<p>Walt Disney Co on Tuesday avoided the unmitigated disaster some investors feared as it eked out an adjusted profit amid the coronavirus pandemic that shut down parks, movie theaters and sporting events across the globe.<br />
<br />
Disney`s quarterly profit of 8 cents per share on an adjusted basis beat expectations for a loss of 64 cents, sending the stock up 5% in after-market trade.<br />
<br />
The company took a nearly $5 billion charge due to the pandemic and shifting media habits. COVID-19 wiped out $3.5 billion in operating profit in the parks division.<br />
<br />
"The majority of businesses worldwide have experienced unprecedented disruption as a result of the pandemic," Disney Chief Executive Bob Chapek told analysts. "Most of our businesses were shut down, and this had a huge impact."<br />
<br />
Investors overlooked total revenue that fell short of expectations by nearly $600 million and focused on divisions including parks and its media networks with revenue declines that were not as bad as expected.<br />
<br />
The Disney+ streaming service, which had 60.5 million paying customers as of Monday, was a bright spot in the quarter, Chapek said. Disney had reported 54.5 million subscribers as of May 4.<br />
<br />
"What we plan to do is invest even more in our content in order to keep that machine cranked and going," he said.<br />
<br />
Combined with Hulu and ESPN+, Disney has attracted more than 100 million streaming customers worldwide since launching its big streaming effort nine months ago. Netflix Inc, which got a head start in the market when it began streaming 13 years ago, boasts 193 million.<br />
<br />
The coronavirus outbreak forced Disney to delay the theatrical debut of movies including the live-action epic "Mulan" about a Chinese warrior.<br />
<br />
In a surprise move, Disney said it will release "Mulan" on Disney+ on Sept. 4 for people to watch at home at a cost of $30, and in theaters in markets where Disney+ is not available.<br />
<br />
Chapek said the shift was a one-time event and did not represent a shift in strategy.<br />
<br />
The decision followed a deal in July between Comcast Corp`s Universal Pictures and cinema chain AMC Entertainment Holdings Inc to allow the studio to release films directly to consumers after just three weeks in theaters, down from the average three months.<br />
<br />
Disney also said it would launch a new international streaming service under the Star brand.<br />
<br />
"Investors are looking beyond the tough quarter to continued reopening of parks, while Disney+ is expected to see further growth," said Investing.com analyst Haris Anwar.<br />
<br />
Theme park closures from April to June led to an operating loss of $1.96 billion in the parks and consumer products business. Even as four of its six theme park resorts around the world have opened, social distancing rules have limited attendance.<br />
<br />
Demand at profit center Walt Disney World was lower than expected because of the resurgence of coronavirus infections in Florida, Disney Chief Financial Officer Christine McCarthy said.<br />
<br />
The media network segment, which includes ESPN and Disney channels, reported a 48% jump in operating income to $3.15 billion.<br />
<br />
The direct-to-consumer and international unit, which houses the Disney+ streaming service, reported an operating loss of $706 million, below the $1.06 billion that analysts expected.<br />
<br />
Operating income at the movie studio fell 16% to $668 million as many movie theaters remained closed.<br />
<br />
Overall revenue fell 42% to $11.78 billion. Analysts on average had expected revenue of $12.37 billion, according to Refinitiv IBES data.<br />
<br />
Net loss from continuing operations was $4.72 billion, or $2.61 per share, in the third quarter ended June 27, compared with a net profit of $1.43 billion, or 79 cents per share, a year earlier.</p>


Walt Disney Co on Tuesday avoided the unmitigated disaster some investors feared as it eked out an adjusted profit amid the coronavirus pandemic that shut down parks, movie theaters and sporting events across the globe.

Walt Disney Co on Tuesday avoided the unmitigated disaster some investors feared as it eked out an adjusted profit amid the coronavirus pandemic that shut down parks, movie theaters and sporting events across the globe. Disney`s quarterly profit of 8 cents per share on an adjusted basis beat expectations for a loss of 64 cents, sending the stock up 5% in after-market trade. The company took a nearly $5 billion charge due to the pandemic and shifting media habits. COVID-19 wiped out $3.5 billion in operating profit in the parks division. "The majority of businesses worldwide have experienced unprecedented disruption as a result of the pandemic," Disney Chief Executive Bob Chapek told analysts. "Most of our businesses were shut down, and this had a huge impact." Investors overlooked total revenue that fell short of expectations by nearly $600 million and focused on divisions including parks and its media networks with revenue declines that were not as bad as expected. The Disney+ streaming service, which had 60.5 million paying customers as of Monday, was a bright spot in the quarter, Chapek said. Disney had reported 54.5 million subscribers as of May 4. "What we plan to do is invest even more in our content in order to keep that machine cranked and going," he said. Combined with Hulu and ESPN+, Disney has attracted more than 100 million streaming customers worldwide since launching its big streaming effort nine months ago. Netflix Inc, which got a head start in the market when it began streaming 13 years ago, boasts 193 million. The coronavirus outbreak forced Disney to delay the theatrical debut of movies including the live-action epic "Mulan" about a Chinese warrior. In a surprise move, Disney said it will release "Mulan" on Disney+ on Sept. 4 for people to watch at home at a cost of $30, and in theaters in markets where Disney+ is not available. Chapek said the shift was a one-time event and did not represent a shift in strategy. The decision followed a deal in July between Comcast Corp`s Universal Pictures and cinema chain AMC Entertainment Holdings Inc to allow the studio to release films directly to consumers after just three weeks in theaters, down from the average three months. Disney also said it would launch a new international streaming service under the Star brand. "Investors are looking beyond the tough quarter to continued reopening of parks, while Disney+ is expected to see further growth," said Investing.com analyst Haris Anwar. Theme park closures from April to June led to an operating loss of $1.96 billion in the parks and consumer products business. Even as four of its six theme park resorts around the world have opened, social distancing rules have limited attendance. Demand at profit center Walt Disney World was lower than expected because of the resurgence of coronavirus infections in Florida, Disney Chief Financial Officer Christine McCarthy said. The media network segment, which includes ESPN and Disney channels, reported a 48% jump in operating income to $3.15 billion. The direct-to-consumer and international unit, which houses the Disney+ streaming service, reported an operating loss of $706 million, below the $1.06 billion that analysts expected. Operating income at the movie studio fell 16% to $668 million as many movie theaters remained closed. Overall revenue fell 42% to $11.78 billion. Analysts on average had expected revenue of $12.37 billion, according to Refinitiv IBES data. Net loss from continuing operations was $4.72 billion, or $2.61 per share, in the third quarter ended June 27, compared with a net profit of $1.43 billion, or 79 cents per share, a year earlier.

Disney takes $5 billion hit but pandemic impact not as bad as feared

<p>Looks like 2020 is going to be a no show for cinema halls across the world. Just days after the release of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/release-of-christopher-nolans-tenet-pushed-back-indefinitely-due-to-coronavirus-314797">Christopher Nolan's big-ticket 'Tenet'</a> was pushed indefinitely, Walt Disney Co has now decided to delay the release of its live-action film 'Mulan'.<br />
<br />
The move is being termed as a new blow to theatre operators that were counting on the live-action film to attract crowds to the theatres amid pandemic.<br />
<br />
'Mulan' was scheduled to reach theaters in March but its release has been postponed several times as many cinemas remain closed. The film had most recently been set to debut on August 21 and theater operators had hoped it would help spark a late-summer rebound for movie-going.<br />
<br />
Apart from Mulan, Disney has also announced its decision to delay the filming of its two big sequels of hit franchises- 'Avatar' and 'Star Wars' by an year due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp; The filming of 'Avatar' sequel had begun in New Zeland earlier this month and it&nbsp; is not known yet if the production has been halted.</p>

<p>The 'Avatar' sequel is now set to debut in theaters in December 2022, and the next 'Star Wars' movie in December 2023.<br />
<br />
"It’s become clear that nothing can be set in stone when it comes to how we release films during this global health crisis," a Disney representative said. "Today that means pausing our release plans for `Mulan` as we assess how we can most effectively bring this film to audiences around the world."<br />
<br />
The AMC and Cineworld movie theater chains on Thursday pushed back the reopening date for their US theaters to at least mid-August from the end of July.<br />
<br />
The 'Avatar' delay also removes one of next year`s biggest movies. Disney has not released details on the next 'Star Wars' film.<br />
<br />
(With inputs from Reuters)</p>


Looks like 2020 is going to be a no show for cinema halls across the world. Just days after the release of Christopher Nolan's big-ticket 'Tenet' was pushed indefinitely, Walt Disney Co has now decided to delay the release of its live-action film 'Mulan'.

Looks like 2020 is going to be a no show for cinema halls across the world. Just days after the release of Christopher Nolan's big-ticket 'Tenet' was pushed indefinitely, Walt Disney Co has now decided to delay the release of its live-action film 'Mulan'. The move is being termed as a new blow to theatre operators that were counting on the live-action film to attract crowds to the theatres amid pandemic. 'Mulan' was scheduled to reach theaters in March but its release has been postponed several times as many cinemas remain closed. The film had most recently been set to debut on August 21 and theater operators had hoped it would help spark a late-summer rebound for movie-going. Apart from Mulan, Disney has also announced its decision to delay the filming of its two big sequels of hit franchises- 'Avatar' and 'Star Wars' by an year due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. The filming of 'Avatar' sequel had begun in New Zeland earlier this month and it is not known yet if the production has been halted. The 'Avatar' sequel is now set to debut in theaters in December 2022, and the next 'Star Wars' movie in December 2023. "It’s become clear that nothing can be set in stone when it comes to how we release films during this global health crisis," a Disney representative said. "Today that means pausing our release plans for `Mulan` as we assess how we can most effectively bring this film to audiences around the world." The AMC and Cineworld movie theater chains on Thursday pushed back the reopening date for their US theaters to at least mid-August from the end of July. The 'Avatar' delay also removes one of next year`s biggest movies. Disney has not released details on the next 'Star Wars' film. (With inputs from Reuters)

After 'Tenet', 'Mulan' release postponed indefinitely

<p>ABC News, a Walt Disney Co unit, said senior executive Barbara Fedida is leaving the company after an independent investigation alleged she had made racially insensitive comments and used inappropriate language, according to an email.<br />
<br />
Fedida also managed in a rough manner and would not return to ABC, Disney executive Peter Rice told staff in an email which ABC shared with Reuters.<br />
<br />
Fedida, the network`s former senior vice president for talent, editorial strategy and business affairs, denied the allegations when they surfaced in media reports in June, describing them as "incredibly misleading". She said she had been a champion of diversity with a track record of hiring and promoting journalists of color.<br />
<br />
Reuters was unable to reach Fedida for comment on Monday. Disney did not immediately reply to a request for comment.<br />
<br />
The investigation found no basis for allegations that Fedida was the subject of dozens of HR complaints, Rice said. He also said there was no evidence that ABC had spent millions of dollars in settlements related to her.<br />
<br />
ABC placed Fedida on leave last month while it investigated the allegations.<br />
<br />
In the wake of the death of African American George Floyd, other media outlets - from the New York Times to Refinery29 and Bon Appetit - are also facing criticism over how they have handled the issue of race.<br />
<br />
Rice said that "serious work" needed to be done to enhance the culture of inclusion at ABC.<br />
<br />
Fedida`s role would be split, with business affairs separated from talent relations and recruitment, each with its own head, he added.</p>


ABC News, a Walt Disney Co unit, said senior executive Barbara Fedida is leaving the company after an independent investigation alleged she had made racially insensitive comments and used inappropriate language, according to an email.

