Tag: Larry the Cable Guy

CARS 3 – Review

 

As we creep along to the midway point of Summer, this can only mean one thing at the multiplex (aside from added matinees): another installment of a big studio franchise (formerly a series) will be occupying several screens. We’ve already had a new Alien, and another Depp pirate pic as the Planet Apes and Transformers wait in the wings, along with that wall-crawling wonder. I suppose we’re due for an animated sequel, but this one’s from the most celebrated studio of the last couple of decades, Pixar. Aside from Toy Story, they avoided follow-ups to their other hit films until 2011 when the CARS gang refueled for CARS 2. Then one of the other hits got a prequel, MONSTER UNIVERSITY, and another spawned last year’s box office smash, FINDING DORY. Now here’s the automotive, track-burnin’ “hat trick” as good ole’ number 95, Lightning McQueen roars back onto the cinematic raceway to thrill lil’ speed demons everywhere with CARS 3.
Since we last saw McQueen (voice of Owen Wilson), he’s still collecting trophies at races all around the world. Though he heads back to Radiator Springs to rest up with pals Mater (Larry the Cable Guy) and Sally (Bonnie Hunt) between competitions, Lightning is feeling the heat from a new breed of young, streamlined vehicles, especially “up-and-comer” Jackson Storm (Armie Hammer). Unfortunately Storm and his pals “get into McQueen’s Head” prompting him to take risky chances, which leads to a devastating crash. While he heals up back home, McQueen’s managers over at Rusteze get bought out by the big mud-flap mogul, Mr. Sterling (Nathan Fillion). Sterling’s mainly interested in marketing the McQueen name, slapping his image on all manner of products, but insists that Lightning will return to the race circuits after training at his ultra-high tech, state of the art facilities. McQueen is eager to work out on the giant screen simulated track, but first he must endure the exercise program led by trainer Cruz Ramirez (Cristela Alonzo). Lightning has no patience for these “silly” warm-up and jumps onto the simulator before he’s ready, wrecking the machine. During its repair, McQueen takes Cruz along with him for his own training program, including racing along the beach. Later they zip through the forests and sneak into a backwoods race (which is really a demolition derby). Lightning fondly recalls the lessons taught to him by his mentor Doc Hudson (Paul Newman) and decides to locate Doc’s old trainer Smokey (Chris Cooper). He’s gotta’ hurry because the big championship race is coming. Can Lightning redeem himself or is it time to retire to Radiator Springs for good?

 

 

The veteran voices of the previous CARS flicks expertly recapture their characters, particularly Wilson as a more mellow and wiser version of the great #95. The old confidence seeps through, but he’s got a greater appreciation of the sport’s history, especially the “fabulous Hudson Hornet”. As for the newbies, Hammer is an excellent villain, all cocky and arrogant, a guy who seems to truly enjoy the “trash talk”. Storm’s sleek and speedy, but doesn’t come equipped with any empathy. The breakout is the energetic, enthusiastic Cruz voiced with great energy and excellent comic timing by Alonzo.

 

I’ve got to lay my cards on table and say that the original CARS is one of my least favorite films in the Pixar cannon (just slightly above A BUG’S LIFE). The fact that it would have two sequels before any follow-up to THE INCREDIBLES annoyed me to no end  (they’re finally working on one, thank you Brad Bird). But when the teasers and trailers starting appearing for this installment, I was more than a bit intrigued. As opposed to the dimwitted spy hijinks from CARS 2 (putting Mater as the main focus was a huge mistake), this looked to be going dark, with images of McQueen hurling to his doom. Sure, they’re not gonna’ kill this merchandising “cash cow”, but they do follow through somewhat. That crash figures in, but the script (credited to seven writers) tackles more adult issues such as loss and the realities of aging. The new guys, the young racing Turks are just going to get faster and faster, and McQueen may have to accept it. What was hidden in those teasers was the emergence of Cruz has a new hero, a speedy four-wheeled sister to the current queen of the box office, Wonder Woman. She signals a new direction, much like teenage Andy giving his beloved playthings to shy, little Bonnie in TOY STORY 3. I was also pleasantly surprised at the big part the memory of Doc Hudson, voiced by the much-missed Paul Newman, figured into the tale. He was briefly referred to in CARS 2, but here he gets the proper tribute. As for the look of the movie, well those Pixar wizards still work their magic. Two great sequences truly stand out. McQueen watches old footage of Doc Hudson, that seems like real news clips till we see Doc’s big blinking eyes. But the best action set piece is when McQueen and Ramirez cover themselves with mud (and phony numbers) and enter the big Thunder Hollow (an homage to Robert Mitchum’s classic THUNDER ROAD) race which turns into a “crazy 8” demolition derby, dominated by a tricked-out school bus that seems right out of a Mad Max flick. It’s thrilling and very funny. And thankfully Mater stays in Radiator Springs and doesn’t take over this entry (a little of him goes a looong way). Oh, and be sure you get to the theatre on time, so you don’t miss a minute of the charming short that precedes the feature, a playground fairy tale called “Lou”. The main event still seems a tad long (maybe it would work better as a one hour TV special), but CARS 3 careens over the end of trilogy curse and sends everyone off to that great salvage yard in the sky. But…I wouldn’t count on that final lap just yet.

