The first pictures from new sci-fi movie ‘The Electric State’ have landed.
Millie Bobby Brown and Chris Pratt star.
Joe and Anthony Russo are the directors.
Since wrapping up their successful run of movies at Marvel, capped with the huge blockbuster ‘Avengers: Endgame,’ directing/sibling duo Joe and Anthony Russo have seen more mixed fortunes in terms of their filmmaking.
While they set up their own production company, their actual movies have been hit and miss –– the likes of ‘Cherry’ and ‘The Gray Man’ haven’t seen the same pop cultural impact as their time with Iron Man and the rest of the Marvel gang.
The new movie is set in an alternate, retro-futuristic version of the 1990s. Brown plays Michelle, an orphaned teenager navigating life in a society where sentient robots resembling cartoons and mascots, who once served peacefully among humans, now live in exile following a failed uprising.
Everything Michelle thinks she knows about the world is upended one night when she’s visited by Cosmo, a sweet, mysterious robot who appears to be controlled by Christopher — Michelle’s genius younger brother whom she thought was dead.
Determined to find the beloved sibling she thought she had lost, Michelle sets out across the American southwest with Cosmo, and soon finds herself reluctantly joining forces with Keats (Pratt), a low-rent smuggler, and his wisecracking robot sidekick, Herman (voiced by Anthony Mackie).
As they venture into the Exclusion Zone, a walled-off corner in the desert where robots now exist on their own, Keats and Michelle find a strange, colorful group of new animatronic allies — and begin to learn that the forces behind Christopher’s disappearance are more sinister than they ever expected.
“The note that I would always get is, she’s still human. She’s rebellious and yes, she doesn’t want to follow the rules and she’s incredibly hurt because she’s dealing with a lot of grief. But she’s not invincible. We’re technically both the same age, so I feel like it was just: What are moments that I wouldn’t show my weakness? What are moments that I would? And I just played with that. I really want her to show that she’s made of stone because I want that to be the perception of who she is. But actually, as you get to know her, she softens and she warms up. And I tried to implement as much of my own experiences into her as possible.”
Netflix has yet to confirm when the movie will be arriving, beyond setting it for a 2025 release. Given the scale of this thing, we’d imagine the company will at least grant it a limited theatrical run ahead of it arriving on users’ accounts.
Jennifer Lee, CCO, Disney Animation Studios, speaks onstage at the Long Lead Press Day & In-Person Presentation for ‘Wish’ at El Capitan Theatre in Los Angeles, California on September 21, 2023. Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney.
Preview:
Jennifer Lee talks about writing and crafting an original fairy tale versus adapting from an existing story and what it is like not to have to stay within the guidelines of a story
The future of Disney animation and what the next generation of artists can bring
Lee hints at more stories to be told with Elsa and Anna, “ I’m proud of where they’re gonna go next.”
Moviefone recently had the pleasure of speaking with Disney Animation’s Chief Creative Officer, Jennifer Lee, about writing and crafting an original fairy tale, the many iterations of the character Star, the future of Disney animation, and the possibilities the new generation of artists can bring.
Moviefone: To begin with, you’ve worked on many Disney animated films including ‘Frozen,’ ‘Frozen II,’ and ‘Zootopia,’ just to name a few. Can you talk about writing an original story with ‘Wish,’ versus adapting an existing tale and being able to write without having to stay within the guidelines of an existing story?
Jennifer Lee: You know, I will say it’s something I almost forgot in a moment because we’ve gotten so steeped in this story for a long time. As a fairy tale, but recognizing, we were creating one from scratch. At first, that was very scary. Because it is like you can do anything, but what is the thing to do? I think what was so wonderful about it was getting to make discoveries that I think we may not have been able to make. I believe in a limited palette at times for focus. But I think in this case, I look at the character of Star, and Star went through many iterations. At one point talked, at one point could turn into a human, at one point, you know, into other things and, to have the freedom to recognize what we said. But hope and possibility don’t talk. They just are there for you. Why would Star speak? It’s millions of years old, it’s evolved beyond language, like we would just take these things that were so freeing, that led us to have really fun discoveries. There was nothing like, “Oh, but people are gonna expect us because in the story it’s that” and I think that that is huge that we can do that. But in many ways, what’s interesting is, and Peter Del Vecho has talked about this, is a moment where the story starts to tell you what it means, and it almost takes on a life of its own. So what’s funny for me is the ‘Wish’ story now, it’s like it’s always been. It’s like, that’s not how we got there but eventually, it starts to just land in a way that you’re bringing to life something that actually already exists. That’s a weird thing that I think only in animation I have ever experienced.
MF: As Chief Creative Officer and as you celebrate Disney’s 100th anniversary, where do you see the future of Disney animation going?
JL: Well, I think in a very fun way, what I’m seeing is the new generation, and in a really great way, especially with this last decade, I’ve been there watching a whole new team of artists, especially the way animation in the world is in a great place. People are really connecting with it. I feel very lucky to be a part of it. We always say when the animation is doing well, that’s good for all the artists, and so it’s creating new opportunities. I think the new voices of animation are exciting, and they’re daring. I see now for a lot of us who have been doing this for a while or have had the chance to experience our films beyond the world. We have a responsibility now to that new generation because there’s tons of talent. But we can experience it together. I think we’ll find that “Where’s the new voices going?” It’ll be up to them. So right now, I’m loving being in this role because I get to work with them, get to have lunches with the story team – multiple teams, but with the story crew, and we just talked about story. We talk about comedy, and it’s just all about creating that connection in our legacy that’s always been, which is building that next generation. But I think when I came in, I felt like that I was not that young, but I was new. I felt like that receiver as a new generation. You know, almost 13 years later, I feel like that shift where I can see it more clearly. It’s a really fun and ambitious time.
(L to R) Anna (Kristen Bell) and Elsa (Idina Menzel) in Walt Disney Pictures’ ‘Frozen.’
MF: Finally, speaking of the future of Disney animation, will there be more stories for Anna and Elsa from ‘Frozen’?
JL: All I’d say, as Bob Iger himself mentioned we are in development on more ‘Frozen’. That’s all I can say. Because there is more story to tell. I love these women, and I think I’m proud of where they’re gonna go next.
rjoC2SsUUplDR32NluOcZ7
What Is The Plot Of ‘Wish’?
Set in the magical kingdom of Rosas, the story introduces Asha (Ariana DeBose), an optimist with a sharp wit who deeply cares about her community. When Asha turns to the sky in a moment of need and makes a wish, her plea is answered by a cosmic force — a little ball of boundless energy called Star. Together, they face the most formidable of foes to save her community and prove that when the will of one courageous human connects with the magic of the stars, wondrous things can happen.
‘Wish,’ the latest entry from Walt Disney Studios features a fantasy musical adventure that captures the feeling of classic Disney animation and a fresh new story on the importance of staying true to yourself and the power of wishes. The movie will be released in theaters on November 22nd.
