LA LEYENDA DEL CHARRO NEGRO Hits Select U.S. Theaters on March 23

LA LEYENDA DEL CHARRO NEGRO Hits Select U.S. Theaters on March 23

The 5th installment in the “La Leyenda” franchise is coming to U.S. theaters on March 23.

Picking up from the events of Chupacabras, Leo and his brother Nando are returning home to Puebla.

Along the way, Leo encounters the Charro Negro who confuses him and results a girl to be cast into the underworld.

To revert his mistakes, he enlists the help of his friends.

LA LEYENDA DEL CHARRO NEGRO
In Select U.S. Theaters March 23

 

Thisfunktional Roundtable Discussion with Adrienne Houghton SHOWTIME AT THE APOLLO


Written by Jesus Figueroa

Actress/Singer Adrienne Houghton talks about being the co-host of the new “Showtime at The Apollo,” premiering March 1 on FOX.

Houghton talks about being thrilled to have “Showtime at the Apollo” back on the air, having auditioned for another show before getting the call to audition for the show’s producer and being the host backstage with the nervous contestants.

SHOWTIME AT THE APOLLO
Premiering March 1 On FOX
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@Thisfunktional Talks With Litzy AL OTRO LADO DEL MURO

@Thisfunktional Talks With Litzy AL OTRO LADO DEL MURO

Written by Jesus Figueroa

Actress Litzy talks with Jesus Figueroa, @Thisfunktional of Thisfunktional.com, about her role in the new Telemundo series “Al Otro Lado Del Muro.”

Watch the video to hear Litzy talk about getting the role, her career of strong passionate roles and whats to be expected from this new series.

Telemundo’s AL OTRO LADO DEL MURO

Premieres On Feb. 21 at 9/8 C p.m. On Telemundo

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Universal Studios Hollywood Debuts the All-New DreamWorks Theatre

 

All-New DreamWorks Theatre With the Technologically-Advanced, Immersive Attraction “Kung Fu Panda: The Emperor’s Quest” in Summer 2018


On the heels of the recent acquisition of DreamWorks Animation, Universal Studios Hollywood is setting the stage for the Summer 2018 debut of the all-new DreamWorks Theatre presenting the premier attraction, “Kung Fu Panda: The Emperor’s Quest.”

​Inspired by the global blockbuster franchise, the attraction will take guests on a thrilling journey that fuses captivating storytelling with state-of-the art visual effects for a highly engaging experience.

​Created and produced by DreamWorks Animation and Universal Creative, “Kung Fu Panda: The Emperor’s Quest” recounts a plot-filled story whereby on the morning of The Emperor’s Great Feast of Heroes, dragon warrior Po embarks on a wild and perilous mission to deliver the rare and precious Liquid of Limitless Power to the Palace, while enlisting guests to join him on the exciting adventure filled with raging rapids, river pirates, awesome magic and Kung Fu.

​With cutting-edge technology at the forefront of the multi-sensory attraction, “Kung Fu Panda: The Emperor’s Quest” will introduce the first-ever integration of interior projection mapping designed toengulf guests in 180 degrees of immersive adventure.

Developed by the innovative team at Universal Creative, this never-before-adapted technique will depict a series of immersive and visually dynamic scenic designs that will transform within the interior space and enhance the story.

With detailing that is so precise, it will be near impossible to realize the projected imagery is a mere illusion.

Coupled with seven Christie 4K Boxer Cinema Projectors and 360 degree surround sound audio, sweeping physical effects from water to wind will empower guests to feel more like participants than spectators in the adrenaline-spiked adventure.

Featuring an original score by composer Germaine Franco, the storyline begins as guests enter the pre-show area of the theatre where they meet an array of DreamWorks characters who kick-off the attraction’s narrative.

From there, guests will enter the main theatre, complete with new ultra-plush, fully articulated seats that pivot and swivel in tandem with the 180-degree action.

The newly constructed building that houses the DreamWorks Theatre is inspired by Mission revival architecture and harkens back to the Golden Age of Hollywood’s Art Deco period of the 1920s, including a box office ticket seller booth, reminiscent of the time period and staffed by a three-dimensional Pinocchio character asleep on the job.

​As guests navigate past the ticket booth, through the flourishing outdoor garden and into the theatre queue, they will encounter a series of 36 movie posters that pay homage to DreamWorks Animation films.

Within the lobby, a selection of over 20 award statuettes will be on display, representing a sampling of the Golden Globe, Emmy, People’s Choice, Critic’s Choice, National Board of Review and Annie awards DreamWorks Animation has amassed from 2008 to 2015.

A collection of original sculpted maquettes of the “Kung Fu Panda: The Emperor’s Quest” characters will also be on display along with artifacts embodying magical powers that Po brought back from the Spirit Realm.

More information is available at UniversalStudiosHollywood.com. Like Universal Studios Hollywood on Facebook and follow @UniStudios on Instagram and Twitter.

