Monthly Archives: July 2023

Family Resorts and Theme Parks, Halloween Horror Nights, Los Angeles Life and Style, Universal Orlando Resort, Universal Studios Hollywood

Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Hollywood Unleash More Terrifying Haunted Houses featuring The Exorcist: Believer,” “Chucky: Ultimate Kill Count” and “Universal Monsters: Unmasked.”

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Joining “The Last of Us” and “Stranger Things” haunted houses at Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Orlando Resort will be “The Exorcist: Believer,” “Chucky: Ultimate Kill Count” and “Universal Monsters: Unmasked,” featuring The Phantom of the Opera, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Dr. Jekyll and his deranged alternate personality Mr. Hyde, and Dr. Jack Griffin, aka The Invisible Man.

Fear Comes to Life Select Nights at Universal Orlando Resort September 1 – November 4 and at Universal Studios Hollywood September 7 – October 31. Universal Orlando Resort Reveals More Terror Lurking in the Fog with Complete, Unforgettable Lineup of 10 Haunted Houses, Five Scare Zones and so Much More.

Universal City, Calif., Orlando, Fla. (July 28, 2023) – The countdown begins for Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Hollywood as the destinations announce additional all-new terrifying haunted houses, including “The Exorcist: Believer,” inspired by the new Universal Pictures film from Blumhouse and Morgan Creek Entertainment, “Chucky: Ultimate Kill Count” based on the popular USA & SYFY series, and “Universal Monsters: Unmasked,” inspired by Universal’s legacy of iconic cinematic monsters.

The terror kicks off at Universal Orlando Resort on Friday, September 1 and at Universal Studios Hollywood on Thursday, September 7. Below is a sneak peek at what to expect:

The Exorcist: Believer
Inspired by Universal Pictures’ terrifying new horror film from Blumhouse and Morgan Creek Entertainment (in theaters Friday, October 13), “The Exorcist: Believer” haunted house will unleash an entirely new level of terror to Halloween Horror Nights. In this new chapter, guests will be transported to a bustling street market in Haiti, where an innocent purchase of a strange folk doll with three eyes leads to the opening of a demonic portal, the awakening of sinister spirits and the subsequent disappearance of two 12-year-old girls in the U.S. The girls are found three days later with no memory of what happened to them. After the girls begin to exhibit unsettling behavior, it soon becomes clear that only an exorcism can save them – and everyone who comes in contact with them, including unwitting guests, is suddenly at risk of losing their souls.

Chucky: Ultimate Kill Count
Inspired by the hit USA & SYFY series and cult classic films, “Chucky: Ultimate Kill Count” casts this killer doll as the star of his very own haunted house for the first time. A true sadistic killer, Chucky has been mired in the agony of disrespect he feels from his peers at not being taken seriously. Thus begins his quest to turn his haunted house into a living slaughterhouse by killing every person who enters.

Universal Monsters: Unmasked
Lurking sixty feet beneath the bustling streets of the City of Lights, the dank Catacombs of Paris house a much darker secret. . . The all-new haunted house “Universal Monsters: Unmasked” takes guests down into the infamous burial grounds where every corner and crevice overflows with millions of skeletal remains and even more sinister secrets. Deep within the Catacombs, Universal’s most notorious creatures – The Phantom of the Opera, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Dr. Jekyll and his deranged alternate personality Mr. Hyde, and Dr. Jack Griffin, aka The Invisible Man – also lie in wait as they bide their time and seek vengeance against guests after the opening of the Catacombs to public visitation. These desperate and dangerous fiends have become filled with a rage toward guests navigating the twisted tunnels of their underground labyrinth home. It is here, in the darkness, where they hunt these trespassers and where the sounds of guests’ screams will go unheard.

Once again, GRAMMY® Award-winning musician, SLASH, is collaborating with Universal Studios Hollywood on an original score for the west coast version of the “Universal Monsters: Unmasked” haunted house.

Halloween Horror Nights runs select nights at Universal Orlando Resort from Friday, September 1 through Saturday, November 4, and at Universal Studios Hollywood from Thursday, September 7 through Tuesday, October 31. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.HalloweenHorrorNights.com. Due to popular demand, event nights are expected to sell out and tickets should be purchased in advance.

HALLOWEEN HORROR NIGHTS AT UNIVERSAL ORLANDO RESORT
Universal Orlando Resort reveals the complete lineup of terrifying horrors guests will face at Halloween Horror Nights 2023, including five all-new, chilling original haunted houses and five unnerving scare zones. The world’s premier Halloween event celebrates its 32nd year with a record-breaking 48 nights of immersing guests into the eeriest of experiences that could only be endured at Halloween Horror Nights – including a circus that’s spiraled into chaos, the long-awaited emergence of Halloween Horror Nights legend, Dr. Oddfellow, and a dark, resurrected story that delves into the haunting history of Universal attractions past. In the midst of the screams, guests can experience a disturbingly entertaining live show, an all-new Tribute Store, take a bite out of the horror with scary-good food and beverage, and so much more.

