary actor passed away at his Virginia Ranch on Sunday, surrounded by family. His wife Luciana Duvall says, “To the world, he was an Academy Award-winning actor, a director, a storyteller. To me, he was simply everything.”
Robert Duvall in ‘The Godfather’. Photo: Paramount Pictures.
Robert Duvall was born in San Diego, California, on January 5, 1931. His father was an admiral in the US Navy. Duvall attended Principia College and served in the military before moving to New York, where he studied drama under renowned acting teacher Sanford Meisner. His classmates include actors Gene Hackman and James Caan.
Duvall’s first on-screen role was Boo Radley in ‘To Kill A Mockingbird’ in 1962. Later, the actor would go on to appear in films like ‘True Grit’ and ‘M*A*S*H‘.
He will also be remembered for his role in ‘The Godfather’ and ‘The Godfather: Part II’ as the Corleone family’s lawyer and consigliere. This role earned Duvall his first Academy Award nomination in 1972. He later won the Oscar for his role in ‘Tender Mercies’, where he plays Mac Sledge, a country singer/songwriter who was battling alcohol addiction.
Known for playing “tough guy” roles, Duvall will always be famously remembered for his line in ‘Apocalypse Now’: “I love the smell of napalm in the morning,” which has become an iconic movie quote today.
Tributes Pours In For Robert Duvall
Robert Duvall in ‘Apocalypse Now’. Photo: United Artists.
During his over six-decade-long career, Duvall worked with an extensive list of actors who took to social media to express their condolences:
Adam Sandler took to Twitter to send his condolences, calling the actor “Funny as hell. Strong as hell. One of the greatest actors we ever had.”
“Funny as hell. Strong as hell. One of the greatest actors we ever had. Such a great man to talk to and laugh with. Loved him so much. We all did. So many movies to choose from that were legendary. Watch them when you can. Sending his wife Luciana and all his family and friends our condolences.”
“Legendary actor Robert Duvall has sadly passed away at 95.🙏 In 1971, he appeared as the lead in the cult classic ‘THX 1138’, the first feature film directed by ‘Star Wars’ creator George Lucas.”
Actor Jane Seymour posts a photo on Instagram of her and Duvall, saying, “His presence on screen carried honesty, weight, and grace.”
“There are actors who perform, and there are actors who inhabit a role completely. Robert Duvall did the latter. His presence on screen carried honesty, weight, and grace. I’m thankful for the moments shared and for the artistry he gave the world. He will be greatly missed. Sending my deepest condolences to his family.”
Robert Duvall is survived by his wife Luciana Duvall. The two did not have children.
Robert Duvall in ‘The Apostle’. Photo: October Films.
Universal Studios Orlando’s Horror Nights 2025. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
In this Western horrorscape, demons are clawing their way out of Hell to possess unsuspecting humans, and it’s up to bounty hunters Hatchet and Chain to stop them. While this house had some cool light effects and set pieces, such as the demon in the fireplace, the story was not as cohesive as it could have been. However, it is still a fun house and a good original creation.
Official synopsis:
In this Old West town, all hell is breaking loose. Red-hot lava demons are trying to possess everyone, melting everything in their path. Your only hope: Hatchet and Chains with their mystical weapons.
9. Grave of Flesh
Universal Studios Orlando’s Horror Nights 2025. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
This haunted house begins with a warning from a gravedigger, and soon, guests descend into the depths of the underworld. There are hellish creatures in every nook and cranny, but the ending was a bit anticlimactic compared to the rest of the maze.
Official Synopsis:
Welcome to your funeral, where things are about to go from bad to worse. You’ll enter your grave and then the underworld, where flesh-eaters who feed on the dead will hunt you for all eternity.
8. ‘Jason Universe’
Universal Studios Orlando’s Horror Nights 2025. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
It is always a treat to see a horror classic like Jason at Halloween Horror Nights. This house is filled with various Jasons from across the ‘Friday the 13th’ film franchise, and even a special appearance of Pamela Vorhees. The scares in the first half of the maze felt too few and spread out, and it wasn’t until the second half of the maze that the numerous Jasons jumped out at guests relentlessly. It was a good maze, but not as great as some of the other Jason mazes from the past.
Official Synopsis:
Come face-to-face with the iconic horror villain Jason Voorhees. Step into the terrifying world of this silent killer. Flee through the woods and into his sinister shack. Enter the summer camp where his gruesome legend began. Jason is back, and nothing can save you now!
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7. Gálkn: The Monsters of the North
Universal Studios Orlando’s Horror Nights 2025. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
Inspired by Nordic mythology, this haunted house has stunning set designs. Following the tragic story about the protector of the land who became corrupt. Her vengeful spirit and her monsters taunt guests through various settings, such as tunnels covered in runes. This beautifully designed house offers up a great story and good jump scares.
Official Synopsis:
In a remote northern village, a wicked being rises from the dead, bringing a horde of monsters and demons from the fjords to wreak havoc on the townspeople. Try to escape the belly of the beast.
Universal Studios Orlando’s Horror Nights 2025. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
Based on the Prime Video series and video game of the same name, this maze does a great job taking guests through various locations from the show and encounters with characters such as Lucy, Maximus, and Cooper Howard/ the Ghoul. While not particularly scary, the production design of the haunted house was a feast for the eyes. Keep your eyes peeled for an Easter Egg tease for season 2.
Official Synopsis:
Face your fears in post-apocalyptic LA, devastated by nuclear war, based on the hit show and game franchise “Fallout.” You’ll travel into the vaults and be attacked by raiders alongside Lucy. You’ll escape to the wasteland and confront the bounty hunter, The Ghoul. You’ll even encounter Maximus with the Brotherhood of Steel and see T-60 power armor.
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5. ‘The Horrors of the Wyatt Sicks’
Universal Studios Orlando’s Horror Nights 2025. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
Based on the lore from the ‘Firefly Fun House’ TV segments, this house pays tribute to Bray Wyatt’s legacy and puts guests face-to-face with Uncle Howdy, Rambling Rabbit, Mercy the Buzzard, Huskus the Pig, and Abby the Witch. Even for non-WWE fans, it’s cool to be so immersed in this world, especially with the screen tunnel featuring wrestling personalities.
Official Synopsis:
Enter the eerie arena of The Wyatt Sicks, where you’ll go through an ominous doorway into the maniacal minds of Uncle Howdy, Rambling Rabbit, Mercy the Buzzard, Abby the Witch, and Huskus the Pig.
4. ‘Dolls: Let’s Play Dead’
Universal Studios Orlando’s Horror Nights 2025. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
Do dolls creep you out? If so, this house dials the scares up to 100. Guests are shrunk down to doll-size as they traverse through this twisted dollhouse filled with unnatural recreations of mutilated dolls and toys. Ever wondered what it’s like to be in the ‘Toy Story’ villain Sid’s bedroom? This is it. Every corner is a mangled nightmare waiting for its next victim. Great jump scares, even greater horrific images.
Official Synopsis:
You’re about to become doll-sized and witness the unnatural creations of a twisted little girl. You’ll be hunted by burnt fashion dolls, toys she’s melded together and undead horrors in her dollhouse.
Universal Studios Orlando’s Horror Nights 2025. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
Based on the popular video game and movie, this haunted house features larger-than-life animatronics and puppets created by Jim Henson’s Creature Shop. With eight-foot-tall animatronics and ghost kids lurking around every corner, this haunted house will definitely get your heart pumping. Fans of the franchise will love this house.
Official Synopsis:
Freddy and the Gang Are Dying to Meet You. You wouldn’t last one night at Freddy’s, let alone five. You’re about to be hunted by deadly animatronics Freddy, Bonnie, Chica and Foxy as you flee through creepy, abandoned hallways.
Universal Studios Orlando’s Horror Nights 2025. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
A terrifying maze featuring Art the Clown and his many gruesome kill scenes from the movies. This is the most grotesque of all ten houses. Art the Clown pops out at every corner, and each kill scene gets more gruesome. If you’re sensitive to smells, a portion of this maze is filled with the stink of feces. Guests are also put through a “blood bath” where water rains down on them in a tunnel. There is an option for a “dry path” if you prefer not to get wet, but what’s the fun in that?
Official Synopsis:
Nothing can prepare you for this grisly haunted house based on all three of Damien Leone’s Terrifier films. Try your luck against the sadistic Art the Clown in his twisted funhouse. Witness Art’s gleefully grotesque handiwork of torture. You’ll be left literally dripping with terror and drenched with fear. It’s a whole new level of gore!
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1. ‘El Artista: A Spanish Haunting’
Universal Studios Orlando’s Horror Nights 2025. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
The standout of the event is ‘El Artista: A Spanish Haunting’. It takes place in 19th-century Spain, and the story follows an artist who is tormented inside his manor as he desperately seeks inspiration. This is the most hauntingly beautiful house, including a demon flying on a zipline above guests in the courtyard.
Aside from the incredible production design, each creature encountered are so unique – like the monster made out of book pages. The maze is evenly paced with jump scares, and has the best story out of the original mazes.
Official Synopsis:
In 19th century Spain, a tortured artist moves to an isolated country manor to seek inspiration. Instead, the art comes alive and possesses him. You’re about to be part of the permanent exhibition.
Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights runs from August 29 through November 2, 2025.