 

3.5 Out of 5

 

I’ll be talking about this and other currents films this Friday, 6/16, on the Paul Harris Show from 4:15 to 5 PM on KTRS 550 AM. Stream it or tune in live.

 

A MADEA CHRISTMAS Giveaway

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The holidays are a time for giving, and since Lionsgate’s upcoming film, A MADEA CHRISTMAS, is hitting theaters this week WAMG is giving away A MADEA CHRISTMAS prize pack!

One winner will receive:

  • A Madea Ornament
  • A Madea Fan
  • A MADEA CHRISTMAS Soundtrack
  • 3 Posters (Nutcracker Teaser, Follow-Up Teaser, Final Poster)
  • 3 DVDs (MADEAS WITNESS PROTECTION, MADEAS BIG HAPPY FAMILY, MADEA GOES TO JAIL)

TO ENTER:

1. YOU MUST BE A U.S. RESIDENT WITH A U.S. SHIPPING ADDRESS. NO P.O. BOXES.

2. PLACE YOUR NAME, A VALID EMAIL, AND ANSWER TO THE QUESTION BELOW IN THE COMMENT SECTION OF THIS POST.

3. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MADEA MOVIE? 

WINNERS WILL BE CHOSEN THROUGH A RANDOM DRAWING OF QUALIFYING CONTESTANTS. NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. PRIZES WILL NOT BE SUBSTITUTED OR EXCHANGED.

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Madea gets coaxed into helping a friend pay her daughter a surprise visit in the country for Christmas, but the biggest surprise is what they’ll find when they arrive.  As the small, rural town prepares for its annual Christmas Jubilee, new secrets are revealed and old relationships are tested while Madea dishes her own brand of Christmas Spirit to all.

TYLER PERRY’S A MADEA CHRISTMAS is written for the screen, produced and directed by Tyler Perry. Lionsgate and Tyler Perry Studios Present, A Tyler Perry Studios/Lionsgate Production, A Film by Tyler Perry.

A MADEA CHRISTMAS CAST: Tyler Perry (Madea), Kathy Najimy (Kim), Chad Michael Murray (Tanner), Anna Maria Horsford (Eileen), Tika Sumpter (Lacey), Eric Lively (Connor), JR Lemon (Oliver), Alicia Witt (Amber), Lisa Whelchel (Nancy Porter), and Larry the Cable Guy (Buddy)

FOR MORE INFO:

Official Website: http://www.amadeachristmasmovie.com/

Facebook: www.fb.com/amadeachristmas

Twitter: www.twitter.com/madeachristmas

#HoNoSheDidnt

A MADEA CHRISTMAS hits theaters nationwide DECEMBER 13

 

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CARS 2 – The Blu Review

Although CARS 2 is not my favorite Pixar film, the Blu-Ray / DVD Combo Pack is still fun.

