Disney's "The Lion King" in 3D Sept 16 and DVD/Blu Ray Oct 4 (Updated 9/19 post #11)

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Walt Disney Studios Announced The Lion King will return to theaters on September 16 in 3D prior to the release of the Blu-Ray version of the film on October 4th.

From Walt Disney Studios:

BURBANK, Calif. (May 26, 2011) — Simba, Mufasa, Nala, Timon and Pumbaa are back and better than ever this fall when Disney’s “The Lion King” roars into theaters and homes in breathtaking 3D. A special two-week theatrical extravaganza kicks off Sept. 16, 2011, showcasing the Oscar®- and Golden Globe®-winning film on the big screen in Disney Digital 3D™ for the first time ever, and its highly anticipated home entertainment debut kicks off October 4, celebrating the Diamond Edition release of the epic movie “The Lion King” in high-definition Blu-ray™ and Blu-ray 3D™.

“‘The Lion King’ is the best-selling home entertainment release of all time—and this is ‘The Lion King’ like never before,” said Bob Chapek, president of distribution, The Walt Disney Studios. “The all-new 3D format immerses viewers in the epic settings and puts them face-to-face with these beloved characters. We’re showcasing one of the all-time favorite Disney movies in theaters and making it available in Blu-ray hi-def and in Blu-ray 3D—it’s the must-see, must-own title for everyone.”

Nearly a decade since “The Lion King” last appeared on the big screen, the upcoming theatrical release invites new generations into the “Circle of Life.” The two-week, 3D-only presentation is a planned wide domestic release—the biggest since the film’s 1994 debut—and the film’s first-ever 3D release.

The Blu-ray debut marks the first time “The Lion King” has been available in any form since 2004. Featuring pristine high definition picture and sound, the Blu-ray creates an incredible at-home experience with a host of picture and sound enhancements, interactive features and bonus content, including a new set of hilarious animated bloopers.

“The Lion King”: Diamond Edition home entertainment release will be available from the Disney Vault for a limited time only beginning October 4. And the one-disc DVD Edition will be available on November 15.

“The Lion King,” first released in 1994, won the Oscar® for Best Original Score (Hans Zimmer) and Best Original Song (Elton John/Tim Rice “Can You Feel the Love Tonight”), earning Golden Globes® in both categories, as well as for Best Motion Picture—Comedy or Musical.

The film inspired an immensely popular, Tony Award®-winning Broadway musical, which is currently featured on stages worldwide. It became the seventh longest-running musical in Broadway history in January 2011.

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From Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment:

ABOUT THE LION KING: An unforgettable story, breathtaking animation, beloved characters and award-winning music sets the stage for “The Lion King”, a Disney classic that follows the adventures of Simba, the feisty lion cub who “just can't wait to be king.” But his envious Uncle Scar has plans for his own ascent to the throne, and he forces Simba's exile from the kingdom. Alone and adrift, Simba soon joins the escapades of a hilarious meerkat named Timon and his warmhearted warthog pal, Pumbaa. Adopting their carefree lifestyle of “Hakuna Matata,” Simba ignores his real responsibilities until he realizes his destiny and returns to the Pride Lands to claim his place in the “Circle of Life.” The all-star vocal talents—including Matthew Broderick, Nathan Lane, Whoopi Goldberg, James Earl Jones, Jeremy Irons, Ernie Sabella, Jonathan Taylor Thomas, Robert Guillaume, Cheech Marin and Moira Kelly—rip-roaring comedy and uplifting messages of courage, loyalty and hope make this a timeless tale for all ages. Produced by Don Hahn and directed by Roger Allers and Rob Minkoff from a script by Irene Mecchi, Jonathan Roberts and Linda Woolverton, “The Lion King” is rated G by the MPAA.

ABOUT DISNEY’S BLU-RAY DIAMOND COLLECTION: The Blu-ray Diamond Collection represents The Walt Disney Studio's most prestigious animated classics. The Collection will be comprised with many of Walt Disney's most treasured animated classic titles to be released through 2016. These titles represent the highest level of picture and sound, feature groundbreaking, state-of-the-art immersive bonus content, and include unprecedented levels of interactivity, personalization and customization, made possible because of Blu-ray technology.

[shine87]

I am SSOOOO excited about this!! Lion king has been my favorite Disney movie ever since it came out!!

