D23 Expo Went Down a Storm with Disney Fans

It’s at times like these that I really wished I lived in the US. The last couple of days have seen Disney fans flock to the inaugural D23 Expo -- the first gathering of its kind actually hosted by Disney for its fans. And believe me they did not disappoint!

Fans visiting the D23 Expo were treated to a presentation by the Walt Disney Studios which revealed surprise after surprise including:

An appearance by Jerry Bruckheimer to reveal not only the title but also footage from the upcoming movie: Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time
John Travolta appeared with his wife Kelly Preston and their daughter to promote their upcoming film, “Old Dogs”
The Cheapest Muppets Movie Ever Made movie was revealed by the entire cast of the Muppets who arrived on stage sailing a riverboat and treated the audience to a song and dance show
Miley Cyrus sang a song from her upcoming movie: The Last Song
Tim Burton shared a 3D trailer for his upcoming “Alice in Wonderland” film
Guillermo del Toro unveiled Disney’s plans for a new line of movies called Disney Double Dare You, which were inspired by del Toro’s love for the Pirates of the Caribbean and Haunted Mansion attractions. The first movie will be called The Troll Hunter and the plan is to introduce a little family-friendly creepiness into the Disney brand.
Nicolas Cage revealed that The Sorcerer’s Apprentice movie was his idea, as he watches Disney’s Fantasia annually and wanted to adapt it for a live action film. He will be starring as the sorcerer.

Of course the fun didn’t stop there… just as everyone thought the show was over a familiar refrain was heard and a ghostly ship sailed on stage carrying none other than Johnny Depp as Captain Jack Sparrow! At this point the title of the latest Pirates movie was revealed: On Stranger Tides. Look out for it in cinemas in the summer of 2011.

I am amazed at the amount of value that was packed into the price of the D23 Expo admission tickets -- and much of this was kept under wraps until the day of the presentation itself. If you get a chance to attend future events make sure you snap up a ticket as soon as they go on sale!