Jack’s Balloon Goes Viral as It Sits Above Disney Resort Lobby

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Parks, Disney Resorts

Via DisDining.com

You’ve dreamed, planned, and saved for the Walt Disney World Resort vacation of a lifetime. Whether you’re eagerly awaiting to share the experience with family and friends, excited to see your children beam with excitement, or are treating yourself to a solo trip… a Disney vacation is a magical getaway!

While we like to dream that every moment of a Disney trip is a perfect one, the truth is hiccups happen… and sweet, four-year-old Jack recently discovered this on his own.

But, what could have been a sad childhood memory has been turned into an incredible story supporting Jack and bringing together the Disney fandom in the greatest way.

Jack and his family arrived at Walt Disney World Resort on Monday, November 21, 2022, and set off to explore Disney Springs, where the family purchased a Mickey and Minnie Mouse balloon for Jack.

Jack with his Mickey Balloon

Not only is a balloon a perfect Disney gift for a child, but it is also useful. Jack’s mother, Laurie, notes, “We remember how these balloons helped us find our stroller in the sea of stroller parking, so we wanted to get the balloon early in on our trip.”

The next day, Tuesday, November 22, 2022, the family decided to ride the Resort Monorail to one of Disney’s most popular Resort Hotels, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa.

The Resort is an especially popular location this time of year as Guests arrive to see the stunning Christmas tree, holiday decorations, and Gingerbread house.

Disney Grand Floridian Resort and Spa Gingerbread House

Jack’s family took pictures of the beautiful Resort lobby, all decked out for the holidays. As the family turned the corner to grab some delicious treats from the Gingerbread shop, Jack’s Mickey balloon escaped from its string.

Laurie recalls, “There was nothing I could do but stand there and watch Mickey float away, all the way to the top of the Grand Floridian!”

This moment is practically every child’s worst nightmare! We can likely all recall a moment of losing a balloon with that utterly helpless feeling as it floats away.

Jack's Mickey Balloon

Laurie goes on to share, “The minute Jack noticed the string hanging from his stroller, he put two and two together and realized it was his Mickey balloon floating away. His little heart shattered, and he and I both stood there and shed some tears.”

But, what could have been a difficult moment for Jack was instead rescued by his brilliant mother!

When the balloon finally rested at the top of the Grand Floridian lobby and was looking down at Jack, Laurie notes, “I told him that his Mickey balloon wanted to escape and become a new “hidden” Mickey for other people to find!”

Laurie put Jack’s balloon story out on social media within Disney fan groups. She asked if anyone sees it to please use #JacksMickeyBalloon and let them know where they are visiting Disney from. She would be compiling a memory book for Jack.

Now, a full week later, #JacksMickeyBalloon is trending on social media! Disney fans are sharing images throughout Laurie’s post for Jack to see his balloon still surviving as a hidden Mickey.

Jack’s mom, Laurie, adds, “I never realized his balloon would become so famous and that people would want to go to the Grand Floridian to find #jacksmickeyballoon. The Facebook comments and posts of his balloon pictures have really become a highlight of our trip! His little face lights up every time I read him a new message!”

Disney fans understood the message, and Jack is receiving several notes from Guests visiting Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort lobby sharing photos of the balloon with Jack’s hashtag on social media.

As of November 28, 2022, the balloon remains up on the lobby ceiling. Laurie has shared, “I’m hoping that once Mickey comes down that we can receive the original balloon so I can frame it for him. We also plan on printing all the Facebook pictures and posts along with the comments and making him a memory book of #jacksmickeyballoon!”

Jack's Mickey Balloon

And, no worries, Disney was exceptional about Jack losing his balloon. The family took the balloon string and weight to another balloon location, where Cast Members were happy to replace the balloon.

We’re pretty sure Winnie-the-Pooh (A.A. Milne) said it best, “Nobody can be uncheered with a balloon.” Thank you to Jack and his mom, Laurie, for sharing their sweet story and spreading cheer with a single Mickey balloon.

Disney’s Newest Animated Movie On Track to Lose $100 Million

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney+, Uncategorized

It has been a rough time lately for Disney animation. In the past, Disney’s animated features were almost always a guaranteed success, from hits like Sleeping Beauty and Cinderella to more modern tales like Frozen and Encanto. However, the animation studio has been struggling more and more; in the past year, most of its films have underperformed. These include films from Pixar as well, like Turning Red, Lightyear, and the live-action/animated film Pinocchio.