Universal Studios Hollywood is The Entertainment Capital of L.A. and includes a full-day, movie-based theme park and Studio Tour.

As a leading global entertainment destination, Universal Studios Hollywood delivers highly themed immersive lands that translate to real-life interpretations of iconic movie and television shows.

Recent additions include “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter ™” which features a bustling Hogsmeade village and such critically-acclaimed rides as “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey” and “Flight of the Hippogriff™,” Universal Studios Hollywood’s first outdoor rollercoaster.

Other immersive lands include “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem” and “Super Silly Fun Land” as well as “Springfield,” hometown of America’s favorite TV family, located adjacent to the award-winning “The Simpsons RideTM” and the “The Walking Dead” daytime attraction.

The world-renowned Studio Tour is Universal Studios Hollywood’s signature attraction, inviting guests behind-the-scenes of the world’s biggest and busiest movie and television studio where they can also experience such authentic and immersive thrill rides as “Fast & Furious—Supercharged.”

The adjacent Universal CityWalk entertainment, shopping and dining complex also includes the all-new multi-million dollar, redesigned Universal CityWalk Cinema, featuring deluxe recliner seating in screening room quality theatres, and the “5 Towers” state-of-the-art outdoor concert stage.

 

Official Trailer & Poster for BAD SAMARITAN

Bad Samaritan

One bad night. One Bad Decision. Can Haunt you forever.

“BAD SAMARITAN” is a terrifying cautionary tale of two thieves uncovering more than what they bargained for when breaking into a house they thought would be an easy score.

After making a shocking discovery, they must choose to run and hide, or face the killer whose dark secrets they have exposed.

In Theaters March 30

 

Watch the Second Trailer for JURASSIC WORLD: FALLEN KINGDOM

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It’s been four years since theme park and luxury resort Jurassic World was destroyed by dinosaurs out of containment.

Isla Nublar now sits abandoned by humans while the surviving dinosaurs fend for themselves in the jungles.

When the island’s dormant volcano begins roaring to life, Owen (Chris Pratt) and Claire (Bryce Dallas Howard) mount a campaign to rescue the remaining dinosaurs from this extinction-level event.

Owen is driven to find Blue, his lead raptor who’s still missing in the wild, and Claire has grown a respect for these creatures she now makes her mission.

Arriving on the unstable island as lava begins raining down, their expedition uncovers a conspiracy that could return our entire planet to a perilous order not seen since prehistoric times.

With all of the wonder, adventure and thrills synonymous with one of the most popular and successful series in cinema history, this all-new motion-picture event sees the return of favorite characters and dinosaurs—along with new breeds more awe-inspiring and terrifying than ever before.

Welcome to “Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom.”

Stars Pratt and Howard return alongside executive producers Steven Spielberg and Colin Trevorrow for “Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom.”

They are joined by co-stars James Cromwell, Ted Levine, Justice Smith, Geraldine Chaplin, Daniella Pineda, Toby Jones, Rafe Spall and Isabella Sermon, while BD Wong and Jeff Goldblum reprise their roles.

Directed by J.A. Bayona (The Impossible), the epic action-adventure is written by Jurassic World’s director, Trevorrow, and its co-writer, Derek Connolly.

Producers Frank Marshall and Pat Crowley once again partner with Spielberg and Trevorrow in leading the filmmakers for this stunning installment. Belén Atienza joins the team as a producer.

JURASSIC WORLD: FALLEN KINGDOM
In Theaters June 22

 

Astronaut Paper Mache Helmet Instructions Courtesy of WONDER

Astronaut Paper Mache Helmet Instructions Courtesy of WONDER

Written by Jesus Figueroa

REACH FOR THE STARS

ASTRONAUT PAPIER-MÂCHÉ HELMET

Check out these simple instructions to make an astronaut papier mâché helmet like the one the main character wears in the movie “Wonder.”

Making this astronaut paper mâché helmet is a fun activity to do with the kids.

Spend some time with some of the young ones in your life as you create something fun.

A Heartwarming Story About Kindness, Love and Friendship

WONDER

The Critically Acclaimed Film Arrives on Digital Jan. 30 and 4K Ultra HDTM Combo Pack, Blu-rayTM Combo Pack and DVD on February 13

4K Ultra HD to include both Dolby Vision™ and Dolby® TrueHD

The incredibly moving and heartfelt family film “Wonder” heads to Digital Jan. 30 and 4K Ultra HD Combo Pack (plus Blu-ray and Digital), Blu-ray Combo Pack (plus DVD and Digital), DVD, and On Demand Feb. 13 from Lionsgate.