Initial Thoughts
Right off the bat, the audience will recognize the animation style inspired by Disney classics such as ‘Sleeping Beauty,’ ‘Pinocchio,’ and ‘Snow White and the Seven Dwarves.’ The blending of 3D animation and 2D hand-drawn watercolor is something we haven’t seen before in Disney animation and gives the film a vintage look.
The story explores the importance of wishes, how even a simple wish can inspire one’s path in life, and what happens when that is taken away. Complete with catchy songs by Julia Michaels and Benjamin Rice that’ll get you tapping your toes and captivating performances from Ariana DeBose as Asha and Chris Pine as King Magnifico.
Story and Direction
(L to R) Juan Pablo Reyes Lancaster-Jones, Peter Del Vecho, SVP, Feature Film Production, Walt Disney Animation Studios, Fawn Veerasunthorn and Chris Buck speak for “Wish” at the Long Lead Press Day In-Person Presentation for ‘Wish’ at El Capitan Theatre in Los Angeles, California on September 21, 2023. Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney.
‘Wish’ is co-directed by Chris Buck (‘Frozen II’) and Fawn Veerasunthron (‘Raya and the Last Dragon’), with screenplay written by Jennifer Lee and Allison Moore. The movie will take you down the road of nostalgia with the opening of the film pans in on a storybook, just as movies such as ‘Snow White and the Seven Dwarves,’ ‘Sleeping Beauty,’ and ‘Pinocchio’ did.
After a quick exposition of King Magnifico’s past, we understand why he began studying magic to become a sorcerer and how the Kingdom of Rosas came to be – located in the Mediterranean Sea and a travel destination for all. It is also the place where anyone over the age of 18 can give their wish to King Magnifico for a chance to have it granted at a wishing ceremony.
The story introduces 17-year-old Asha, who works as a tour guide in Rosas and is about to interview to be the King’s apprentice. During the interview, it is revealed that while King Magnifico keeps the townspeople’s wishes safe, he doesn’t intend to grant most wishes. When Ahsa suggests the King return the ungranted wishes, he becomes upset and explains that he only grants wishes he sees fit to keep Rosas safe. When Ahsa further argues that wishes can’t be harmful King Magnifico retaliates by telling her he would never grant her grandfather Sabino’s wish.
Frustrated by this, Asha runs to the giant tree in the forest – the same one she and her father often visited during her childhood – and sings out her plead to the stars. Her wish was so passionate that it manifested a star from the sky into a ball of energy with magical powers. The night sky lights up with Star’s arrival, seen by all in the kingdom, including King Magnifico, who declares that any magic (other than what he conjures) is illegal and whoever uses magic is deemed a traitor.
This propels the story into Asha rushing against time to find a way to free and return the wishes to the people of Rosas, with the help of Star, her goat sidekick Valentino, and her band of friends.
The pacing of this movie is well-balanced, with the first act establishing the origins of Rosas, the relationship between Asha and her best friends, and King Magnifico’s past. The second act kicks into high gear as Asha works up a plan to free the wishes, all the while keeping Star hidden from King Magnifico. The songs are well-placed throughout and extremely catchy.
The overall look of ‘Wish’ preserves what we loved about the classics yet it retains the updated look wth 3D animation. It is clear to see that Buck and Veerasunthorn themselves are huge fans of Disney. Their love and appreciate of those films in is clearly shown in scenes that take places in the forest, as well as in the town of Rosas.
Leaning into the nostalgia even more are the easter eggs seen throughout the film. Most are subtle and does not distract from the movie. Sharp eyed fans can spot nods to films like ‘Bambi,’ ‘Sleeping Beauty,’ ‘Cinderella,” ‘Peter Pan’ and more. Asha’s group of friends is a nod to the seven dwarves as some of their character design and characteristics hints at at specific traits of the dwarves. The easter eggs sprinkled throughout are not only visual. If you listen carefully, you’ll also hear it in the dialogue and music.
There are seven brand new songs in ‘Wish,’ written by Julia Michaels and Benjamin Rice. Michaels is the youngest songwriter to have worked on a Disney animated feature, and her style brings a contemporary sound to the mix. DeBose’s solo “This Wish” shows off her vocal range and ability to capture the raw emotion of Asha in her moment of desperation and hones in on the empowering message of believing in and fighting for your truth. This ballad has the potential to have the effect of ‘Frozen’s “Let It Go.”
Another standout number is King Magnifico’s “This Is The Thanks I Get?!” where he descends into dark magic and villainy. As the citizens of Rosas begin to question why they can’t remember their wishes, the King’s charming facade starts to crack. This is an upbeat song with clever lyrics, as the King sings about being under-appreciated after everything he’s done for the kingdom, being constantly asked for more, and ultimately turning to the forbidden spell book. Chris Pine delivers on all fronts in this fun and entertaining number.
The other songs in ‘Wish’ include “Welcome To Rosas,” “At All Costs,” “I’m A Star,” “Knowing What I Know Now,” and “This Wish (Reprise).”
‘Wish’ embraces all that is classic Disney animation, from the art style to the message of never stop believing in yourself (and your wishes). The idea of wishing upon a star may be a tale as old as time, but it is told in a refreshing way that’ll capture audiences young and old. The songs are incredibly catchy, and the adorable sidekicks Star and Valentino are guaranteed to steal your heart.
Chris Pine’s King Magnifico makes a magnificent villain and is extremely very fun to watch, though they could have gone into greater detail about his backstory on why he turned to sorcery, as it would have made his falling into dark magic all the more worth while.
‘Wish’ receives 8 out of 10 stars.
rjoC2SsUUplDR32NluOcZ7
What Is The Story of ‘Wish’?
Set in the magical kingdom of Rosas, the story introduces Asha (Ariana DeBose), an optimist with a sharp wit who deeply cares about her community. When Asha turns to the sky in a moment of need and makes a wish, her plea is answered by a cosmic force — a little ball of boundless energy called Star. Together, they face the most formidable of foes to save her community and prove that when the will of one courageous human connects with the magic of the stars, wondrous things can happen.
The upcoming animated feature ‘Wish’ will be in theaters on November 22, 2023, with a brand new trailer debuting this week. Moviefone was invited to the El Capitan Theater in Hollywood to preview brand-new footage and meet directors Chris Buck and Fawn Veerasunthorn and Disney Animation Chief Creative Officer Jennifer Lee.
Timed with Disney’s 100th anniversary, the Walt Disney Animation Studio’s ‘Wish’ is an all-new musical action-adventure set in the Kingdom of Rosas. Co-written by Jennifer Lee and Allison Moore, the story follows 17-year-old Asha (Ariana DeBose), who makes a wish upon a bright star in the sky. Her wish is so powerful it brings the cosmic Star to life, and along with her goat sidekick Valentino (Alan Tudyk), they will confront the Kingdom’s ruler – King Magnifico (Chris Pine) in order to save the people of Rosas and their wishes.