Universal Studios Orlando’s Horror Nights 2025. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
Movies and TV Shows that inspired 2025’s Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights:
Universal Studios Orlando’s Horror Nights 2025. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
Preview:
A Look at This Year’s Ten Haunted Houses
Scare Zones and Live Shows
Themed Food and Merchandise
The Halloween season is upon us, and what better way to kick it off than the 34th annual Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Orlando, taking place August 29 through November 2, 2025. This year’s event will feature ten haunted houses, four scare zones, two live shows, themed food and drinks, and merchandise.
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Moviefone had the pleasure of traveling to Orlando, Florida, to experience Halloween Horror Nights 34, exploring all the haunted houses and scare zones.
There are a total of ten haunted houses this year, with four based on popular franchises such as ‘Five Nights at Freddy’s,’ ‘WWE: The Horrors of the Wyatt Sicks,’, ‘Fallout,’ and ‘Terrifier’. The remaining six houses are original creations that can only be found at Universal Orlando.
Universal Studios Orlando’s Horror Nights 2025. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
Based on the popular video game and movie, this haunted house marks the franchise’s debut as a haunted house at Halloween Horror Nights 34. It features larger-than-life animatronics and puppets created by the Jim Henson’s Creature Shop.
Official Synopsis:
Freddy and the Gang Are Dying to Meet You. You wouldn’t last one night at Freddy’s, let alone five. You’re about to be hunted by deadly animatronics Freddy, Bonnie, Chica and Foxy as you flee through creepy, abandoned hallways.
With eight-foot-tall animatronics and ghost kids lurking around every corner, this haunted house will definitely get your adrenaline pumping and satisfy any FNAF fan out there.
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‘Fallout’
Universal Studios Orlando’s Horror Nights 2025. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
Based on the Prime Video series and video game of the same name, this maze will take guests through various locations from the show and encounters with characters such as Lucy, Maximus, and Cooper Howard/ the Ghoul.
Official Synopsis:
Face your fears in post-apocalyptic LA, devastated by nuclear war, based on the hit show and game franchise “Fallout.” You’ll travel into the vaults and be attacked by raiders alongside Lucy. You’ll escape to the wasteland and confront the bounty hunter, The Ghoul. You’ll even encounter Maximus with the Brotherhood of Steel and see T-60 power armor.
While not particularly scary, the production design of the haunted house was a feast for the eyes. Keep your eyes peeled for an Easter Egg tease for season 2.
‘Terrifier’
Universal Studios Orlando’s Horror Nights 2025. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
The cult horror film franchise comes to life this year with the ‘Terrifier’ maze, featuring Art the Clown and his many gruesome kill scenes from the movies. There is also a “blood bath” path where guests are soaked with water raining down from the ceiling.
Official Synopsis:
Nothing can prepare you for this grisly haunted house based on all three of Damien Leone’s Terrifier films. Try your luck against the sadistic Art the Clown in his twisted funhouse. Witness Art’s gleefully grotesque handiwork of torture. You’ll be left literally dripping with terror and drenched with fear. It’s a whole new level of gore!
This haunted house is the most grotesque of all ten houses. Art the Clown will pop out at every corner, and each featured kill scene gets more and more gruesome. If you’re sensitive to smells, be warned that this maze is filled with scents such as bleach and feces. There is an option for a “dry path” and a “blood bath”, with Art the Clown standing above, urging guests to take the Blood Bath.
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‘The Horrors of the Wyatt Sicks”
Universal Studios Orlando’s Horror Nights 2025. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
This is the first collaboration between Universal Orlando and WWE. The maze is based on the lore from the ‘Firefly Fun House’ TV segments and pays tribute to Bray Wyatt’s legacy. Attendees will come face-to-face with Uncle Howdy, Rambling Rabbit, Mercy the Buzzard, Huskus the Pig, and Abby the Witch.
Official Synopsis:
Enter the eerie arena of The Wyatt Sicks, where you’ll go through an ominous doorway into the maniacal minds of Uncle Howdy, Rambling Rabbit, Mercy the Buzzard, Abby the Witch, and Huskus the Pig.
This is the maze to visit for any WWE fan looking to be immersed in the lore. Its unique story and characters make this haunted house a standout and an unforgettable experience.
‘Jason Universe’
Universal Studios Orlando’s Horror Nights 2025. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
It is always a treat to see horror classics at Halloween Horror Nights, and this year is no different with ‘Jason Universe’. This haunted house is filled with various Jasons across the ‘Friday the 13th’ film franchise.
Official Synopsis:
Come face to face with the iconic horror villain Jason Voorhees. Step into the terrifying world of this silent killer. Flee through the woods and into his sinister shack. Enter the summer camp where his gruesome legend began. Jason is back and nothing can save you now!
There’s no escape from Jason while you’re in this haunted house. Though relentless, the scares got a bit repetitive by the end.
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Original Haunted Houses
Universal Studios Orlando’s Horror Nights 2025. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
HHN 34 also includes five original haunted houses, including ‘Galkin: Monsters of the North’, inspired by ancient Nordic mythology and creatures, and ‘Grave of the Flesh’, where guests are invited to their own funeral.
‘Hatchet and Chain: Demon Bounty Hunters’ is reminiscent of ‘Slaughter Sinema 2’, where demons are crawling their way out of Hell to possess unsuspecting humans while melting everything in their path.
‘Dolls: Let’s Play Dead’ is not one to be missed. Guests become “doll-sized” as they enter this haunted house, and will encounter a variety of the most unnatural re-creations of dolls and toys. Everything, from set designs to scareactors, works cohesively in this twisted dollhouse.
The standout of the original houses is ‘El Artista: A Spanish Haunting’. Taking place in 19th-century Spain, an artist is tormented inside his manor as he desperately seeks inspiration. This is the most hauntingly beautiful house, including a demon flying above guests in the courtyard.
Live Entertainment and Scare Zones
Universal Studios Orlando’s Horror Nights 2025. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
There are two live shows available during Halloween Horror Nights – ‘Nightmare Fuel: Circus of Decay’, which is a sequel to last year’s live spectacular ‘Nightmare Fuel: Nocturnal Circus’. Gravity-defying aerialists and fiery pyro acts wow the audience as the best live entertainment of the event.
‘Haunt-o-Phonic: A Gholish Journey’ is a water show taking place at Universal Studios Lagoon, featuring haunting images projected onto giant water screens, lighting effects, music, and synchronized dancing water fountains.
This year’s event includes four scare zones: ‘The Origins of Horror,’ ‘Mutations: Toxic Twenties,’ ‘Masquerade: Dance with Death,’ and ‘The Cat Lady of Crooked Lane.’ Each zone offers a unique theme and its own assembly of scare-actors taunting guests as they make their way through the park.
Themed Food and Merchandise
Universal Studios Orlando’s Horror Nights 2025. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
There are a variety of foods created in theme of this year’s haunted houses. ‘Terrifier’ fans can enjoy the Clown Cafe Bloody Popcorn, a bucket filled with popcorn chicken, pepperoni, marinara “blood” sauce, and spiced parmesan. For something sweet, try the Abracadabra Sunflower Glasses sugar cookies, complete with chocolate blood splatters.
‘Fallout’ enthusiasts can try the Yum Yum Deviled “Eggs”, but everything is not as it seems when it comes to this creation. The eggs are actually coconut panacotta with pineapple whipped ganache and Tajin.
Universal Studios Orlando’s Horror Nights 2025. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
Indulge in a Mister Cupcake from ‘Five Nights at Freddy’s’, a delicious chocolate cupcake topped with a generous amount of pink mascarpone frosting. Filled with cannoli cream and raspberry, and finished with chocolate eyes and teeth.
Specially themed merchandise, such as Art the Clown popcorn bucket, is available at the Tribute Store near the Mutation: Toxic Twenties scare zone.
Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights runs from August 29 through November 2, 2025.
Universal Studios Orlando’s Horror Nights 2025. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
Movies and TV Shows that inspired 2025’s Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights:
Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe Grand Opening. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
Preview:
Take a closer look at Isle of Berk and The Wizarding World – Ministry of Magic.
Isle of Berk houses 30 dragon animatronics, two rides, and a live show.
Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry ride has the most elaborate line queue of any theme park ride.
Ever wonder what it’s like to come face-to-face with the famous Nightfury from ‘How to Train Your Dragon‘? Or travel by Floo Metro to the British Ministry of Magic? Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe has found a way to give guests the ultimate immersive experience in its brand new theme park, which opened on May 22, 2025
Moviefone had the pleasure of visiting Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe during the media preview ahead of its grand opening to experience the entire theme park, including Isle of Berk and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic.
Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe Grand Opening. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
Epic Universe is Universal Orlando’s fourth theme park, not far from Universal Studios Orlando. It houses five brand new lands, including Celestial Park, How To Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, Dark Universe, Super Nintendo World, and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic.
Epic Universe’s theming is inspired by the heavens, stars, and constellations, and once guests step through the towering Emerald Gate and Chronos device, they will find themselves in Celestial Park. From there, they will be able to access the four other portals leading them into various lands.
The Isle of Berk
Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe Grand Opening. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
Just through the fiery red swirling portal is the Isle of Berk – a land where Vikings and dragons live in harmony. Themed to DreamWorks’ animated feature ‘How To Train Your Dragon’ franchise, this land in Epic Universe will transport you to a world that has only existed in animation – until now. There are plenty to do in Berk, including three rides, one live show, meet and greet with Toothless, plenty of food options, and of course, you’ll spot characters from the film roaming around the village.
