News & Press Releases
The Walt Disney Family Museum Showcases “Old Yeller” in September, Features Talk with Ron Miller & Kevin Corcoran
September Programs, Exhibitions, and Events
San Francisco, CA – August 13, 2012-Animal
lovers rejoice! Our furry friends will be in the spotlight all
throughout September at The Walt Disney Family Museum, where we will be
screening the classic Disney live-action film Old Yeller daily. Based on Fred Gibson’s Newberry Honor-winning book of the same name, Old Yeller tells the moving tale of the mutual devotion between animals and their human companions.
Through the production of Old Yeller, Walt Disney sought to combine the popularity of his nature films as well as that of The Mickey Mouse Club
by bringing to life a story that emphasized both animals and children-a
story that would go on to capture the heart of audiences across the
country. Old Yeller opened to great success in 1957, and was
well-received by critics and audiences alike. The extraordinarily
positive reception of Old Yeller encouraged Walt to continue his
endeavors in the field of live-action. Since then, many more animal
films have been made, but this tried and true Disney feature is perhaps
the finest of its genre.
SPECIAL EXHIBITIONS
Heinrich Kley: From Fantasy to Fantasia
Through September 16, 2012 | Theater Gallery
Free with Museum admission.
Heinrich Kley: From Fantasy to Fantasia
features drawings by Heinrich Kley-Walt Disney’s most admired European
illustrator-paired with art from Disney’s famed animated film Fantasia
(1940). The exhibition includes 29 drawings by Kley alongside more than
25 sketches, concept art, and maquettes from the Walt Disney classic
film. Also on view are three of Kley’s sketchbooks which feature some 50
pages of intricate drawings. The Kley artworks are from Walt Disney’s
personal collection and are on view for the first time as a collection
in the United States.
Between Frames: The Magic Behind Stop Motion Animation
September 27, 2012-April 28, 2013 | Theater Gallery
Free with Museum admission.
This
special exhibition explores the evolution of stop motion animation in
the United States in special effects, television, and film. Between Frames tells
the story of a 100-year-old art form that launched Walt Disney’s career
in animation. The exhibition features behind-the-scenes photographs,
rare armatures and puppets, and original storyboards from cult favorite
films and television including King Kong, Gumby, Star Wars, Jurassic Park, Robot Chicken, and The Nightmare Before Christmas and showcases stop motion innovators like Ray Harryhausen, Phil Tippett, Will Vinton, Tim Burton, Henry Selick, and others.
SCREENINGS + DISCUSSIONS
Film of the Month: Old Yeller (1957)
Screens daily at 11am, 1:30 and 4pm (except Tuesdays, September 22, 29 and 30. No 4pm screening on September 15) | Theater
Free with Museum admission | Without Museum admission: General: $7; Child: $5
Golden Gate Bridge 75th Anniversary
The Bridge on the Big Screen: Movies Starring the Golden Gate Bridge
Monsters vs. Aliens
Saturday, September 15 | 6pm | Theater
Free on a first-come, first-served basis, tickets available at 10am
Jim Van Buskirk, author of Celluloid San Francisco, will introduce the film with a presentation titled, On Location: the Golden Gate Bridge on the Silver Screen. Offered in celebration of the 75th
anniversary of the Bay Area’s beloved icon, this program features
hilariously horrifying film depictions of the Bridge. After the
presentation we will be screening Monsters vs. Aliens.
Old Yeller conversation with Ron Miller and actor Kevin Corcoran, moderated by Don Peri
Saturday, September 22 at 3pm | Theater
General: $12 adult, $9 youth | Members: $10 adult; $7 youth
Old Yeller,
one of Walt Disney’s most memorable and poignant films, will be the
focus of a discussion featuring Kevin Corcoran, who played the part of
Arliss in the movie, and former Disney CEO Ron Miller, who served as
second assistant on the film. Disney historian Don Peri will moderate
the discussion as the speakers share their stories and memories about
the making of this 1957 Disney favorite.
Disney Films with Dogs: Weekend Long Marathon Screening
Saturday, September 29 and Sunday, September 30
All Day | Theater | Free with Museum admission
Saturday: 101 Dalmatians, The Shaggy Dog, GreyFriars Bobby: The True Story of a Dog
Sunday: Lady and the Tramp, The Incredible Journey
SPECIAL PROGRAMMING
Animate Your Night: Where It’s AT-ATTM!
Friday, September 28 | 7-10pm | Museum-wide
Members: $5 | General: $10
Join us as we celebrate the opening of our new special exhibition Between Frames: The Magic Behind Stop Motion Animation, which reveals the magic behind movie creatures such as King Kong, the Jurassic Park Velociraptors, and the revered Star Wars AT-AT!
San Francisco SPCA and The Walt Disney Family Museum Adopt-a-Thon
Saturday, September 29 | 12-3pm | Main Parade Ground in the Presidio | Free
The
WDFM has gone to the dogs during the month of September and is hosting
its first Doggie Adopt-a-Thon in partnership with the SFSPCA and other
local rescue groups. Join in the fun on the front lawn as we participate
in animal education and help our furry, four-legged friends find new
homes.