ABC News, a Walt Disney Co unit, said senior executive Barbara Fedida is leaving the company after an independent investigation alleged she had made racially insensitive comments and used inappropriate language, according to an email. Fedida also managed in a rough manner and would not return to ABC, Disney executive Peter Rice told staff in an email which ABC shared with Reuters. Fedida, the network`s former senior vice president for talent, editorial strategy and business affairs, denied the allegations when they surfaced in media reports in June, describing them as "incredibly misleading". She said she had been a champion of diversity with a track record of hiring and promoting journalists of color. Reuters was unable to reach Fedida for comment on Monday. Disney did not immediately reply to a request for comment. The investigation found no basis for allegations that Fedida was the subject of dozens of HR complaints, Rice said. He also said there was no evidence that ABC had spent millions of dollars in settlements related to her. ABC placed Fedida on leave last month while it investigated the allegations. In the wake of the death of African American George Floyd, other media outlets - from the New York Times to Refinery29 and Bon Appetit - are also facing criticism over how they have handled the issue of race. Rice said that "serious work" needed to be done to enhance the culture of inclusion at ABC. Fedida`s role would be split, with business affairs separated from talent relations and recruitment, each with its own head, he added.

Disney's ABC News says senior executive leaving after alleged racist comments

<p>US attorney general William Barr has blasted American firms with Chinese links for 'kowtowing' to Beijing.</p>

<p>Barr took aim at Hollywood companies, including Walt Disney Co on Thursday as well as large technology firms like Apple, Alphabet's Google and Microsoft Corp over company actions with China.</p>

<p>The companies and the Chinese Embassy in Washington did not immediately comment. Apple declined to comment.</p>

<p><strong>Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-mulls-travel-ban-on-92-million-members-of-communist-party-of-china-report-313607">US mulls travel ban on 92 million members of Communist Party of China : Report</a></strong></p>

<p>"Corporations such as Google, Microsoft, Yahoo, and Apple have shown themselves all too willing to collaborate with the (Chinese Communist party)," Barr said.</p>

<p>He added that Hollywood has routinely caved into pressure and censored their films "to appease the Chinese Communist Party."</p>

<p>"I suspect Walt Disney would be disheartened to see how the company he founded deals with the foreign dictatorships of our day," Barr said in a speech at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum in Michigan.</p>

<p><strong>Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-administration-action-on-risks-posed-by-tiktok-likely-in-weeks-white-house-313604">Trump administration action on risks posed by TikTok likely 'in weeks': White House</a></strong></p>

<p>Barr chided US companies for being too willing to take steps to ensure access to the large Chinese market.</p>

<p>"The Chinese Communist Party thinks in terms of decades and centuries, while we tend to focus on the next quarterly earnings report," Barr said. "America’s big tech companies have also allowed themselves to become pawns of Chinese influence."</p>

<p>Barr’s was the latest attack on China from President Donald Trump’s administration before his November re-election bid.</p>

<p>In recent months, US-China ties have dipped to their lowest ebb in decades, strained over issues ranging from the global coronavirus pandemic and China's massive trade surpluses, to Beijing’s suppression of pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong, its military buildup in the South China Sea and treatment of minority Muslims.</p>

<p>Barr suggested that Apple iPhones "wouldn't be sold (in China) if they were impervious to penetration by Chinese authorities." He suggested American tech companies were imposing a "double standard."</p>

<p>"If they stand together, they will provide a worthy example for other American companies in resisting the Chinese Communist Party’s corrupt and dictatorial rule."</p>

<p>Barr noted after China imposed a new national security law on Hong Kong, Facebook, Google, Twitter In and LinkedIn, announced that they would temporarily suspend compliance with governmental requests for user data.</p>


US attorney general William Barr has blasted American firms with Chinese links for 'kowtowing' to Beijing. Barr took aim at Hollywood companies, including Walt Disney Co on Thursday as well as large technology firms like Apple, Alphabet's Google and Microsoft Corp over company actions with China.

US attorney general William Barr has blasted American firms with Chinese links for 'kowtowing' to Beijing. Barr took aim at Hollywood companies, including Walt Disney Co on Thursday as well as large technology firms like Apple, Alphabet's Google and Microsoft Corp over company actions with China. The companies and the Chinese Embassy in Washington did not immediately comment. Apple declined to comment. Also read| US mulls travel ban on 92 million members of Communist Party of China : Report "Corporations such as Google, Microsoft, Yahoo, and Apple have shown themselves all too willing to collaborate with the (Chinese Communist party)," Barr said. He added that Hollywood has routinely caved into pressure and censored their films "to appease the Chinese Communist Party." "I suspect Walt Disney would be disheartened to see how the company he founded deals with the foreign dictatorships of our day," Barr said in a speech at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum in Michigan. Also read| Trump administration action on risks posed by TikTok likely 'in weeks': White House Barr chided US companies for being too willing to take steps to ensure access to the large Chinese market. "The Chinese Communist Party thinks in terms of decades and centuries, while we tend to focus on the next quarterly earnings report," Barr said. "America’s big tech companies have also allowed themselves to become pawns of Chinese influence." Barr’s was the latest attack on China from President Donald Trump’s administration before his November re-election bid. In recent months, US-China ties have dipped to their lowest ebb in decades, strained over issues ranging from the global coronavirus pandemic and China's massive trade surpluses, to Beijing’s suppression of pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong, its military buildup in the South China Sea and treatment of minority Muslims. Barr suggested that Apple iPhones "wouldn't be sold (in China) if they were impervious to penetration by Chinese authorities." He suggested American tech companies were imposing a "double standard." "If they stand together, they will provide a worthy example for other American companies in resisting the Chinese Communist Party’s corrupt and dictatorial rule." Barr noted after China imposed a new national security law on Hong Kong, Facebook, Google, Twitter In and LinkedIn, announced that they would temporarily suspend compliance with governmental requests for user data.

US attorney general blasts American firms for 'kowtowing' to Beijing

<p>Walt Disney Co. is temporarily closing its Hong Kong Disneyland theme park from July 15 amid rising coronavirus cases in the Chinese-ruled city, the company said Monday.</p>

<p>The announcement came two days after Disney reopened its biggest resort, Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida, as coronavirus cases surged in the state.</p>

<p>“As required by the government and health authorities in line with prevention efforts taking place across Hong Kong, Hong Kong Disneyland park will temporarily close from July 15,” a Disney spokeswoman said in a statement.</p>

<p>The Hong Kong Disneyland Resort hotels will remain open with adjusted services. They have put in place enhanced health and safety measures, the company said.</p>

<p>Hong Kong recorded 52 new cases of coronavirus on Monday, including 41 that were locally transmitted, according to health authorities. Since late January, Hong Kong has reported 1,522 cases and local media reported an eighth death on Monday.</p>

<p>Florida has emerged as an epicenter of US&nbsp;COVID-19 infections. In Orange County, where Disney World is located, cases rose by 623 to a total of 18,624, the fifth-highest outbreak in the state.</p>

<p>Hong Kong is tightening social distancing measures amid growing worries about a third wave of coronavirus infections. The government will limit group gatherings to four people - from 50 - a measure last seen during a second wave of the outbreak in March.</p>

<p>Hong Kong Disneyland, which is majority-owned (53%) by the Hong Kong government, reopened in June. Hong Kong Tokyo reopened in July; Disneyland Shanghai reopened in May.</p>

<p>Disney’s reopening of its parks in Asia helped provide assurance about moving ahead in Florida, Josh D’Amaro, chairman of Disney’s parks, experiences and products division told Reuters in an interview on Saturday.</p>

<p>David Miller, an analyst at investment bank Imperial Capital, estimates that Disney generates 75% of operating income in its parks division from Walt Disney World, compared with 10% from all of the foreign parks combined.</p>


Walt Disney Co. is temporarily closing its Hong Kong Disneyland theme park from July 15 amid rising coronavirus cases in the Chinese-ruled city, the company said Monday.

Walt Disney Co. is temporarily closing its Hong Kong Disneyland theme park from July 15 amid rising coronavirus cases in the Chinese-ruled city, the company said Monday. The announcement came two days after Disney reopened its biggest resort, Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida, as coronavirus cases surged in the state. “As required by the government and health authorities in line with prevention efforts taking place across Hong Kong, Hong Kong Disneyland park will temporarily close from July 15,” a Disney spokeswoman said in a statement. The Hong Kong Disneyland Resort hotels will remain open with adjusted services. They have put in place enhanced health and safety measures, the company said. Hong Kong recorded 52 new cases of coronavirus on Monday, including 41 that were locally transmitted, according to health authorities. Since late January, Hong Kong has reported 1,522 cases and local media reported an eighth death on Monday. Florida has emerged as an epicenter of US COVID-19 infections. In Orange County, where Disney World is located, cases rose by 623 to a total of 18,624, the fifth-highest outbreak in the state. Hong Kong is tightening social distancing measures amid growing worries about a third wave of coronavirus infections. The government will limit group gatherings to four people - from 50 - a measure last seen during a second wave of the outbreak in March. Hong Kong Disneyland, which is majority-owned (53%) by the Hong Kong government, reopened in June. Hong Kong Tokyo reopened in July; Disneyland Shanghai reopened in May. Disney’s reopening of its parks in Asia helped provide assurance about moving ahead in Florida, Josh D’Amaro, chairman of Disney’s parks, experiences and products division told Reuters in an interview on Saturday. David Miller, an analyst at investment bank Imperial Capital, estimates that Disney generates 75% of operating income in its parks division from Walt Disney World, compared with 10% from all of the foreign parks combined.

Disney to shut Hong Kong Disneyland again as coronavirus cases rise

Mickey Mouse waved to visitors from a distance on Saturday (July 11) as Florida's Walt Disney World opened to the public for the first time in four months amid a surge of coronavirus cases in the state.

Masked guests enter Disney World for first time in months

Walt Disney World reopens with distancing measures amid COVID-19 surge

<p>Disney cancelled the theatrical release of the 4K version of 'Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back' in UK cinemas, while the 2K version of the 1980 film will hit the big screens. That would have been the first time a UHD version of an original trilogy film will hit the theatres.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/check-out-new-pictures-of-christopher-nolans-tenet-310209" hreflang="en">Check out new pictures of Christopher Nolan's 'Tenet'</a></p>

<p>According to a magazine, the film will still be screened in UK cinemas, but it will be a standard 2K version of the 1980 film. The scrapping of the 4K release of the film is being viewed as a breaking down of talks of the filmmaker with the exhibitors. The 4K edition of the film has been made available only on the Disney studio&nbsp;streaming platform Disney Plus and via Blu-ray. It was released on the platform earlier in March.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/captain-marvel-aka-brie-larson-launches-youtube-channel-310491" hreflang="en">'Captain Marvel' aka Brie Larson launches YouTube channel</a><br />
<br />
This all comes after, cinemas like Vue and Cineworld have shifted their reopening dates from July 10 to July 31, in line with the major new releases. By moving closer to the 'Tenet' release date.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The movie is the second film in the Star Wars film series also known as 'Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back', is a 1980 American epic space opera film directed by Irvin Kershner and written by Leigh Brackett and Lawrence Kasdan.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/multiplex-association-of-india-urges-government-to-let-cinemas-reopen-310481" hreflang="en">Multiplex Association of India urges government to let cinemas reopen</a><br />
<br />
Just a week ago, Disney also pushed the dates of upcoming movies like, 'Mulan'&nbsp;from its July 24 release date to Aug. 21, off the back of Warner Bros. moving the hotly anticipated 'Tenet'&nbsp;from July 31 to Aug. 12.</p>


Disney cancelled the theatrical release of the 4K version of 'Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back' in UK cinemas, while the 2K version of the 1980 film will hit the big screens.