Based on the #1 New York Times bestseller, and USA Today’s top-selling book of 2017, by R.J. Palacio, writer-director Stephen Chbosky (Beauty and the Beast, The Perks of Being a Wallflower) brings to life the uplifting story of a boy who inspires and teaches others that true beauty is found within. Certified Fresh™ on Rotten Tomatoes and co-written for the screen by Steven Conrad and Jack Thorne, Wonder stars Academy Award® winner Julia Roberts (2000, Best Actress, Erin Brockovich), Academy Award® nominee Owen Wilson (2001, Best Writing, The Royal Tenenbaums), Golden Globe® nominee Mandy Patinkin (1984, Best Actor – Motion Picture – Musical/Comedy, Yentl; 1995, Best Television Actor – Drama Series, “Chicago Hope”; 2003, Best Supporting Actor – Limited Series or Television Motion Picture, “Homeland”), and Jacob Tremblay (Room, The Smurfs 2).

“Wonder” follows the inspiring story of the Pullman family, whose youngest child, Auggie, is a boy born with facial differences. When Auggie enters mainstream elementary school for the first time, his extraordinary journey unites his family, his school, and his community, and proves that you can’t blend in when you were born to stand out.

The “Wonder” home entertainment release includes all-new special features, including a never-before-seen 5-part documentary, multiple featurettes, a music video, and an audio commentary with Stephen Chbosky and R.J. Palacio.

The 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray also features Dolby Vision high dynamic range (HDR), growing Lionsgate’s library of titles featuring both Dolby Vision and Dolby TrueHD. Dolby Vision transforms the TV experience in the home by delivering greater brightness and contrast, as well as a fuller palette of rich colors.

The 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray versions feature Dolby TrueHD, which provides the most authentic lossless audio experience available for the home theater.

Together Dolby Vision and Dolby TrueHD allow consumers to experience both cutting-edge imaging and lossless audio sound technology for an immersive entertainment experience.

Timed to the book’s sixth anniversary, and to Valentine’s Day, Wonder will be available on 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Combo Pack, Blu-ray Combo Pack, and DVD for the suggested retail price of $42.99, $39.99, and $29.95, respectively.

4K UHD/BLU-RAY/DIGITAL SPECIAL FEATURES

  • “Summer of Fun” 5-Part Documentary
    • “A (com)Passion Project” Featurette
    • “Family Matters” Featurette
    • “A Technical Wonder” Featurette
    • “A Note of Kindness” Featurette
    • “We All Deserve a Standing Ovation at Least Once in Our Lives” Featurette
  • “A Child’s Sense of Wonder” Featurette
  • “What a Wonderful World” Featurette
  • Audio Commentary with Stephen Chbosky and R.J. Palacio
  • “Brand New Eyes” Music Video
  • Wonder Soundtrack: Behind-the-Scenes Featurette

DVD SPECIAL FEATURES

  • Audio Commentary with Stephen Chbosky and R.J. Palacio
  • “Brand New Eyes” Music Video
  • Wonder Soundtrack: Behind-the-Scenes Featurette
#ChooseKind #WonderTheMovie

 

@Thisfunktional Talks With Tobin Bell JIGSAW

Written by Jesus Figueroa

Actor Tobin Bell talks with Jesus Figueroa, @Thisfunktional of Thisfunktional.com, about continuing on with “Jigsaw.”

Bell talks about having gotten the opportunity to build a character throughout 8 movies, creating the voice of Jigsaw and how incredible the horror fans are.

Saw Escape Las Vegas is now open. for more info and for reservations sawescaperoom.com.

JIGSAW
Now Available On 4K Ultra HD,
Blu-ray, DVD And On Demand
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@Thisfunktional Talks With Jason Egan SAW ESCAPE LAS VEGAS

Written by Jesus Figueroa

Escape room Designer Jason Egan talks with Jesus Figueroa, @Thisfunktional of Thisfunktional.com, about creating Saw Escape Las Vegas.

Egan talks about being a big fan of the “Saw’ franchise, re-watching all 8 movies and picking his favorites scenes and locations from the movies to design for fans to enjoy and the surprise that came from making something better than what was in the design.

Saw Escape Las Vegas is now open. for more info and for reservations sawescaperoom.com.

SAW ESCAPE LAS VEGAS
Open Now

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@Thisfunktional talks with Claudia Sandoval MASTERCHEF LATINO

Written by Jesus Figueroa (@Thisfunktional)

MasterChef Latino judge Claudia Sandoval talks with Jesus Figueroa, @Thisfunktional of Thisfunktional.com, about being a part of Telemundo’s “MasterChef Latino.”

Sandoval talks about a bit of what is to be expected from “MasterChef Latino,” how having been on a contestant of “MasterChef USA” sets her apart from the other judges and how she feels its both good and bad knowing what the contestants are going through.

Since Sandoval won “MasterChef Latino” she has had many opportunities open up for her. she continues to stay connected on social media and present herself as real as she possibly can.

Sandoval isn’t afraid to show her real self and experiences on social media and talks about showing fans her reality on social media through her post and live streams.

MASTERCHEF LATINO

Airs on Sunday Nights on Telemundo

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@Thisfunktional Roundtable Discussion with Dolores Huerta DOLORES

Written by Jesus Figueroa (@Thisfunktional)

Activist Dolores Huerta talks with hispanic media outlets about the continued support for documentary film “Dolores.”