[Mouse Skywalker]

D23 Expo in Anaheim will host an advance screening of "The Lion King" in 3D

From Walt Disney Studios Press Release:

Fans attending Disney’s D23 Expo (August 19-21, 2011) will have access to an exclusive advance screening of “The Lion King” in Disney Digital 3D™, ahead of the film’s highly anticipated theatrical and home entertainment releases, The Walt Disney Studios announced today. The screening will be held August 20 at the Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, Calif.

“With Disney fans coming from all over the world to experience the D23 Expo, we’ve got the perfect setting and the perfect audience to share in the 3D launch of ‘The Lion King,’ ” said Steven Clark, head of D23. “We’re thrilled to bring our most devoted fans an exclusive look at one of the most iconic and beloved Disney films of all time. This is Pride Rock in a way it’s never been seen before.”

The Circle of Life takes on a new dimension as Simba, Mufasa, Nala, Timon and Pumbaa grace the screen once again, this time in breathtaking 3D. Beginning Sept. 16, a special two-week theatrical extravaganza will showcase the Oscar®- and Golden Globe®-winning film on the big screen in Disney Digital 3D™ for the first time ever, followed up by the home entertainment debut Oct. 4, celebrating the Diamond Edition release of the epic movie “The Lion King” in high-definition Blu-ray™ and Blu-ray 3D™.

Released in 1994, “The Lion King” remains one of the most successful animated films of all time. The classic tale of the African savanna wowed audiences worldwide with spectacular hand-drawn animation along with inspiring songs by Sir Elton John and Tim Rice, plus an evocative score by renowned composer Hans Zimmer. Three years later, the landmark film was adapted into a Tony Award®-winning musical, becoming an instant hit on Broadway, where earlier this year it became the seventh longest-running show ever. Winning over 70 major awards, it has delighted more than 55 million theatergoers around the globe.

ABOUT D23 EXPO 2011
The D23 Expo—The Ultimate Disney Fan Event—brings the entire world of Disney under one roof, providing attendees with unprecedented access to Disney films, television and theme parks as never before. Tickets for the D23 Expo 2011 fall into three different pricing tiers, based on purchase date (visit www.D23Expo.com for details), and D23 Members can enjoy additional savings plus members-only benefits. Multi-day money-saving tickets are also available for both D23 Members and the general public.

ABOUT D23
The name “D23” pays homage to the exciting journey that began in 1923 when Walt Disney opened his fledgling studio in Hollywood. D23 is the first official community for fans in Disney’s 88-year history. D23 gives its members a greater connection to the entire world of Disney by placing them in the middle of the magic through its quarterly publication Disney twenty-three; a rich website at www.disney.com/D23; a new collectibles line, the Walt Disney Archives Collection; and special events for D23 Members throughout the year, highlighted by the D23 Expo in Anaheim, California, August 19-21, 2011. Fans can join D23 at www.Disney.com/D23, all Disney Store locations within the United States, select shops at Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort and at www.DisneyStore.com/D23. To keep up with all the latest D23 news and events, follow us “DisneyD23” at Twitter and on Facebook.

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Father's Day materials for The Lion King released by Walt Disney Studios (1 of 3).



Continue to next post for Father's Day conversation starters.

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Father's Day materials for The Lion King released by Walt Disney Studios (2 of 3).



Continue to next post for a Father's Day scrapbook page.

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WALT DISNEY STUDIOS CELEBRATES THE PREMIERE OF
THE LION KING 3D
In Theaters September 16th and homes October 4th

From Walt Disney Studios Press Release:

Hollywood, CA - Saturday, August 27, 2011 – The Lion King’s voice talent Robert Guillaume (Rafiki), Moira Kelly (Adult Nala), Jim Cummings (Ed) and Niketa Calame (Young Nala) were joined by legendary Disney producer Don Hahn, co-directors Roger Allers and Rob Minkoff, animators Tony Bancroft, Mark Henn, and Andreas Deja, to celebrate the Premiere of The Lion King 3D at the historic El Capitan Theatre. They were joined by a variety of guests including Julie Bowen (Modern Family), Melora Hardin (The Office), Melissa Joan Hart, Ali Landry, Gilles Marini, Antonio Sabato Jr., Rick Schroeder, Monet Mazur, RJ Mitte (Breaking Bad), Shaunie O’Neal, Adam Irigoyen (Disney Channel’s Shake it Up) Maria Canals-Barrera, Nolan Sotillo (Prom).

© Disney. All Rights Reserved.