Disney cancelled the theatrical release of the 4K version of 'Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back' in UK cinemas, while the 2K version of the 1980 film will hit the big screens. That would have been the first time a UHD version of an original trilogy film will hit the theatres. Also read: Check out new pictures of Christopher Nolan's 'Tenet' According to a magazine, the film will still be screened in UK cinemas, but it will be a standard 2K version of the 1980 film. The scrapping of the 4K release of the film is being viewed as a breaking down of talks of the filmmaker with the exhibitors. The 4K edition of the film has been made available only on the Disney studio streaming platform Disney Plus and via Blu-ray. It was released on the platform earlier in March. Also read: 'Captain Marvel' aka Brie Larson launches YouTube channel This all comes after, cinemas like Vue and Cineworld have shifted their reopening dates from July 10 to July 31, in line with the major new releases. By moving closer to the 'Tenet' release date. The movie is the second film in the Star Wars film series also known as 'Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back', is a 1980 American epic space opera film directed by Irvin Kershner and written by Leigh Brackett and Lawrence Kasdan. Also read: Multiplex Association of India urges government to let cinemas reopen Just a week ago, Disney also pushed the dates of upcoming movies like, 'Mulan' from its July 24 release date to Aug. 21, off the back of Warner Bros. moving the hotly anticipated 'Tenet' from July 31 to Aug. 12.

Disney cancels 4K re-release of 'Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back' in UK cinemas

Tokyo Disneyland reopened on Wednesday (July 1) to fanfare and strengthened social distancing measures after four months of closure due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Tokyo Disneyland reopens to fanfare and social distancing after coronavirus shutdown

<p>Disney once again pushed the release date of one of the most-awaited movie of the year 'Mulan' for the third time.&nbsp;The live-action movie was earlier slated to hit big screens on July 24, as per the reports, the movie will now hit theatres on August 21.&nbsp;</p>

<p>''While the pandemic has changed our release plans for 'Mulan'&nbsp;and we will continue to be flexible as conditions require, it has not changed our belief in the power of this film and its message of hope and perseverance,” said Disney’s co-chairman and chief creative officer Alan Horn and co-chairman Alan Bergman.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This change comes after Warner Bros decided to postpone the release of the Christopher Nolan sci-fic `Tenet` for the second time, from July 31st to August 12th.<br />
<br />
$&nbsp;200 million worth film 'Mulan' revolves around the story of a Chinese protagonist portrayed by Liu Yifei, and&nbsp;is directed by Niki Caro.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The increased number of cases of Coronavirus in the USA, may lead theatres to stay closed.&nbsp;</p>


Disney once again pushed the release date of one of the most-awaited movie of the year 'Mulan' for the third time. The live-action movie was earlier slated to hit big screens on July 24, as per the reports, the movie will now hit theatres on August 21.

Disney once again pushed the release date of one of the most-awaited movie of the year 'Mulan' for the third time. The live-action movie was earlier slated to hit big screens on July 24, as per the reports, the movie will now hit theatres on August 21. ''While the pandemic has changed our release plans for 'Mulan' and we will continue to be flexible as conditions require, it has not changed our belief in the power of this film and its message of hope and perseverance,” said Disney’s co-chairman and chief creative officer Alan Horn and co-chairman Alan Bergman. This change comes after Warner Bros decided to postpone the release of the Christopher Nolan sci-fic `Tenet` for the second time, from July 31st to August 12th. $ 200 million worth film 'Mulan' revolves around the story of a Chinese protagonist portrayed by Liu Yifei, and is directed by Niki Caro. The increased number of cases of Coronavirus in the USA, may lead theatres to stay closed.

Disney's 'Mulan’ release date postponed again, will now hit theatres in August

<p>Walt Disney Co said on Thursday that it will renovate its Splash Mountain theme park ride to feature Tiana, the entertainment company's first black princess and the star of 2009 animated film 'The Princess and the Frog.'<br />
<br />
The announcement follows criticism of the current theme for Splash Mountain, which is based on the 1946 film 'Song of the South'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A recent online petition argued that the film promoted racist stereotypes.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/elizabeth-banks-set-to-play-ms-frizzle-in-live-action-magic-school-bus-film-308763" hreflang="en">Elizabeth Banks set to play Ms. Frizzle in live-action 'Magic School Bus' film</a><br />
<br />
Splash Mountain, "will soon be completely reimagined" with a story that features Princess Tiana preparing to attend a Mardi Gras performance, Disney said in a blog post.<br />
<br />
"Tiana is a modern, courageous and empowered woman, who pursues her dreams and never loses sight of what’s really important. It’s a great story with a strong lead character, set against the backdrop of New Orleans and the Louisiana bayou," the company said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/katy-perry-dedicates-upcoming-song-what-makes-a-women-to-unborn-child-308736" hreflang="en">Katy Perry dedicates upcoming song 'What Makes a Women' to unborn child</a><br />
<br />
Hollywood companies including Disney are revisiting works from the past in light of renewed calls for racial justice following the death of African American George Floyd in U.S. police custody.<br />
<br />
The petition on Change.org said Splash Mountain was a "beloved classic" at California's Disneyland, Walt Disney World in Florida and Tokyo Disneyland. But "its history and storyline are steeped in extremely problematic and stereotypical racist tropes from the 1946 film Song of the South."</p>


Walt Disney Co said on Thursday that it will renovate its Splash Mountain theme park ride to feature Tiana, the entertainment company's first black princess and the star of 2009 animated film 'The Princess and the Frog.

Walt Disney Co said on Thursday that it will renovate its Splash Mountain theme park ride to feature Tiana, the entertainment company's first black princess and the star of 2009 animated film 'The Princess and the Frog.' The announcement follows criticism of the current theme for Splash Mountain, which is based on the 1946 film 'Song of the South'. A recent online petition argued that the film promoted racist stereotypes. Also read: Elizabeth Banks set to play Ms. Frizzle in live-action 'Magic School Bus' film Splash Mountain, "will soon be completely reimagined" with a story that features Princess Tiana preparing to attend a Mardi Gras performance, Disney said in a blog post. "Tiana is a modern, courageous and empowered woman, who pursues her dreams and never loses sight of what’s really important. It’s a great story with a strong lead character, set against the backdrop of New Orleans and the Louisiana bayou," the company said. Also read: Katy Perry dedicates upcoming song 'What Makes a Women' to unborn child Hollywood companies including Disney are revisiting works from the past in light of renewed calls for racial justice following the death of African American George Floyd in U.S. police custody. The petition on Change.org said Splash Mountain was a "beloved classic" at California's Disneyland, Walt Disney World in Florida and Tokyo Disneyland. But "its history and storyline are steeped in extremely problematic and stereotypical racist tropes from the 1946 film Song of the South."

Disney to revamp Splash Mountain to feature company's first black princess

<p>Disney has decided to close its kids channels post the launch of its streaming platform, Disney+.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This means, channels like Disney Channel, Disney XD and Disney Junior will be taken off air. This will take effect post September of this year.</p>

<p>However, channels like Nat Geo and Fox will continue to broadcast on TV.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Announcing the same, Disney spokesman said, “From October 1st, Disney+ will become the exclusive home for content from Disney Channel, DisneyXD and Disney Junior in the UK.”</p>

<p>He added that the “Walt Disney Company remains committed to our kids channels business,” and that the company plans to “execute distribution agreements for Disney channels in many markets where Disney+ is also available.”</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/disney-plus-stops-offering-free-trial-to-its-streaming-service-307323">Also read:&nbsp;Disney Plus stops offering free trial to its streaming service</a></p>


Disney has decided to close its kids channels post the launch of its streaming platform, Disney+. This means, channels like Disney Channel, Disney XD and Disney Junior will be taken off air.

Disney has decided to close its kids channels post the launch of its streaming platform, Disney+. This means, channels like Disney Channel, Disney XD and Disney Junior will be taken off air. This will take effect post September of this year. However, channels like Nat Geo and Fox will continue to broadcast on TV. Announcing the same, Disney spokesman said, “From October 1st, Disney+ will become the exclusive home for content from Disney Channel, DisneyXD and Disney Junior in the UK.” He added that the “Walt Disney Company remains committed to our kids channels business,” and that the company plans to “execute distribution agreements for Disney channels in many markets where Disney+ is also available.” Also read: Disney Plus stops offering free trial to its streaming service

Disney to shut kids channels in the UK post launch of streaming platform

<p>Disney’s live-action ‘Mulan’ has been facing an issue with its release date because of the novel coronavirus spread.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The film that is now slated for release on July 24 might get postponed again as coronavirus scare is peaking in the US.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Apart from ‘Mulan’ even Christpher Nolan’s ‘Tenet’ is slated to release in July on 31st but it waits to be seen if the makers will stick with the release date.&nbsp;</p>

<p>What's a major reason for their concern is the fact that they will need theatres in Los Angeles and New York City -- both cities have seen a surge in coronavirus patients.&nbsp;</p>

<p>‘Tenet’ was initially set to open on July 17 but since the theatres were not opening by then, it is now supposed to release on July 31.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For ‘Mulan’, another cause of worry is Chinese market which is unlikely for the makers as there is a resurgence of COVID-19 cases in the country.</p>

<p>‘Mulan’ is directed by Niki Caro and stars Liu Yifei as the legendary female warrior.&nbsp;</p>


Disney’s live-action ‘Mulan’ has been facing an issue with its release date because of the novel coronavirus spread. The film that is now slated for release on July 24 might get postponed again as coronavirus scare is peaking in the US.

Disney’s live-action ‘Mulan’ has been facing an issue with its release date because of the novel coronavirus spread. The film that is now slated for release on July 24 might get postponed again as coronavirus scare is peaking in the US. Apart from ‘Mulan’ even Christpher Nolan’s ‘Tenet’ is slated to release in July on 31st but it waits to be seen if the makers will stick with the release date. What's a major reason for their concern is the fact that they will need theatres in Los Angeles and New York City -- both cities have seen a surge in coronavirus patients. ‘Tenet’ was initially set to open on July 17 but since the theatres were not opening by then, it is now supposed to release on July 31. For ‘Mulan’, another cause of worry is Chinese market which is unlikely for the makers as there is a resurgence of COVID-19 cases in the country. ‘Mulan’ is directed by Niki Caro and stars Liu Yifei as the legendary female warrior.

Disney's 'Mulan' to miss release date?

<p>Barbra Streisand gave a sweet surprise to George Floyd’s daughter Gianna as she gifted her Disney stocks as a gift.</p>

<p>Gianna, who has been in the news ever since her father was killed mercilessly because of racial injustice, shared a post on Instagram. She thanked the Hollywood star for a gift package that included her new stock portfolio as well as a copy of two Streisand albums including ‘My Name is Barbra’ from 1965 and ‘Color Me Barbra’ from 1966.</p>

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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CBYSZ4pnqeP/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Thank You @barbrastreisand for my package, I am now a Disney Stockholder thanks to you 🥰🥰🥰</a></p>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/giannapinkfloyd_/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> GIGI FLOYD</a> (@giannapinkfloyd_) on <time datetime="2020-06-13T14:59:27+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Jun 13, 2020 at 7:59am PDT</time></p>
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<p>Gianna Floyd is a recent joiness of Instagram. She shares posts remembering her father and thanking people from all over the world who help create a more just world.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She recently also posted a picture that read: “Stop Killing Our Fathers.”</p>

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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CBbg-9TnKZR/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Please Stop Killing Our Fathers #justiceforgeorgefloyd #justiceforrayshardbrooks</a></p>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/giannapinkfloyd_/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> GIGI FLOYD</a> (@giannapinkfloyd_) on <time datetime="2020-06-14T21:04:34+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Jun 14, 2020 at 2:04pm PDT</time></p>
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<p>Gianna’s Go Fund Me page has exceeded its goal of $2 million. “Thank you so much for the outpouring of love and support,” Gianna and her mother Roxie Washington stated on the page. They also launched a foundation where people can send cards, pictures or gifts.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/barbra-streisand-calls-trump-dangerous-to-our-health-at-joe-bidens-fundraiser-rally-305452">Barbra Streisand calls Trump 'dangerous to our health' at Joe Biden's fundraiser rally</a></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/hollywood-stars-who-witnessed-police-brutality-during-blacklivesmatter-protests-303205">Hollywood stars who witnessed police brutality during #BlackLivesMatter protests</a></p>


Barbra Streisand gave a sweet surprise to George Floyd’s daughter Gianna as she gifted her Disney stocks as a gift. Gianna, who has been in the news ever since her father was killed mercilessly because of racial injustice, shared a post on Instagram.