During a panel discussion at the 2018 Winter Television Critics Association, Huerta was joined by Writer-Director Peter Bratt and Consulting Producer Benjamin Bratt.

Peter spoke about finally giving Huerta the recognition she deserves, since history has left her out and given all the light to her equal partner Cesar Chavez.

Benjamin said that he and his brother Peter grew up with an activist mother who would at times protest along side Huerta, so they knew about Huerta and knew what Huerta’s children grew up with.

DOLORES
Will Air On PBS March 27 As Part of INDEPENDENT LENS
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@Thisfunktional at the 12 STRONG Press Conference

Written by Jesus Figueroa (@Thisfunktional)

Cast and Crew of “12 Strong” talk about the making of the movie.

“12 Strong” is a different kind of war story as it portrays American heroes who are tasked with getting close enough to drop bombs on the Taliban to help Afghanistan.

Video Courtesy of Jose Angel Torres of EstrellasEnLA.com.

12 STRONG
Now In Theaters
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Exclusive Clip from THE EXORCIST, Alfonso Herrera Talks About Tomas’ New Troubles

Written by Jesus Figueroa

Season 2 of FOX’s “The Exorcist” gets more intense with every passing episode.

Episode 10 continues with Father Tomas, played by Alfonso Herrera, battling a demon which prays on his weakness.

Herrera said that the demons Tomas battled in season one have been overcome, but much like life there are new demons to confront.

With a new family in danger, Father Tomas and Marcus, played by Ben Daniels, continue on their journey facing dangers as they come up or come back from their past to haunt them.

The story keeps moving forward with the new demon praying on Father Tomas having allowed himself to be tainted by evil.

The future of a troubled foster family are in the hands of Marcus and Father Tomas as they work on building trust.

Herrera said that as the season goes on Marcus and Tomas will discover more together.

Now on episode 9 more comes to light, familiar faces come from both Marcus and Tomas’ past and the turbulence continues as both Marcus and Tomas deal their problems.

“The Exorcist” pushes the limits of what is shown on network television and increasingly adds drama to the horror genre making for greater scares.

Herrera said he’s grateful to be part of the horror genre which has been thrilling to be in.

There’s still many questions left unanswered about Marcus’ past and the abilities Father Tomas has depended on to become the exorcist he wants to become.

The show continues to keep audiences on the edge of their seats and eagerly waiting for a new episode to air Friday nights on FOX.

More excitement comes in episode 9 as Father Tomas finds himself fighting his demons in a way he has never done before.

THE EXORCIST
Friday Nights ON FOX

ONE DAY AT A TIME Returns With Season 2 On January 26 Exclusively On Netflix

Enjoy the original “One Day at a Time” title sequence HERE and marvel at just how exact this reenactment really is

Watch Justina Machado, Rita Moreno and the rest of the One Day family announce the Season 2 premiere date and pay hilarious homage to the original series with a frame-for-frame recreation the opening credits.

A reimagining of the iconic Norman Lear’s classic sitcom, “One Day at a Time” is an hilarious and heartfelt comedy that follows three generations of a Cuban-American family navigating the ups and downs of life.

A newly-single mom and military veteran journeys through the triumphs and tribulations that come with raising two strong-willed, mega-millennial children, all the while enlisting the “help” of her old-school mother and her building manager-turned-invaluable confidant.

Through an contemporary lens, “One Day at a Time” offers a glimpse at what life looks like, in good times and bad — and how those around you somehow make it all worthwhile.”One Day at a Time” stars Justina Machado, Rita Moreno, Stephen Tobolowsky, Todd Grinnell, Isabella Gomez and Marcel Ruiz.  

Norman Lear executive produces, with Gloria Calderon Kellett and Mike Royce executive produce and co-showrun.
Michael Garcia and Brent Miller also executive produce.
“One Day at a Time” is produced by Sony Television Productions for Netflix.
For more One Day at a Time, visit Netflix Media Center or our social channels:
#ODAAT

Universal Studios Hollywood Hosts EVE, Hollywood’s Biggest New Year’s Party, Fireworks Finale On December 31

The Countdown to 2018 Begins at Universal Studios Hollywood as The Entertainment Capital of L.A. Hosts EVE, Hollywood’s Biggest New Year’s Party and Fireworks Finale on December 31

EVE is Universal Studios Hollywood’s First-Ever New Year’s Eve In-Park Celebration

Universal Studios Hollywood rings in 2018 with Hollywood’s biggest New Year’s Eve celebration EVE on Dec. 31, 2017, with extended theme park hours to 1:00 a.m.

The New Year’s Eve event, the first ever for Universal Studios Hollywood, is included in the price of theme park admission and invites guests to spend the day and night enjoying its many popular rides and attractions with a special park-wide countdown party featuring multiple entertainment hubs with DJs and live music, starting at 9:00 p.m.

Universal Plaza, Simpsons Plaza located adjacent to “The Simpsons Ride” and an area near “Jurassic Park—The Ride” will transform into three uniquely-themed electrifying party hubs that will culminate simultaneously at midnight with a traditional New Year countdown and a spectacular fireworks display.