Here’s a glimpse of what’s lingering in the fog at Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights 2023:

ALL-NEW ORIGINAL HAUNTED HOUSES
Five formidable stories await to unfold in original haunted houses where willing guests will succumb to:

·    A demented, late-night circus led by an evil ringmaster and notorious icon looking for human souls to fuel his dark intentions in “Dr. Oddfellow: Twisted Origins”

·    A horrific twist to a frightening, yet familiar tale and sinister battle between Fire and Ice in “Dueling Dragons: Choose Thy Fate”

·    Blood-soaked campgrounds deep in the trenches of mountains where vicious, bloodthirsty monsters have returned with a vengeance in “YETI: Campground Kills”

·    Selling their souls for fame in “The Darkest Deal” where they quickly learn a deal can be more than they bargained for

·    A colonial cult looking to slaughter those who dare refuse to worship the Bloodmoon in “Bloodmoon: Dark Offerings”

FIVE UNNERVING SCARE ZONES
As the sun sets on Universal Studios Florida and ominous clouds fill the sky, Dr. Oddfellow steps out of Halloween Horror Nights past to fill the streets with hordes of taunting scareactors in five all-new scare zones where guests will:

·    Come face to face with the devious legend who is promising immortality for those who dare to enter “Dr. Oddfellow’s Collection of Horror”

·    Cower in fear as the signs of the zodiac come to life in “Dark Zodiac” where Dr. Oddfellow uses his power to transform the zodiac signs into horrifying horoscope creatures

·    Venture into the “Jungle of Doom: Expedition Horror” where Dr. Oddfellow’s twisted and bizarre experiments combine elements of nature and animals to create vicious jungle creatures looking to satisfy their cravings

·    Attend a music festival crashed by bloodthirsty vampires let loose by Dr. Oddfellow in “Vamp ’69: Summer of Blood”

·    Stumble upon Dr. Oddfellow’s crates and cages that once housed monsters of all kinds who have escaped in pursuit of chaos in “Shipyard 32: Horrors Unhinged”
 

NEW SPINE-CHILLING EXPERIENCES AND KILLER FOOD

·    Guests can enjoy the all-new disturbingly entertaining show, “Nightmare Fuel Revenge Dream,” that features a new dreamer confronting the creature that’s been turning her dreams into nightmares.

·    While shopping the latest Halloween Horror Nights merchandise and treats in an all-new Tribute Store, guests can enter a mysterious NYC Comic Book Shop and experience the “Tribute to Terror” by stepping into the pages of this original, terrifying, horror comic book.

·    Guests can enjoy a drink at the Red Coconut Club as it will once again transform to the Dead Coconut Club donning a new theme and menu.

·    When guests want to take a bite out of the horror, they can enjoy a monstrous menu of all-new food & beverage items, including Bloody Campground Poutine, El Pastor Torta and Sour Apple Pie Funnel Fries, in addition to returning fan-favorites like Pizza Fries.

·    New this year, Peacock’s Halloween Horror Bar will feature themed libations within an ominous nightclub vibe, photo opportunities, and more.

EXCLUSIVE HALLOWEEN EXPERIENCES AT UNIVERSAL ORLANDO’S HOTELS
Universal Orlando hotel guests can stay near the fear and receive exclusive benefits, including Early Park Admission to the theme parks during the day and access to priority event entrance to Halloween Horror Nights at night as well as complimentary transportation to the theme parks and Universal CityWalk.

·    For those dying to experience this year’s “killer” food & beverage before the event even opens, Taste of Terror will offer guests an exclusive preview of select items that will be featured at Halloween Horror Nights select nights from August 10 through August 26. For more information and to purchase tickets to Taste of Terror, click here.
 

Vacation packages are available that include one-night admission to the event, Universal hotel accommodations and admission to all three of Universal Orlando’s thrilling theme parks. And for the first time ever, the fog has spread to all eight of Universal Orlando’s hotels with exclusive activations and experiences for hotel guests inspired by this year’s event, including Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort’s exclusive “Chucky’s Twisted Playground” photo illusion experience based on the USA and SYFY series, plus, the Universal Monsters Gallery of Legends lobby photo opportunities in all other hotel lobbies and more.

Additional vacation packages and discounts on hotel stays are available for the ultimate fall getaway. Guests can also purchase single-night tickets or the popular Frequent Fear and Rush of Fear Passes, plus event upgrades like Express Pass, R.I.P. Tour and the daytime Behind the Screams: Unmasking the Horror Tour. Click here for more information and to book a fall getaway.

Los Angeles Life and Style, Museums

LACMA Art + Technology Lab Announces 2023 Grant Recipients.

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(Los Angeles, CA—July 27, 2023) The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) is pleased to announce the recipients of its 2023 Art + Technology grants: Patty Chang and David Kelley; Tristan Duke; Haleigh Nickerson; and Gala Porras-Kim. The grant recipients selected for 2023 will explore deep sea mining; examine the intersection of high-tech imaging, neutrino astronomy, and glaciology; revive the Sojourner Mars rover; and respond to institutional cataloging systems. 

Los Angeles Life and Style

BAFTA confirms new and returning chairs and deputy chairs of its Film and Television Committees.

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London – Wednesday 26 July:  BAFTA today confirms the chairs and deputy chairs of its Film and Television Committees.