Look Closer: The Family Saddles
Friday, September 28, Saturday, September 29 and Sunday, September 30
11am, 1 and 3pm | Gallery 8 | Free with Museum admission
Join us for a brief gallery talk to learn more about the Disney family’s riding saddles.
CLASSES + ACTIVITIES
Open Studio
Saturday, September 1 and Sunday, September 2
1-3pm (drop-in activity) | Learning Center Art Studio | Free with Museum admission
Come
experience, explore, and experiment with us in Open Studio. Every first
weekend of the month we will be experimenting with different art forms
such as performance, fine art, and design.
Disney Discoveries
Saturday, September 8 and Sunday, September 9
1-3pm | Learning Center | Free with Museum admission
In
the spirit of classic Disney westerns, join us to make your very own
dreamcatcher! This Native American craft is intended to ensnare
nightmares and let good dreams through.
# # #
ABOUT THE MUSEUM
The
Walt Disney Family Museum presents the fascinating story and
achievements of Walt Disney, the man who raised animation to an art,
transformed the film industry, tirelessly pursued innovation, and
created a global and distinctively American legacy. Opened in October
2009, the 40,000 square foot facility features the newest technology and historic materials and artifacts to bring Disney’s achievements to life, with interactive
galleries that include early drawings and animation, movies, music,
listening stations, a spectacular model of Disneyland and much more.
Hours:
10am to 6pm, Wednesdays through Monday; closed on
Tuesdays and the following public holidays: New Year’s Day,
Thanksgiving, and Christmas Day.
Tickets: Free for members | General: $20 adults, $15 seniors and students, $12 youth under 17, free for children 5 and under
Where: 104 Montgomery Street, The Presidio of San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94129
Website: waltdisney.org
facebook.com/thewaltdisneyfamilymuseum
News & Press Releases
New Updates and Exclusive Content from Jim Hill Media: Disney, Universal, and More
Boy oh boy, do I have some exciting news to share with all of you.
If you’ve been following our journey at Jim Hill Media, you know we’re all about peeling back the curtain to reveal behind the scenes insights, news, and history that surround the world of entertainment and theme parks.
And today, I’ve got a treasure trove of updates to share. So, grab your popcorn, and let’s get into it.
A New Chapter on Patreon
As many of you know, we recently made the big leap over to Patreon, and let me tell you, it’s been quite a rollercoaster ride. This move was driven by your requests for more exclusive content (and the easy to use RSS feed and app is a BIG bonus).
I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt appreciation for your unwavering support. Your enthusiasm and engagement have been the driving force behind our passion for delivering the best of Disney and Universal content.
Moving to Patreon has opened new avenues for us to connect more deeply with our listeners, offering exciting perks and benefits that allow us to tailor our content more closely to your interests and preferences. It’s been an incredible journey of crafting special content, such as the launch of our video podcast series, [Disney Unpacked].
[Disney Unpacked] – A Video Podcast Series Like No Other
Imagine sitting down for a chat with a Disney Imagineer who’s helped shape your Disney experiences for over three decades. That’s what we’re bringing to the table with [Disney Unpacked]. Alongside the legendary Jim Shull and my partner in crime Len Testa, we explore Disney’s storytelling, sharing how beloved rides and attractions were created, through the eyes of an Imagineer like Jim Shull who personally contributed to these projects.
It’s a rare opportunity to host a video show with Jim Shull, a Disney Imagineer who’s worked on projects like Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster and Toontown for over 33 years. If you’re curious about Jim and his work, check out our “Meet Jim Shull” video.
But that’s not all – as a patron, you’ll gain access to even more exclusive content. Our “Carry On” podcast, where Jim Shull and I explore stories that didn’t quite make it into the main episodes, offers a fascinating glimpse into the creative process behind [Disney Unpacked]. Plus, our regular Q&A sessions give you the chance to get answers to all your burning questions about the show.
Beyond the Podcast: Photos and Artifacts from an Imagineers Personal Collection
And if that wasn’t exciting enough, let me introduce you to our brand-new monthly video show, “Picture This.” Hosted by yours truly alongside Jim Shull and moderated by Lauren Hersey, “Picture This” offers a behind-the-scenes look at Jim Shull’s personal collection of over 60,000 photos and artifacts from his 33-year career at Disney. From rare behind-the-scenes shots to exclusive glimpses of Disney history, this show is a must-watch for any serious Disney fan.
The History of the Pixar Place Hotel
Recently, it was announced that Disneyland’s Paradise Pier hotel would be reopening as the Pixar Place Hotel.
Curious about the backstory behind this decision? Join Jim Shull and me as we delve into the history of the Pixar Place hotel. Explore its fascinating origins and gain insights into the inspirations drawn from Jim’s leadership on the Toy Story Hotel project at Shanghai Disney.
This YouTube documentary-style video offers a look into the creative process behind one of Disney’s iconic hotel projects.
Debut of “I Want That Too” Video Podcast
Introducing our newest podcast addition, “I Want That Too,” where Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey dive deep into the fascinating world of Disney products. From toys and collectibles to apparel and home goods, we’re here to unpack it all.