Unfortunately, Disney’s newest animated film, Strange World, is faring even worse than its recent predecessors. Strange World premiered in theaters on November 23, but tanked at the box office over Thanksgiving weekend.

Now, according to a new report from Variety, Strange World is projected to lose at least $100 million at the box office during a time when Disney films have typically performed well.

“Normally this time of year, a Disney family film is the big draw,” says Paul Dergarabedian, a senior Comscore analyst. “It shows we’re still recovering and adapting to the constraints of the pandemic.”

Unless its business rebounds dramatically in the next few weeks (and that seems unlikely given the film’s moderate reviews, lackluster audience reception and minimal buzz), sources estimate that “Strange World” will lose at least $100 million in its theatrical run. Even with proper attention on Disney+ and home entertainment platforms, box office experts suggest it’ll be difficult to get the big-budget film into the black. Since “Strange World” cost $180 million to produce and tens of millions more in global marketing and distribution fees, the film needs to gross roughly $360 million to break even, sources say.

Not only has Strange World not performed well monetarily, but it also received the lowest audience scores a Disney movie has ever received from CinemaScore. Even Disney flops like Chicken Little and The Good Dinosaur received low As. Strange World, on the other hand, only gained a B audience score.

However, it’s always encouraged that fans watch a film regardless of ratings so that they can make their own judgment. Here’s more on Strange World.

Walt Disney Animation Studios’ original action-packed adventure “Strange World” introduces a legendary family of explorers, the Clades, as they attempt to navigate an uncharted, treacherous land alongside a motley crew that includes a mischievous blob, a three-legged dog and a slew of ravenous creatures. The voice cast includes Jake Gyllenhaal as Searcher Clade, a family man who finds himself out of his element on an unpredictable mission; Dennis Quaid as Searcher’s larger-than-life explorer father, Jaeger; Jaboukie Young-White as Searcher’s 16-year-old son, Ethan, who longs for adventure; Gabrielle Union as Meridian Clade, an accomplished pilot and Searcher’s partner in all things; and Lucy Liu as Callisto Mal, Avalonia’s fearless leader who spearheads the exploration into the strange world.

Even though it seems unlikely that Disney will break even with its new movie, there is still some hope for Strange World. That hope lies in Disney’s streaming platform, Disney+. Movie theaters are still struggling since the pandemic, and many people will wait for a movie to be available to stream. At this time, no Disney+ premiere date has been announced for Strange World.

Disney films have been averaging about 45 days in the theater before they head to Disney+, so it is possible Strange World will be streaming early in the new year.

A New Wave of Magic Awaits as Disney Cruise Line Celebrates 25 Years During ‘Silver Anniversary at Sea’

Posted on by Mathew Corn Uncategorized

On a warm summer day in July of 1998, the Disney Magic embarked on its maiden voyage, introducing the world to a new kind of cruise vacation where families are immersed in Disney storytelling, dazzling entertainment and unparalleled hospitality at sea. For 25 years, Disney Cruise Line has been a porthole through which guests experience global destinations and create cherished memories onboard a one-of-a-kind fleet of enchanting ships. 

In 2023, new magic will unfold on the high seas as Disney Cruise Line celebrates its 25th anniversary, bringing special entertainment, merchandise and celebratory experiences to select summer sailings. Guests are invited to take part in limited-time “Silver Anniversary at Sea” offerings across all five Disney Cruise Line ships from May through September of 2023. 

“For two-and-a-half decades, Disney Cruise Line has built an incredible legacy of creating unforgettable vacation memories for families around the world,” said Sharon Siskie, senior vice president and general manager, Disney Cruise Line. “Of course, at the heart of this anniversary celebration are our dedicated cast and crew members who continuously deliver legendary service and create magic at sea for our guests every day. Whether returning as a member of our Castaway Club or sailing with us for the first time, we are thrilled to invite guests of all ages to be a part of our very special anniversary festivities next summer.”

 Summer Sailings Offer Celebratory Surprises

The “Silver Anniversary at Sea” celebration will be featured on summer cruises aboard all five Disney Cruise Line ships. Guests will encounter new entertainment, limited-time enhancements, eye-catching decor, whimsical merchandise and other delightful surprises, all imbued with the magical spirit of this once-in-a-lifetime event. 