Simba, Mufasa, Nala, Timon and Pumbaa are back and better than ever this fall when Disney’s “THE LION KING” roars into theaters and homes in breathtaking 3D. A special two-week theatrical extravaganza kicks off Sept. 16, 2011, showcasing the Oscar®- and Golden Globe®-winning film on the big screen in Disney Digital 3D™ for the first time ever, and its highly anticipated home entertainment debut kicks off October 4, celebrating the Diamond Edition release of the epic movie “The Lion King” in high-definition Blu-ray™ and Blu-ray 3D™.

Children from the charity LA's Best pose with actor Robert Guillaume (Rafiki).


Robert Guillaume (Rafiki)


Niketa Calame (Young Nala) and Moira Kelly (Adult Nala)


Co-director Roger Allers and Co-director Rob Minkoff


Adam Sandler


Stefanie Scott from Disney Channel's A.N.T. Farm

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DIS Unplugged Disneyland Correspondent Nancy Johnson was able to attend the Lion King 3D World Premiere at the El Capitan Theatre. She was placed at the end of the "Green Carpet", and conducted interviews with film producer Don Hahn, Niketa Calame voice of Young Nala, and many more.

Robert Guillaume (Rafiki), © Disney. All Rights Reserved.

To watch the video of Nancy Johnson covering the world premiere for the DIS Unplugged, follow the link below.

DIS Unplugged: Interviews on the Green Carpet - The Lion King 3D Premiere

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DISNEY’S THE LION KING REIGNS ONCE AGAIN
3D Release Takes Top Spot With $30 Million Domestic Gross;
Beloved Tale Continues to Captivate Global Audiences on Screen and Stage

From Walt Disney Studios:

BURBANK, Calif. – September 19, 2011 –The Circle of Life continues as The Walt Disney Studios’ The Lion King 3D opened at #1 in theaters this weekend with an estimated gross of $30 million. The Lion King is now the third highest-grossing animated film of all time at the domestic box office. This release of The Lion King marks the fifth biggest September opening in industry history, the second biggest September opening in Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures history, and the first reissue to open #1 in 14 years. The film will remain in theaters for a limited engagement ahead of its Blu-ray™ and Blu-ray 3D™ premiere on October 4.

Meanwhile, the London production of the hugely popular stage show recently celebrated its 5000th performance on September 13. The award-winning musical is also preparing to launch its Spanish premiere in Madrid, the largest stage musical ever presented in Spain. Opening October 21 at Lope de Vega Theatre, it is the first time the musical has been performed in the Spanish language. Since opening in 1997, The Lion King has been performing to sold-out crowds on Broadway with a remarkable 5,757 shows thus far.

“The Lion King has proven again and again the transcendent power of great stories and characters,” said Rich Ross, Chairman, The Walt Disney Studios. “From the screen to the stage, this timeless classic continues to touch the hearts of audiences of all ages around the world.”

Notable Facts:
• First released in 1994, The Lion King is the third highest-grossing animated film of all time with $358.6 at the domestic box office (includes all releases), the highest-grossing traditional hand-drawn animated film of all time, and the highest-grossing film from Walt Disney Animation Studios.
• The Lion King is the top-performing home entertainment release ever. The Blu-ray™ debut marks the first time it has been available in any form since 2004.
• The Lion King is Disney’s best-selling soundtrack. It received Diamond certification from the Recording Industry Association of America (10x platinum). Only four other soundtracks in history have been certified Diamond.
• Best of The Lion King, a collection of songs from and inspired by the films and the show, is currently the #3 soundtrack on iTunes.
• The Lion King has won 2 Academy Awards®, 3 Golden Globes®, 6 Tony Awards® and 3 Grammys®, among other accolades, including over 70 major theatrical honors worldwide.
• The stage show has been seen by more than 60 million people worldwide, grossing over $4.6 billion in 18 productions across 14 countries, spanning 5 continents and 8 languages.
• Current productions include Broadway, North American Tour, Las Vegas, London, Hamburg, Tokyo and Singapore.
• The Lion King opened on Broadway in 1997 and in January 2011 became its seventh longest-running show ever; it continues to be one of the highest-grossing on a weekly basis.
• The North American tour recently completed a record-breaking, sold-out, 32-show premiere engagement at the Salle Wilfrid-Pelletier in Montreal, grossing more than $7 million – the highest-grossing theatrical production in the venue’s history.