The marquee is seen at the Long Lead Press Day & In-Person Presentation for ‘Wish’ at El Capitan Theatre in Los Angeles, California on September 21, 2023. Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney.
Upon entering the lobby of the theater, there was a life-sized display of Asha and Valentino sitting on a tree branch with a starlit sky behind them. Downstairs housed artwork from the film, as well as original art from the animation research library of background and layouts from classic films like ‘Sleeping Beauty,’ ‘Pinocchio,’ ‘Snow White,’ and ‘Alice in Wonderland.’ The filmmakers used those backgrounds as a reference for color and lighting in the movie.
Displays and signage are seen during the Long Lead Press Day & In-Person Presentation for ‘Wish’ at El Capitan Theatre in Los Angeles, California on September 21, 2023. Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney.
During the presentation at the El Capitan Theater, Moviefone had the pleasure of screening almost 30 minutes of never-before-seen scenes and footage from ‘Wish’, including a few musical numbers. First, we’re shown a montage of various Disney characters wishing upon a star, as the movie is all about wishes and dreams – a constant staple throughout Disney animated films.
‘Wish’ producers Juan Pablo Reyes Lancaster-Jones (‘Encanto’) and Peter Del Vecho (‘Frozen’, ‘Frozen II’) introduce the new trailer, which you can watch above, where we learn the ruler of Rosas – King Magnifico, has the power to grant wishes. Unfortunately, not all wishes are granted, and when Asha finds out, she is disheartened. In a moment of despair, Asha makes her wish upon the brightest star in the sky, and because her wish was so strong and true from the heart, it manifested the cosmic being in the form of Star, a non-verbal ball of energy with magical powers. Later, Asha is deemed a traitor by King Magnifico. The trailer also includes musical numbers such as ‘This Wish’ and shows fun and energetic scenes such as Valentino dancing with a barn full of chickens.
The next scene shown was a musical number, where we see Asha working as a tour guide in the Kingdom of Rosas. She’s late to meet her tour group, but once she arrives, she leads the group through the kingdom with a ton of energy, relaying history and fun facts about the kingdom with a lively tune. The scene also shows how much the people love King Magnifico and his good looks as they fawn over his statue in the square. The scene ends in a grand dance number with Asha and the townspeople.
The third scene is of Asha as she prepares for her apprentice interview with King Magnifico. Queen Amaya has set up the appointment for her, feeling she would be perfect for the position. In the scene, we enter King Magnifico’s room, where a large tapestry hangs from the wall. One corner of the tapestry is burnt. Before King Magnifico enters, Asha sees a spellbook locked behind a glass case. Curious, she places her fingers on one of the glass etchings. To her surprise, they come to life as dragonflies buzzing around her. King Magnifico enters and uses his magic to return the dragonflies to the glass. As they continue to talk, King Magnifico reveals that he remembers Asha’s father before he passed away, and they connect over their history of loss and grief as he lost his family as well. We also find out that only citizens who are 18 or older can make a wish at the Wishing Ceremony.
The fourth scene lasts about 18 minutes and includes a musical number. King Magnifico shows Asha the magical Inner Sanctum, where all the wishes are stored. Asha breaks into song as she takes in the glory of everyone’s unique wish. Some wishes are simple, while some inventive or courageous. Asha realizes wishes aren’t just ideas but a part of one’s heart – the most beautiful part – and is filled with a sense of purpose.
It is here Asha finds out that not all the wishes are granted. Ungranted wishes are kept inside the sanctum, and the citizens who gave their wishes to King Magnifico will not remember what they wished for. Asha disagrees with the King’s method, and this makes him angry. In retaliation, he tells Asha he will not be granting her grandfather’s wish at the Wishing Ceremony and rejects Asha’s application as his apprentice.
(L to R) Ariana DeBose as Asha and Alan Tudyk as the pajama-wearing goat, Valentino in “Wish,” which is helmed by Chris Buck and Fawn Veerasunthorn. The feature film releases Fall 2023.
The scene continues with Asha back home with her grandfather and mom. She tells him that his wish would not be granted and how many wishes are kept ungranted inside the Inner Sanctum. Asha wants to tell her grandfather his wish, but he refuses to hear it and gets upset with her. Hurt by his reaction, Asha leaves the house and heads towards the tree she used to climb with her father. This is where Asha breaks into her song ‘This Wish’. As she walks past the townspeople, she can see their long-forgotten wishes. Once she’s at the tree, she looks upon the brightest star in the sky and makes her wish.
After Asha’s wish, the star in the sky grows even brighter, illuminating the sky and forest in a burst of magic. This catches the attention of the citizens of Rosas and Queen Amaya. Inside the Inner Sanctum, the bulbs of wishes react to the magic. This alerts King Magnifico, who tells Queen Amaya someone is threatening him.
Back in the forest, Star has taken shape and grants Valentino’s wish by sprinkling stardust on him. Soon, Valentino was able to speak. The wish granting doesn’t stop there. Star floats around to a troop of mushrooms, wildflowers, and various woodland creatures who all gain the ability to speak. The animals and plants begin an upbeat song about how they all share a common dream and wish as more animals and plant life come to life, dancing, and singing.
The final footage is where Asha, Valentino, and Star attempt to sneak into the Inner Sanctum to retrieve her grandfather’s wish. At the same time, threatened by Star’s magic, King Magnifico tells the citizens of Rosas about a traitor who practices illegal magic in the kingdom. However, the citizens have begun raising the question of why they can’t remember their wishes.
Seeing this, King Magnifico announces to the kingdom he will grant the wish of the one who can turn in the traitor. King Magnifico breaks into ‘This Is the Thanks I Get’, a song and rap about being unappreciated by his people after all he’s done for them. His reflection is used throughout the number, hinting at his narcissistic personality and ego. As Asha, Valentino, and Star sneak around the Inner Sanctum, a desperate King Magnifico opens the spell book as green-colored magic comes off the pages, and his eyes light up the same color. The floor to the Inner Sanctum opens, revealing winding stone stairs leading to a secret underground chamber. By the end of the song, King Magnifico’s polished and charming demeanor is gone, and he seems more unhinged.
From all the footage shown, ‘Wish’ is shaping up to be a grand story with a ton of fantastic musical numbers. Visually, the animation style is reminiscent of classic Disney hand-drawn 2D animation. Ariana DeBose is perfect as Asha in how she portrays both hopefulness and vulnerability in the character and her incredible vocal performances. Valentino and Star will undoubtedly be scene stealers, and Chris Pine’s King Magnifico will be a very fun villain to watch.