Once inside Berk, you’re greeted by towering Viking and Dragon statues emerging out of the water. The larger-than-life decor of this land will make you forget that you’re at a theme park. Aside from its attractions and live entertainment, there are 30 animatronic dragons spread throughout Berk. From napping baby dragons to the massive Snow Wraith ready to blast you with its icy breath.
The Attractions In Isle of Berk
Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe Grand Opening. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
Out of all the lands within Epic Universe, the Isle of Berk houses the most attractions. It has three rides – Hiccup’s Wing Glider, Dragon Racer’s Rally, and Fyre Drill. Each is unique, has colorful outdoor line queues, and fits right into the world of ‘How To Train Your Dragon’.
Hiccup’s Wing Glider rides like a classic rollercoaster, with just enough thrills without taking the riders upside-down. As the coaster moves out of the loading station, you’ll hear Hiccup speaking to Toothless, “Hey Toothless, we’ve got to prepare for launch”. The coaster takes you right past animatronics of Hiccup and Toothless before Toothless launches your Winged Flying Machine to soar through the Isle.
The ride track will take you through the entire land and over water so you can get a fantastic view of Berk. All is well until you come across some Gronckle eggs hatching. The winged machine quickly makes its getaway by launching at full speed. As the coasters soar past the eggs, the score from ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ plays, and you get the sensation of what it’s like to fly on the back of a dragon.
The official synopsis for Hiccup’s Wing Gliders:
“From Hiccup’s workshop comes his latest contraption: a winged flying machine that launches aspiring Dragon Riders into the air, swooping and soaring and encountering Hiccup and Toothless along the way. Get ready to board Hiccup’s Wing Gliders, a fun coaster that invites Vikings to prove they’re brave enough to speed through the sky with dragons.”
Dragon Racer’s Rally takes riders in a circular motion up to 67 feet in the air before gliding back down in a circular motion. What makes this ride unique is that each rider has control over their own vehicle’s “wings”. Alternating them back and forth will allow your vehicle to spin 360 degrees, which means as the ride is gliding in a circular motion, you are also spinning and going upside down. The wings are heavier than expected and can take some getting used to to get your vehicle to spin. If you prefer a milder experience, hold the wings steady and your vehicle will not spin. This is a short ride and a fun way to experience flying like a Dragon.
The official synopsis for Dragon Racer’s Rally:
“The sport of dragon racing is a celebrated pastime on the Isle of Berk. At Dragon Racer’s Rally, Berk’s new Vikings can practice aerobatic maneuvers and high-speed barrel rolls on a Viking-made dragonriding trainer. You’ll need these high-flying, gravity-defying, swooping and soaring skills if you hope to become a champion dragon racer.”
Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe Grand Opening. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
Fyre Drill is the perfect way to beat the heat. It’s an interactive boat battle, and in Viking fashion, teaching you how to douse flames or foes with water. This is an all-ages ride with no drops, twists, or turns. Each boat is equipped with water cannons. As the boat moves through large wooden targets, your goal is to hit the targets, but there’s no rule about also soaking the other boats and its riders with your water cannon. The ride is slow moving, so there is no way to avoid getting wet on this ride.
The official synopsis for Fyre Drill:
“With fire-breathing dragons everywhere, villagers have to be prepared. Viking twins Ruffnut and Tuffnut have transformed Berk’s Fyre Skööl into a watery, interactive boat battle at sea. Board your ship in Fyre Drill and blast your water cannons at flame-like targets – and the occupants of every other boat – to out-soak other Vikings.”
Eat Like A Viking
Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe Grand Opening. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
There are several dining options in Isle of Berk including the Mead Hall, the Spit Fyre Grill, and Holligan’s Grog & Gruel. Each of the food locations offers quick service and a variety of dishes.
The Mead Hall is the tallest building in the land, and its entrance doors are over 16 feet tall. Here you’ll find larger platters of meats perfect for sharing, seafood, sandwiches, desserts, drinks, and of course, mead. There are also two vegan options available: the Nordic Harvest Salad and Valka’s Vegan Burger with an ancient grain patty. This is where you’ll find the adorable fish-shaped dessert made of chocolate mousse on a bed of cereal crumbles.
Hooligan’s Grog & Gruel is where you can find the Instagramable Dragon Fire Chicken Spire mac-and-cheese cone. These huge bread cones are filled to the brim with creamy mac and cheese and toppings such as BBQ pulled pork or pulled chicken with hot honey. Spit Fyre Grill is where you’ll find various bowls featuring steak, chicken, salmon, and shrimp. There’s also a vegan bowl option with kale spring mix, bean salad, vegan feta, with a mango and mint vinaigrette.
Toothless and Hiccup Soar High In “The Untrainable Dragon” Live Show
Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe Grand Opening. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
Amongst the rides, food, and character meet and greets, there is also the live show called “The Untrainable Dragon, ” unlike any theme park stage show. First debuted in Universal Studios Beijing, the Vikings encountered a new troublesome dragon causing mayhem in the village. Hiccup, Toothless, Gobber, and Astrid must find a way to calm the dragon before it causes more destruction.
This show will feature large dragon puppets, singing, dancing, projection, smoke, and lighting effects. Best of all, Hiccup and Toothless will soar over the audience. It’s truly stunning to see Hiccup on the back of the massive Toothless animatronic, with a wingspan of 27 feet, breaking through the fog, high in the theater. The show runs about 20 minutes and is pure entertainment.
You can also meet Hiccup and Toothless, located near the theater for “The Untrainable Dragon”. This is probably the most sought after experience in Isle of Berk so if you want to meet Toothless, make sure to prioritize and plan because the line can get up to over 2 hours long.
The Isle of Berk immerse guests into the world of Dreamwork’s ‘How To Train Your Dragon’. Aside from all the attractions and entertainment, it’s fun to walk around to try to find all 30 animatronic dragons. There are interactive towers placed all around Berk that’ll play a sound or mist effect once you interact with it. You’ll undoubtedly run into Ruffnut, Tuffnut, and Gobber, as they usually roam around the land. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for adorable baby dragons who will play a game of “Toothless Says”.
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The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic
Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe Grand Opening. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
Explore the world of ‘Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them’ inside the Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic. Walking through the towering wand-topped portal, you are transported to 1920s Paris. This land has incredible design, from the cobblestone streets to the tall buildings of Place Cachée to the towering Phoenix arch.
This land is filled with interactive activities, hidden in shop windows. To unlock the magic, you will need an interactive wand, which is available at Cosme Acajor Baguettes Magique. This is where you can find the new second-generation wands with a more powerful connectivity, and features light and sound haptics to give you a more unique spell casting experience.
Aside from interactive wand spells, there are also character interactions in magical Paris. You can find a live street band playing, alongside the magical creature Plume the Puffskein. The stylish wand designer Cosme Acajor roams near her storefront, and students from various wizarding schools add to the overall atmosphere.
Battle at the British Ministry of Magic
Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe Grand Opening. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
The main attraction in this land is the “Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry” ride. For the first time, guests will be able to experience the Métro-Floo as they walk through the green tunnel. Stepping through the mist, you’ll find yourself at the atrium of the British Ministry of Magic.
The official synopsis for “Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry” is:
“Travel by Métro-Floo from Paris to the British Ministry of Magic™ where Dolores Umbridge™ is about to stand trial. Board a lift and join Harry, Ron, and Hermione as you journey deep into the Ministry’s many departments. Thrilling adventure, fantastic beasts, and unexplored mystery await in Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry™.”
This ride queue is the most impressive one at Epic Universe. As you come out of the Métro-Floo tunnels, it feels like you’re swallowed by the massive atrium of the British Ministry of Magic, with its tall ceiling and the multiple floors of office buildings that overlook the Fountain of Magical Brethren. The sight is truly breathtaking. Proceeding through the line queue, you’ll walk through the Magical Archives library, the Aurors’ locker room, and Dolores Umbridge’s office.
Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe Grand Opening. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
The wait for this attraction is likely to be very long, but it will give you time to take in all the details this line queue has to offer. As you walk through Umbridge’s office, you’ll find her house-elf Higgledy explaining a little about Umbridge’s trial.
Once you’ve reached the end of the line queue, you will board the magical omnidirectional lift as it makes its way to Umbridge’s trial. As she attempts to escape, the lift, along with Harry, Hermione, and Ron, gives chase throughout the Ministry. The ride has a combination of screens and practice sets, similar to “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey” but on a grander scale. Even though this ride isn’t as thrilling as Monsters Unchained, what sets this ride apart is immersive storytelling and the detailed animatronics found throughout. For Harry Potter fans, this is a must.
Le Cirque Arcanus
Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe Grand Opening. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
Head straight from the Phoenix Arch, and you’ll find “Le Cirque Arcanus”, A live show featuring cirque acts and fantastic beasts in large puppetry form. The magic begins as soon as you enter the red show tent because the line queue and the theater inside are much bigger than they look outside, similar to the effect of the charmed tent used by Hermione and Ginny after the World Cup Final.
During the pre-show, you are introduced to Ringmaster Skender and his assistant, Gwenlyn. Wanting to save his failing circus, he has stolen Newt Scamander’s suitcase and wants to use the magical creatures inside to draw a crowd. When Gwenlyn accidentally lets out a Demiguise. This pre-show includes magical surprises like Newtscander’s suitcase traveling through the wall into Skender’s office, and how the Demiguise crawls out of the suitcase, just like we’ve seen Scamander do in the movies.