BAFTA’s three sector committees – comprised of BAFTA members who volunteer their time – play a central role in the oversight and steering of BAFTA’s high-profile Film, Games and Television Awards, and support BAFTA to deliver its strategic charitable mission through invaluable industry insight and expertise. The chairs of all three committees also sit on BAFTA’s Board of Trustees.

BAFTA’s guiding principles for its awards are to celebrate creative excellence, level the playing field, provide a fair and robust process, and encourage positive industry change. The eligibility, campaigning rules and voting criteria for the Film, Games, Television and Television Craft Awards are individually reviewed and set by the sector committees annually.

  • Anna Higgs, managing director of Casarotto Ramsay & Associates, has been re-elected as chair of BAFTA’s Film Committee, having held the position of chair for the previous two years, and deputy chair two years prior. Anna will serve alongside Emily Stillman, senior vice president at Warner Bros. Studio Leavesden, who has been newly elected deputy chair.
  • Hilary Rosen, director of commissioning at UKTV, has been newly elected as chair of BAFTA’s Television Committee. Christine Healy, COO of Keshet Productions UK,has been newly elected deputy chair.

As previously announced, Sara Putt was recently appointed by the Board as chair of BAFTA in June 2023. Tara Saunders continues as chair of the Games Committee, alongside deputy chair Des Gayle.

Sara Putt, chair of BAFTA said: “We are so grateful to our Sector Committee members who are comprised of people from across the screen industries who generously volunteer their time and expertise. We are delighted to see Anna Higgs re-elected as our Film Committee chair, and to welcome Hilary Rosen to the chair of the Television Committee for the first time. Together with Tara Saunders who chairs BAFTA’s Games Committee, and our deputy chairs Emily Stillman for Film, Christine Healy for TV and Des Gayle for Games, our committees play a central role in ensuring BAFTA’s activities, including our world-leading awards, support and spotlight the screen industries and the talented people within them.” 

Biographies

Anna Higgs
Anna Higgs is managing director of Casarotto Ramsay & Associates, a fiercely independent agency for some of the world’s most exceptional talent working in film, theatre, television and new media.  A creative leader with wide-ranging experience, she is also Chair of the BAFTA Film Committee and on the Board of Trustees.  She has been named one of Time Out’s ‘Creative 100’ and Creative Review’s ‘Creative Leaders 50’.

Anna Higgs

Emily Stillman
As senior vice president at Warner Bros. Studio Leavesden, Emily is responsible for Business Development, Marketing and Operations for Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden, Warner Bros. Leavesden Park and Warner Bros. Set Lighting & Rigging; working to attract all types of productions, from high-end TV drama to feature films, music videos and commercials. Most recently Emily oversaw the preparation and delivery of WBSL masterplan expansion application to local and central government, gaining approval on all levels with the construction plan due to start Jan 2024.
Emily is passionate about diversity and inclusion and during her time at Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden has worked on a number of initiatives and events with the aim of making the industry more inclusive, including an annual International Women’s Day event.
Emily became a board member of the Production Guild in September 2020 and was elected to the BAFTA Film Committee in June 2021. She is also on the Film and TV charity Mental Health Taskforce Group, is a judge on the Movers and Shakers awards panel and was listed in Variety’s Women That Have Made An Impact in Global Entertainment 2021 report.

Hilary Rosen
Hilary Rosen is director of commissioning at UKTV and leads UKTV’s award-winning team of commissioners, overseeing all of UKTV’s original unscripted and scripted content. Hilary has commissioned some of UKTV’s biggest successes including BAFTA-winning show Taskmaster and award-winning Mel Giedroyc: Unforgivable. While running the Factual and Factual Entertainment slate she and her team commissioned breakout hits Emma Willis: Delivering Babies, Stacey Dooley Sleeps Over, the double BAFTA-winning Big Zuu’s Big Eats, Blackadder: The Lost Pilot and the Bangers and Cash franchise. Her team has delivered the hit scripted shows Annika, We Hunt Together and The Cockfields.
Prior to UKTV Hilary was creative director at Silver River. Her career has also encompassed ten years as a senior executive producer at Lion Television having begun her career in BBC News and Current Affairs at Panorama. Hilary is an active member of the BAFTA Television Committee and has also acted as a consultant for BBC Academy, worked on the Edinburgh International TV Festival and Realscreen advisories and is passionate about mentoring women in television.

Christine Healy
Christine is COO of Keshet Productions UK, a UK Scripted HETV production company, where she oversees the commercial, operational & production side of the business.
Throughout her television career she has played a pivotal role in the success of a multitude of high-profile dramas, including Line of Duty, Doctor Foster, The White Queen, Catherine the Great, and Des, and has worked with some of Britain’s leading production companies including New Pictures, Drama Republic, Leftbank, Company Pictures, World Productions, BBC Studios, and ITV Studios.
She remains an engaged Council member of the HETV Fund at ScreenSkills, whose main purpose is to support and enhance the HETV industry through professional training and development chiefly for below-the-line freelance talent at all stages of their careers across the whole of the UK.

About BAFTA

BAFTA – the British Academy of Film and Television Arts – is a world-leading independent arts charity that brings the very best work in film, games and television to public attention and supports the growth of creative talent in the UK and internationally. Through its Awards ceremonies and year-round programme of learning events and initiatives – which includes workshops, masterclasses, scholarships, lectures and mentoring schemes in the UK, USA and Asia – BAFTA identifies and celebrates excellence, discovers, inspires and nurtures new talent, and enables learning and creative collaboration. For more, visit www.bafta.org. BAFTA is a registered charity (no. 216726).