(L to R) Peter Del Vecho, SVP, Feature Film Production, Walt Disney Animation Studios, Fawn Veerasunthorn, Jennifer Lee, CCO, Disney Animation Studios, Chris Buck and Juan Pablo Reyes Lancaster-Jones at the Long Lead Press Day & In-Person Presentation for ‘Wish’ at El Capitan Theatre in Los Angeles, California on September 21, 2023. Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney.
Following the footage, a Q&A took place with directors Chris Buck and Fawn Veerasunthorn, Chief Creative Officer and Executive Producer Jennifer Lee (who co-wrote the story), and producers Peter Del Vecho and Juan Pablo Reyes Lancaster Jones.
The conversation of ‘Wish’ started back in 2018 between Chris Buck and Jennifer Lee as they knew they wanted to do something big for Disney’s 100th anniversary.
The film’s overall look was inspired by Buck and Veerasunthorn’s love for classic Disney movies such as ‘Sleeping Beauty’, the main legacy film ‘Wish’ is influenced by. In order to achieve the hand-drawn watercolor look with CG, the directors relied on new technology and a team of artists, technicians, and software writers. Director Chris Buck mentions they also utilized Disney short films as a way to experiment with technology:
“We’ve been doing things where you do incorporate a bit of the hand-drawn into some of the shorts that we’ve done. You get a little bit line around the character, but sometimes the characters are still animated in CG. But again, it’s starting to do what we’ve also been loving to do, and that sort of embracing our legacy, along with moving towards the future. So, I think it’s that hand-drawn look, and computer. It is very hard to describe”
Jennifer Lee, CCO, Disney Animation Studios, speaks onstage at the Long Lead Press Day & In-Person Presentation for ‘Wish’ at El Capitan Theatre in Los Angeles, California on September 21, 2023. Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney.
Jennifer Lee adds:
“This achievement has meant a lot to us because it’s getting their vision, actually finally having technology and artistry meet in a way that they see eye-to-eye instead of having to compromise. And I think it’s part of why it’s been so hard, because it’s not just about ‘Oh, we can add this and this,’ it’s about what’s the end result we want. And it’s that sense of art.”
Fawn Veerasunthorn chimes in on the topic of blending CG and 2D art together:
“And what I love is that it brings our CG artists and 2D artists together. Because, you know, animators will call and ask for advice about ‘how do you put the lines on the face of a character to accentuate the emotion?’ and they studied that. The effects crew went to the animation research library, where you have seen some of the artwork today. And they study how the effects, the graphic shapes of it was translated into our CG process. And the artists have expressed that this is a wonderful thing that it brought them together, that there’s no longer a boundary between 2D and CG”
As for the music of ‘Wish,’ the team brought in Grammy-nominated songwriter Julia Michaels, producer Benjamin Rice (‘A Star Is Born’), and composer Dave Metzger for the score. At 29 years old, Michaels is the youngest person to write songs for Disney, having written artists such as Dua Lipa, Justin Bieber, Pink, and Selena Gomez, her style brings a contemporary sound to the mix.
(L to R) Peter Del Vecho, SVP, Feature Film Production, Walt Disney Animation Studios, Fawn Veerasunthorn, Jennifer Lee, CCO, Disney Animation Studios, Chris Buck and Juan Pablo Reyes Lancaster-Jones speak onstage for ‘Wish’ at the Long Lead Press Day & In-Person Presentation for ‘Wish’ at El Capitan Theatre in Los Angeles, California on September 21, 2023. Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney.
Talking about Ahsa’s song ‘This Wish’, Fawn Veerasunthorn says:
“And that song was actually the very first song that Julia wrote for this film. We didn’t quite have a whole story at that point.
“We hadn’t written a script yet, even,” adds Jennifer Lee.
Veerasunthorn continues,
“That’s what’s fascinating about it. We gave her some of the brief storyline, and then she wrote that incredible song. And that’s what inspired us so much, of like, there’s this girl who didn’t know where to turn and she looked up the star and poured her heart out, and magical things happened.”
Jennifer Lee points out how well Michaels understood Asha’s character:
“What I love is the rawness of, [Asha] doesn’t even know exactly what she’s asking for. She’s looking for help, but there’s a generosity in her. You know, people tease ‘Oh teenagers only care about themselves,’ I’m like, ‘Well, they don’t.’ They just have the courage to ask for a better world. So, she is so vulnerable in that. And Julia caught all of that and gave back us something more inspired than what we were even thinking about. And it has been a true north for us the whole time.”
Chris Buck adds:
“She understood Asha so well from the very beginning. And so that was great having her as a songwriter. She not only had love for the classics, all the Disney songs, but again, being younger also embraces the more contemporary side, too.”
The filmmakers talk about working with Ariana DeBose and how much of her physicality was integrated into the character. Chris Buck explains that DeBose is very active within the booth:
“A lot. She’s very, very active within the booth (laughs). Sometimes maybe a little too much, because the sound engineer is like, ‘Ariana, can you move back on the mic a little bit?’ But you know, she’s acting it all out. And yes, we record all of it. The animators, all the way down to the mouth shapes, eye shapes, anything that she’s done. She’s so expressive, and she’s so much fun to work with. She gives you a lot of, you know, a lot of taste.”
Producer Juan Pablo Reyes Lancaster-Jones remembers when DeBose came to the studio to speak with the animators, “It was really cool to see her interaction. She’s just so unique and she is unafraid to be herself. And the animators really reacted to that.”
Jennifer Lee talks about the inspiration for the film’s villain, King Magnifico.
“First, we started with what do we think about for villains that we’d love to do. Because how do we be different from the previous films, but also a nod to them. And it really is about getting to watch that journey. So we knew we wanted to start where you get to watch him make choices where you might meet the best of him, and then hopefully, survive the worst of him.”
Songwriter Julia Michaels was instrumental in fleshing out the character of King Magnifico, says Lee
“Julie Michaels was instrumental because [the song] ‘This Is the Thanks I Get’ as an idea, which hilariously, is a nod to all moms put up with in the house. We talked a lot about that, for her, that she hooked onto the idea of a narcissist. So, it comes really simple, down to character and the deliciousness and danger of that. And so, for me, when I write, that’s how I had to process is, from inside out. And the person, the charm of that, when tested, people make different choices when tested.”
The filmmakers went through many iterations of Star, and Jennifer Lee touches on why it’s one of the most critical characters in the movie.
“We did many iterations of Star. Star can’t make this wish happen for you. You have to do it. But Star represents the thing that was critical to Walt [Disney], that you need. You need hope. You need possibility. Doesn’t hurt to have some wonder. Don’t forget some joy. All the things that we grab onto that keep us going. So, it helped us because in building Star, this sense of, Star always reminds you to keep going and possibility. And yes, gets to add a little bit of magic. It’s this, trying to capture the simplicity of one person’s journey through Asha. But the emotional story of what Walt cared about built through Star.”