Food and beverages, including specialty desserts, champagne, beer and wine, as well as 2018 memorabilia will be available for purchase.

With its festive environment, guests can toast the New Year with the spirit of the holidays already resonating throughout Universal Studios Hollywood.

Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” introduces “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle.”
Several times each night, guests can enjoy amazing images inspires by the Harry Potter films as they come to life in breathtaking digital light projection on the backdrop of Hogwarts castle.
And with extended hours on December 31, guests can celebrate the final day of “Grinchmas™” with The Grinch, his faithful dog Max and a roster of Who-ville Whos.More information is available at UniversalStudiosHollywood.com.

Like Universal Studios Hollywood on Facebook and follow @UniStudios on Instagram and Twitter.Universal Studios Hollywood is The Entertainment Capital of L.A. and includes a full-day, movie-based theme park and Studio Tour.

As a leading global entertainment destination, Universal Studios Hollywood delivers highly themed immersive lands that translate to real-life interpretations of iconic movie and television shows.
Recent additions include “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter ™” which features a bustling Hogsmeade village and such critically-acclaimed rides as “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey” and “Flight of the Hippogriff™,” Universal Studios Hollywood’s first outdoor rollercoaster.
Other immersive lands include “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem” and “Super Silly Fun Land” as well as “Springfield,” hometown of America’s favorite TV family, located adjacent to the award-winning “The Simpsons RideTM” and the “The Walking Dead” daytime attraction.
The world-renowned Studio Tour is Universal Studios Hollywood’s signature attraction, inviting guests behind-the-scenes of the world’s biggest and busiest movie and television studio where they can also experience such authentic and immersive thrill rides as “Fast & Furious—Supercharged.”
The adjacent Universal CityWalk entertainment, shopping and dining complex also includes the all-new multi-million dollar, redesigned Universal CityWalk Cinema, featuring deluxe recliner seating in screening room quality theatres, and the “5 Towers” state-of-the-art outdoor concert stage.

Cirque Du Soleil LUZIA Lights Up Plaza Mexico

Cirque Du Soleil “LUZIA” and Plaza Mexico partner for a launch event in preparation for “LUZIA’s” arrival to Los Angeles.

A one-of-a-kind projection show will light up the Main Plaza Façade and take audiences on a surrealist journey inspired by the vibrant and breathtaking wonders of LUZIA.

Don’t miss this mesmerizing FREE event on the first weekend of December exclusively at Plaza Mexico.

Event information:

  • WHEN: Dec. 2 and Dec. 3 from 2 p.m. – 8 p.m. / Light Show starts at 5:30 p.m.
  • WHERE: PLAZA MEXICO, located at 3100 E Imperial Hwy, Lynwood, CA 90262

Join the launch event with the whole family to enjoy fun activities, live mariachi, folklorico dancers, face-painting, giveaways and the chance to win tickets to the show.

More about LUZIA – A waking dream of Mexico
In a series of grand visual surprises and breathtaking acrobatic performances, LUZIA takes audiences on a surrealistic journey like in a waking dream, where light (“luz” in Spanish) quenches the spirit and rain (“lluvia”) soothes the soul. Smoothly passing from an old movie set to the ocean to a smoky dance hall or an arid desert, LUZIA cleverly brings to the stage multiple places, faces and sounds of Mexico taken from both tradition and modernity. Rich in awe-inspiring moments, LUZIA enchants by incorporating rain into acrobatic and artistic scenes – a first for a Cirque du Soleil touring production.

TRANSLATE THIS Digital Release, Limited Edition Vinyl Album Available On December 1

TRANSLATE THIS Digital Release, Limited Edition Vinyl Album Available On December 1

“FELIPE ESPARZA: TRANSLATE THIS,” the very first HBO comedy stand-up special from the comedian who is widely known for his hilarious antics of growing up in East Los Angeles and which aired on the network on September 30, will be released by All Things Comedy Records digitally alongside a very limited-edition vinyl album on Dec. 1.

The special was shot at the San Jose Improv in San Jose, CA and sees Esparza humorously discussing topics such as immigration, translating for his parents, being a once-not-so-great single dad while dating single moms, his current challenges in raising his blond-haired, blue-eyed stepson, and more.

Fans will also be able to purchase one of 500 numbered vinyls exclusively on FelipesWorld.com, which will be a double album that will feature a full hour of audio, poster and a digital download card.

“I am very excited to release this album! It is a much more personal hour of stand-up, that truly covers most of my life. I dig further into my personal experience as an immigrant, my past life as an addict, a not-so-great father, my new life as a recovered addict, a husband and a stepfather living a domesticated life while still being a little wild inside” Esparza said.

The digital album will be available for purchase on Spotify, iTunes, Apple Music, Google Play, Amazon and Tidal.