Barbra Streisand gave a sweet surprise to George Floyd’s daughter Gianna as she gifted her Disney stocks as a gift. Gianna, who has been in the news ever since her father was killed mercilessly because of racial injustice, shared a post on Instagram. She thanked the Hollywood star for a gift package that included her new stock portfolio as well as a copy of two Streisand albums including ‘My Name is Barbra’ from 1965 and ‘Color Me Barbra’ from 1966. View this post on Instagram Thank You @barbrastreisand for my package, I am now a Disney Stockholder thanks to you 🥰🥰🥰 A post shared by GIGI FLOYD (@giannapinkfloyd_) on Jun 13, 2020 at 7:59am PDT × Gianna Floyd is a recent joiness of Instagram. She shares posts remembering her father and thanking people from all over the world who help create a more just world. She recently also posted a picture that read: “Stop Killing Our Fathers.” View this post on Instagram Please Stop Killing Our Fathers #justiceforgeorgefloyd #justiceforrayshardbrooks A post shared by GIGI FLOYD (@giannapinkfloyd_) on Jun 14, 2020 at 2:04pm PDT × Gianna’s Go Fund Me page has exceeded its goal of $2 million. “Thank you so much for the outpouring of love and support,” Gianna and her mother Roxie Washington stated on the page. They also launched a foundation where people can send cards, pictures or gifts. Barbra Streisand calls Trump 'dangerous to our health' at Joe Biden's fundraiser rally Hollywood stars who witnessed police brutality during #BlackLivesMatter protests

Barbra Streisand makes George Floyd’s daughter Disney stockholder

<p>We last told you about former ‘Star Wars’ actor John Boyega openly talking about <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/star-wars-actor-john-boyega-speaks-on-george-floyds-death-i-hate-racists-301522">hating racists,</a> right after the death of a black man named George Floyd. His death has now stoked chaos in the US and in the rest of the world as people have taken to protest his killing at the hands of a police officer.&nbsp;</p>

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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CArrztGJ_JP/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">George Floyd. So heartbreaking to hear about the continuous cycle of violence aimed at black people by racist cops. Murder charges only. #justiceforgeorgefloyd First post where I’ve had to turn off comments. Ain’t none of you getting the last word today. That’s that.</a></p>

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<p>The former ‘Star Wars’ actor now delivered a powerful speech in the UK on the issue. Both Disney and ‘Star Wars’ team have backed the actor calling him a “hero”. As he feared that this speech might end his career in the entertainment world, the official Star Wars Twitter feed, the Kathleen Kennedy-run Lucasfilm dubbed him as “hero” and LucasFilm stands with John Boyega”.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">We stand with and support you, <a href="https://twitter.com/JohnBoyega?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JohnBoyega</a>. View his full speech: <a href="https://t.co/Goxb5y2wrK">https://t.co/Goxb5y2wrK</a> <a href="https://t.co/ZvE0t5tRPY">pic.twitter.com/ZvE0t5tRPY</a></p>
— Star Wars (@starwars) <a href="https://twitter.com/starwars/status/1268317283144753152?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Soon after this, Disney too supported this. Disney today pledged $5 million to support nonprofit organizations that advance social justice. The company said that its support starts with a $2 million donation to the NAACP.</p>

<p>In his speech, John Boyega said, “I’m speaking to you from my heart. Look, I don’t know if I’m going to have a career after this, but fuck that. This is so vital. I need you guys to understand how painful this shit is. Today is about innocent people who were halfway through their process.”</p>

<p>“We don’t know what George Floyd could have achieved, we don’t know what Sandra Bland could have achieved, but today we’re going to make sure that won’t be an alien thought to our young ones,” he added.&nbsp;</p>


We last told you about former ‘Star Wars’ actor John Boyega openly talking about hating racists, right after the death of a black man named George Floyd. His death has now stoked chaos in the US and in the rest of the world as people have taken to protest his killing at the hands of a police officer.

We last told you about former ‘Star Wars’ actor John Boyega openly talking about hating racists, right after the death of a black man named George Floyd. His death has now stoked chaos in the US and in the rest of the world as people have taken to protest his killing at the hands of a police officer. View this post on Instagram George Floyd. So heartbreaking to hear about the continuous cycle of violence aimed at black people by racist cops. Murder charges only. #justiceforgeorgefloyd First post where I’ve had to turn off comments. Ain’t none of you getting the last word today. That’s that. A post shared by John Boyega (@johnboyega) on May 27, 2020 at 12:15am PDT × The former ‘Star Wars’ actor now delivered a powerful speech in the UK on the issue. Both Disney and ‘Star Wars’ team have backed the actor calling him a “hero”. As he feared that this speech might end his career in the entertainment world, the official Star Wars Twitter feed, the Kathleen Kennedy-run Lucasfilm dubbed him as “hero” and LucasFilm stands with John Boyega”. We stand with and support you, @JohnBoyega. View his full speech: https://t.co/Goxb5y2wrK pic.twitter.com/ZvE0t5tRPY — Star Wars (@starwars) June 3, 2020 × Soon after this, Disney too supported this. Disney today pledged $5 million to support nonprofit organizations that advance social justice. The company said that its support starts with a $2 million donation to the NAACP. In his speech, John Boyega said, “I’m speaking to you from my heart. Look, I don’t know if I’m going to have a career after this, but fuck that. This is so vital. I need you guys to understand how painful this shit is. Today is about innocent people who were halfway through their process.” “We don’t know what George Floyd could have achieved, we don’t know what Sandra Bland could have achieved, but today we’re going to make sure that won’t be an alien thought to our young ones,” he added.

'Star Wars' and Disney hail 'hero' John Boyega for powerful Black Lives Matter speech

<p>Walt Disney Co aims to begin reopening its Walt Disney World theme parks in Orlando, Florida on July 11, a company executive said on Wednesday.<br />
<br />
Jim MacPhee, senior vice president of operations for the Walt Disney World Resort, discussed plans to begin a phased reopening of Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom, at a webcast meeting of the Orange County Economic Recovery Task Force.<br />
<br />
Disney needs approval from the county task force and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis before it can reopen Disney World.<br />
The company closed theme parks around the world starting in January to help prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus.<br />
<br />
Welcoming visitors again to the parks is key to Disney`s recovery from the global shutdowns sparked by the pandemic. Disney has estimated it lost $1 billion at the theme parks division from January through March.</p>


Walt Disney Co aims to begin reopening its Walt Disney World theme parks in Orlando, Florida on July 11, a company executive said on Wednesday. Jim MacPhee, senior vice president of operations for the Walt Disney World Resort, discussed plans to begin a phased reopening of Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom, at a webcast meeting of the Orange County Economic Recovery Task Force.

Walt Disney Co aims to begin reopening its Walt Disney World theme parks in Orlando, Florida on July 11, a company executive said on Wednesday. Jim MacPhee, senior vice president of operations for the Walt Disney World Resort, discussed plans to begin a phased reopening of Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom, at a webcast meeting of the Orange County Economic Recovery Task Force. Disney needs approval from the county task force and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis before it can reopen Disney World. The company closed theme parks around the world starting in January to help prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus. Welcoming visitors again to the parks is key to Disney`s recovery from the global shutdowns sparked by the pandemic. Disney has estimated it lost $1 billion at the theme parks division from January through March.

Disney proposes partial reopening of Walt Disney World on July 11

<p>The streaming service Disney Plus is to launch in Japan from next month. The service will be operated as an exclusive partnership with phones and cable group.</p>

<p>According to the news agency, Starting June 11, consumers can subscribe to the Disney Plus service through NTT DoCoMo's retail and digital network.</p>

<p>Consumers can also subscribe to the service on disneyplus.jp with DoCoMo's d Account. Current subscribers of the Disney entertainment service-- Disney Deluxe, jointly launched by Disney.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/entertainment/disney-proposes-partial-reopening-of-walt-disney-world-on-july-11-301438" hreflang="en">Disney proposes partial reopening of Walt Disney World on July 11</a></p>

<p>Japan and NTT DoCoMo in March last year, will see their service upgraded to Disney Plus at no additional cost.</p>

<p>Disney Plus, at launch in Japan, &nbsp;will include over 500 feature films and 100 series including Disney Plus. Originals and other titles from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/disney-says-it-will-reopen-shopping-area-at-florida-resort-on-wednesday-299181" hreflang="en">Disney says it will reopen shopping area at Florida resort on Wednesday</a></p>

<p>According to Disney's latest filing, Disney Plus has quickly racked up 54.5 million subscribers worldwide. Nevertheless, the launch is a major step up for the service.</p>

<p>Japan &nbsp;is the world's third-largest single entertainment market, behind North America and China, and Disney Plus is unlikely to be allowed to operate in China in the near future.</p>

<p>Disney Plus has already been launched in the U.S., much of Europe, Australia and New Zealand to date. It launched in India in alliance with the Hotstar streaming business that Disney acquired with Twentieth Century Fox.</p>

<p>Luke Kang, MD, The Walt Disney Company, North Asia, said, "We have a deep and long-standing relationship with consumers who have helped build our substantial legacy with their love and loyalty. The Walt Disney Company's beloved stories of hope, courage, and optimism have always resonated strongly with our fans in Japan, and Disney Plus &nbsp;will only strengthen and magnify this engagement and resonance."</p>

<p>Disney is also in business in Japan through the Tokyo Disneyland theme park. It is currently closed due to anti-COVID restrictions, though these are now in the process of being lifted.</p>


The streaming service Disney Plus is to launch in Japan from next month. The service will be operated as an exclusive partnership with phones and cable group. According to the news agency, Starting June 11, consumers can subscribe to the Disney Plus service through NTT DoCoMo's retail and digital network.

The streaming service Disney Plus is to launch in Japan from next month. The service will be operated as an exclusive partnership with phones and cable group. According to the news agency, Starting June 11, consumers can subscribe to the Disney Plus service through NTT DoCoMo's retail and digital network. Consumers can also subscribe to the service on disneyplus.jp with DoCoMo's d Account. Current subscribers of the Disney entertainment service-- Disney Deluxe, jointly launched by Disney. Also read: Disney proposes partial reopening of Walt Disney World on July 11 Japan and NTT DoCoMo in March last year, will see their service upgraded to Disney Plus at no additional cost. Disney Plus, at launch in Japan, will include over 500 feature films and 100 series including Disney Plus. Originals and other titles from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic. Also read: Disney says it will reopen shopping area at Florida resort on Wednesday According to Disney's latest filing, Disney Plus has quickly racked up 54.5 million subscribers worldwide. Nevertheless, the launch is a major step up for the service. Japan is the world's third-largest single entertainment market, behind North America and China, and Disney Plus is unlikely to be allowed to operate in China in the near future. Disney Plus has already been launched in the U.S., much of Europe, Australia and New Zealand to date. It launched in India in alliance with the Hotstar streaming business that Disney acquired with Twentieth Century Fox. Luke Kang, MD, The Walt Disney Company, North Asia, said, "We have a deep and long-standing relationship with consumers who have helped build our substantial legacy with their love and loyalty. The Walt Disney Company's beloved stories of hope, courage, and optimism have always resonated strongly with our fans in Japan, and Disney Plus will only strengthen and magnify this engagement and resonance." Disney is also in business in Japan through the Tokyo Disneyland theme park. It is currently closed due to anti-COVID restrictions, though these are now in the process of being lifted.