‘Wish’ will arrive in theaters on November 22, 2023. Directed by Chris Buck and Fawn Veerasunthorn. It is co-written by Jennifer Lee and Allison Moore, and produced by Peter Del Vecho and Juan Pablo Reyes Lancaster Jones.
(L to R) Voices of Lucy Liu, Jaboukie Young-White, Jake Gyllenhaal, Dennis Quaid, and Gabrielle Union in Disney’s ‘Strange World.’
Journeying to theaters on November 23rd, ‘Strange World’ is the latest animated adventure from Walt Disney Feature Animation.
The company has a checkered history with adventure stories. The one-two flop punch of ‘Atlantis: The Lost Empire’ and ‘Treasure Planet’ put the company off quests for a long time, while ‘Meet the Robinsons’ had pulpy retro thrills but didn’t connect with crowds.
So there is, understandably, a lot of pressure on ‘Strange World’, which offers up something similar to those movies, but with some modern sensibilities running through it that might just help it avoid the same fate.
The setting for this one is the community of Avalonia, whose occupants are obsessed with venturing beyond the mountains that cut them off from the rest of the world. Legendary explorer Jaeger Clade (Dennis Quaid) trains up a team to make the trip, looking to burnish his already sterling reputation by discovering what lies out there.
A prologue, animated in diverting style to look like pulp comic books, introduces us to Jaeger and his son Searcher (Jake Gyllenhaal), who goes with him on expeditions. Yet Searcher shows little sign of wanting to follow in his father’s footsteps. On the big mission across the mountains, Searcher and the others discover a mysterious plant crackling with electricity. While Jaeger opts to keep on with the mission – and disappears – Searcher returns home, hailed as a hero, since the plants, which they name Pando, help Avalonia evolve to the next level of industrial revolution.
(L to R) Voices of Lucy Liu, Dennis Quaid, Jake Gyllenhaal, Jaboukie Young-White, and Gabrielle Union in Disney’s ‘Strange World.’
Cut to 25 years later, and Searcher has realized his own destiny, working as a Pando farmer, with a family of his own – wife Meridian (Gabrielle Union) is a pilot whose crop dusting missions help keep the plants safe, while son Ethan (Jaboukie Young-White) helps out around the farm, but has his own ambitions.
Yet when the Pando starts to show signs of dying out, Avalonia’s President Callisto Mal (Lucy Liu), another former member of the expedition team that discovered the plant, Searcher must embrace the idea of exploration, joining the mission to discover what is happening.
A journey that takes them to a mysterious world that lurks below their own, one teaming with weird creatures and perilous situations. Oh, and because you don’t tend to cast Dennis Quaid just for one scene, a certain long-thought-dead explorer.
Directed by Don Hall and Qui Nguyen who collaborated on ‘Raya and the Last Dragon’ (Nguyen here adds co-director to his credit, as well as writing the script again), infuse their latest movie with a lot of heart and thrills. And just a hint of ‘Jurassic Park’ when it comes to our heroes’ initial reactions to wonders around them.
Perhaps the biggest influences here are H.G. Wells and Jules Verne, whose stories are full of weird creatures and unknown lands, crossed with the pulp sci-fi magazines that were huge in the 1950s/60s and 1970s. And there’s also a healthy dollop of steampunk tech to be found.
Also healthy? The movie’s attitude towards LGBTQ+ relationships. After a few years of making nods towards the concept in some previous titles, having Ethan be openly gay (and with a same-sex love interest) and everyone else in the family be perfectly accepting is a great step forward. It’s walking the walk instead of simply talking the talk.
Then there’s Legend, the Clade family’s three-legged dog, who is a bundle of doggy energy who never lets one missing leg hold him back.
The cast all throw themselves into their roles – Quaid is gruffly enthusiastic as Jaeger, who has gone a little irrational during his time spent in the cavernous chamber. Gyllenhaal brings a likeable, relatable energy to Searcher, who is nervier than his dad, but still able to find the hero within when called upon.
Gabrielle Union’s Meridian plays well off of her family, and has her own storyline to enjoy, putting her piloting skills to good use when the crew’s own flyer is taken out by a tentacled terror (and since he’s voiced by regular Disney Animation player Alan Tudyk, that’s a fun nod to 2015’s ‘Serenity’ and his ill-fated pilot Wash).
Young-White, meanwhile, is an engaging Ethan, a lad who longs for his own life, but also loves his parents (except when they’re smooching in front of him). Liu has less to do as Callisto, but still factors into the story.
Visually speaking, ‘Strange World’ is seriously impressive – a lot of thought has clearly gone into the design of the titular land and its denizens, a clever and narrative-worthy for every decision made. Even the squishy creature sidekick that Ethan names “Splat”, that could easily have edged into overused, annoying mascot territory has a purpose and a personality, the filmmakers smartly pointing out the main reason for its existence by having one of the characters exclaim that they can’t wait to merchandise it.
The same can’t completely be said for the story, which follows a relative basic track, albeit with one or two neat surprises lurking within. Beyond the smallest kids, pretty much everyone will be able to figure out how things will wrap up long before the end. But with characters this entertaining, it’s not so much of a concern.
There are some familiar beats to be found lurking within too, though – did we really need the 750th version of daddy issues? It’s the main driver of drama here, since Searcher resents his father for leaving to venture further while the rest of the party returned. And while they would appear to have a solid father-son relationship, cracks start to show between Searcher and Ethan.
Fortunately, there’s enough here that it doesn’t annoy to quite the same degree.
‘Strange World’ will have to work to beat the “adventure curse” at the box office, but it’s certainly a worthy entry in Disney’s canon and would make an ideal family trip to the cinema during the busy Thanksgiving holiday.
As previewed at this year’s D23 Expo, the next movie from Disney’s Feature Animation division is ‘Strange World’ which finds the studio in adventurous mood.
Directed by Don Hall, who made ‘Big Hero 6,’ and most recently co-directed ‘Raya and the Last Dragon’, ‘Strange World’ also features the co-writing/co-directing talents of his ‘Raya’ colleague Qui Nguyen.
Jake Gyllenhaal voices Searcher Clade, the son of a steadfast explorer (Dennis Quaid’s Jaeger, who vanished on a quest). The black sheep of his family, Searcher chose a very different path from the others. Coming from a long lineage of brave and daring explorers, Searcher instead decided to get his hands dirty differently: by becoming a farmer.
But here, Searcher needs to team up with his family (wife Meridian, played by Gabrielle Union, and son Ethan, voiced by Jaboukie Young-White) to help them complete an incredibly dangerous mission. As he steps out of his comfort zone, Searcher is amazed and intrigued by the unknown alien world that surrounds him.
The action-adventure journeys deep into an uncharted and treacherous land where fantastical creatures await them all, as their differences threaten to topple their latest — and by far — most crucial quest.
As revealed at D23 and now more widely by this trailer, Searcher is sent on the mission by President Callisto Mal (Lucy Liu), who knows that the mysterious world is the key to saving their own.