Classic Films, Los Angeles Life and Style, TCM

Turner Classic Movies and the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures hosts an evening on TCM for Silent Sunday Nights.

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Sunday Silent Film Series July 23 – Aug 27

https://www.academymuseum.org/en/programs/series/silent-sundays?lid=8dfni3y8qp9q

LOS ANGELES – As a nod to Turner Classic Movies (TCM)’s “Silent Sunday Nights,” hosted by Academy Museum Director and President Jacqueline Stewart, the museum is launching a series of silent film screenings. Historian David Pierce has concluded that only 26% of American silent features survive in complete form. Both TCM and the Academy Museum are dedicated to showcasing the films of this important period in filmmaking history as part of our cultural heritage. Taking place on Sundays at 2pm, Silent Sundays will showcase iconic movies from the silent era as well as forgotten gems and international classics.

Programmed by Bernardo Rondeau.
Notes by Dorota Lech, K.J. Relth-Miller, and Robert Reneau.

TCM Sunday Silent Film Schedule July 23 – August 27, 2023

FILM PROGRAM Sunday July 23, 2023
Earth (Zemlya)The new soundtrack for the film was created by Luke Corradine by order of the UFACE association.
2:00 PM
FILM PROGRAM
Fanchon the Cricket with RositaLive musical accompaniment by Michael Mortilla.
2:00 PM
SUN, JUL 30 2023

FILM PROGRAM
Flesh and the DevilLive musical accompaniment by Michael Mortilla.
2:00 PM
SUN, AUG 6 2023
FILM PROGRAM
Tokyo ChorusLive musical accompaniment by Michael Mortilla. 
2:00 PM
SUN, AUG 13 2023
FILM PROGRAM
The RacketLive musical accompaniment by Michael Mortilla. 
2:00 PM
SUN, AUG 20 2023
FILM PROGRAM
Safety Last! 100th Anniversary
2:00 PM
SUN, AUG 27 2023
Los Angeles Life and Style, Music News, Music Notes

After Ms. Marvel and Loki, composer, pop singer A-ZAL unveils new summer pop single, “Movie Script” set to be released August 11, 2023.

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NEW YORK – A-Zal, the emerging popstar from New York, is ready to captivate audiences worldwide with his latest release, “Movie Script.” This sensational single, packed with a funky vibe and pop-infused melodies, is bound to hook listeners from the very first play. Scheduled for release on August 11, 2023, “Movie Script” is poised to become this summer’s anthem, destined to be on repeat for fans. A-Zal’s infectious melodies and relatable lyrics make it impossible not to groove and sing along to this unforgettable track.

In “Movie Script,” A-Zal’s musical brilliance shines through, showcasing his unique style and talent. With infectious rhythms, catchy hooks, and top-notch production, the song demonstrates his ability to craft music that transcends genres and leaves a lasting impact on listeners.

Pop singer, A-Zal releases new single, “Movie Script.” Also known as Atif Afzal, is a New York-based pop singer known for his soulful voice and impactful songwriting.
Pop singer, A-Zal releases new single, “Movie Script.”

A-Zal brings a fresh and unique perspective to his music. Affectionately referred to as the “American Ed Sheeran” by his fans, A-Zal has a talent for creating heartfelt and resonant melodies. His soundtracks have graced popular television series Ms. Marvel, which was not only famous in the US but gained admiration worldwide. His compositions have also been featured in Loki, NCIS: Los Angeles, and The Twilight Zone, as well as Netflix films like Resort to Love. He has collaborated with major studios and networks like Marvel Studios, CBS Network, Netflix, and Viacom18.

“Movie Script” further cements his reputation as an artist who flawlessly blends pop sensibilities with soulful elements, creating a sound that’s both contemporary and timeless. Listeners can look forward to accessing “Movie Script” on all major digital streaming platforms, ensuring that fans can enjoy the song anytime and anywhere. 

Mark your calendars and get ready to experience A-Zal’s latest musical masterpiece. For more updates on A-Zal and the release of “Movie Script,” be sure to visit his official website and follow him on social media channels –  Instagram Facebook YouTube TikTok 

About A-Zal

A-Zal, also known as Atif Afzal, is a New York-based pop singer known for his soulful voice and impactful songwriting. With a childhood immersed in British pop culture in London, A-Zal brings a fresh and unique perspective to his music. He has collaborated with major studios and networks such as Marvel Studios, CBS Network, Netflix, and Viacom18.

A-Zal’s fans affectionately refer to him as the “American Ed Sheeran” due to his ability to create heartfelt and resonant melodies. His compositions have graced popular television series like Ms. Marvel, Loki, NCIS: Los Angeles, and The Twilight Zone, as well as Netflix films such as Resort to Love.

Growing up in London and receiving training from a Royal College of Music alumnus, A-Zal’s musical journey took flight after pursuing a career in engineering and working at KPMG. Since his debut in 2013, he has composed scores and soundtracks for a range of international films, including Gift, Then a Hero Comes Along and The Alternative. A-Zal’s previous music has been released by prominent labels such as Universal Music Group and BMG.