The main show takes place inside a 550-seat theater, featuring various circus acts. The rest of the show takes place inside Scamander’s suitcase. Yes, the entire stage transforms into the inside of the suitcase, and the transition was magical to watch. As Gwenlyn looks for the Demiguise, she encounters many other magical creatures, including a very large Zouwu and the adorable Mooncalf. With special effects and intricate set designs, guests will feel surrounded by the magic of the Wizarding World.
Magical Fare
Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe Grand Opening. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
There is plenty to taste while you’re in the Wizarding World. Quick service dining options include Cafe L’air De La Sirène, where you can find the delectable Butterbeer crepe, Le Gobelet Noir for drinks and hearty entrees, and Bar Moonshine for a refreshing beverage.
Cafe L’air De La Sirène and Le Gobelet Noir are where you can find the most seating and be tucked away in air conditioning from the heat. Le Gobelet Noir has several dining rooms themed to its moody name, while Cafe L’air De La Sirène has one large dining area.
The Butterbeer crepe served at Cafe L’ar De La Sirène features a warm crepe with a Butterbeer filling, topped with powdered sugar, fresh strawberries, Butterbeer whipped cream, a decorative shortbread cookie, and finished with a Butterbeer drizzle. Despite the description, this was not overly sweet. If you enjoy Butterbeer in its drink form, you’ll want to try this. Aside from the Butterbeer crepe, the cafe serves a variety of sweet and savory crepes, quiches, sandwiches, salads, and more.
Le Gobelet Noir features dishes inspired by French, German, and Hungarian cuisine. Items such as Jägerschnitzel and Coqu Au Vin can be found here. Themed to its dark decor, you’ll also find Le Breuage Sombre du Gobelet Noir, which is a dark brew drink with eyes of Plimpies. Don’t worry, they are actually just yogurt popping pearls.
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These worlds within Epic Universe are unbelievable. The attention to detail has elevated the theme park experience. Every inch of each land is immersive, the designs are breathtaking, and parkgoers will have a different experience every time.
Universal Epic Universe officially opened on May 22, 2025.
Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe Grand Opening. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
Movies that inspired Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe:
The new opening also includes the Helios Grand Hotel, a Loews Hotel. The Helios Grand has its own dedicated entrance into Epic Universe (theme park admission required), and offers guests early entry into the park.
Moviefone had the pleasure of traveling to Orlando, Florida, for a special preview of Epic Universe ahead of its grand opening on May 22, 2025 to experience all five lands and their attractions, shows, and more.
Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe Grand Opening. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
Epic Universe is Universal Orlando’s fourth theme park, not far from Universal Studios Orlando. It houses five brand new lands, including Celestial Park, How To Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, Dark Universe, Super Nintendo World, and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic. Epic Universe’s theming is inspired by the heavens, stars, and constellations, and once guests step through the towering Emerald Gate and Chronos device, they will find themselves in Celestial Park. From there, they will be able to access the four other portals leading them into various lands.
During the media preview week, there was an opening ceremony for each of the portals. As the Chrono device “powered up” to open the portal, the characters of the respective land would appear, along with music, pyro, fire, smoke, and sometimes confetti to welcome guests. While these portal opening ceremony is not likely to happen once Epic Universe is officially open, it was exciting to see the efforts put in by Epic Universe to make entering each portal a unique experience during the media preview.
Epic Theme Park, Epic Hotel
Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe Grand Opening. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
The new Helios Grand Hotel sits on the Epic Universe property, and is said to be the most unique hotels in the world. In partnership with Lowes Hotel, the Helio Grand has 500 rooms including 35 suites. The best perk of staying here would be its dedicated entrance right into Epic Universe.
Upon walking into the Helio Grand Hotel, you’re met with the view of massive windows that lookout into the theme park. The hotel’s theming is parallel to what you’d see in Celestial Park, making the transition from one place to the next smooth and flawless. Dining options includes the restaurant Flora Taverna on the main floor, Bar Helio that offers a stunning 360 degree view, and the poolside Lotus Lagoon.
During media preview, Executive Chairman of Loews Hotel & Co Jonathan Tisch proudly mentions that the Helio Grand Hotel makes the 11th hotel on Universal Property, “On Universal campus now, we have 11 hotels, 11 thousand rooms, and with our partners at Comcast and NBCU, it really is a remarkable partnership”
Jonathan Tisch talks about getting the phone call that started the Helios Grand Hotel project
“We got a call to build a hotel but this time it’s a bit different. You’re looking at this amazing amusement park, and this hotel, the Helios is one of the most unique hotels in the world. Universal Stella Nova Resort and Universal Terra Luna Resort – It really is just a a project that we’ve been in talk for a long time. So we’ve been very busy at those hotels. We’ve opened up three hotels of three and a half miles here, all in anticipation of this weekend in the amazing opening that we’ll all see soon. On Universal campus now, we have 11 hotels, 11 doves and rooms, and with our partners are Comcast and NBCU. It really is a remarkable partnership.”
What Can You Find In Celestial Park?
Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe Grand Opening. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
Celestial Park houses a gorgeous and lush garden, the Cosmos fountain, the Constellation Carousel, and the dual-track rollercoaster Stardust Racers. There are several dining and shopping options located throughout. This portion of Epic Universe serves as the crossroads that leads to the four other lands within. Using a hub-and-spoke layout, guests can travel in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction to their next destination. At times, Celestial Park can feel like a maze with its ever extending gardens and ponds.
While Celestial Park isn’t themed to any particular IP, the attractions here should not be overlooked. The Constellation Carousel takes guests on a different carousel experience, as the celestial creature ride vehicles also spin, making one feel like they’re moving in different directions instead of the usual 360 degrees on a classic merry-go-around.
The Stardust Racer rollercoaster is hard to miss. The retro-themed coaster stands tall at 133 feet and features dual tracks. The Stardust Racer will launch guests from 0 to 62 MPH, taking riders high into the sky before descending into a series of drops and twists, while crisscrossing with the other track. Both tracks offer a slightly different experience, with the Yellow track offering more twists while the Green track has more drops and dips. The ride is designed to look like comets in the sky, and it truly takes on that feeling with a night ride. The tracks are not lit, so the only lights are coming from the ride vehicles themselves.
For dining, there are two full-service restaurants and a few quick-service options. The full service restaurants are the Atlantic and the Blue Dragon. The Atlantic offers a variety of seafood fare and is themed to its aquatic name, with large floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook Neptune’s Pool. The Blue Dragon serves up Asian-inspired dishes, and the decor features neon light signage and motifs inspired by East and Southeast Asia. There is also a variety of quick service options that are spread throughout.
What Can You Find In Isle of Berk?
Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe Grand Opening. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
The Isle of Berk immerse guests into the world of Dreamwork’s ‘How To Train Your Dragon’. Upon entering through the portal, you are met with towering stone statues of a Viking and a dragon. In this land, you’ll find 30 animatronic dragons, as well as three rides and a live stage show. You will also meet characters from the film, including Hiccup, Astrid, Ruffnut, Tuffnut, Gobber, and of course, Toothless himself. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for adorable baby dragons who will play a game of “Toothless Says”.
The three rides in Isle of Berk consist of Hiccup’s Wing Gliders, Dragon Racer’s Rally, and Fyre Drill. There is also the live stage show “The Untrainable Dragon”, which is unlike any theme park stage show. In “The Untrainable Dragon”, the Vikings encounter a new troublesome dragon that is causing mayhem in the village. Hiccup, Toothless, Gobber, and Astrid must find a way to calm the dragon before it causes more destruction. The show features dance and musical numbers, but best of all, Hiccup and Toothless will soar over the audience during the show. This is a must-see!
Dining options in Isle of Berk includes the Mead Hall, which also happens to be the tallest building in the land. Mead Hall offers quick service and has a variety meats, fish, sandwiches, desserts, and drinks. Other dining options include Spit Fyre Grill and Hooligan’s Grog & Gruel where you can find the Instagramable Dragon Fire Chicken Spire mac-and-cheese cone.
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What Can You Find In The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic?
Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe Grand Opening. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
While Universal Orlando and Islands of Adventure already house both Diagon Alley and Hogsmead, there is still much to explore in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Epic Universe. As you walk through the towering wand-topped portal, you suddenly find yourself in 1920s Paris. This land is connected to the “Fantastic Beasts and Where To Find Them” franchise, where magical creatures from the film can be found in various shop windows and entertainment.
The main attraction in this land is the “Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry” ride. For the first time, guests will be able to experience the Métro-Floo as they walk through the green tunnel. Stepping through the mist, you’ll find yourself at the British Ministry of Magic.
The official synopsis for “Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry” is:
Travel by Métro-Floo from Paris to the British Ministry of Magic™ where Dolores Umbridge™ is about to stand trial. Board a lift and join Harry, Ron, and Hermione as you journey deep into the Ministry’s many departments. Thrilling adventure, fantastic beasts, and unexplored mystery await in Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry™.
This ride queue is the most impressive of all lands at Epic Universe. As you come out of the Métro-Floo tunnels, you’re met with the massive atrium of the British Ministry of Magic and its many floors of offices. At the center stands the Fountain of Magical Brethren. The sight is truly impressive. Proceeding through the line queue, you’ll walk through the Magical Archives library, the Aurors’ locker room, and Dolores Umbridge’s office.
Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe Grand Opening. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
For the ride itself, guests will board the magical omnidirectional lift as it makes its way to Umbridge’s trial. As she attempts to escape, the lift, along with Harry, Hermione, and Ron, give chase throughout the Ministry. The ride has a combination of screens and practice sets, similar to “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey”. What sets this ride apart is the seamless flow from screen to set and the detailed animatronics found throughout. The immersive storytelling combined with the technologies used for Battle at the Ministry make this attraction a must for Harry Potter fans.
Within this land, you can find “Cirque de Arcanus”, a live show featuring cirque acts and fantastic beasts in large puppetry form. With special effects and intricate set designs, guests will feel surrounded by the magic of the Wizarding World.
There is much to explore within the wizarding city of Paris. Arm yourself with an interactive wand and put your skills to the test with the many spell-casting spots in front of the storefronts throughout this land. Stop by Café L’air De La Sirène for a butterbeer crepe
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What Can You Find In Dark Universe?
Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe Grand Opening. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
It’s Alive! As guests step through the portal for Dark Universe, they are transported to the village of Darkmoor, a haunting village where the classic Universal Monsters roam. The gothic decor and fog effects sets the mood. The crackles and hum of electricity from Victoria Frankenstein’s experiments can be heard throughout. As you travel further into the land, you’ll come across Frankenstein Manor, a dark castle looming over Darkmoor. The manor houses the main attraction of Dark Universe, “Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment”.
The official synopsis for “Monsters Unchained” is:
Dr. Victoria Frankenstein continues the work of her ancestors deep below the family estate. A demonstration of her experiments to control monsters goes awry when Dracula leads a revolt of enraged monsters including The Wolf Man, The Mummy, the Creature from the Black Lagoon and more.
Monsters Unchained has two pre-shows, with the latter showing off the incredible animatronics of Victoria Frankenstein and Frankenstein’s Monster 2.0. Their movements are fluid and lifelike, giving a guest just a taste of what they’ll encounter on the ride.
The ride vehicle operates very similarly to “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey,” but the vehicle’s movement is more extreme and intense than Forbidden Journey. In comparison, Monsters Unchain boasts more practice sets and animatronics than screenings. As the ride vehicles, operated by Igor, navigates through the catacombs deep beneath the manor, guests will come face-to-face with Dracula and his brides, the Mummy, and Creature from the Black Lagoon. These larger-than-life animatronics are extremely detailed and truly frightening as the ride vehicle brings you within inches of them.
Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe Grand Opening. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
There is so much happening on this ride, and each seat offers a slightly different view as certain animatronic figures pop out at a different timing. Monsters Unchained is the best ride in Epic Universe, and worth experiencing multiple times as you will definitely notice something you different than the previous ride.
Aside from Monsters Unchained, there’s also the spinning rollercoaster “Curse of the Werewolf”. The ride vehicle travels at 37 MPH on back and forth motion while the seat vehicles spin. The spinning motion can vary depending on the weight distribution of each ride vehicle. The coaster is thrilling but nowhere as intense as Stardust Racers or even Hiccup’s Wing Gliders.
Official synopsis for “Curse of the Werewolf”:
Maleva, leader of The Guild of Mystics, welcomes you to a secluded wagon camp. Here you’re warned of the creatures who prowl the deep woods. Before long you’re riding Curse of the Werewolf – surrounded by glowing eyes and gnashing teeth, you’ll spin and weave through the forest as you attempt to escape a pack of werewolves.
Guests can encounter characters such as Igor as he roams around Darkmoor, or meet Frankenstein and the Bride in their designated meet and greet area.
Dining options include the Burning Blade Tavern, which has a rotating windmill that is lit ablaze seversal times a day. The Tavern serves up a variety of burgers, chicken, small bites, and beverage.
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What Can You Find in Super Nintendo World?
Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe Grand Opening. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
Super Nintendo World first made its way to Universal Studios Hollywood in 2023. This is where you can find “Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge”. What sets the Super Nintendo World apart in Epic Universe is a brand new area featuring Donkey Kong. This marks the debut of Donkey Kong Country in the United States.
Donkey Kong Country transports guests into the jungle where you can find “Mine-Cart Madness”. Board the mine cart and enter the Golden Temple to protect the Golden Banana, but watch out for the rickety tracks.
Official synopsis for Mine-Cart Madness:
It’s up to you to help Donkey Kong protect the Golden Banana on Mine-Cart Madness™. Enter the majestic Golden Temple, board your mine cart and take off in this thrilling family coaster. Speeding through the mine, you’ll appear to jump across gaps in the track and perform other eye-popping feats from the Donkey Kong Country video games.
As the mine carts rushes through the Golden Temple, you’ll notice some of the tracks have collapsed but there is no stopping. The mine cart makes leaps over the missing tracks, and makes this ride exciting and sometimes a little scary. The ride will not only take you through the temple, but also over water and through the jungle. For those visiting the park with a Power-Up band or tracking your progress through Universal Orlando app, this is how you can acquire the Golden Banana stamp.
While you’re in Donkey Kong Country, stop by The Bubbly Barrel stall to try the DK Crush Float, which is served with a pineapple banana soft serve with a waffle cone. It sounds extremely sugary but it’s just the right level of sweetness and very refreshing. You have the option to get it with or without the souvenir DK barrel mug.
Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe Grand Opening. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
The other new attraction at Super Nintendo World is Yoshi’s Adventure. This is a much slower paced ride than Mine-Cart Madness, perfect for all-ages. The track also gives you a scenic aerial view of Super Nintendo World. Guests will board a Yoshi ride vehicle as it takes you through various scenes in search of all three Yoshi Eggs. Each vehicle is equipped with three egg-shaped buttons. When you spot a blue, pink, or green Yoshi Egg, press the corresponding color button. This is how you can acquire the Golden Egg stamp.
The rides at Super Nintendo World are fun but not as detailed or thrilling as the other lands. Still, this land is extremely interactive, especially if you have a Power-Up Band to collect stamps and play mini-games.
You can find several food options including Toadstool Cafe, which boasts wide variety from pasta to soups to sandwiches. There are a ton of seating and a perfect way to escape the heat on a hot day.
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Epic Universe is changing the game when it comes to theme parks. The attention to detail in each land has elevated the experience. When you’re in any specific land, you forget that you’re a part of a larger theme park. Whether you step into the Isle of Berk or Dark Universe, you’re immediately enveloped by the theming and decor. You won’t even notice the other portals towers from the other lands even though they stand tall. For the most part, each land is filled with interactive experiences so if there are plenty to do aside from the rides and shows.
Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe and Helio Grand Hotel is now officially open to the public.
Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe Grand Opening. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
Movies that inspired Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe:
Michelle Trachtenberg and Sarah Michelle Gellar in ‘Ice Princess’. Photo: Buena Vista Pictures Distribution.
Preview:
Michelle Trachtenberg has died at the age of 39.
An actor from a young age, she was probably best known for ‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer.’
She’d reportedly recently had a liver transplant.
Actress Michelle Trachtenberg , known for many TV series and films such as ‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’ and ‘Gossip Girl’, passed away at age 39. She was discovered unresponsive on Wednesday morning by her mother at her apartment complex at One Columbus Place.
Sources report that the actress recently underwent a liver transplant and has been experiencing complications. Her death is believed to be of natural causes. NYPD has not deemed her death suspicious, though an autopsy will be conducted to determine the cause of death.
Michelle Trachtenberg in ‘Harriet the Spy’. Photo: Paramount Pictures.
Michelle Trachtenberg was born in New York City on October 11, 1985. She made her first TV appearance in a commercial for Wisk detergent at the age of three and went on to appear in many more commercials. Now, her credits include ‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’, ‘Gossip Girl’, ‘EuroTrip’, ‘Harriet the Spy’, ‘The Adventures of Pete & Pete’, and many more.
The New York City native made her feature film debut in Nicklodeon’s ‘Harriet the Spy’ in 1996 as the titular character Harriet M. Welsch. She was also a series regular in the TV series ‘The Adventures of Pete & Pete’ from 1994 to 1996.
While Trachtenberg’s long list of credits includes titles such as ‘Meego’ and ‘Inspector Gadget,’ her big break came in 2000 when she was cast in ‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’ as Buffy’s younger sister Dawn, where she earned a nomination at the Teen Choice Award for choice TV Sidekick in 2001.
(L to R) Michelle Trachtenberg and Sarah Michelle Gellar in ‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’. Photo: 20th Century Fox Television.
After ‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’, Trachtenberg went on to appear in TV series such as ‘Six Feet Under’, ‘House’, ‘Weeds’ and ‘Law & Order: Criminal Intent,’ before starring as Georgina Sparks on ‘Gossip Girl’ from 2008 to 2012, where she was nominated for choice TV Villain at the 2012 Teen Choice Award. The late actress speaks of playing a villain on the show during an interview with Seventeen:
“It’s kind of easy to be evil when you’re saying evil things. It’s definitely a lot more fun than playing the good girl. I love the reaction you get. I never understood why some actors don’t want to play villains or evil characters.”
“So very sad ..horrible news. RIP and prayers to her and her family.”
‘Harriet the Spy’ co-star Rosie O’Donnell said the news is “heartbreaking” in a statement to US Weekly:
“Heartbreaking. I loved her very much. She struggled the last few years. I wish I could have helped.”
‘Sex and the City’ star Kim Cattrall posted a photo of her and the late actress on her Instagram, saying, “Rest in peace sweet Michelle” with broken heart emojis. Cattrall shared the screen with Trachtenberg in ‘Ice Princess’.
“Our first Nick movie star has departed us!! She was my friend and now she rests!! 🙏🏾 Check on your people!!! “ and shares a video clip from the Nickelodeon show.