It probably won’t surprise you to learn that they encounter Jaeger, who has adapted to live in the odd environment.
Hall has admitted that he drew from classic books and magazines for the movie’s style. “I loved reading the old issues of pulps growing up,” he said in a statement when the first images for the movie came out. “They were big adventures in which a group of explorers might discover a hidden world or ancient creatures. They’ve been a huge inspiration for ‘Strange World’.”
For Gyllenhaal’s part, he was excited to get into a voice booth for the first time, though he discovered that having to record his part from home during the pandemic was… less fun.
“I think all you really have, as an actor, outside of technical skills, is your imagination, so that was one thing. I did find it interesting,” Gyllenhaal told The Scotsman. “We had a camera that had to shoot us doing the action so the animators could mimic our facial expressions, so I had a difficult time holding that screen up and talking to it at the same time and it was so, so hot. I played the entire role on my knees, in basically a prayer position by a bed, with two pillows over both sides of my head and a very heavy blanket over them.”
Aside from those already listed, we do know that Alan Tudyk, who has lent his voice to every Disney animated movie since ‘Wreck-It Ralph’ is also present here, though we don’t yet know who he’s playing.
‘Strange World’ journeys to theaters on November 23.
Walt Disney Studios kicked off the first day of D23 Expo 2022 in style today with tons of advance looks at what the House of Mouse has in store for fans in the coming days, months, and years. You can watch Moviefone‘s exclusive backstage interviews by clicking on the video player above.
The first D23 Expo in three years began with the president of Walt Disney Studios Motion Picture Production, Sean Bailey, revealing the first-ever footage from ‘Hocus Pocus 2’.
Bailey was joined by the wacky Sanderson Sisters themselves – stars Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy – who appeared via video to show how their characters are back for the first time since 1993 for more soul-stealing Halloween action.
Battling them this time around are aspiring witch Becca (Whitney Peak) and magic shop owner Gilbert (Sam Richardson).
But the audience’s biggest applause went to the original film’s Billy Butcherson (‘The Shape of Water’s Doug Jones) upon his return from the grave. ‘Hocus Pocus 2’ hits Disney+ on September 30th. The trailer is in the video player above.
SobUrjjSsYRoz7A0DQ3177
Next up on the panel was another eagerly anticipated sequel, ‘Disenchanted’. Returning stars Amy Adams, Patrick Dempsey, Idina Menzel, and James Marsden took the stage, alongside Maya Rudolph, the film’s new villain. ‘Disenchanted’ finds Adams’ Giselle and hubby Dempsey moving to the suburbs with their infant and teenage children.
“I was a huge fan of the original,” said Rudolph. “I can’t believe I got to be part of this… It’s not easy being mean to Amy Adams.” The new teaser trailer for the sequel is in the video player above.
odm6ku5Ngp5gE2t9HtPhQ5
As far as live-action remakes of Disney animated classics go, ‘Peter Pan & Wendy’ was the first on deck today: with star Jude Law (Captain Hook) flanked by newcomers Alexander Molony (Peter Pan), Ever Gabo Anderson (Wendy), and Alyssa Wapanatâhk (Tiger Lily).
Expect more empowered female characters this time around, including at least one Lost Girl among Peter’s Lost Boys.
“Disney has worked very hard to give her more depth and a lot more character,” said Anderson of Wendy. “She and Peter are equals in this film.”
Law added that Hook and Pan’s prior relationship is also fleshed out. “We got to mine their back story a little bit more. You get to understand their past,” he said, hinting that the two were once friends.
“I got to make sure all the little details, all the Easter eggs are there. Because I’m a nerd,” confessed Simien. He then joined another of the film’s stars – scream queen Jamie Lee Curtis – in a Doom Buggy rolling across the D23 Expo stage.
Few Disney films are so beloved as 1994’s ‘The Lion King’. And fans will get more of the film’s animal kingdom in the 2024 prequel ‘Mufasa: The Lion King’.
Director Barry Jenkins appeared to explain how “Mufasa is the origin story of one of the greatest kings of the Pride Land… It’s the real story of how Mufasa found his place in the circle of life. What you learn is that Mufasa is great because of the family and the friends he has with him.”
Of course Disney Studios wouldn’t exist without its very first animated classic, 1937’s ‘Snow White’.
Director Marc Webb is tackling the live-action 2024 remake, featuring Gal Gadot as the Wicked Queen and Rachel Zegler as its eponymous heroine. The two were touched by the warm response they received as they presented a first look at their characters.
“Just your reaction means the world to us,” said Gadot.
A visibly moved Zegler explained that, “Snow White is the girl you remember, but she’s definitely made for the modern age,” stating the film redefines what it means to be the fairest of them all.
Rachel Zegler and Gal Gadot at Disney D23 Expo 2022 Getty Images
WT2uud2dk1C6xk7ZYnIAy
While ‘Snow White’ is Disney’s first animated feature, 1989’s ‘The Little Mermaid’ is responsible for the studio’s renaissance. As well as its renewed dedication to musicals, as Rob Marshall, director of May 2023’s live-action adaptation, reminded fans today.
“It was very important for us to honor the original. We went to Alan Menken, who was divine to work with, and also our dear friend Lin-Manuel Miranda. They had never worked together before… There are four new songs. We still retain the beauty of the original score, written by the late great Howard Ashman as well.”
Fans were treated to the film’s entire “Part of Your World” number, featuring a note-perfect Halle Bailey, who appeared on stage with Marshall.
“Three days of filming ‘Part of Your World,’” said Bailey, “that was the most beautiful experience of my life. Just getting to sing a song I’ve loved since I was a child was so exciting.”
“The camera loves you,” Marshall told Bailey. “But it’s more than that. [It] loves what’s inside. [It] loves what you bring.”
The two then unveiled a teaser that recalled ‘Finding Nemo’ in the color and detail of its underwater world. You can find a teaser version of the clip in the video player at the top of the page.
It was then time for Pixar Animation Studios’ turn in the spotlight, with chief creative officer Pete Docter introducing next summer’s ‘Elemental’.
Director Peter Sohn spoke of how the film’s Element City was inspired by the culturally mixed New York of his childhood. Footage shown depicted the star-crossed romance of its fire-based heroine Ember (Leah Lewis) and her watery boyfriend Wade (Mamoudou Athie).
Pixar also unveiled its first original long-form series in the form of ‘Win or Lose’, each episode of which follows the perspective of a different character connected to a co-ed softball team, the Pickles.
With this year’s ‘Lightyear’, Pixar returned to the science fiction of ‘Wall-E’. Expect more in this vein soon, starting with ‘Elio’.