Disney Plus to launch in Japan on June 11

Walt Disney World, the world's largest theme park, could begin opening in phases starting on July 11 if plans win approval from Florida's governor, Walt Disney Co executives said during a webcast meeting in Florida on Wednesday (May 27).

Disney lays out plans to reopen Florida theme park in July

<p>Walt Disney Co (DIS.N) will partially reopen its Disney Springs entertainment and shopping complex at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida on May 20, it said late on Saturday.</p>

<p>Disney and unions representing workers at Florida’s Walt Disney World reached an agreement on safeguards to protect employees from the coronavirus, a union statement said on Thursday, removing one of the company’s hurdles to reopening its popular theme parks.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-pm-jacinda-ardern-denied-table-in-cafe-due-to-social-distancing-299152"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;New Zealand: PM Jacinda Ardern denied table in cafe due to social distancing</strong></a></p>

<p>The company said next week, third-party operating participants would open at Disney Springs and later this month three stores and venues owned and operated by Disney - World of Disney, D-Luxe Burger and the Marketplace Co-Op - would reopen.</p>

<p>"While our theme parks and resort hotels remain temporarily closed, the phased reopening of Disney Springs is a welcome milestone as we navigate through this unprecedented time together as responsibly as we can," Disney Springs Vice President Matt Simon said in a statement.</p>

<p>The entertainment giant said it was implementing safety measures and operational changes such as cashless or contactless payment options, a requirement to wear “appropriate” face covering, temperature screenings, social distancing practices, increased cleaning and disinfection procedures.</p>

<p>In the United States, Florida is ahead of California, home to Disneyland, in reopening businesses that were closed starting in mid-March.</p>

<p>Shutting theme park gates cost the company $1 billion from January through March, Disney said earlier this month. About 120,000 of the company’s workers were placed on unpaid furlough, many of them theme park “cast members”, as Disney calls them.</p>


Walt Disney Co (DIS.N) will partially reopen its Disney Springs entertainment and shopping complex at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida on May 20, it said late on Saturday.

Walt Disney Co (DIS.N) will partially reopen its Disney Springs entertainment and shopping complex at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida on May 20, it said late on Saturday. Disney and unions representing workers at Florida’s Walt Disney World reached an agreement on safeguards to protect employees from the coronavirus, a union statement said on Thursday, removing one of the company’s hurdles to reopening its popular theme parks. Also read: New Zealand: PM Jacinda Ardern denied table in cafe due to social distancing The company said next week, third-party operating participants would open at Disney Springs and later this month three stores and venues owned and operated by Disney - World of Disney, D-Luxe Burger and the Marketplace Co-Op - would reopen. "While our theme parks and resort hotels remain temporarily closed, the phased reopening of Disney Springs is a welcome milestone as we navigate through this unprecedented time together as responsibly as we can," Disney Springs Vice President Matt Simon said in a statement. The entertainment giant said it was implementing safety measures and operational changes such as cashless or contactless payment options, a requirement to wear “appropriate” face covering, temperature screenings, social distancing practices, increased cleaning and disinfection procedures. In the United States, Florida is ahead of California, home to Disneyland, in reopening businesses that were closed starting in mid-March. Shutting theme park gates cost the company $1 billion from January through March, Disney said earlier this month. About 120,000 of the company’s workers were placed on unpaid furlough, many of them theme park “cast members”, as Disney calls them.

Disney says it will reopen shopping area at Florida resort on Wednesday

<p>Disney is now thinking of ways to ensure films go on at the time of the coronavirus crisis. While CEO Bob Chapek praised theatrical moviegoing during the company’s earnings call on Tuesday, he stressed on “case by case” decisions on how films will roll out in the coming future.</p>

<p>He said, “We very much believe in the value of the theatrical experience. But we also believe that either because of changing and evolving consumer dynamics or because of certain situations like COVID, we may have to make some changes to that overall strategy. … We’re going to evaluate each of our movies as a case-by-case situation, as we are doing during this coronavirus situation.”</p>

<p>Bob mentioned the case of how Artemis Fowl has been planned to head directly to Disney+ in June without playing first in theatres. In fact, Disney has pushed all major releases for this year to next year to take advantage of the “power” of theaters as a revenue driver, Chapek noted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>‘Mulan’, which was pushed once already, is slated to release on July 24, though the future looks uncertain.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to The Hollywood Reporter, in 2019, Disney made about $13 billion in global box office receipts. Releasing films directly to consumers, by contrast, would boost margins, but the marketing machine built up over the decades has been optimized by Disney in recent years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A change to the first release window would have a dramatic effect on other revenue related to the box office. NBCUniversal and WarnerMedia have also talked about re-examining the traditional 90-day theatrical window in light of their own streaming efforts, plus the economic and societal toll of COVID-19.</p>


Disney is now thinking of ways to ensure films go on at the time of the coronavirus crisis. While CEO Bob Chapek praised theatrical moviegoing during the company’s earnings call on Tuesday, he stressed on “case by case” decisions on how films will roll out in the coming future.

Disney is now thinking of ways to ensure films go on at the time of the coronavirus crisis. While CEO Bob Chapek praised theatrical moviegoing during the company’s earnings call on Tuesday, he stressed on “case by case” decisions on how films will roll out in the coming future. He said, “We very much believe in the value of the theatrical experience. But we also believe that either because of changing and evolving consumer dynamics or because of certain situations like COVID, we may have to make some changes to that overall strategy. … We’re going to evaluate each of our movies as a case-by-case situation, as we are doing during this coronavirus situation.” Bob mentioned the case of how Artemis Fowl has been planned to head directly to Disney+ in June without playing first in theatres. In fact, Disney has pushed all major releases for this year to next year to take advantage of the “power” of theaters as a revenue driver, Chapek noted. ‘Mulan’, which was pushed once already, is slated to release on July 24, though the future looks uncertain. According to The Hollywood Reporter, in 2019, Disney made about $13 billion in global box office receipts. Releasing films directly to consumers, by contrast, would boost margins, but the marketing machine built up over the decades has been optimized by Disney in recent years. A change to the first release window would have a dramatic effect on other revenue related to the box office. NBCUniversal and WarnerMedia have also talked about re-examining the traditional 90-day theatrical window in light of their own streaming efforts, plus the economic and societal toll of COVID-19.

More Disney films to skip theatrical release, CEO plans on strategy for post lockdown

<p>Time to rejoice for Disney fans as ‘Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker’ is headed to its OTT platform, two months earlier than original schedule date.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The movie will now make its digital debut on May 4 globally on Disney+.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The date will also see the arrival of doc series Disney Gallery: The Mandalorian and the final episode of ‘Star Wars: The Clone Wars’.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-star-wars-actor-andrew-jack-dies-of-coronavirus-289845">‘Star Wars’ actor Andrew Jack dies of Coronavirus</a></p>

<p>This is not the first time that Disney has made changes in its scheduled date as previously they shifted online launch of its latest Pixar movie ‘Onward’ after the film’s theatrical run was cut short by the coronavirus.</p>

<p>‘Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker’ will see J.J. Abrams return as director following ‘The Force Awakens’ and ‘The Last Jedi’.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/may-the-4th-be-with-you-twitter-has-a-star-wars-inference-to-pm-modis-call-for-lockdown-extension-292445">'May the 4th be with you': Twitter has a 'Star Wars' inference to PM Modi's call for lockdown extension</a></p>


Time to rejoice for Disney fans as ‘Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker’ is headed to its OTT platform, two months earlier than original schedule date. The movie will now make its digital debut on May 4 globally on Disney+.

Time to rejoice for Disney fans as ‘Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker’ is headed to its OTT platform, two months earlier than original schedule date. The movie will now make its digital debut on May 4 globally on Disney+. The date will also see the arrival of doc series Disney Gallery: The Mandalorian and the final episode of ‘Star Wars: The Clone Wars’. ‘Star Wars’ actor Andrew Jack dies of Coronavirus This is not the first time that Disney has made changes in its scheduled date as previously they shifted online launch of its latest Pixar movie ‘Onward’ after the film’s theatrical run was cut short by the coronavirus. ‘Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker’ will see J.J. Abrams return as director following ‘The Force Awakens’ and ‘The Last Jedi’. 'May the 4th be with you': Twitter has a 'Star Wars' inference to PM Modi's call for lockdown extension

‘Star Wars: The Rise Of Skywalker’ heading to Disney+ two months early

<p>We last told you that Meghan Markle will be making her first professional stint post exiting from the British royal family with Disney and it’s finally happened.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meghan narrated for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-meghan-markle-makes-hollywood-comeback-with-disneys-elephant-288858">Disney film ‘Elephant’ </a>and she opened up on how much she loved the gig and why she gave her nod to the project in the first place. In an interview with Good Morning America, Meghan said, "I'm really grateful to have the opportunity to be a part of bringing the story of Elephant to life. I've been very lucky to be able to have hands-on experience with elephants in their natural habitat."</p>

<p>She spoke about her personal experience with elephants as she did an extensive tour of Africa in September with son Archie before she took on the project. She said, "When you spend time connecting to them and the other wildlife, you really understand we have a role to play in their preservation and their safety," she continued. "These creatures are so majestic and at the same time they are so sensitive and so connected. We see in this film just how remarkable they are. Their memories are amazing. The close connection of the herd, the protectiveness of their young. I think they're a lot more like us than they are different."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Duchess Meghan Markle talks about Disneynature film 'Elephant' in exclusive 1st look that features an interview with producers from last summer. <a href="https://t.co/mzu6P496cg">https://t.co/mzu6P496cg</a> <a href="https://t.co/F3eaXQuAne">pic.twitter.com/F3eaXQuAne</a></p>
— Good Morning America (@GMA) <a href="https://twitter.com/GMA/status/1252224085423161345?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Meghan added, "I hope that when people see this film, they realize how connected we all are and if we had more of an awareness about the obstacles they're facing, I think we'd take care of each other, this planet, and animals in a very different way."</p>

<p>Disneynature’s Elephant is an original movie narrated by Meghan, Duchess of Sussex. It started streaming from April 3 on DisneyPlus.</p>


We last told you that Meghan Markle will be making her first professional stint post exiting from the British royal family with Disney and it’s finally happened.

We last told you that Meghan Markle will be making her first professional stint post exiting from the British royal family with Disney and it’s finally happened. Meghan narrated for the Disney film ‘Elephant’ and she opened up on how much she loved the gig and why she gave her nod to the project in the first place. In an interview with Good Morning America, Meghan said, "I'm really grateful to have the opportunity to be a part of bringing the story of Elephant to life. I've been very lucky to be able to have hands-on experience with elephants in their natural habitat." She spoke about her personal experience with elephants as she did an extensive tour of Africa in September with son Archie before she took on the project. She said, "When you spend time connecting to them and the other wildlife, you really understand we have a role to play in their preservation and their safety," she continued. "These creatures are so majestic and at the same time they are so sensitive and so connected. We see in this film just how remarkable they are. Their memories are amazing. The close connection of the herd, the protectiveness of their young. I think they're a lot more like us than they are different." Duchess Meghan Markle talks about Disneynature film 'Elephant' in exclusive 1st look that features an interview with producers from last summer. https://t.co/mzu6P496cg pic.twitter.com/F3eaXQuAne — Good Morning America (@GMA) April 20, 2020 × Meghan added, "I hope that when people see this film, they realize how connected we all are and if we had more of an awareness about the obstacles they're facing, I think we'd take care of each other, this planet, and animals in a very different way." Disneynature’s Elephant is an original movie narrated by Meghan, Duchess of Sussex. It started streaming from April 3 on DisneyPlus.