Trachtenberg’s previous posts on her Instagram where she appeared gaunt raised concerns amongst her fans. The star assured her followers that she was “happy and healthy” in a response last January. Just a month ago, the actress posted a photo of her and ‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’ star Sarah Michelle Gellar reminiscing the past: “Slay all day! Always loved this twinning photo of us.”
Directed by Jason Hand, Dana Ledeoux Miller, and David Derrick Jr., the follow-up to 2016’s ‘Moana’ is ready to sail into theaters on November 27, 2024. Auli’i Cravahol and Dwayne Johnson return to voice Moana and Maui once again as they dive into a brand new adventure.
‘Moana 2’ takes the audience on a brand new adventure as Moana and her crew venture into uncharted waters. While the new characters bring some excitement to the sequel, the movie truly shines when Moana and Maui are on screen together, which doesn’t come until later on in the film. The friendship and chemistry between the tattooed demi-god and Wayfinder is truly the glue and heartbeat of the film.
The animation is gorgeous and seems to be even more colorful than the first. It should also mentioned that the representation of the Pacific Islanders is even more so highlighted in this. ‘Moana 2’ starts strong but loses its pacing in the second act. However, the third act brings the excitement right back, with quite a few heartfelt and emotional moments.
The movie opens with Moana exploring an unknown island, searching for any traces of life, past or present. With her trusty, but not exactly helpful, animal sidekicks Pua and Heihei by her side, Moana stumbles upon a partially broken pottery with a motif depicting people next to a mountain – eluding that there are other inhabited islands out there.
As Moana sails home with her new discovery, she’s welcomed back by her village with open arms. This is where the film introduces Moana’s little sister Simea. Though there is a pretty large age gap between Moana and Simea, the two have an extremely close-knit relationship.
That evening, Moana is to receive her title as Chief, but the ceremony is interrupted by a powerful lightning that nearly strikes Moana, sending her a vision from her ancestor, Matai Vasa. She sees her ancestors looking for Motufetu – the island that was depicted on the pottery she found. The vision also shows Moana what will happen if she fails to find Motufetu, her own island will meet its demise.
The vision also tells Moana that Motufetu once had channels that connected people across the ocean, but the Storm God Nalo wanted more power and put a curse upon the island, therefore separating the people of the ocean. To break the curse, Moana must travel beyond the waters that she knows and find Motufetu.
In the meantime, Maui is seen standing in front of a purple portal, as he mentions that the powerful Storm God Nalo has started something sinister. Maui is interrupted by Matangi – a mysterious figure who is shrouded in shadow and bats. Turns out that Matangi works for Storm God Nola and will do anything to prevent Maui or anyone else from reaching Motufetu to break Nalo’s curse.
From there, the adventure kicks off as Moana and her crew – Kele, Moni, and Loto, sail across the ocean in search of Motufetu. On the way, they encounter several ferocious sea monsters and the fearsome Kakamora. The stakes feel even higher for Moana this time around as the film explores the close relationship between Moana and Simea. The little sister has a hard time seeing Moana leave, not knowing when she’ll return. Moana shows Simea that they are always connected by the ocean, no matter how far apart they may be.
As for Moana and her crew, while they prove to be helpful in the journey to Motufetu, there is little emotional attachment to these characters. Moni seems to be the most highlighted out of the group as he is a self-proclaimed Maui superfan, which became a hilarious running gag throughout the movie. Kele has a bit of a character arc as he sheds a little of his initial grumpy persona towards the end. Loto, as brilliant of an engineer as she was, was not given more to do other than making improvements on their boat.
The same can be said about the villain, who has incredible character design and animation (and a really awesome song) but falls flat. Matangi is initially presented as a dangerous and powerful adversary to Maui and Moana but is barely used to her full potential.
The film was at its strongest when Moana and Maui shared the screen during an action-filled third act. Despite showing the close connection between Moana and Simea earlier, it is really the friendship between Moana and Maui that’ll give you a lump in your throat.
‘Moana 2’ is a fun sequel and has gorgeous animation. It clearly shows Moana’s growth since the last movie. She is comfortable in her skin and is on her way to becoming a capable leader to her people. This new adventure puts difficult challenges before her that’ll make her question her abilities but will also see her find her footing in unfamiliar situations. The movie has a strong first and third act but loses steam in the second act due to little character development between Moana and her crew, and it felt like there were pieces of story or scenes missing.
How Do the Songs of ‘Moana 2’ Compare To the First?
(L to R) Emily Bear and Abigail Barlow. Photo: Walt Disney Animation.
Songwriters Abigail Barlow and Emily Bear are tapped to pen new songs for ‘Moana 2’, with composers Opetaia Foa‘i and Mark Mancina also returning. Songs like ‘Beyond’ and “Get Lost” were the two most memorable, with “Can I Get A Chee Hoo” and “We’re Back” being a close second. As much as the new songs have the flavor from the first film, it doesn’t quite capture the magic that was created by Lin Manuel-Miranda.
A fun sequel to the 2016 film. It’s great to see Moana’s story continue and to see the representation of the Pacific Islanders’ culture on screen. The film starts off strong by building up the anticipation for the journey to Motufetu. However, it loses its footing in the second act, and aside from the excitement of seeing the army of Kakamora and the sea monsters, it felt much to be desired. Moni, Kele, and Loto’s characters could have been fleshed out a bit more, and at times, it felt like too much was cut out of a scene to meet the 1 hour and 40 minutes run time.
The movie does regain momentum in the final act, where Moana and Maui share the most screen time. The friendship and chemistry between the two is unmatched. This movie is a great way to continue Moana’s journey. It shows there are more stories to be told and places to explore. With that said, make sure you stay all the way through the credits for an extra surprise.
‘Moana 2’ receives 7 out of 10 stars.
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What’s the story of ‘Moana 2’?
Following the 2016 movie, ‘Moana 2’ will reunite audiences worldwide with Moana (Auli’i Cravalho) as she embarks on an all-new adventure with a new crew of seafarers. After Moana receives an unexpected call from her ancestors, she sets out on an expansive journey to the far seas of Oceania – exploring dangerous and uncharted waters..
(L to R) Emily Bear and Abigail Barlow. Photo: Walt Disney Animation.
Walt Disney Animation’s upcoming sequel ‘Moana 2’ will see the journey of Moana and her newfound crew of seafarers as they venture into uncharted waters after receiving an unexpected message from her ancestors.
During the long lead day presentation at the Walt Disney Animation Building in Burbank, California. Moviefone, along with a group of journalists, got a closer look at what it takes to create the sights and sounds of ‘Moana 2’, including presentations on character animation, foley, music, recording booth sessions, and more.
Following the popularity of songs like “How Far I’ll Go” and “You’re Welcome”, the filmmakers knew it was vital to find the right songwriters and composers for the sequel. They enlisted the help of Grammy Award-winning songwriting duo Abigail Barlow and Emily Bear (known as Barlow & Bear) to tell the story of Moana through music. Composers Opetaia Foa‘i and Mark Mancina also returns for the sequel.
Director David Derrick Jr. talks about meeting with the duo for the first time:
David Derrick Jr: “We actually had a piano in our story room, and they came in, and they would play “We’re Back,” the opening song for us, that was the first song that they wrote for the film. To hear that song and to actually be transported back into the world of Moana in a musical way was so exciting.”
Director Dana Ledeoux Miller talks about how the songwriters’ own life experience mirrors what Moana experiences in the movie:
Dana Ledeoux Miller: “Moana is growing up and she’s learning that there are consequences to her actions and that the choices she makes actually affect other people. (Barlow and Bear) were like, “Yeah, we’re living that right now, we got it. So you know, there’s a shorthand that just comes from their experience in it, but they’re also huge musical fans, and they understood what this needed.”
(L to R) Abigail Barlow and Emily Bear. Photo: Walt Disney Animation.
The duo performed a song from the new film before sharing their own sentiment on how close and connected they felt to Moana’s growth and journey:
Emily Bear: “She’s a young woman trying to find her way in the world, and we were weirdly going through a lot of similar struggles ourselves, so it was easy to imagine ourselves in her shoes. I mean, we’re not fighting lava monsters, but it’s the core of the issues we felt so connected to.”
In terms of Barlow and Bear’s approach and process for writing new songs for ‘Moana 2’, the pair talk about the motivation and reason why a song would start in the movie and how it should feel intentional. That when words alone are no longer enough, the music takes over to carry the message through.
Emily Bear: “Our last nightmare is a “Stop, drop, and sing”. There has to be a reason why you’re singing. It needs to be a moment when words are no longer enough, and music needs to carry the message through. We worked really closely with the filmmakers and they prioritized that – which is amazing because sometimes that’s not the case. We all worked together to make sure the musical moments felt really earned, and there was a reason and intent behind every song.”
The pair speaks about the fun they had with creating new songs for ‘Moana 2’, where each song they wrote was a different storytelling process, “I felt like I grew as a songwriter just by sheer nature of the process,” said Barlow.
The Oceanic Cultural Trust also helped the duo with the songwriting process and research, as well as working closely with composers Opetaia Foa‘i and Mark Mancina.
Abigail Barlow: “We wanted to keep it rooted in the Moana world while also bringing our songwriting style to it. We also worked with Opetaia Foa‘i and Mark Mancina, and they lived in this world for so long. They’re just magical.”