Recognized for his talent as both a composer and singer, A-Zal has enchanted audiences with his vocals in various songs. His music transcends borders, captivating listeners with its universal appeal.

A-Zal continues to push artistic boundaries, captivating fans worldwide with his evocative melodies and storytelling. His music resonates deeply, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of his audience. A-Zal is an extraordinary artist, poised to make a lasting impact on the pop music scene. 

Los Angeles Life and Style

Toad comes to Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Hollywood.

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SUPER NINTENDO WORLD at Universal Studios Hollywood Welcomes Toad, New Walk-About Character, Joining Mario, Luigi and Princess Peach in the Mushroom Kingdom,to Greet and Interact with Guests and Fans.

Universal City, California, July 17, 2023 – Toad joins his friends Mario, Luigi and Princess Peach as a new walk-about character within SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™ at Universal Studios Hollywood.

SUPER NINTENDO WORLD at Universal Studios Hollywood Welcomes Toad, A New Walk-About Character

Toad, a resident of the Mushroom Kingdom who works in service of Princess Peach, will now be on hand to meet and interact with guests visiting from around the world.

Since opening in early 2023, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD has been incredibly well received, resonating with theme park guests and Nintendo fans across every generation. From the moment guests pass through the signature giant green pipe and are transported into the Mushroom Kingdom to become a part of this exhilarating universe, the energy and excitement is transformative, filled with exploration, discovery and play unlike anything they’ve ever experienced.

SUPER NINTENDO WORLD is an all-new visually spectacular land, located within an expanded area of Universal Studios Hollywood. Within the vibrancy of colors and architectural ingenuity sits the groundbreaking “Mario Kart™: Bowser’s Challenge” ride, as well as many interactive activities to engage the entire family within the captivating Mushroom Kingdom.

Along with themed dining at Toadstool Cafe™ and shopping at the 1-UP Factory™ retail store, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD is an inspiring, game-changing addition to the world-famous theme park.

At-a-glance, this is SUPER NINTENDO WORLD:

“Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge”: This all-new, technologically advanced ride, inspired by the popular Mario Kart™ video game series, seamlessly fuses cutting-edge augmented reality (AR) with projection mapping technology and actual set pieces along a moving ride track. Set against a multi-sensory backdrop of color, sound and movement, guests are seated in stadium-style, four-seat vehicles as they navigate familiar courses through the creative use and integration of head mounted AR goggles. This unique feature is a key point of differentiation that distinguishes this ride from other theme park attractions.

The premise of “Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge” is simple but equally inspiring and challenging, appealing to guests of all ages regardless of gaming experience. As part of Team Mario, guests steer through underwater courses and courses in the clouds to compete for the Golden Cup while collecting digital coins to defeat Team Bowser and win. “Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge” raises the stakes for guests as an intriguing and repeatable ride with a variety of outcomes.

Mount Beanpole: This towering landmark sits at the heart of the land and also serves as the entry queue for “Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge.”

Bowser’s Castle: Adorned with a breathtaking sculpture of a large and powerful Bowser, this structure serves as a key centerpiece of the land, home to SUPER NINTENDO WORLD’s signature ride, “Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge.” As guests navigate the corridors and pass through the hall of medallions and trophies of the ominous castle towards the ride, they learn more about Bowser’s calculated plans to defeat Team Mario for the coveted Golden Cup.

Power-Up Band™: These wearable, state-of-the-art wristbands sync with the official  Universal Studios Hollywood’s free downloadable app to level-up the guest experience within the land and enhance its many interactive elements. These include, but are not limited to, keeping individual and team scores, collecting digital coins and obtaining keys after winning Key Challenges throughout the land. When riding “Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge,” guests are encouraged to tap their Power-Up Band on the ride vehicle’s steering wheel. By doing so, they can track digital coins collected as well as gauge their ranking against friends and family when synced to the official Universal Studios Hollywood app. They are available in six design options with character themes and can be purchased both within the land and at SUPER NINTENDO WORLD retail shops located within the theme park and on Universal CityWalk Hollywood. 

Interactive Gameplay: Within the land, guests can enjoy many interactive areas, including punching ? Blocks to collect digital coins. They will discover a new dimension of SUPER NINTENDO WORLD via the interactive binoculars positioned within the land, employing augmented reality technology. Guests can also collect keys after winning the Key Challenges from Goomba Crazy Crank, Koopa Troopa POWer Punch, Piranha Plant Nap Mishap and Thwomp Panel Panic. Collecting at least three keys will ultimately allow access to the final boss battle with Bowser Jr.’s Shadow Showdown.

Toadstool Cafe:  The land’s signature restaurant Toadstool Cafe serves a delicious menu perfected by Chef Toad where he greets guests upon entry. Menu items prepared fresh daily include Toadstool Cheesy Garlic Knots, Super Mushroom Soup, Piranha Plant Caprese, Mario Bacon Cheeseburger, Luigi Pesto Chicken Burger, ? Block Tiramisu and Princess Peach Cupcake.