Meghan Markle’s personal experience helped her film for Disney’s ‘Elephant’

<p>Disney delayed the releases of more than a dozen major films Friday, but has not given up on a summer blockbuster with 'Mulan' now pencilled in for a July launch despite the coronavirus pandemic.</p>

<p>The revised schedule confirmed eagerly awaited Marvel movies 'Black Widow' and 'The Eternals', as well as the latest 'Thor' and 'Doctor Strange' sequels, have all been pushed back as the virus shutters theatres around the world.</p>

<p>'Black Widow' starring Scarlett Johansson, the first of the new "phase" of the record-breaking superhero franchise, will now debut in November, causing most subsequent instalments to move later in a domino effect.</p>

<p>One untitled Marvel film previously set for summer 2022 was removed from the schedule entirely.</p>

<p>But in a note of optimism that North American movie theatres could reopen sooner rather than later, 'Mulan' -- a mega-budget live action remake of the tale of a legendary Chinese warrior -- is now tentatively set to launch July 24.</p>

<p>That chimes with positive notes from National Association of Theatre Owners officials, who told a webinar Friday that theatres could reopen late May or June with social distancing measures in place to seat audience members far enough apart.</p>

<p>However, Disney's Artemis Fowl became the latest major studio film to skip theatres entirely and move directly to streaming -- a trend that has triggered alarm among movie exhibitors.</p>

<p>The children's book adaptation will debut on Disney+ instead, at an undisclosed date.</p>

<p>The next Indiana Jones film, currently untitled, was pushed back an entire year to July 2022, while a confirmed 'Captain Marvel' film bucked the trend by moving to an earlier slot that same month.</p>


Disney delayed the releases of more than a dozen major films Friday, but has not given up on a summer blockbuster with 'Mulan' now pencilled in for a July launch despite the coronavirus pandemic.

Disney delayed the releases of more than a dozen major films Friday, but has not given up on a summer blockbuster with 'Mulan' now pencilled in for a July launch despite the coronavirus pandemic. The revised schedule confirmed eagerly awaited Marvel movies 'Black Widow' and 'The Eternals', as well as the latest 'Thor' and 'Doctor Strange' sequels, have all been pushed back as the virus shutters theatres around the world. 'Black Widow' starring Scarlett Johansson, the first of the new "phase" of the record-breaking superhero franchise, will now debut in November, causing most subsequent instalments to move later in a domino effect. One untitled Marvel film previously set for summer 2022 was removed from the schedule entirely. But in a note of optimism that North American movie theatres could reopen sooner rather than later, 'Mulan' -- a mega-budget live action remake of the tale of a legendary Chinese warrior -- is now tentatively set to launch July 24. That chimes with positive notes from National Association of Theatre Owners officials, who told a webinar Friday that theatres could reopen late May or June with social distancing measures in place to seat audience members far enough apart. However, Disney's Artemis Fowl became the latest major studio film to skip theatres entirely and move directly to streaming -- a trend that has triggered alarm among movie exhibitors. The children's book adaptation will debut on Disney+ instead, at an undisclosed date. The next Indiana Jones film, currently untitled, was pushed back an entire year to July 2022, while a confirmed 'Captain Marvel' film bucked the trend by moving to an earlier slot that same month.

Disney delays Marvel blockbusters but hopes for summer 'Mulan' launch

Here is your go-to guide of everything new you can watch this April

<p>Disneyland and Walt Disney World will remain closed indefinitely. Due to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-attacks-lamestream-media-amid-rising-covid-19-cases-in-us-289147">coronavirus pandemic</a>, the California and Florida parks that were set to reopen next Wednesday will now remain closed until further notice, the Walt Disney Co. said on Friday.</p>

<p>In pics:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/initiatives-taken-by-global-icons-to-combat-coronavirus-pandemic-287487" hreflang="en">Initiatives taken by global icons&nbsp;to combat coronavirus pandemic</a><br />
<br />
According to The news agency, a statement from the company reads, "While there is still much uncertainty with respect to the impacts of COVID-19, the safety and well-being of our guests and employees remain The Walt Disney Company's top priority. As a result of this unprecedented pandemic and in line with direction provided by health experts and government officials, Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort will remain closed until further notice."</p>

<p><strong>Also see:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/8-new-web-shows-films-to-watch-as-you-quarantine-at-home-287555" hreflang="en">8 new web shows, films to watch as you quarantine at home</a></p>

<p>The company added that it "has been paying its cast members since the closure of the parks, and in light of this ongoing and increasingly complex crisis, we have made the decision to extend paying hourly parks and resorts cast members through April 18."<br />
<br />
This news came soon after the union leaders for both the parks sent letters to the Walt Disney Co., that demanded an update as the staff was becoming more and more anxious with uncertainty.<br />
<br />
Universal Studios extended its parks reopen date to April 19. Also in related news, SeaWorld Entertainment on Friday said during a filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission that the company has temporarily furloughed more than 90 per cent of its current employees as of April 1 due to its parks being closed.<br />
<br />
The filing reads, "The furloughed employees will not receive compensation from the Company during the furlough period after March 31, 2020; however, subject to local regulations, these employees will be eligible for unemployment benefits. The furlough period is uncertain at this time due to the temporary park closures and will be reassessed as business conditions dictate."<br />
<br />
Currently, California is under a stay-at-home order, meaning all nonessential businesses must stay closed until the order is lifted. It is not clear when that will happen.<br />
<br />
The earliest Disney World would have been allowed to reopen in Orlando was 11 p.m. on April 9 under the Orange County stay-at-home order.<br />
<br />
On the weekend of March 14, both the Disney parks closed their doors. Disney Paris also closed. The parks&nbsp;shopping districts and hotels along with all Disney stores in North America also closed soon after.<br />
<br />
The date pushback announcement came from the Universal Studios, nearly a week after Jeffrey Ghazarian, a 34-year-old California man who died of complications due to the coronavirus, reportedly visited the Florida park (along with Disney World) days before he became ill.<br />
<br />
On March 19, Alyson Lundell, spokeswoman for Universal Orlando, told The Hollywood Reporter, "Our thoughts are with this gentleman and his family. As is always the case, we will take our guidance from local health officials."<br />
<br />
"We offer our deepest condolences to the family of Mr Ghazarian. We continue to monitor the COVID-19 situation and remain in regular contact with health agencies for information and guidance," stated a Disney spokesperson at the time.</p>


Disneyland and Walt Disney World will remain closed indefinitely. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the California and Florida parks that were set to reopen next Wednesday will now remain closed until further notice, the Walt Disney Co.

Disneyland and Walt Disney World will remain closed indefinitely. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the California and Florida parks that were set to reopen next Wednesday will now remain closed until further notice, the Walt Disney Co. said on Friday. In pics: Initiatives taken by global icons to combat coronavirus pandemic According to The news agency, a statement from the company reads, "While there is still much uncertainty with respect to the impacts of COVID-19, the safety and well-being of our guests and employees remain The Walt Disney Company's top priority. As a result of this unprecedented pandemic and in line with direction provided by health experts and government officials, Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort will remain closed until further notice." Also see: 8 new web shows, films to watch as you quarantine at home The company added that it "has been paying its cast members since the closure of the parks, and in light of this ongoing and increasingly complex crisis, we have made the decision to extend paying hourly parks and resorts cast members through April 18." This news came soon after the union leaders for both the parks sent letters to the Walt Disney Co., that demanded an update as the staff was becoming more and more anxious with uncertainty. Universal Studios extended its parks reopen date to April 19. Also in related news, SeaWorld Entertainment on Friday said during a filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission that the company has temporarily furloughed more than 90 per cent of its current employees as of April 1 due to its parks being closed. The filing reads, "The furloughed employees will not receive compensation from the Company during the furlough period after March 31, 2020; however, subject to local regulations, these employees will be eligible for unemployment benefits. The furlough period is uncertain at this time due to the temporary park closures and will be reassessed as business conditions dictate." Currently, California is under a stay-at-home order, meaning all nonessential businesses must stay closed until the order is lifted. It is not clear when that will happen. The earliest Disney World would have been allowed to reopen in Orlando was 11 p.m. on April 9 under the Orange County stay-at-home order. On the weekend of March 14, both the Disney parks closed their doors. Disney Paris also closed. The parks shopping districts and hotels along with all Disney stores in North America also closed soon after. The date pushback announcement came from the Universal Studios, nearly a week after Jeffrey Ghazarian, a 34-year-old California man who died of complications due to the coronavirus, reportedly visited the Florida park (along with Disney World) days before he became ill. On March 19, Alyson Lundell, spokeswoman for Universal Orlando, told The Hollywood Reporter, "Our thoughts are with this gentleman and his family. As is always the case, we will take our guidance from local health officials." "We offer our deepest condolences to the family of Mr Ghazarian. We continue to monitor the COVID-19 situation and remain in regular contact with health agencies for information and guidance," stated a Disney spokesperson at the time.

Walt Disney World, Disneyland to remain closed indefinitely amid COVID-19 pandemic

<p>We last <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/british-royal-meghan-markle-signed-a-voiceover-deal-with-disney-273743">reported</a> that Meghan Markle’s first professional stint post exiting from the British royal family would be with Disney. We now have confirmed news that she has dubbed for Disney’s ‘Elephant’, an original movie narrated by Meghan Markle.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The new film is about a family of African elephants, Disney announced on Thursday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The documentary follows the family of elephants as they cross Africa’s Kalahari Desert.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In an announcement, the channel said on its Twitter account, "Disneynature's Elephant, an Original Movie narrated by Meghan, The Duchess of Sussex, starts streaming April 3."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Disneynature’s Elephant, an Original Movie narrated by Meghan, The Duchess of Sussex, starts streaming April 3, only on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DisneyPlus?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DisneyPlus</a>. <a href="https://t.co/ArpgkbrjRj">pic.twitter.com/ArpgkbrjRj</a></p>
— Disney+ (@disneyplus) <a href="https://twitter.com/disneyplus/status/1243194756416454656?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Before it was confirmed, reports were abuzz that Prince Harry had mentioned it to Disney head, Bob Iger, that Meghan does voice overs. Harry told Bob at the London premiere of ‘The Lion King’ in July last year, "You know she does voice overs? She's really interested."</p>

<p>Iger reportedly replied, "Sure. We'd love to try."</p>

<p>Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have now stepped down from their royal duties. Currently, they are&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/meghan-markle-prince-harry-self-isolate-in-their-vancouver-island-mansion-amid-covid-19-287196">self isolating&nbsp;in their Vancouver Island mansion</a> amid COVID-19.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/nice-to-be-back-says-meghan-markle-as-she-glows-in-electric-blue-in-first-public-appearance-post-megxit-284667">See:&nbsp;'Nice to be back' says Meghan Markle as she glows in electric blue in first public appearance post Megxit</a></p>


We last reported that Meghan Markle’s first professional stint post exiting from the British royal family would be with Disney. We now have confirmed news that she has dubbed for Disney’s ‘Elephant’, an original movie narrated by Meghan Markle.