Select tracks will also be available on the leading streaming sites, including Pandora, Deezer, Tidal, YouTube Music, Microsoft Groove, ClaroMúsica, Saavn and MediaNet.For fans who want to see him in-person, Esparza will kick-off his “Bad Decisions” tour on Dec. 8 where he will explore his past tough decisions with comedic flare.  

Tickets are available on FelipesWorld.com.

For the latest news and to hear from the man himself, you can follow Felipe on Facebook.com/FelipeEsparzaFanPage, Twitter @funnyfelipe, and Instagram.com/felipeesparzacomedian.

All- New CHRISTMAS IN THE WIZARDING WORLD OF HARRY POTTER™” Comes to Universal Studios Hollywood Bringing an Exciting Array of Keepsake Memorabilia, Holiday Gift-Giving Ideas

 

The Festive Holiday Celebration Continues at The Entertainment Capital of L.A.

The arrival of Universal Studios Hollywood’s first “Christmas in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter™” also brings an exciting selection of all-new themed merchandise inviting guests to cherish and share their Harry Potter experience far beyond their visit to The Entertainment Capital of L.A.

​From stockings to stuffers, the addition of these specialty keepsakes and gift-givingitems complement the land’s immersive holiday festivities as the theme park continues to envelope guests in the captivating world of Harry Potter.

Featured items include an array of all-new custom-made ornaments designedespecially for “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.”

A variety of decorative HogwartsTM castle snow globes, as well as Hogwarts crest and Hogwarts mascot tree ornaments are available in addition to a selection of Christmas stockings, stocking holders and a varietyof unique Hogwarts-themed tree toppers and house pennant garland.
Name ornaments will also be available or they can be customized.
Items available for purchase are representative of each of the four Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry houses.An original Hogwarts Express collection is also available featuring an array of holiday and everyday themed items.

From Platform 9 ¾, Hogwarts Railways and Hogwarts Express train ornaments to stockings and holders, as well as themed scarves, hats and gloves to a selection of clothing and collector Hogwarts Express tickets.For guests who prefer to channel their inner Slytherin, Professor Severus Snape’sdramatic full length wizard’s robe makes a grand debut, adding to the selection of existing house robes from the four Hogwarts’ houses: Gryffindor, Ravenclaw, Hufflepuff and Slytherin.

For fans of the popular Quidditch sport, a keepsake Gryffindor Quidditch robe scores as a must have and can be paired with either the impressive full size Firebolt or Nimbus 2001 broomsticks as well as select Quidditch accessories, including the coveted Golden Snitch, Quaffle ball and Bludger.Several new interactive namesake wands are added to the collection, including the Cho Chang, Cedric Diggory, Yaxley and a new Death Eater wand.

Beginning on November 24, 2017 and continuing through January 7, 2018, the all-new “Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” experience will resonate throughout the immersive land this yuletide season transforming the iconic HogwartsTMcastle into a dazzling light projection spectacular, while the quaint town of Hogsmeade village shines brightly with décor uniquely themed to each of the individual storefronts.

As night falls on Hogsmeade village, “The Magic of Christmas at HogwartsTM Castle” will illuminate Hogwarts™ School of Witchcraft and Wizardry with colorful imagery and impressive dimensional animations that dance across Hogwarts castle in tandem to a musical arrangement from the Harry Potter movies.

The a cappella Frog Choir, comprised of Hogwarts students and their giant throaty frogs, will perform all-new seasonal songs.

Newly introduced holiday-themed fare and the seasonal return of hot Butterbeer will further complement the overall experience.A special time in the Harry Potter series, the all-new “Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” tradition invites guests to celebrate this part of J.K. Rowling’s story for themselves.

Inspired by J.K. Rowling’s compelling stories and characters that were brought to life in the Warner Bros. films, “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” at Universal Studios Hollywood is a masterful recreation, faithful to the visual landscape of the fiction and films, including as its iconic focal point, Hogwarts castle.

From its snow-capped roofs and cobblestone streets to the historic Britishsensibilities that characterize the whimsical look and feel of the land, “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” transports guests of all ages to the very places they watched on the silver screen.

The architecturally stunning land also includes the captivating and highly acclaimed “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey” thrill ride, enhanced with 4K-HD and ride film projecting at an astounding rate of 120 frames-per-second for an even more immersive glimpse into Harry Potter’s world, as well as “Flight of the Hippogriff™,” Universal Studios Hollywood’s first outdoor family coaster.

“The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” resonates with immense detail, inviting guests to enjoy authentic food and beverages at multiple locations, including Three Broomsticks™ and Hog’s Head pub, as well as the Magic Neep and Butterbeer™ carts.

A foray through the shops adds to the authenticity of the land with nine retail venues and locations, including Honeydukes™, Ollivanders™, Owl Post™, Zonko’s™ Joke Shop, Wiseacre’s Wizarding Equipment, Dervish and Banges™, Gladrags Wizardwear, Filch’s Emporium™ of Confiscated Goods and the Hogsmeade™ Station.

Additional information on Universal Studios Hollywood is available at UniversalStudiosHollywood.com.

