MI News Desk

D23 devotes its entire Spring issue of Disney twenty-three magazine to the remarkable legacy and influence of Disney animated films. From Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs to the animated classics of tomorrow, the official Disney fan club takes readers on a fantastic journey from the drawing board to the silverscreen.

The good folks at eFX first impressed us in 2010 with their recreated Snow White Heart Box which showcased expert craftsman ship and exquisite attention to detail. Today, they have announced their newest creations which include Captain America’s shield, Iron Man’s helmet, Thor’s hammer and helmet and more.

In addition to these high-end prop replicas and collectibles, eFX will also offer a series of items inspired by Marvel characters and properties with prices starting at $49. The new Marvel line from eFX is expected to be displayed at WonderCon in Anaheim this March, with pre-orders beginning at the same time.

A stunning, two-year renovation project is now complete at The Disneyland Hotel, with significant upgrades and magical touches of Disneyland heritage appearing throughout the AAA Four Diamond property.

A new courtyard, restaurant, bar, pools and water play area add immersive experiences, making the landmark property one more reason for families to enjoy a multiday vacation at the Disneyland Resort.

Disney announced today the confirmation of the rumors that a Valentine's Day version of "The Magic, The Memories and You!" will be happening at Disneyland Resort starting February 1. In addition to covering the familiar facades of Small World (in Disneyland) and Cinderella Castle (in Walt Disney World) special segments teased include lantern filled skies inspired by Tangled and stained glass windows of some of the princesses.

Disney also hinted that a fun summer version of the show will also debut this year including a projected takeover that will include giant sand-castles and waves of water and surfing characters. The Ariel and crew are also to be expected for the seasonal layover to the show.

From Broadway to Hollywood, from the Big Easy to the Aloha State, D23: The Official Disney Fan Club has added a bevy of new benefits and special discounts to bring new ways for its members to save when shopping, traveling, dining, entertaining… even decorating their homes.

World of Color will be undergoing the last leg of its maintenance cycle this week. It is scheduled to return Friday January 27th but could soft open any time before that depending on refurbishment schedules.

Closures are to be expected in the off-season and while World of Color has been known to run through just about every type of weather condition without fail, the show too also needs its downtime for some routine TLC.

Disney has just announced the roster for 2013 for the Disney Cruise Line itineraries. The expanded portfolio of European cruises now includes stops in Venice, Italy, and the Greek Isles.

In addition, Disney Cruise Line will utilize a second homeport in Florida, with Caribbean sailings departing from the Port of Miami for the first time.

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced the nominations this morning for the 2012 season and a few under the Disney umbrella are up for a few awards this year, 13 to be exact.

Interestingly, the two films that garnered the most attention are actually Dreamworks films. Disney merely was the distributor for both War Horse and The Help. In essence, Disney was only responsible for the creation of one of the items nominated and it was Best Original Song, for "Man or a Muppet."

This year, Disney's nominations include:

• Best Picture: War Horse AND The Help
• Best Actress: Viola Davis, The Help
• Best Supporting Actress: Octavia Spencer, The Help AND Jessica Chastain, The Help
• Cinematography: War Horse
• Art Direction: War Horse
• Music (Original Score): John Williams, War Horse
• Music (Original Song): "Man or Muppet", The Muppets
• Short Film Animated: "La Luna"
• Sound Editing: War Horse
• Sound Mixing: War Horse

Noticeably missing from the list are any nominations for Disney-Pixar's Cars 2. This is the first time the studio has not been nominated for one if it's feature-length films.