1-UP Factory: What better way to commemorate a visit to SUPER NINTENDO WORLD than to visit the 1-UP Factory retail shop to purchase collectable memorabilia. The 1-UP Factory offers an extensive selection of merchandise from themed apparel to iconic character hats and an array of plush characters, including Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, Yoshi, Toad and Bowser.

SUPER NINTENDO WORLD is conceived in partnership with Nintendo and the visionaries at Universal Creative to deliver exhilarating entertainment with innovative technological achievements inspired by characters and video games that have appealed to Nintendo fans for generations.

For more information and details, guests can visit www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com; like Universal Studios Hollywood on Facebook and follow @UniStudios on Instagram and Twitter.

Family Resorts and Theme Parks, Halloween, Los Angeles Life and Style, Universal Studios Hollywood Theme Park Review

UNIVERSAL STUDIOS’ HALLOWEEN HORROR NIGHTS TRANSPORTS GUESTS BACK TO STRANGER THINGS’ UPSIDE DOWN AT UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD AND UNIVERSAL ORLANDO RESORT.

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GET READY TO ESCAPE VECNA’S CURSE – UNIVERSAL STUDIOS’ HALLOWEEN HORROR NIGHTS TRANSPORTS GUESTS BACK TO THE UPSIDE DOWN IN AN ALL-NEW HAUNTED HOUSE INSPIRED BY SEASON 4 OF NETFLIX’S CRITICALLY ACCLAIMED ORIGINAL SERIES “STRANGER THINGS.”

Universal Orlando Resort Extends the Horror with Four Additional Dates to a Record-Breaking 48 Nights.

All Event Tickets are Now on Sale for Halloween Horror Nights, Beginning September 1 at Universal Orlando Resort and September 7 at Universal Studios Hollywood Click Here for a First Look and Here to Purchase Tickets.

Universal City, Calif., Orlando, Fla, July 13, 2023) –Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights brings season 4 of Netflix’s original series “Stranger Things” to life in a terrifying all-new haunted house, beginning Friday, September 1 at Universal Orlando Resort and Thursday, September 7 at Universal Studios Hollywood.

This year’s petrifying haunted house will once again transport guests to Hawkins, Indiana, where they will encounter the newest supernatural villain, Vecna, who is hell-bent on obliterating the volatile barrier between the eerie Upside Down and the real world in an attempt to reign supreme.

The “Stranger Things” haunted house mirrors the mind-bending twists and supernatural terror of Season 4, immersing guests in a heart-pounding experience alongside valiant characters from the series, including Eleven, Max, Eddie and more. Guests will find themselves on the front line of Vecna’s deadly attacks on the citizens of Hawkins while traveling through iconic scenes, including the notorious Hawkins Lab, the enigmatic Creel House and Vecna’s chilling mindscape. Along the way, guests will confront their deepest fears and come face to face with otherworldly creatures like demobats and even Vecna himself. In a race against the clock, guests find themselves in the ultimate showdown within Vecna’s blood-red Mind Lair, striving to escape and save mankind from his deadly curse.

“From the opening shots of ‘Stranger Things 4,’ episode one, we knew this was meant to be an experience at Halloween Horror Nights,” said John Murdy, Executive Producer of Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood. “We’re excited for our fans to live Vecna’s curse as we recreate the iconic and terrifying moments from the show,” added Lora Sauls, Assistant Director, Creative Development and Show Direction at Universal Orlando Resort.

UNIVERSAL ORLANDO RESORT TICKETS AND PACKAGES
Guests can now experience a record-breaking 48 nights of terror at Universal Orlando Resort’s Halloween Horror Nights, running select nights through Saturday, November 4. All event tickets are now on sale, including the popular Frequent Fear and Rush of Fear Passes that allow guests to experience the horror again and again on multiple nights during the event and guests can get to the fear faster by upgrading their Fear Passes to include express access. Those looking for an early start can add the Scream Early ticket to their event ticket, giving them access to Universal Studios Florida between 3 and 5 p.m. to enjoy the thrills of the theme park before bracing for the chills of Halloween Horror Nights. Guests can also purchase single-night tickets and event upgrades like Express Pass, R.I.P Tour and the daytime Behind the Screams: Unmasking the Horror Tour.

U.S. and Canada residents can stay, scream and save up to $200 (savings based on a seven-night stay) with a special vacation package that includes one-night event admission, five days of admission to all three Universal Orlando theme parks and hotel accommodations. Florida Residents can save on a vacation package that includes one-night event admission, hotel accommodations and two-day tickets to all three Universal Orlando theme parks. All Universal Orlando hotel guests receive exclusive benefits such as Early Park Admission to the theme parks during the day and special access to a dedicated Halloween Horror Nights entry gate at night. To learn more about Halloween Horror Nights and to book a fall getaway to Universal Orlando, visit www.UniversalOrlando.com/HalloweenTickets.

Universal Orlando Annual Passholders can take advantage of exclusive discounts on single-night tickets on select nights in September. Passholders can also save with a special vacation package that includes one-night admission to Halloween Horror Nights, hotel accommodations and a commemorative Passholder Halloween Horror Nights pin.

UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD TICKETS
Universal Studios Hollywood offers a variety of Halloween Horror Nights ticket options, including General Admission, Universal Express, After 2 P.M. Day/Night, the premium R.I.P. Tour, the new Early Access Ticket, which provides access to select haunted houses prior to the scheduled event opening (starting at 5:30 p.m., subject to change),and the popular Frequent Fear Pass and Ultimate Fear Pass. Click here for more information about each ticket type and for Terms and Conditions.

Halloween Horror Nights runs select nights from Friday, September 1 through Saturday, November 4 at Universal Orlando Resort and Thursday, September 7 through Tuesday, October 31 at Universal Studios Hollywood. Additional details, including new haunted houses, will be revealed soon. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.HalloweenHorrorNights.com.

Los Angeles Life and Style

Valencia Marketplace’s Summer Concerts Has Something for Everyone on Fridays, July 14 – August 18, 2023.

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Join your neighbors and friends for our concerts! All concerts are Friday Evenings 6:00-8:00 PM

July 14 – Greg Anderson and the Brass Roots Initiative

Classic Rock Favorites

 

 

July 21 – Eddie and the Boot Scooters

Country Western Favorites

 

 

July 28 — Dean Clark’s 1950’s Rock and Roll Revival

Classic Oldies

 

 

August 4 – Angel City Big Band

Music from the Great American Songbook

 

 

August 11 – Joe Finkle and the 7-10 Splits –

Rockabilly and Elvis Tribute

 

 

August 18 – The Hodads

Sounds of a So Cal Summer

Summer Sunset Concerts 2023
Los Angeles Life and Style

Nominations Announced for 75th Emmy Awards

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Nominations for the 75th Emmy Awards were announced today from the Hollywood Athletic Club, recognizing extraordinary programming, performances and a diverse range of exceptional storytelling across multiple platforms.

The live virtual ceremony was hosted by Emmy Award-nominated actress Yvette Nicole Brown and Television Academy Chair Frank Scherma.

Nominations for the 75th Emmy Awards were announced today from the Hollywood Athletic Club, recognizing extraordinary programming, performances and a diverse range of exceptional storytelling across multiple platforms. The live virtual ceremony was hosted by Emmy Award-nominated actress Yvette Nicole Brown and Television Academy Chair Frank Scherma.

This season, the Emmy Awards celebrates its 75th Anniversary and the nominations were streamed live from the place it all began in 1949, the famed Hollywood Athletic Club. That relatively modest Los Angeles-area ceremony which featured just five awards categories and $5 admission tickets has evolved into television’s biggest night, celebrating excellence throughout the industry and viewed by television fans around the world. In the age of “peak TV” with close to 600 original scripted series, the nominations recognize the importance of the performers, producers, writers, directors, craftspeople, and all those who worked on television programs in the past year.

There are more than 20,000 voting members of the Academy and this year’s nominations marked the highest voter participation in Emmy history.

Succession holds this year’s top spot with 27 Emmy nominations followed by The Last of Us (24), The White Lotus (23) and Ted Lasso (21).

“We are thrilled with the historic level of participation from our voting members this Emmy season,” said Scherma. “As we approach the remarkable milestone of the Emmy’s 75th anniversary, the Academy is more appreciative than ever of another year of extraordinary content. We are honored to recognize those who have elevated the world’s favorite global medium.”

There were 38 first-time performer nominees across all performer categories this season including Jessica Chastain (George & Tammy), Elizabeth Debicki (The Crown), Taron Egerton (Black Bird), Riley Keough (Daisy Jones & The Six), James Marsden (Jury Duty), Jenna Ortega (Wednesday), Pedro Pascal (The Last of Us, Saturday Night Live, and Patagonia: Life on the Edge of the World), Aubrey Plaza (The White Lotus), Daniel Radcliffe (Weird: The Al Yankovic Story), Bella Ramsey (The Last of Us), Alan Ruck (Succession), Jason Segel (Shrinking), Jeremy Allen White (The Bear) and Steven Yeun (BEEF).

In addition to Pascal, performers with multiple nominations this year include Murray Bartlett (The Last Of Us and Welcome To Chippendales), Alex Borstein (The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel and Family Guy), Quinta Brunson (Abbott Elementary and Saturday Night Live), Bill Hader (performance, directing and writing for Barry), Sharon Horgan (performance and writing for Bad Sisters), Melanie Lynskey (Yellowjackets and The Last of Us), Jason Sudeikis (performance and writing for Ted Lasso), and Ali Wong (BEEF and Tuca & Bertie).

The nominations rosters may be revised in cases where names or titles are incorrect or appeals for changes—including the addition or removal of names—are approved by the Television Academy’s Emmy Awards Committee. Producer eligibility is based primarily on title; producer nominees in certain program categories will be announced mid-August and may increase the number of multiple nominees. Final-round online voting begins August 17, 2023.

The complete list of Emmy nominations, as compiled by the independent accounting firm of Ernst & Young LLP, and other Academy news and updates are available here at Emmys.com.

The 75th Emmy Awards is currently scheduled to broadcast live on FOX on Monday, September 18, (8:00-11:00 PM EDT/5:00-8:00 PM PDT) from the Peacock Theater at L.A. LIVE. The 2023 Creative Arts Emmy Awards are currently scheduled to take place at the Peacock Theater over two consecutive nights on Saturday, September 9, and Sunday, September 10. An edited presentation is currently planned to air on Saturday, September 16, at 8:00 PM EDT/PDT on FXX.