We last reported that Meghan Markle’s first professional stint post exiting from the British royal family would be with Disney. We now have confirmed news that she has dubbed for Disney’s ‘Elephant’, an original movie narrated by Meghan Markle. The new film is about a family of African elephants, Disney announced on Thursday. The documentary follows the family of elephants as they cross Africa’s Kalahari Desert. In an announcement, the channel said on its Twitter account, "Disneynature's Elephant, an Original Movie narrated by Meghan, The Duchess of Sussex, starts streaming April 3." Disneynature’s Elephant, an Original Movie narrated by Meghan, The Duchess of Sussex, starts streaming April 3, only on #DisneyPlus. pic.twitter.com/ArpgkbrjRj — Disney+ (@disneyplus) March 26, 2020 × Before it was confirmed, reports were abuzz that Prince Harry had mentioned it to Disney head, Bob Iger, that Meghan does voice overs. Harry told Bob at the London premiere of ‘The Lion King’ in July last year, "You know she does voice overs? She's really interested." Iger reportedly replied, "Sure. We'd love to try." Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have now stepped down from their royal duties. Currently, they are self isolating in their Vancouver Island mansion amid COVID-19. See: 'Nice to be back' says Meghan Markle as she glows in electric blue in first public appearance post Megxit

Meghan Markle makes Hollywood comeback with Disney's 'Elephant'

<p>Chris Pratt and Tom Holland starrer animated fantasy drama 'Onward' has been shifted earlier, and will be available at 5 p.m. P.T.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-hit-by-coronavirus-fears-north-america-box-office-near-20-year-low-286577" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-hit-by-coronavirus-fears-north-america-box-office-near-20-year-low-286577&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjN6pDCvqvoAhWixzgGHcnqBQ8QFjACegQIBxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2K3iisFMKFzTjdUgfeKxGH" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-hit-by-coronavirus-fears-north-america-box-office-near-20-year-low-286577" target="_blank">Hit by coronavirus fears, North America box office near 20-year low</a><br />
<br />
According to the news agency, with theatres now closed in the U.S. and much of the world, Disney will make current release `Onward` available in the home via digital beginning Friday.</p>

<p><strong>In pics:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/8-new-web-shows-films-to-watch-as-you-quarantine-at-home-287555">8 new web shows, films to watch as you quarantine at home</a><br />
<br />
On April 3, the animated flick starring Chris Pratt and Tom Holland will be available at 5 P.M. on Disney+.</p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/gn5QmllRCn4" width="560"></iframe></p>

<p>The movie 'Onward'&nbsp;which first hit the theatres in early March is among a raft of new releases that are now counting on home entertainment to make up for the unprecedented closure of cinemas across the globe.<br />
<br />
Virtually, all the screens in the U.S. went dark this week, following in the footsteps of numerous theatres overseas, beginning with China in late January</p>


Chris Pratt and Tom Holland starrer animated fantasy drama 'Onward' has been shifted earlier, and will be available at 5 p.m. P.T. Also read: Hit by coronavirus fears, North America box office near 20-year low According to the news agency, with theatres now closed in the U.

Chris Pratt and Tom Holland starrer animated fantasy drama 'Onward' has been shifted earlier, and will be available at 5 p.m. P.T. Also read: Hit by coronavirus fears, North America box office near 20-year low According to the news agency, with theatres now closed in the U.S. and much of the world, Disney will make current release `Onward` available in the home via digital beginning Friday. In pics: 8 new web shows, films to watch as you quarantine at home On April 3, the animated flick starring Chris Pratt and Tom Holland will be available at 5 P.M. on Disney+. The movie 'Onward' which first hit the theatres in early March is among a raft of new releases that are now counting on home entertainment to make up for the unprecedented closure of cinemas across the globe. Virtually, all the screens in the U.S. went dark this week, following in the footsteps of numerous theatres overseas, beginning with China in late January

Disney's 'Onward' to release early on digital amid coronavirus pandemic

<p>Who would have thought that singer and actor <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/disney-live-action-little-mermaid-to-star-a-black-ariel-232894">Halle Bailey’s casting as Ariel</a> in the upcoming live action remake of their hugely successful film ‘The Little Mermaid’ would erupt into a controversy? Well, it has and people are now taking to Twitter to trend the hashtag #notmymermaid as they think that Halle does not look like the Ariel they visualise of -- a light-skinned and red-haired nymph.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Some online petitions even call it a “betrayal of Ariel’s original creator”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Now, releasing a statement, the actress has responded saying, “I am beginning to understand this film is something so much bigger than me.”</p>

<p>The remake of ‘The Little Mermaid’ was to go into production next month but because of a coronavirus outbreak all over the world, all shoots and production stands postponed as of now.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Read some of the tweets here:</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">To all the people saying <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NotMyMermaid?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NotMyMermaid</a>, I might be wrong here, but I don’t think Disney really wants you to come see their movies, much less be inside of their parks. Just a guess! 🤷🏻‍♂️Disney is a company of acceptance, celebration, and inclusion. And you don’t seem like you are..</p>
— host of TMZ’s “Sammy on the Street” (@sammyjengle) <a href="https://twitter.com/sammyjengle/status/1150126601755123712?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 13, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NotMyAriel?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NotMyAriel</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/notmylittlemermaid?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#notmylittlemermaid</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NotMyMermaid?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NotMyMermaid</a> wtf? <a href="https://twitter.com/Disney?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Disney</a> shes not ariel!!! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NotMyAriel?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NotMyAriel</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/notmylittlemermaid?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#notmylittlemermaid</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NotMyMermaid?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NotMyMermaid</a> <a href="https://t.co/ouUaZKk8c7">pic.twitter.com/ouUaZKk8c7</a></p>
— Josss Garcia Ramirez (@J0seMontero) <a href="https://twitter.com/J0seMontero/status/1146923962242220032?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 4, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Sorry but this is SO WRONG is SO MANY ways!!! Ariel's my favorite take and Disney princess she's Danish she's got redhair Don't change the classics!!! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NotMyAriel?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NotMyAriel</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/notmylittlemermaid?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#notmylittlemermaid</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NotMyMermaid?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NotMyMermaid</a></p>
— Mich Xmucane (@MichkatKat) <a href="https://twitter.com/MichkatKat/status/1146874913455656960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 4, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HalleBailey?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HalleBailey</a> doesn't look like Ariel! She can be her friend! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TheLittleMermaid?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TheLittleMermaid</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/thelittlemermaidmovie?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#thelittlemermaidmovie</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NotMyAriel?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NotMyAriel</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/notmylittlemermaid?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#notmylittlemermaid</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NotMyMermaid?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NotMyMermaid</a> <a href="https://t.co/eVpU4mhn4W">pic.twitter.com/eVpU4mhn4W</a></p>
— LOLA🤟👑 (@InsurgentNow) <a href="https://twitter.com/InsurgentNow/status/1146854723108126720?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 4, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>Earlier too, when critics had opposed Halle's casting as Ariel,&nbsp;Disney's cable network Freeform <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/disneys-freeform-calls-out-critics-opposing-halle-baileys-casting-as-ariel-233894">issued an open letter</a> writing to those&nbsp;who feel a black woman should not play princess Ariel in the live-action remake of 'The Little Mermaid'. It read,&nbsp;"Yes. The original author of The Little Mermaid was Danish. Ariel...is a mermaid. She lives in an underwater kingdom in international waters and can legit swim wherever she wants (even though that often upsets King Triton, absolute zaddy). But for the sake of argument, let's say that Ariel, too, is Danish."</p>

<p>"Danish mermaids can be black because Danish *people* can be black. Ariel can sneak up to the surface at any time with her pals Scuttle and the *ahem* Jamaican crab Sebastian (sorry, Flounder!) and keep that bronze base tight. Black Danish people, and this mer-folk, can also *genetically* (!!!) have red hair," the letter continued.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-ryan-reynolds-blake-lively-donate-1-million-to-hunger-relief-organisations-in-response-to-covid-19-fight-286937">Also read:&nbsp;Ryan Reynolds, Blake Lively donate $1 million to hunger relief organisations in response to COVID-19 fight</a></p>


Who would have thought that singer and actor Halle Bailey’s casting as Ariel in the upcoming live action remake of their hugely successful film ‘The Little Mermaid’ would erupt into a controversy?

Who would have thought that singer and actor Halle Bailey’s casting as Ariel in the upcoming live action remake of their hugely successful film ‘The Little Mermaid’ would erupt into a controversy? Well, it has and people are now taking to Twitter to trend the hashtag #notmymermaid as they think that Halle does not look like the Ariel they visualise of -- a light-skinned and red-haired nymph. Some online petitions even call it a “betrayal of Ariel’s original creator”. Now, releasing a statement, the actress has responded saying, “I am beginning to understand this film is something so much bigger than me.” The remake of ‘The Little Mermaid’ was to go into production next month but because of a coronavirus outbreak all over the world, all shoots and production stands postponed as of now. Read some of the tweets here: To all the people saying #NotMyMermaid, I might be wrong here, but I don’t think Disney really wants you to come see their movies, much less be inside of their parks. Just a guess! 🤷🏻‍♂️Disney is a company of acceptance, celebration, and inclusion. And you don’t seem like you are.. — host of TMZ’s “Sammy on the Street” (@sammyjengle) July 13, 2019 × #NotMyAriel #notmylittlemermaid #NotMyMermaid wtf? @Disney shes not ariel!!! #NotMyAriel #notmylittlemermaid #NotMyMermaid pic.twitter.com/ouUaZKk8c7 — Josss Garcia Ramirez (@J0seMontero) July 4, 2019 × Sorry but this is SO WRONG is SO MANY ways!!! Ariel's my favorite take and Disney princess she's Danish she's got redhair Don't change the classics!!! #NotMyAriel #notmylittlemermaid #NotMyMermaid — Mich Xmucane (@MichkatKat) July 4, 2019 × #HalleBailey doesn't look like Ariel! She can be her friend! #TheLittleMermaid #thelittlemermaidmovie #NotMyAriel #notmylittlemermaid #NotMyMermaid pic.twitter.com/eVpU4mhn4W — LOLA🤟👑 (@InsurgentNow) July 4, 2019 × Earlier too, when critics had opposed Halle's casting as Ariel, Disney's cable network Freeform issued an open letter writing to those who feel a black woman should not play princess Ariel in the live-action remake of 'The Little Mermaid'. It read, "Yes. The original author of The Little Mermaid was Danish. Ariel...is a mermaid. She lives in an underwater kingdom in international waters and can legit swim wherever she wants (even though that often upsets King Triton, absolute zaddy). But for the sake of argument, let's say that Ariel, too, is Danish." "Danish mermaids can be black because Danish *people* can be black. Ariel can sneak up to the surface at any time with her pals Scuttle and the *ahem* Jamaican crab Sebastian (sorry, Flounder!) and keep that bronze base tight. Black Danish people, and this mer-folk, can also *genetically* (!!!) have red hair," the letter continued. Also read: Ryan Reynolds, Blake Lively donate $1 million to hunger relief organisations in response to COVID-19 fight

'The Little Mermaid' remake: #NoMyMermaid trends as online petitions againt Halle Bailey's casting as Ariel gain momentum

<p>If you happened to watch some Disney content on Hotstar in India then you were a lucky one. Disney+ Hotstar has now removed it’s Disney content from the website calling it a test run.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"A limited release of the beta version of the Disney+ Hotstar app is currently being tested with a small number of consumers, in preparation for the full-fledged app launch on 29th March", clarified a Hotstar spokesperson.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-hotstar-is-now-disneyhotstar-ahead-of-launch-of-streaming-platform-in-india-on-march-29-285666">Disney+ Hotstar, the rebranded Hotstar application</a> in India is scheduled to premiere in India on March 29 but some Disney original content made its way to the application yesterday, much to the surprise of app users.</p>

<p>Users were confused yesterday when an update of the app changed the logo and they had access to the wide catalogue of Disney titles.</p>

<p>Along with the content, Hotstar’s rebranded logo has also vanished and it’s back to its original colour.&nbsp;</p>


If you happened to watch some Disney content on Hotstar in India then you were a lucky one. Disney+ Hotstar has now removed it’s Disney content from the website calling it a test run.