Announced today at D23 with star America Ferrera on stage, the film’s title character is an 11-year-old boy who doesn’t feel like he fits in his world. His mom (Ferrera) runs a top-secret military project, which inadvertently results in Elio making first contact with alien life and becoming our planet’s ambassador to the rest of the universe. It’s due out in spring 2024.
Last but by no means least on the Pixar slate – ‘Inside Out’ star Amy Poehler made a surprise appearance alongside Docter to announce ‘Inside Out 2’.
“Joy and the emotions are back for an all new adventure inside Riley’s head,” said a fittingly ebullient Poehler. “Only this time she’s a teenager!”
New emotions will also appear in the film, as Kelsey Mann takes over the directing chores from Docter, with Meg LeFauve returning to write the summer 2024 release.
To cap off the panel, Disney Animation’s chief creative officer (and Oscar-winning ‘Frozen’ director) Jennifer Lee greeted the D23 Expo audience to show what’s in store for the studio’s 100th anniversary next year.
But first, Disney’s fan-favorite 2016 ‘Zootopia’ will get a spin-off series this November on Disney+. And attendees got an advance look at the aptly titled ‘Zootopia+’, consisting of six short ‘Zootopia’-style spoofs of everything from ‘The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills’ to ‘The Godfather Part II’.
Perhaps Disney’s most unique offering at the Expo was ‘Iwaju’. Coming this year to Disney+, it finds the animation studio partnering for the first time in its long history with an overseas animation studio – Africa’s Kugali. Its three founders appeared today, describing their Afrofuturism fable and its characters as a love letter to their hometown of Lagos, Nigeria.
More sci-fi arrived with a new look at ‘Strange World’, described by Lee as “a film about family, legacy, and what we leave behind for the generations that follow.” Director Don Hall explained how the film chronicles three generations coming together on an alien planet in order to save their world.
Stars Jake Gyllenhaal, Dennis Quaid, and Lucy Liu introduced a rip-snorting clip of an exciting chase through ‘Strange World’s creature-packed planet.
d2IDAdF7u26ptvJPhyOrb
The Disney Animation segment, and indeed entire panel, concluded with the revelation of the studio’s 100th anniversary feature film – ‘Wish’. The tale of the star upon which so many Disney characters have wished throughout the past century, ‘Wish’ is co-directed by the attending team of Chris Buck and Fawn Veerasunthorn.
Buck, who co-wrote the film with Lee, explained how ‘Wish’ explores a kingdom of wishes, in which wishes can literally come true. Offering a lush, animated watercolor style coupled with CG animation, it stars newly minted Oscar winner Ariana DeBose as 17-year-old Asha, who pleas to the heavens for help, and gets an actual star from the sky, named Star, who communicates through pantomime.
0OBaFTIbKyvccQ25W6MMJ4
Disney “good luck charm,” actor Alan Tudyk appeared with footage of his character, a goat named Valentino who wishes to communicate with people. Finally, DeBose saw fans off with a sizzling live performance of “More for Us,” one of the film’s songs by Grammy winner Julia Michaels.
Disney’s ‘Strange World’ journeys to theaters on November 23.
Not, as the title might make some suspect, a quickly pumped-out follow-up to Disney and Marvel’s successful ‘Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness’, ‘Strange World’ is in fact the latest offering from Disney Feature Animation, looking to keep its own hit train going after ‘Encanto’ brought plenty of eyes to its screens and earworms to parents everywhere.
We don’t yet know if ‘Strange World’ will feature a song as catchy as ‘We Don’t Talk About Bruno’, or indeed any songs at all, but the focus here appears to be on retro promos, as the teaser is styled like a 1930s/40s/50s movie trailer.
Directed by Don Hall, who made ‘Big Hero 6,’ and most recently co-directed ‘Raya and the Last Dragon’, ‘Strange World’ also features the co-writing/co-directing talents of his ‘Raya’ colleague Qui Nguyen.
Jake Gyllenhaal voices Searcher Clade, the son of a steadfast explorer. The black sheep of his family, Searcher chose a very different path from the others. Coming from a long lineage of brave and daring explorers, Searcher instead decided to get his hands dirty differently: by becoming a farmer.
But here, Searcher needs to team up with his family to help them complete an incredibly dangerous mission. As he steps out of his comfort zone, Searcher is amazed and intrigued by the unknown alien world that surrounds him.
The action-adventure journeys deep into an uncharted and treacherous land where fantastical creatures await them all, as their differences threaten to topple their latest—and by far—most crucial quest.
DcT49yuf
And the throwback style of the teaser is perhaps not surprising given Hall’s enthusiasm for adventures such as this: “I loved reading the old issues of pulps growing up,” he said in a statement when the first images for the movie came out. “They were big adventures in which a group of explorers might discover a hidden world or ancient creatures. They’ve been a huge inspiration for ‘Strange World’.”
“Strange” is certainly the word to describe where the Clades find themselves. Though there’s little information about how they get here, or indeed where exactly they are, this could be them journeying deep into the Earth, where odd beasties lurk. Giant cliffs that turn into walking creatures? Plenty of tentacled things. It’s all very Jules Verne with just a hint of family-friendly Lovecraft…
For Gyllenhaal’s part, he was excited to get into a voice booth for the first time, though he discovered that having to record his part from home during the pandemic was… less fun.
“I think all you really have, as an actor, outside of technical skills, is your imagination, so that was one thing. I did find it interesting,” Gyllenhaal told The Scotsman. “We had a camera that had to shoot us doing the action so the animators could mimic our facial expressions, so I had a difficult time holding that screen up and talking to it at the same time and it was so, so hot. I played the entire role on my knees, in basically a prayer position by a bed, with two pillows over both sides of my head and a very heavy blanket over them.”
Disney has yet to announce who else is in that voice cast, though we do know that their good luck charm, Alan Tudyk (who has had a role in everything since ‘Wreck-It Ralph’), is also present and correct.
‘Strange World’ journeys to theaters on November 23rd.
Disney’s ‘Strange World’ journeys to theaters on November 23.
d2IDAdF7u26ptvJPhyOrb
A new “Aladdin” trailer dropped this week, featuring an extended look at Disney’s ambitious remake of its beloved animated classic. But while the latest clip has given audiences a whole new world of intel, there was still one character about whom almost nothing was known — until now.
The Hollywood Reporter has the scoop about one bit of casting that so far had been kept under wraps: Just who would be voicing Iago, the wisecracking parrot who plays sidekick to the evil Jafar (portrayed by Marwan Kenzari in the new version). Though Iago has been seen flying around in clips, his signature sarcastic voice has been notably absent.
But now, the trade is reporting that Disney regular Alan Tudyk will be taking the role. Iago was originally performed by comedian Gilbert Gottfried in the 1992 film, as well as its two direct-to-video sequels.