About the Television Academy
The Television Academy strives to shape and advance the dynamic television landscape; cultivate a diverse, inclusive and accessible professional community; and advocate for the television industry while capturing the spirit of a new generation of content creators and industry professionals. Through innovative programs, publications and events, the Academy and its Foundation foster and empower storytellers. The Academy also celebrates those who excel in the industry recognizing their achievements through awards and accolades, including the renowned Emmy Award. Membership in the Academy is open to working professionals in the television industry. For more information, please visit TelevisionAcademy.com.

Los Angeles Life and Style

BAFTA publishes Film Awards Rulebook for 2024 with entries now open.

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BAFTA publishes Film Awards Rulebook for 2024 with entries now open.

London, Wednesday 12 July 2023: BAFTA today confirms the eligibility criteria, campaigning regulations and category rules for the 2024 BAFTA Film Awards. Entries are now open, kicking off the countdown to one of the most anticipated events in the global film calendar.

Reviewed annually, BAFTA’s guiding principles for its awards are to celebrate creative excellence, level the playing field, provide a fair and robust process, and encourage positive industry change.

For the 2024 edition, several updates have been introduced following in-depth consultation with sector peers and BAFTA’s cross-industry Film Committee. The key changes are as follows:

Campaigning

Detailed guidance and regulations on campaigning, hosting screenings and communicating with voters is now set out in a dedicated handbook for entrants and BAFTA members. A significant tightening of the rules around campaigning were last introduced as part of the 2020 BAFTA Review to ensure a fair and equitable process for entrants regardless of their origin, networks or marketing and PR budget. The updates for 2024 build-on and further clarify this ongoing work and can be found in full here.

Eligibility updates

UK-based productions will be required to have a policy in place on tackling bullying and harassment if entering into the Outstanding British Film and Outstanding Debut by a British Writer, Director or Producer categories. To support this rule change going forwards, free guidance and policy templates will be available on Creative UK in the coming weeks. This new intervention, announced in December 2022, builds on BAFTA’s long-standing work to help tackle bullying and harassment across the screen industries, and forms part of wider, ongoing collective cross-sector activity.

UK-based productions will be required to provide information about meeting BFI’s new Diversity Standards as BAFTA’s eligibility for Outstanding British Film and Outstanding Debut transitions from a minimum of two (Standard C + 1) to the BFI’s new diversity standards requirement to include Standard E (accessibility).

Following BAFTA’s introduction of the BFI Diversity Standards in 2019 and Academy of Motion Picture Arts’ (AMPAS) introduction of new Inclusion Standards for its Best Picture category from 2024 onwards, BAFTA will be monitoring the film industry’s progress on diversity and inclusion internationally.

Specific category changes – Director

BAFTA’s 2020 Review included a positive intervention for female directors submitting into the BAFTA Film Awards Director category, allowing for a 50:50 gender split for male and female directors in the longlisting stage (16 in total). This has had a very positive effect on the number of female directors nominated and winning in this category compared with the years prior to the Review. This intervention is now being evolved to include directors who identify as non-binary.

For 2024, the top female, male and directors who identify as non-binary will be longlisted to a maximum of 17, with gender parity between male and female directors upheld. In the nominating round, the number of nominated directors will remain at six.

BAFTA View

BAFTA View, the academy’s online viewing platform launched in 2020, is a key part of BAFTA’s mission to level the playing field by removing the previously prohibitively high cost of supplying DVDs to BAFTA’s 7,500 voting global membership. It will continue to be mandatory for all films in contention to be available on BAFTA View ahead of Round One voting. Ongoing upgrades to BAFTA View will enable the platform to offer all entrants the chance to provide films in 4K and 5.1 sound for the first time, however watching films at the cinema or via BAFTA’s in-person official screening programme will continue to be the encouraged primary method of viewing for voters.

Emma Baehr, Executive Director of Awards & Content, said: “The changes to the 2024 rules reflect BAFTA’s ongoing commitment to using our Awards to help effect meaningful cultural change in the screen industries and our continued efforts to level the playing field through equitable, transparent and robust processes. We are hugely grateful for the expertise of BAFTA’s cross-industry Film Committee and the rigour and diligence they bring to reviewing and setting these rules annually. Celebrating creative excellence continues to be at the heart of our Awards and in a challenging and uncertain time for many working in the sector, our awards recognise the craft, creativity and tireless work that goes into bringing the magic of films and their stories to life.”

First held in 1949, the BAFTA Film Awards celebrate the very best of film over the past year, and the filmmakers, cast and crews on both sides of the camera. The 2024 edition will be held in London on Sunday 18 February. A comprehensive overview of entry information including rules and eligibility requirements can be found on BAFTA’s Awards webpage here.

As previously announced the key dates are as follows:

  • Friday 8 December 2023 – Round One voting opens
  • Friday 5 January 2024 – Longlists published; Round Two voting opens
  • Saturday 6 January 2024 – The BAFTA Tea Party in Los Angeles
  • Thursday 18 January 2024 – Nominations announced; Round Three opens
  • Sunday 18 February 2024 – BAFTA Film Awards