If you happened to watch some Disney content on Hotstar in India then you were a lucky one. Disney+ Hotstar has now removed it’s Disney content from the website calling it a test run. "A limited release of the beta version of the Disney+ Hotstar app is currently being tested with a small number of consumers, in preparation for the full-fledged app launch on 29th March", clarified a Hotstar spokesperson. Disney+ Hotstar, the rebranded Hotstar application in India is scheduled to premiere in India on March 29 but some Disney original content made its way to the application yesterday, much to the surprise of app users. Users were confused yesterday when an update of the app changed the logo and they had access to the wide catalogue of Disney titles. Along with the content, Hotstar’s rebranded logo has also vanished and it’s back to its original colour.

Hotstar removes Disney+ content, a day after 'beta version testing'

<p>Disney and Pixar`s 'Onward' debuted this weekend to $40 million, enough to lead box office charts but still a somewhat disappointing start given the studio`s near-flawless track record when it comes to animated fare. Internationally, the film brought in $28 million for a global tally of $68 million.<br />
<br />
'Onward,' a fantastical adventure about two brothers (voiced by Tom Holland and Chris Pratt), ranks among Pixar`s lowest opening weekend`s in modern times, joining 2015`s 'The Good Dinosaur' and it's $39 million as a rare blemish for the Disney-owned company, known for producing hits such as 'Inside Out',' Coco' and 'Up.' Pixar films typically cost $175 million to $200 million to produce, a huge sum that doesn`t include global marketing fees.<br />
<br />
Directed by Dan Scanlon, 'Onward' received mostly positive reviews, though it didn`t welcome the kind of rapturous reception that greets most Pixar titles. Still, 'Onward' looks to benefit in coming weeks as one of the few options for family audiences. It scored an "A-" CinemaScore, signalling that moviegoers enjoyed the film.<br />
<br />
"Pixar has earned an incredible reputation for delivering quality to audiences, and based on their response, they are being touched by it," said Cathleen Taff, Disney`s president of global distribution. "We`re excited to see such good word-of-mouth. That bodes well for the life of its run in theaters."<br />
<br />
This weekend`s other high-profile release, Warner Bros.` sports drama 'The Way Back,'&nbsp;also fell short of expectations. But box office experts suggest it was the movies themselves -- not fears of coronavirus -- that stifled ticket sales. 'Onward'&nbsp;was tracking an opening between $40 million and $45 million even before threats of coronavirus in North America.<br />
<br />
"I think there was zero impact," Paul Dergarabedian, a senior media analyst with Comscore, said. "With $40 million for `Onward,` a small drop off for `The Invisible Man` and `The Way Back` getting solid scores from audiences, it looks like people are in the habit of going to the movies."<br />
<br />
Overall box office receipts are down 50% from the same weekend last year, an inevitable dip given last year saw "Captain Marvel" arrive with a huge $153 million. That drastic dip pushed the year-to-date box office down almost 2%, the first year-over-year decline in 2020.<br />
<br />
'The Way Back' brought in $8.5 million when it launched in 2,718 theaters, enough for third place on box office charts. It`s a lackluster start given its A-list leading man, but an improvement from Warner Bros. recent mid-budget duds like 'The Good Liar' ($5.6 million) and 'The Kitchen' ($5.5 million).<br />
<br />
The film, which cost roughly $21 million to make, was poised as a big-screen comeback for Affleck. His performance as an alcoholic construction worker who is recruited to become the head coach of a high school basketball team has been praised, but it didn`t get the level of reception that smaller dramas need these days to make an impact at the box office. Among opening weekend crowds, 64% were over the age of 35. Jeff Goldstein, Warner Bros.` president of domestic distribution, noted it`s a demographic that doesn`t usually rush out on opening weekend.<br />
<br />
"Our reviews were really strong and we have a `B+` CinemaScore, so we`re in a really strong place," Goldstein said. "The story gears toward an older audience that doesn`t rush out. I think we can capture an older audience, assuming a coronavirus scare doesn`t keep audiences away."<br />
<br />
In the second place, Universal and Blumhouse`s 'The Invisible Man' added $15.5 million in its second outing for a cumulative total of $52.6 million. Internationally, the Elisabeth Moss-led thriller generated $17.3 million. Its box office receipts currently stand at $98.3 million, already a win for the studio since it cost just $7 million.<br />
<br />
Paramount`s 'Sonic the Hedgehog' landed at No. 4, bringing in another $8 million. After four weeks in theaters, the animated family film has made an impressive $140 million. The blue speed demon, voiced by Ben Schwartz, has also been a draw overseas, where it has made $154 million. Globally, 'Sonic' is nearing the $300 million mark with ticket sales currently at $295.6 million.<br />
<br />
Disney`s 'The Call of the Wild' rounded out the top five, pocketing $7 million in its third frame. The adaptation of Jack London`s novel, starring Harrison Ford and a CGI dog named Buck, has generated $57.5 million in North America and $99.6 million worldwide, a weak result because the film cost a head-scratching $125 million to make. Given the high price tag, sources estimate "The Call of the Wild" needs to earn between $250 million and $275 million to get out of the red. At this point, it will be difficult to reach those heights so "The Call of the Wild" is expected to lose around $50 million.<br />
<br />
Among indie releases, A24`s 'First Cow' made $96,059 when it opened in four venues -- translating to $24,015 from each location. Directed by Kelly Reichardt, the film is set in the Pacific Northwest and follows a 19th-century cook who travels with fur trappers to the Oregon Territory. It will continue its platform release next weekend before opening nationwide in the spring.<br />
<br />
Sony Pictures Classic`s 'Burnt Orange Heresy' had a rocky start in limited release, bringing in $18,296 from four screens for a theatre-average of $4,574. The heist thriller stars Claes Bang, Elizabeth Debicki and Mick Jagger.<br />
<br />
Elsewhere, Focus Features` 'Emma' amassed $5 million when it expanded to 1,565 theaters, bringing its domestic tally to $6.8 million. The adaptation of Jane Austen`s novel also earned $1.5 million this weekend at the international box office for a global bounty of $20.9 million.</p>


Disney and Pixar`s 'Onward' debuted this weekend to $40 million, enough to lead box office charts but still a somewhat disappointing start given the studio`s near-flawless track record when it comes to animated fare.

Disney and Pixar`s 'Onward' debuted this weekend to $40 million, enough to lead box office charts but still a somewhat disappointing start given the studio`s near-flawless track record when it comes to animated fare. Internationally, the film brought in $28 million for a global tally of $68 million. 'Onward,' a fantastical adventure about two brothers (voiced by Tom Holland and Chris Pratt), ranks among Pixar`s lowest opening weekend`s in modern times, joining 2015`s 'The Good Dinosaur' and it's $39 million as a rare blemish for the Disney-owned company, known for producing hits such as 'Inside Out',' Coco' and 'Up.' Pixar films typically cost $175 million to $200 million to produce, a huge sum that doesn`t include global marketing fees. Directed by Dan Scanlon, 'Onward' received mostly positive reviews, though it didn`t welcome the kind of rapturous reception that greets most Pixar titles. Still, 'Onward' looks to benefit in coming weeks as one of the few options for family audiences. It scored an "A-" CinemaScore, signalling that moviegoers enjoyed the film. "Pixar has earned an incredible reputation for delivering quality to audiences, and based on their response, they are being touched by it," said Cathleen Taff, Disney`s president of global distribution. "We`re excited to see such good word-of-mouth. That bodes well for the life of its run in theaters." This weekend`s other high-profile release, Warner Bros.` sports drama 'The Way Back,' also fell short of expectations. But box office experts suggest it was the movies themselves -- not fears of coronavirus -- that stifled ticket sales. 'Onward' was tracking an opening between $40 million and $45 million even before threats of coronavirus in North America. "I think there was zero impact," Paul Dergarabedian, a senior media analyst with Comscore, said. "With $40 million for `Onward,` a small drop off for `The Invisible Man` and `The Way Back` getting solid scores from audiences, it looks like people are in the habit of going to the movies." Overall box office receipts are down 50% from the same weekend last year, an inevitable dip given last year saw "Captain Marvel" arrive with a huge $153 million. That drastic dip pushed the year-to-date box office down almost 2%, the first year-over-year decline in 2020. 'The Way Back' brought in $8.5 million when it launched in 2,718 theaters, enough for third place on box office charts. It`s a lackluster start given its A-list leading man, but an improvement from Warner Bros. recent mid-budget duds like 'The Good Liar' ($5.6 million) and 'The Kitchen' ($5.5 million). The film, which cost roughly $21 million to make, was poised as a big-screen comeback for Affleck. His performance as an alcoholic construction worker who is recruited to become the head coach of a high school basketball team has been praised, but it didn`t get the level of reception that smaller dramas need these days to make an impact at the box office. Among opening weekend crowds, 64% were over the age of 35. Jeff Goldstein, Warner Bros.` president of domestic distribution, noted it`s a demographic that doesn`t usually rush out on opening weekend. "Our reviews were really strong and we have a `B+` CinemaScore, so we`re in a really strong place," Goldstein said. "The story gears toward an older audience that doesn`t rush out. I think we can capture an older audience, assuming a coronavirus scare doesn`t keep audiences away." In the second place, Universal and Blumhouse`s 'The Invisible Man' added $15.5 million in its second outing for a cumulative total of $52.6 million. Internationally, the Elisabeth Moss-led thriller generated $17.3 million. Its box office receipts currently stand at $98.3 million, already a win for the studio since it cost just $7 million. Paramount`s 'Sonic the Hedgehog' landed at No. 4, bringing in another $8 million. After four weeks in theaters, the animated family film has made an impressive $140 million. The blue speed demon, voiced by Ben Schwartz, has also been a draw overseas, where it has made $154 million. Globally, 'Sonic' is nearing the $300 million mark with ticket sales currently at $295.6 million. Disney`s 'The Call of the Wild' rounded out the top five, pocketing $7 million in its third frame. The adaptation of Jack London`s novel, starring Harrison Ford and a CGI dog named Buck, has generated $57.5 million in North America and $99.6 million worldwide, a weak result because the film cost a head-scratching $125 million to make. Given the high price tag, sources estimate "The Call of the Wild" needs to earn between $250 million and $275 million to get out of the red. At this point, it will be difficult to reach those heights so "The Call of the Wild" is expected to lose around $50 million. Among indie releases, A24`s 'First Cow' made $96,059 when it opened in four venues -- translating to $24,015 from each location. Directed by Kelly Reichardt, the film is set in the Pacific Northwest and follows a 19th-century cook who travels with fur trappers to the Oregon Territory. It will continue its platform release next weekend before opening nationwide in the spring. Sony Pictures Classic`s 'Burnt Orange Heresy' had a rocky start in limited release, bringing in $18,296 from four screens for a theatre-average of $4,574. The heist thriller stars Claes Bang, Elizabeth Debicki and Mick Jagger. Elsewhere, Focus Features` 'Emma' amassed $5 million when it expanded to 1,565 theaters, bringing its domestic tally to $6.8 million. The adaptation of Jane Austen`s novel also earned $1.5 million this weekend at the international box office for a global bounty of $20.9 million.

'Onward' leads North American box office with ho-hum $40 million

From 'Black Widow' to 'Birds Of Prey': 2020 will be ruled by female-led superhero films

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