Join the conversation online using #UniversalHolidays and #WizardingWorldHollywood. Like Universal Studios Hollywood on Facebook and follow @UniStudios on Instagram and Twitter.Universal Studios Hollywood is The Entertainment Capital of L.A. and includes a full-day, movie-based theme park and Studio Tour.

As a leading global entertainment destination, Universal Studios Hollywood delivers highly themed immersive lands that translate to real-life interpretations of iconic movie and television shows.
Recent additions include “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter ™” which features a bustling Hogsmeade village and such critically-acclaimed rides as “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey” and “Flight of the Hippogriff™,” Universal Studios Hollywood’s first outdoor rollercoaster.
Other immersive lands include “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem” and “Super Silly Fun Land” as well as “Springfield,” hometown of America’s favorite TV family, located adjacent to the award-winning “The Simpsons RideTM” and the “The Walking Dead” daytime attraction.
The world-renowned Studio Tour is Universal Studios Hollywood’s signature attraction, inviting guests behind-the-scenes of the world’s biggest and busiest movie and television studio where they can also experience such authentic and immersive thrill rides as “Fast & Furious—Supercharged.”
The adjacent Universal CityWalk entertainment, shopping and dining complex also includes the all-new multi-million dollar, redesigned Universal CityWalk Cinema, featuring deluxe recliner seating in screening room quality theatres, and the “5 Towers” state-of-the-art outdoor concert stage.About Warner Bros. Entertainment:

Warner Bros. Entertainment is a global leader in all forms of entertainment and their related businesses across all current and emerging media and platforms. A Time Warner Company, the fully integrated, broad-based studio is home to one of the most successful collections of brands in the world and stands at the forefront of every aspect of the entertainment industry from feature film, television and home entertainment production and worldwide distribution to DVD, digital distribution, animation, comic books, video games, product, and brand licensing, international cinemas and broadcasting.

Universal Studios Hollywood Celebrates the Yuletide Arrival of the All-New CHRISTMAS IN THE WIZARDING WORLD OF HARRY POTTER

Bringing a Dazzling Light Projection Spectacular to Hogwarts Castle and Festive Holiday Entertainment and Décor to the Immersive Land
Universal Studios Hollywood celebrated the opening of “Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry PotterTM,” transforming HogwartsTMcastle with a breathtaking animated light projection show, choreographed to a musical arrangement from the Harry Potter movies as The Entertainment Capital of L.A. kicked off the yuletide season.The evening program introduced Karen Irwin, President & COO, Universal Studios Hollywood, as she welcomed the land’s new holiday festivities.

Following anoriginal a cappella Frog Choir performance of “Christmas at Hogwarts,” Irwin and a group of children—clad in attire representing each of the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry houses—wielded wands and cast a spell that revealed the light projection spectacular: “The Magic of Christmas at HogwartsTM Castle.”

“We are delighted to welcome ‘Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter’ as a new Universal Studios Hollywood holiday tradition,” Karen Irwin said. “Millions of guests visiting from around the world have already experienced the incredible offerings of this immersive land. This exciting new holiday program further expands the Harry Potter universe by bringing some of the holiday spirit from the films to life for guests to experience for themselves.”

The all-new “Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” experience will take place daily from November 24, 2017 through January 7, 2018.

Hogsmeade village also shines brightly as the quaint town celebrates with festive décor uniquely themed to each of the individual storefronts, along with holiday-themed fare served at Three Broomsticks and the eagerly-awaited seasonal return of hot Butterbeer.

The newly-introduced Holiday Dinner features a sumptuous roast turkey with gravy platter that includes pigs in blankets, a medley of vegetables, braised red cabbage and roasted potatoes served with cranberry sauce, along with Christmas Pudding.

As night falls on Hogsmeade village, the familiar sounds of Harry Potter music will resonate throughout “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.”

Multiple times an evening, colorful projection mapping will illuminate Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardrywith “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle.”The a cappella Frog Choir, comprised of Hogwarts students and their giant throaty frogs, will also perform original holiday themed songs over the course of the seasonalevent.

​From stockings to ornaments, the addition of specialty keepsakes and gift-giving items complement the land’s immersive holiday festivities as the theme park continues to envelope guests in the captivating world of Harry Potter.

A wide selection of all-new custom-made Christmas ornaments created especially for “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” are available this holiday season. Collectibles include a variety of decorative Hogwarts castle snow globes, Hogwarts crest and mascot ornaments representing each of the houses, as well as a collection of unique tree toppers and house pennant garland.

Wizard robes and wands and an array of Quidditch game accessories are perfect for gift-giving.Inspired by J.K. Rowling’s compelling stories and characters that were brought to life in the Warner Bros. films, “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” at Universal Studios Hollywood is a masterful recreation, faithful to the visual landscape of the films, including its iconic focal point, Hogwarts castle.

From its snow-capped roofs and cobblestone streets to the historic Britishsensibilities that characterize the whimsical look and feel of the land, “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” transports guests of all ages to the very places they watched on the silver screen.