But we’re not just about the merchandise – join us as we explore the rich history and untold stories behind your favorite Disney goodies. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting your Disney journey, there’s something for everyone on “I Want That Too.”
This show drops bi-weekly as a Podcast and a Video over on the Jim Hill Media YouTube Channel.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts today.
Welcoming Universal Fans with “Epic Universal” Podcast
And for all you Universal enthusiasts (or Universal Curious) out there, we’ve got you covered too! Introducing “Epic Universal,” a bi-weekly podcast hosted by Eric Hersey and yours truly.
Join us as we dive into the latest news, interviews, and trip planning tips from the Universal universe. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just curious about what’s happening at Universal Studios, we invite you to join the conversation and stay updated with “Epic Universal.”
A Look Ahead: The Future of Jim Hill Media
Phew! It’s been an exhilarating few months at Jim Hill Media, with our Patreon move and new show launches, all dedicated to bringing you top-notch theme park news, insights, and history. Your support and enthusiasm have been the driving force behind our efforts, and we’re incredibly thankful for it.
Looking ahead, we’re excited about the future, with more content and partnerships on the horizon. Whether you’re into Disney, Universal, Marvel, or Merch, we invite you to stay engaged and subscribe for more updates.
A huge thank you for being part of our journey.
News & Press Releases
Disney Will Bring D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event to Anaheim, California in August 2024
Expanded Disney Fan Experience Will Feature New and Exciting Events Across Multiple Locations, Including a D23 Takeover of the Happiest Place On Earth, Evening Entertainment at the Honda Center, D23 Day at Angel Stadium, and Much More
Fan Favorites Including Exhibits, Panels, Shows, and Shopping Will Dazzle Disney Enthusiasts at the Anaheim Convention Center
D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event is a one-of-a-kind fan experience like never before with spectacular shows, new venues, and multiple days of entertainment that will bring together the best of Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and more!
Highlightswill include:
- Sunday, August 4: D23 Day at Angel Stadium, where D23 fans are invited to attend the Los Angeles Angels vs. New York Mets game.
- Thursday, August 8: D23 kickoff celebration at Disneyland Resort.
- Friday, August 9 – Sunday, August 11: Shopping, exhibits, panels, and presentations will take place at the Anaheim Convention Center during the day, with the fun extending into the evening at the Honda Center, the bigger home to marquee shows.
Tickets for D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event will go on sale in Spring 2024, with ticketing options to be announced later for access to the Anaheim Convention Center and the Honda Center. Admission for D23 Day at Angel Stadium and the D23 kickoff celebration at Disneyland Resort will be available as separate ticketed events. Additional details for D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event will be announced in early 2024.
You can get updates by staying connected to D23 via social media (@DisneyD23 on Facebook, Instagram, X), D23.com, and our weekly D23 FanFare email (sign up for free as a D23 General Member at JoinD23.com).
About D23
The name “D23” pays homage to the exciting journey that began in 1923 when Walt Disney opened his first studio in Hollywood. D23 is the first official club for fans in Disney’s nearly 100-year history. It gives its members a greater connection to the entire world of Disney by placing them in the middle of the magic year-round through its quarterly publication, Disney twenty-three; the latest news and stories on D23.com; member-exclusive offers and discounts; the popular D23 Inside Disney podcast; and special experiences for D23 Members throughout the year.
Fans can join D23 at Gold Membership ($99.99/year), Gold Duo Membership ($129.99/year), and General Membership (complimentary) levels at D23.com. To keep up with all the latest D23 news and events, follow DisneyD23 on Facebook, Instagram, X, TikTok, and YouTube.
News & Press Releases
Star Wars Spoof: Space Robots in Outer Space Ep X: Battle for the Halcyon: The Last Starcruiser
Sure, Star Wars is cool and all. But let’s not forget about that other multi-part sci-fi cinematic spectacular, “Space Robots in Outer Space.” In fact, Hank Lonely (Hollywood’s ultimate hyphenate — actor / producer / director / writer / guy who makes sure the Porto Potties are kept squeaky-clean) just announced that there’ll soon be a 10th installment of this … Well, not exactly beloved. How about we say “admired from afar” instead? … series coming to a theater near you. In fact, here’s the highly anticipated teaser trailer for that project. Which is supposed to be titled “Space Robots in Outer Space X — Battle for the Halycon: The Last Starcruiser.”
Okay. Now the real story … In honor of Star Wars Day (i.e., May 4th. As in “May the Fourth Be With You”), Len Testa and I are sharing something that we produced with the help of all the nice folks who joined us last month aboard the Halycon.
We turned the Galactic Starcruiser as well as Black Spire Outpost into the backdrop for an affectionate send-up of all things Stars Wars. We hope that you (more importantly, the legal team at Lucasfilm) take this faux trailer in the spirit with which it was intended. Special thanks to Aaron Adams for so skillfully stitching all of this footage together. Also thanks to the team at Storybook Destinations, Touring Plans and the talented cast & crew aboard the “Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser” for making this “Disney Dish” fan event so memorable.
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