The song list for ‘Moana 2’ includes:
“Tulou Tagaloa (Sei e Va’ai Mai)” Performd by Olivia Fao’i, Te Vaka
“We’re Back” Performed by Auli’i Cravalho and cast
“Tuputupu (The Feast)” Performed by Te Vaka
“Beyond” Performed by Auli’i Cravalho
“My Wish For You (Innocent Warrior)” Performed by Olivia Fao’i, Sulata Foa’i-Amiatu, Matatia Foa’i, Matthew Ineleo, Opetaia Foa’i
“Finding the Way” Performed by Olivia Foa‘i, Te Vaka
“What Could Be Better Than This?” Performed by Auli‘i Cravalho, Hualālai Chung, Rose Matafeo, David Fane
“Get Lost” Performed by Awhimai Fraser
“Can I Get A Chee Hoo?” Performed by Dwayne Johnson
“Mana Vavau” Performed by Dwayne Johnson, Opetaia Foa‘i, Rachel House
“Beyond (Reprise)” Performed by Auli‘i Cravalho
“Nuku O Kaiga” Performed by Te Vaka
“Finding The Way (Reprise)” Performed by Te Vaka
“We Know The Way (Te Fenua te Malie)” Performed by Auli‘i Cravalho, Olivia Foa‘i, Opetaia Foa‘i, Te Vaka
“Beyond (End Credit Version)” Performed by Auli‘i Cravalho
“We’re Back (Te Vaka Version)” Performed by Olivia Foa‘i, Te Vaka
During the long lead day at the Walt Disney Animation Building, journalists were invited to various presentations involved in the making of the movie – from character animation, to foley, to voice recording and ADR. Typically, when an actor first steps into the booth at the beginning of the recording process, there is no animation for them to watch and follow. The actors solely rely on the script and the directions of the filmmakers. Once the voice recording is complete, the animators begin their work based off the recorded audio and performance of the actors. Once animation is finished, there will be an ADR (automated dialogue replacement) session which often deals with small changes to the script or leaning further into a certain emotion for the scene.
Star Hualālai Chung (voice of Moni) steped back into the recording booth to help coach the journalists through the technicalities of ADR and breakdown the emotions of scene. The scene used for this particular presentation is when Moana and her crew encounters the Kakamori – a group of small but ruthless pirates with coconut armors.
During ADR, there are a series of beeps that play along with the scene to cue the actors in on when they can start their lines. The actors then try to match the animated scene as much as possible. The sound engineers will go through various takes to find the one that best fits the intension and emotion for the scene. However, ADR isn’t just for re-recording a line in a scene. Actors will also record “efforts”, which is acting out certain actions like running and jumping with grunts and sounds. Inside the booth is a “efforts bar” that is used to help specifically with this portion of ADR.
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What Is the Plot of ‘Moana 2’?
Following the 2016 movie, ‘Moana 2’ will reunite audiences worldwide with Moana (Auli’i Cravalho) as she embarks on an all-new adventure with a new crew of seafarers. After Moana receives an unexpected call from her ancestors, she sets out on an expansive journey to the far seas of Oceania – exploring dangerous and uncharted waters.
‘Ultraman: Rising’ is a Netflix animated feature based on Tsuburaya’s ‘Ultraman’ franchise. The story finds baseball sensation Kenji “Ken” Sato as he moves back home to Japan to face the onslaught of Kaiju attacks as Ultraman. Little did he know, he would cross paths with a baby Kaiju and ultimately protect it from the cunning KDF (Kaiju Defense Force).
The movie stars the voice talent of Christopher Sean as Kenji “Ken” Sato, Tomlyn Tomita as Mina/Emiko Sato, Gedde Watanabe as Professor Sato/Ultradad, Keone Young as Dr. Onda, and Julia Harriman as Ami Wakita. ‘Ultraman: Rising’ premiered on Netflix on June 14, 2024, and is currently available for streaming.
To watch our video interviews with the ‘Ultraman Rising’ filmmakers, please click on the video player above.
‘Ultraman Rising’ event at Industrial Light & Magic. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
Moviefone recently had the pleasure of attending the press event for ‘Ultraman: Rising’ at Skywalker Ranch and Industrial Light & Magic, where the sound and animation were created. In attendance were directors Shannon Tindle and John Aoshima, Visual Effects Supervisor Hayden Jones, Composer Scot Stafford, Sound Editor Leff Lefferts, and Re-recording Mixer Gary Rizzo. The story was written by Shannon Tindle and Marc Haimes.
Here are 10 things we learned from the ‘Ultraman: Rising’ virtual press conference:
1. ‘Ultraman: Rising’ Was A Project 23 Years In The Making
‘Ultraman Rising’ directors Shannon Tindle and John Aoshima. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
Director Shannon Tindle says the idea for ‘Ultraman: Rising’ came to him in 2001. At the time, Tindle was working on ‘Foster’s Home for Imaginary Friends’ as a character designer. So why did it take 20-some years to make the movie?
Shannon Tindle: I was doing other things at the time. It wasn’t like I was constantly trying to hammer and make this home. I was sporadically, you know, it spent some time at some other studios before it landed at Netflix.
After Tindle worked on ‘Lost Ollie’, he got the opportunity to rework the plot of the film to fit within the Ultraman lore.
2. The Personal Stories That Inspired Ken and Emi’s Relationship
When Ken Santo unexpectedly took on the father role for baby Kaiju Emi, he had to learn very quickly how to be a parent. This includes managing Emi’s ever-changing eating habits, sleep schedule, and temperament changes. All these moments were inspired by Tindle’s personal experience as a new dad. Tindle’s daughter Katie, played a significant role when it came to shaping parental challenges Ken faced in the film.
Shannon Tindle: When Katie was born, it really changed the perspective on it, what it’s like to be a parent, the difficulties and the challenges, challenges of not knowing what you’re doing. There are a lot of phone calls with my mom and dad.
One particular scene between Emi and Ken was pulled directly from Tindle’s experience as a new dad. In the movie, Emi first meets Ken when he is Ultraman. The moment that Ken was no longer in his Ultraman form, Emi didn’t recognize him and began crying. The scene goes on to show Ken switching back and forth between Ultraman and himself to teach Emi that he is the same person. The director showed photos of his daughter Katie crying in one photo and laughing in the next:
Shannon Tindle: These photos were taken within seconds of one another, mad at me, then she’s laughing at me, then she’s crying and upset. If you have kids, you know what that’s like. So that became a big part of this. Again, I want to put this here because it was another one of those educational milestones as I was making the film off my knowledge as a parent was increasing, and then all of those things folded into into movies. I’ve said this before on other projects I’ve been involved with films take a long time to make, especially animated films, so I can’t make anything that I don’t care about.
3. A Song From ‘Dumbo’ Was the Inspiration For Tindle’s Cut of the Teaser
‘Ultraman Rising’ director Shannon Tindle. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
When it was time to pitch the film, Tindle made his own cut of the teaser to present, “I always like to cut my own teaser, something I feel like represents the tone of the film.” He teamed up with composer Scot Stafford and mentioned that he was inspired by “Baby Mine” in ‘Dumbo’, and the teaser would have to highlight the parental aspect of the film.
Shannon Tindle: To me, the most iconic song ever written about a parent and their child is “Baby Mine”, from Dumbo, one of my favorite films. So I said, ‘Scott, what if you did “Baby Mine?” But as if Vangelis arranged it.’ and so I showed him the beats, and then we cut the animatic. While we were playing it, I sang over like I timed it. I never knew that, but I was like, I know exactly how I want. Then Scott delivered that beautiful arrangement.
4. The Deeper Meaning Behind the Meeting Between Ami and Ken
In the scene where Ken Sato and reporter Ami Wakita sit down at a noodle shop for an interview was inspired by a co-director, John Aoshima, and his experience of growing up between two countries and cultures. During the interview between Ken and Ami, the two went back and forth about why Ken never disclose anything other than his baseball stats and success to the press.
John Aoshima: I wanted there to be sparring up top where Ken is trying to keep it about his statistics and his success as a player, but Ami wants to understand him as a person better, and so, they’re lobbying back and forth, but that bit where he finally gives her just a little bit.
The part that Aoshima eludes to is where Ken talks about how kids will make fun of how you look, talk, or eat no matter what you do, so “you give them something else to talk about.” This line was inspired by Aoshima’s personal experience when he first came to the United States.
John Aoshima: It has to do with going through this journey that I went through, of like cultural identity, and when I came to the United States, I had to kind of figure out how to adapt at age eight. My first day of school, my mom made me a bento, beautiful, classic Japanese bento box, and I didn’t know anyone, so I was out in the field and eating by myself. A bunch of kids walked by, and they didn’t know what I was eating, so they started pointing and made fun of me. I was so embarrassed, and I didn’t know what to do, so I ended up throwing the lunch away in the trash.
Aoshima understood the character and story Tindle was writing and how meaningful it would be to add a touch of realism and personal experience, “Shannon adapted it really beautifully.”
There’s more to the scene than just word sparring between Ken and Ami. The way Ken ate his noodles also had significant meaning. In the scene, Ken is seen pouring the sauce over his noodles. Traditionally, the noodle is meant to be dipped into the sauce. When the Japanese animators saw this, they noted to Tindle that it was not the correct way to eat the noodles. The purpose of this was for Ken to throw Ami off her game.