The architecturally stunning land also includes the captivating and highly acclaimed “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey” thrill ride, now enhanced with 4K-HD and ride film projecting at an astounding rate of 120 frames-per-second for an even more immersive glimpse into Harry Potter’s world, as well as “Flight of the Hippogriff™,” Universal Studios Hollywood’s first outdoor family coaster.

“The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” resonates with immense detail, inviting guests to revel in J.K. Rowling’s Wizarding World with the opportunity to enjoy authentic food and beverages at multiple locations, including Three Broomsticks and Hog’s Head pub, as well as the Magic Neep and Butterbeer™ carts.

A foray through the shops adds to the authenticity of the land with nine retail venues and locations, including Honeydukes™, Ollivanders™, Owl Post™, Zonko’s™ Joke Shop, Wiseacre’s Wizarding Equipment, Dervish and Banges™, Gladrags Wizardwear, Filch’s Emporium™ of Confiscated Goods and the Hogsmeade™ Station.

Additional information on Universal Studios Hollywood is available at UniversalStudiosHollywood.com.

Join the conversation online using#UniversalHolidays and #WizardingWorldHollywood. Like Universal Studios Hollywood on Facebook and follow @UniStudios on Instagram and Twitter.Universal Studios Hollywood is The Entertainment Capital of L.A. and includes a full-day, movie-based theme park and Studio Tour.

As a leading global entertainment destination, Universal Studios Hollywood delivers highly themed immersive lands that translate to real-life interpretations of iconic movie and television shows. Recent additions include “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter ™” which features a bustling Hogsmeade village and such critically-acclaimed rides as “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey” and “Flight of the Hippogriff™,” Universal Studios Hollywood’s first outdoor rollercoaster.
Other immersive lands include “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem” and “Super Silly Fun Land” as well as “Springfield,” hometown of America’s favorite TV family, located adjacent to the award-winning “The Simpsons RideTM” and the “The Walking Dead” daytime attraction.
The world-renowned Studio Tour is Universal Studios Hollywood’s signature attraction, inviting guests behind-the-scenes of the world’s biggest and busiest movie and television studio where they can also experience such authentic and immersive thrill rides as “Fast & Furious—Supercharged.”
The adjacent Universal CityWalk entertainment, shopping and dining complexalso includes the all-new multi-million dollar, completely redesigned Universal CityWalk Cinema,featuring deluxe recliner seating in screening room quality theatres, and the “5 Towers” state-of-the-art outdoor concert stage.About Warner Bros. Entertainment:

Warner Bros. Entertainment is a global leader in all forms of entertainment and their related businesses across all current and emerging media and platforms. A Time Warner Company, the fully integrated, broad-based studio is home to one of the most successful collections of brands in the world and stands at the forefront of every aspect of the entertainment industry from feature film, television and home entertainment production and worldwide distribution to DVD, digital distribution, animation, comic books, video games, product, and brand licensing, international cinemas and broadcasting.

@Thisfunktional Talks With Greg Powell THE HITMAN’S BODYGUARD

@Thisfunktional Talks With Greg Powell THE HITMAN’S BODYGUARD

Written by Jesus Figueroa (@Thisfunktional)

Stunt coordinator Greg Powell looked forward to action packed “The Hitman’s Bodyguard” because it was set to have no CGI fights.

Having a script which was full of action is what a stunt coordinator looks for and having everything set in practical stunt work makes it even better.

“The reason I liked this script particularly, it was all live action. There was no CG fights,” Powell said. “It was all live action, which I love. These days there’s so much CGI it’s sort of taken over the whole film screen.”

The script may not have gone through many changes, but there was a change in director that changed the way the movie was shot, but not the content of the movie.

Working on so many stunts which varied and the different people involved in the stunts took some time.

“It went on for quite awhile, because we changed directors literally weeks before we started. There were some major changes,” Powell said. “The stunts and everything, we always going to do that stuff, nothing was ever taken out, it was just shot in a different way.”

Working with an experienced cast like Ryan Reynolds and Samuel L. Jackson, whom have experience makes Powell’s work easier.

Having people who enjoy what they do made Powell excited, especially since the cast brought skills which helped make creating the stunts more fun.

“Ryan (Reynolds) is very good because he actually rides a bike, he can fight, it makes it an awful lot easier, especially when they are enjoying the film,” Powell said. “It does help people like me when we are rehearsing and have to get their input and how they see it because we can get right into it, get their style and what they are thinking.”

Even with an experienced cast, the time needed to ensure safety which is Powell’s first concern takes time.

Practicing is an essential part of of the process and Powell was happy to get an opportunity to rehearse.

“We had lots of fight rehearsals, since there’s a number of fights in it,” Powell said. “Using doubles and a fight choreographer, the guys spent a number of weeks doing the fights. Then in Bulgaria we did some driving stuff.”

THE HITMAN’S BODYGUARD
Available Now