While some “Aladdin” purists may squawk about Tudyk’s casting — after all, how could anyone ever follow Gottfried’s pitch-perfect portrayal? — the actor is actually a pretty genius choice for the part. Tudyk has become a bit of a chameleon in the voice-acting business in recent years, including taking several key roles in Mouse House flicks such as “Wreck-It Ralph” (King Candy), “Rogue One: A Star Wars Story” (droid K-2SO, for which he also performed motion-capture), and “Ralph Breaks the Internet” (KnowsMore).
Tudyk’s new take on Iago is just one of many reinterpretations of classic characters that we’re excited to see when “Aladdin” hits theaters on May 24.
Although he hasn’t gone through the official induction ceremony, for our money Alan Tudyk is already a Disney legend. The actor, who TV fans will remember from his collaborations with Joss Whedon (“Firefly” and “Dollhouse”), has become something of a lucky charm for Walt Disney Animation Studios, having contributed significant vocal performances in every animated feature since 2012. Late last year, he co-starred as Knowsmore, a helpful, erudite search engine in “Ralph Breaks the Internet,” the visually astonishing follow-up to “Wreck-It Ralph,” adding another colorful cartoon character to his already robust portfolio.
We caught up with the actor at the Walt Disney Animation Studios campus, the building constructed after the success of “The Lion King” in 1994 and adorned with a giant Sorcerer’s Mickey hat from “Fantasia” (for a long time the cone of the hat was home to the office of Walt’s nephew, Roy E. Disney). It was here that we discussed all things Disney, from his inspiration for certain voices to whether or not he’d show up in this fall’s “Frozen 2.”
Moviefone: “Wreck-It Ralph” was your first Walt Disney Animation Studios film. Was that a dream for you?
Alan Tudyk: It was one of those dreams that I didn’t dream because you’re like, ah, I don’t even know how that happens. That was crazy. I got called up to do a read through. We all flew up to San Francisco to do the readthrough. We all got on a southwest flight. It was like Sarah Silverman, Jane Lynch. We were all on this Southwest Airlines plane and you go spend the day there and fly back. And after the reading I got the role, I got sent them big bucket of candy afterwards.
Did you have the like Charles Nelson Reilly voice going into it?
I’m glad you said Charles Nelson Reilly cause there was a little Charles Nelson Reilly in it. They said, “Go for Ed Wynn,” who was an old Disney voice. [Editor’s note: Wynn played the Mad Hatter in “Alice in Wonderland” and starred in a number of live-action Disney productions, including “Mary Poppins,” “The Absent-Minded Professor” and ”That Darn Cat!” He is an official Disney Legend.] And then as we went along, people kept piling on in there. Ruth Gordon was even in there because of how she talks and how she emphasizes the words.
Disney
And you’ve been in every Disney animated movie since. Are you expecting that call now?
Now … I’ll just say when. Yes. I’ll be like, “I was expecting this day it was coming.” I mean it’s tricky. I can’t believe I’m in “Moana.” Because I’m the white dude from Texas, but they found the role for me.
I was going to say, is anything beneath you?
Nothing’s beneath. Heck no! It’s just … I know that Disney does a lot of movies that take place in far off lands where there aren’t people like me. So it’ll be interesting. I don’t expect to be in everyone. But gosh, I love them.
Well, I was going to say were you surprised to be asked back for the sequel? Because obviously it seems like King Candy’s arc had ended.
I’d hoped that I would. I wanted King Candy to live. You can’t kill him! He can’t be dead! He can’t be dead because he’s so much fun to do, but Knowsmore is fantastic.
How did you come up with the voice for the Knowsmore character?
Rich asked me before I came in, he said, “Watch a few interviews with Truman Capote and put him in that same sort of realm.” Not in terms of one of the characters from his books, but vocally. So I did [starts doing Knowsmore voice] and he’s more relaxed and he speaks much slower or it’s not higher but frailer voice depending on his age. We started there and then he became Droopy for a second. Like, there’s an interesting way those are two crossed over. And so then he came back and once we found, “Oh that’s interesting” and that high place where you can go, that’s when we found it.
Do you have a favorite of your Disney characters?
I like King Candy because he can talk about anything go on and on and he’s happy. But then he can be so angry. He’s so bad. He becomes a terrible, terrible person.
Do little kids to recognize you?
Um, no. You know who will recognize me? 15-year-olds. Because they have phones and they can look me up. They’ll see me and they’ll know me from something. Probably some movie or some TV show I’ve done. And then when they look me up, they see that I’m from “Moana” and that’s what they want to talk to him about. “Frozen.” They want to talk about the Duke of Weselton because they’re 15 now. So that they, that put them in, you know, the perfect age.
So you’re really in meshed in that Disney culture. I’m assuming that you’re going to have your own stage at the D23 Expo this year. The Alan Tudyk stage.
Yeah, the next show starts in 20 minutes! I’ll just come out on stage.
I know that we are, you know, very secretive around here but have you recorded any voices for upcoming Walt Disney animated features?
I have not.
Even for the one that’s coming out in November of this year (“Frozen 2”)?
Is it that soon? This may be the one …
Disney
There also has been a lot of talking about some further adventures in “Zootopia.” Would you be excited to bring your weasel out again?
Yeah. He’s fun.
I think that might be the most meta joke, going from the Duke of Weselton to Duke Weaselton.
Isn’t that great?
What did you think when they brought you that idea?
I loved it! And then he’s also selling knock-off black market movies before they come out. And he’s got “Rhino Ralph.”
Are you still dazzled when they show you the final cut? I mean, this movie is one of the most visually amazing animated movies ever.
Oh absolutely.
Disney
What is the process like for you?
It’s been different every time. Every single one has been different. Sometimes they’re later in the game, right? Like if it something was coming out this November, we don’t know. Because the story shifts. The way Disney makes movies is amazing. I got to go through the first “Wreck-It Ralph” from the very first reading and it was different. There were all these scenes that got cut. And I record the whole movie and they put it together and they go, “Oh hey, you know what, that doesn’t work. You know what, we need more of King Candy or he needs to be worried,” you know, until they get it into the final product. And so that one was always evolving. Take “Moana.” That one was pretty much done and they showed it to me and I just watched it about three times through with a microphone doing Hei-hei. Just going through different places.
Well, you’re now part of sort of this like amazing legacy of the studio. Do you ever stop and think about that?
I mean it hits me when I come here because of the hallway and the pictures on the walls that now especially cause it’s been so long since the first “Wreck-It Ralph” came out that they’ve accumulated on the walls. You can turn to everybody and say, “I’m in that. Um, oh that’s, that was my character.” And then you keep going down the hallway. That one too, that one too. It’s not just relegated to one little spot where like, that was the one movie I did. And there’s the little thing celebrating that movie. There’s so many now. It makes you pomnder.
Children in 100 years are going to be listening to your voice, which is sort of amazing too.
Oh, there’s not going to be people here in 100 years.
“Ralph Breaks the Internet” is on digital HD now and will be on Blu-ray tomorrow!