  • Captain Minnie Mouse and Captain Mickey Mouse will don dazzling new ensembles to mark the occasion. Their coordinated looks will feature shimmering, multi-toned fabric and swirling designs reminiscent of ocean waves. The iconic duo will make appearances in their festive attire exclusively aboard “Silver Anniversary at Sea” sailings across the Disney Cruise Line fleet.
  • Disney Cruise Line will debut a signature song to serve as the soundtrack of the celebration, tunefully threading nostalgic memories of vacations past with the of anticipation of new family adventures to come. The uplifting new melody will manifest in a variety of ways during summer sailings.
  • New family entertainment and activities will culminate in shimmering evening experiences created exclusively for the anniversary celebration.
  • Throughout their voyage, guests will discover themed culinary creations, from fanciful desserts to inspired craft cocktails and beyond.
  • Guests can commemorate Disney Cruise Line’s “Silver Anniversary at Sea” with the Shimmering Seas Collection, a line of dedicated merchandise featuring a new signature color. Inspired by the magical glow of sunshine reflecting upon turquoise waters, the Shimmering Seas Collection will include an assortment of apparel, accessories, drinkware, keepsakes and more.

Even more magic lies in store for guests aboard sailings that include “Silver Anniversary at Sea” offerings. Additional details about new entertainment, merchandise and other celebratory experiences will be announced at a later date.

Castaway Club Introduces a New Membership Tier

The anniversary of Disney Cruise Line also heralds the unveiling of a brand-new membership tier for Castaway Club, which recognizes returning Disney Cruise Line guests with exclusive rewards and perks.Honoring 25 years of Disney magic at sea, members will now earn the distinction of Pearl status after 25 Disney Cruise Line vacations. As the line’s biggest fans, Pearl members will unlock new at-home and onboard benefits, which will be announced in early 2023.

Enchantment-filled Voyages Sail to the Bahamas, Caribbean, Europe and Alaska

Cruises featuring the “Silver Anniversary at Sea” celebration will sail to the Bahamas, Caribbean, Europe and Alaska during the summer of 2023.

  • Departing from Miami May 24 to Sept. 4, the Disney Magic will visit destinations in the Bahamas and Caribbean, including Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay.
  • The Disney Wonder will depart on Alaskan voyages from Vancouver, Canada May 15 to Sept. 11 with stops in Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan and more.
  • From May 7 to Sept. 17, the Disney Dream will sail transatlantic and European itineraries, including the Mediterranean, Northern Europe and the Greek Isles.
  • The Disney Fantasy will set sail from Port Canaveral, Florida May 6 to Sept. 2 to the Eastern and Western Caribbean, each with a day at Castaway Cay.
  • Disney Cruise Line’s newest ship, the Disney Wish, will depart on sailings to Nassau, Bahamas and Castaway Cay May 1 to Sept. 8 from Port Canaveral.

Disney Says Its Limiting Number of Guests Who Can Purchase Genie+

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Parks, Uncategorized

Last year, Guests visiting Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort were introduced to Disney Genie+, a paid system that took the place of Disney’s incredibly popular FastPass system. Disney Genie+ required each Guest in a party to pay a certain amount per day in order to access a ride’s Lightning Lane — the new name for the FastPass lane. While Genie+ used to be a set price, it now fluctuates based on the day of the week and the time of the year and can go as high as $30 per person.

Since its inception, Disney Genie+ has been unpopular with Guests. Even though now-fired CEO Bob Chapek touted how many people were purchasing Genie+ and how it was improving the “Disney experience”, a number of Guests admitted that they were only purchasing the product because they felt it was the only way they would be able to experience a lot of what Disney Parks have to offer.

Haunted Mansion

In the year that Genie+ has been available, many Guests feel that the lines are worse than ever. Lightning Lanes have extended through entire lands, which is frustrating to both those who have purchased Genie+, and those who haven’t. Disney — and possibly returning CEO Bob Iger — have appeared to hear the complaints and have now clarified that they will limit just how many Guests can purchase Genie+ on a given day.