Shannon Tindle: Let’s make it a point where he’s doing it to distract her. He’s throwing her. He certainly wouldn’t do that if his mom were in the room. Again, his mom was in the room, she’d be like, “You dip it in the sauce. You know better.” But he’s doing it to kind of throw Ami off her game. So again, it was taking personal experience and turning it into something that helped feel like a little bit more of a volley back and forth.
5. The Beach Cabin In the Movie Was Pulled Directly From John Aoshima’s Grandparents’ Cabin
‘Ultraman Rising’ director John Aoshima. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
Ken, his dad, and Emmi decide to travel to their lakeside cabin for a bit of a break. There, Ken and his dad have a heart-to-heart conversation about how much they miss Emiko and the fact that Professor Sato did put forth the effort to search for her.
Directors Shannon Tindle and John Aoshima talk about wanting to showcase a traditional Japanese home. The filmmakers ended up pulling their inspiration directly from Aoshima’s grandparents’ real-life cabin.
John Aoshima: My uncle lives there now, and I had him send videos. ILM and our department really absorbed that, and like, everything they could to recreate that whole space. So definitely my family recognizes and loves seeing it in the film.
Adding more to the personal touches in this scene, Aoshima says:
“In that scene, along with the campfire, they talked about the meaning of Ultraman and, or at least that’s the idea that we wanted to hit in that in those two scenes, is like, what is that Ultraman spirit and it’s woven in in a way where it highlights, sort of the gift that humans have. Also Sato telling Ken, you know what Ultraman means, it’s not about fighting, it’s about heart and it’s really about what is it that that that’s special within us as people. So it was really like infusing that Ultraman element into what’s what’s been part of the entire theme of like parenthood, father and son.”
6. ‘Ultraman: Rising’ Is the First Film on Netflix to be HDR
Did you know that ‘Ultraman: Rising’ is the first film at Netflix to be HDR (High Dynamic Range)? Vibrant colors play a huge part in the movie, and Visual Effects Supervisor Hayden Jones talks more about the process that when in to ensure the film’s overall look.
Hayden Jones: The version you stream on Netflix, that is the kind of gold standard of color, and HDR not only gives you contrast, it not only gives you super bright highlights and super deep blacks. But what it does is it expands the color palette, and as you’ve seen through the whole presentation, color is a huge, huge, huge theme in ‘Ultraman: Rising’. So, making sure that all the lighting, all the comp dailies, we were always in sync, we always had two, you know, kind of sessions running, either in London, Vancouver or Singapore and then in Burbank with the directors, but we were all watching it in High Dynamic Range all the time. That’s a first. Normally, that’s done as a separate pass act of the grade; this was kind of done from its core. It was always HDR from the offset.
A bit of a spoiler for those who have not watched ‘Ultraman: Rising’ yet. The ultimate team-up comes during the final battle between Ultraman and Onda, where Ken and Professor Sato unite for the final Spacium Beam. The moment of reveal that it was both Ultraman and Ultradad crossing arms to create the Spacium Beam pose together was quite epic. Director Shannon Tindle goes into detail about creating that moment.
Shannon Tindle: In that shot where you drift to reveal, the original shot was at low angle, which is the second shot, that drift around, and this is why I love ILM – is Kim Ooi, who is our animation supervisor of the Singapore team. He said, “Hey, I know you had that long angle, but I have another idea for a shot,” and he had that drift. I was like, done, in the movie, and we’re keeping the low angle.
8. Main Characters’ Musical Themes All Tied Into Each Other
‘Ultraman Rising’ event at Industrial Light & Magic. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
Composer Scot Staffard understood how important the theme of family is in ‘Ultraman: Rising.’ He went to great lengths to create interconnect themes for each character, making each one slightly different by using a different instrument or changing one single note. Stafford said,
“What if all of the themes actually interconnected in an interesting way to kind of reinforce this idea of family?”
He goes on to give an example of the difference between a protagonist’s theme and the antagonist’s theme while still connecting them to the same melody. Stafford played a short clip for the journalists.
Scot Stafford: Now let’s just take, for example, how might the antagonist Dr. Honda, who’s one of my favorite characters. How might that relate to the family theme? So you’re gonna hear the evolution, you’re gonna hear just a little bit of a motif of a family theme, and then you’re gonna hear the same thing with one note changed, and that note is changed by the smallest possible amount. I change an E to A flat. Otherwise, it’s the exact same theme as the family theme, and then you’re gonna hear it’s all the harp, then you’re gonna hear it played in a slightly different technique.
Stafford adds,
“It’s amazing to me how changing one note by the smallest amount is everything. It’s one of the things I love about music and about storytelling, and it just so happens to be changing it from a major key to what’s called the “in scale” in Japanese music, and to me, even more importantly, it just kind of takes this really happy theme, elevates it gives it all this gravitas, turns it inward, and makes it more complex, which is what Onda was to me.
Ultraman is no stranger to protecting his city from Kaiju. With so many giant monsters in the movie, how do they create a unique sound for each Kaiju? Composer Scot Stafford dives into the topic:
Scot Stafford: A lot of that was inspired by the work of the series. We really try to go back and figure out a way to honor all the Kaiju that had been portrayed before. With Gigantron being a new Kaiju, kind of all bets were off.
They wanted Gigantron to sound bigger than life. When she screeches, there’s an element that nods to the original sound designers, says Stafford:
“Back in the day, they used a lot of sheet metal and dry ice on metal and things like that to create the monster. So we did a nod to that by including that as layers of her roars and screeches. But also incorporated other animals to make her more organic.”
The story may not be over for Ken Sato. Director Shannon Tindle already has an idea for a sequel,
“It would explore now Ken being exposed to – he thinks his dad doesn’t understand him being an outsider at all, but his dad is actually not from Earth. So his dad understands better than [Ken] knows. We would explore that – Ken being rooted back to another culture he doesn’t know.”
What would be the title for the potential sequel?
Shannon Tindle: “Ultraman: Fallen”
During the 2024 Lightbox Expo, Tindle revealed a bit more about the story he’s working on. It would open with Ken’s mom Emiko Sato (Founder of the KDF) marooned on Ultraman’s home planet. The sequel could see her return home as well as new threats Ultraman will have to face.
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What Is ‘Ultraman: Rising’ about?
Baseball sensation Kenji “Ken” Sato (Sean Christopher) is on the verge of winning the championship, but when multiple Kaiju start to attack his hometown, he is forced to return to Japan. After taking on the Gigantron, Ken unexpectedly cross paths with a baby Kaiju.
The official synopsis is:
When Tokyo is threatened by giant monsters, an all-star athlete reluctantly returns home to take on the mantle of Ultraman, and become a legendary hero.
Nearly six years after ‘Deadpool 2,’ the self-proclaimed “Marvel Jesus” has returned to the big screen and this time, he brought his BFF Wolverine with him. Real-life BFFs Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman reprise their roles as Deadpool and Wolverine, respectively.
‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ finds Wade at a peaceful time of his life, retired from his usual superhero duties. All was well until the TVA came knocking on his door. Agent Paradox (Matthew Macfadyen) reveals to him that his entire timeline and everyone he cares about will soon cease to exist due to it losing its “anchor being”. Deadpool travels to various timelines to find a Wolverine to replace the one that was lost in order to save his world.
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Director Shawn Levy (‘Free Guy’) is at the helm for the highly anticipated film. The movie features a slew of familiar Marvel characters, unexpected cameos, visceral fight scenes, and a fantastic soundtrack.
(L to R) Ryan Reynolds, Peggy aka “Dogpool” and Hugh Jackman attend the UK Fan Event of Marvel Studios’ ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ at Eventim Apollo, London on July 11th, 2024. Photo by StillMoving.Net for The Walt Disney Company Limited.
The film premiered at the David H. Hoch Theater in New York City on July 22, 2024. The movie was released domestically on July 26 in formats such as IMAX, RealD 3D, Dolby Cinema, and 4DX. Initially, ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ was set to release on September 6, 2024. However, the film moved up to its July 2024 release date following the end of the SAG-AFTRA strike. The movie has a total runtime of 2 hours and 8 minutes.
Did you miss it in theaters? You’re in luck! The movie became available for rent or purchase on digital on October 1. You can rent for $24.99 or purchase for $29.99 on platforms such as Amazon, Apple TV, YouTube, Vudu, and more.
After debuting at a staggering $636.6 million domestically, ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ surpassed the 2023 box office hit ‘Barbie,’ becoming the 12th highest-grossing film. Globally, the movie has earned over $1.3 billion. It currently holds the record as the highest grossing R-rated movie.
For physical media lovers, ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ is now available on DVD, Blu-Ray, and 4K Ultra HD. A steel book Blu-Ray edition is also available, and you can pre-order it at retailers such as Target, Walmart, or Amazon.
The Blu-ray and 4K version will include bonus features such as a gag reel, deleted scenes, commentary with director Shawn Levy, and stars Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman, and featurettes such as:
Finding Madonna: Making the Oner
Practical approach: Celebrating the Art of Ray Chan
Watch the official trailer for ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’:
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The official synopsis for ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ is below:
Deadpool’s (Ryan Reynolds) peaceful existence comes crashing down when the Time Variance Authority recruits him to help safeguard the multiverse. He soon unites with his would-be pal, Wolverine (Hugh Jackman), to complete the mission and save his world from an existential threat.
Who’s In the Cast of ‘Deadpool & Wolverine
(L to R) Dafne Keen, Hugh Jackman, Channing Tatum, Wesley Snipes, Ryan Reynolds and Jennifer Garner in ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’. Photo: Marvel Studios.