Theme park reporter Scott Gustin shared before and after photos of the changes made to the Disneyland Resort website:

Disneyland updated its Genie+ page in the past few days to include a line about the possibility of Genie+ sales being stopped based on demand. Screenshots of before and after.

Many who commented were shocked that Disney wasn’t limiting the number of Genie+ purchases already. Gustin then clarified that this might not be a change in the policy, but a website wording change, so Guests could be aware that they may not always be able to purchase Disney Genie+. We do not know how many people are allowed to purchase Genie+ every day.

space mountain

With Bob Iger back at the helm, Guests are hoping that he will get rid of Genie+ and bring back the old FastPass system. The major complaints about Genie+ have been the lack of availability of rides and the fact that Guests need to pay to ride an attraction after already paying hundreds of dollars to get into the theme park.

Disney’s New Design for a Roller Coaster that Jumps Tracks?

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Parks, Uncategorized

Disney’s new design for theme parks roller coaster with the ability to jump tracks has coaster junkies enthused, excited, shocked, and stunned, all at the same time.

Though fans of Disney Parks don’t always relish the idea of change in the parks, most can eventually find a way to roll with those changes once they realize that change is the predecessor to any new theme park addition, whether it’s a new take on an old ride or a brand-new attraction altogether.

A Disney Parks fan, I am. A coaster junkie, I am not.

Line the inside of a Disney Parks coaster car with velvet and fur, craft the lap belts from cashmere, and forge the safety bar from pure gold if you want. I’m happy as a clam standing in the “watch zones,” applauding you for your bravery.

So when reports about Walt Disney Imagineering’s design for a roller coaster with the ability to jump tracks surfaced, I paid little to no attention–at least as a lover of coasters. However, the wow factor of the prospect of such an attraction did create within me a curiosity that would have put Alice to shame in Wonderland–curiosity that begged two questions: how did they do that, and why would anyone be so stupid as to attempt such an experience?

(There was one more question, but that will spoil this whole piece, so I’ll wait.)

Earlier this week, the report was shared by an Instagrammer who simply calls himself, Wealth. After perusing his profile, we can only assume it’s because he asserts himself as a wealth of information. Be that as it may, the user shared a post with a few grainy photos all about Disney’s patent for a roller coaster that jumps across an open space in the tracks.

It continues as follows:

Walt Disney Imagineering (WDI) just filed a patent for a roller coaster that jumps the track. This means the rollercoaster will fly through the air during part of the ride, with no track under it. It is rumored to be completed by 2030! Would you get on this ride?!

Walt Disney Imagineering (WDI) just filed a patent for a roller coaster that jumps the track. This means the rollercoaster will fly through the air during part of the ride, with no track under it. The classic video game Thrillville: Off the Rails had a roller coaster that jumps the track on the cover of the game. This was a crazy idea that no one actually thought could work, but now Disney is trying to make that dream a reality.

The Instagram post even includes some sketches of the coaster cars and tracks–some more detailed than others.

Disney gets patent for roller coaster that jumps tracks

The sketches feature words and phrases like “drive assembly,” “onboard energy storage,” “charging element,” and “track-mounted capacitor charge plate,” lending themselves to describing the components of the tracks and the coaster cars.

The post struck fear in some who viewed it, as evidenced by the many comments posted in response to it.

“How?? Wind gust variations, body weight variations, miss the track by 1/4 inch and everybody on that ride is dead!” posted one user.

“Imagine the wrong weight distribution,” began another comment. “Disney trying to crash their stock price further than it already has.”

Roller Coaster Tycoon 3 - SKY Track : Off The Track - Jumping Coaster [Trailer] - YouTube

In another post, a user commented, “A good amount of the rides at Disneyland kept breaking down this week; please fix your current rides before you focus on a new one.”

As of the time of this post, the Instagram offering has amassed more than 172,000 likes. The post also caught the attention of the fact-checker extraordinaires over at Snopes.com on Thursday, who went to work immediately to prove, debunk, or label otherwise, the post about Disney’s newest “flying” roller coaster design.

Ultimately, Snopes determined the story to be one that originated as satire on the site MouseSteps.com, though many who choose to get their news only from online social media platforms found the post very believable indeed–which goes along with that third question I had but didn’t share so as not to spoil the post. And that is, after all, who would believe such a tale, even if it is about the expert storytellers at Disney Parks?