CARS 2 is the tale of Lightning McQueen and the incomparable tow truck Mater as they take their friendship to exciting new places, and head overseas to compete in the first-ever World Grand Prix to determine the world’s fastest car. But the road to the championship is filled with plenty of potholes, detours and hilarious surprises when Mater gets caught up in an intriguing adventure of his own: international espionage. Mater finds himself torn between assisting Lightning McQueen in the high-profile race and towing the line in a top-secret mission orchestrated by master British super spy Finn McMissile and the stunning rookie field spy Holley Shiftwell. Mater’s action-packed journey leads him on an explosive chase through the streets of Japan and Europe, trailed by his friends and watched by the whole world. The fast-paced fun includes a colorful new all-car cast, complete with menacing villains and international racing competitors.

It’s not that I don’t find Cars 2 enjoyable, it’s just that I don’t think it’s as captivating as the rest of the Pixar releases. Although it’s stunning, and at times funny, I found parts to be a bit lackluster and dull. Still, it’s not bad. It’s story is just a bit “middle of the road”.

VIDEO QUALITY: MPEG-4 AVC 1080p/AVC-encoded transfer Ratio: 2.39:1

The film looks magnificent! Pixar has high standards when it comes to how their films look, and this is certainly no exception.

AUDIO QUALITY: English: DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1

Pitch perfect sound makes the action in CARS 2 even more enjoyable! I honestly can find nothing wrong with this impeccable audio.

Although most of the bonus features are limited to the 5 disc 3D combo fact, which is a bit of a disappointment if you love the bonus material like I do. The shorts are fun, and the commentary is interesting. Still, I can’t help but feel cheated. In my opinion, putting the majority of the features only on the 3D combo pack is going to isolate their audience and only make them angry.

  • Audio Commentary: Directors John Lasseter and Brad Lewis offer their non-stop commentary that is sure to please fans of the film, as well as animation die-hards. They cover production and story development. The whole discussion is engaging and fun.
  • Toy Story Toon “Hawaiian Vacation” (HD, 6 minutes): Barbie and Ken are a bit sad, so Buzz, Woody and the gang stage a trip to Hawaii for them without ever leaving Bonnie’s room. These shorts are always fun, and this one is no exception!
  •  Cars Toon “Air Mater” (HD, 6 minutes): Produced by Pixar Canada, Mater is up to his shenanigans again with this installment of his Tall Tales.
  • Sneak Peeks (HD, 10 minutes):
    • Pixar’s BRAVE
    • PLANES
    • THE MUPPETS
    • LADY AND THE TRAMP Diamond Edition
    • CARS 2: The Videogame
    • NAUGHTY vs. NICE
    • SECRET OF THE WINGS

Although CARS 2 is not the best of the Pixar tales, it looks and sounds amazing on Blu-Ray. Still, we want more features… and not only on the 3D Combo Pack!

OVERALL BLU-RAY / DVD COMBO PACK REVIEW: 3.75 out of 5 stars

CARS 2 Q&A With OWEN WILSON & LARRY THE CABLE GUY

The Finish Line is Straight Ahead!!!
TODAY, Disney releases CARS 2 on Blu-ray 3D & Blu-ray Hi-Def Combo Pack!  In celebration, we present you with brand new Q&A Interviews with Owen Wilson and Larry The Cable Guy!

Star racecar Lightning McQueen and the incomparable tow truck Mater take their friendship to exciting new places in “Cars 2” when they head overseas to compete in the first-ever World Grand Prix to determine the world’s fastest car. But the road to the championship is filled with plenty of potholes, detours and hilarious surprises when Mater gets caught up in an intriguing adventure of his own: international espionage. Mater finds himself torn between assisting Lightning McQueen in the high-profile race and towing the line in a top-secret mission orchestrated by master British super spy Finn McMissile and the stunning rookie field spy Holley Shiftwell. Mater’s action-packed journey leads him on an explosive chase through the streets of Japan and Europe, trailed by his friends and watched by the whole world. The fast-paced fun includes a colorful new all-car cast, complete with menacing villains and international racing competitors.

OWEN WILSON (Lightning McQueen)

Was it easy to step back into the role of Lightning McQueen for “Cars 2”?
It felt pretty seamless to return to Lightning McQueen after all these years. In fact, it felt like I was catching up with an old friend. I liked the idea of already having the character worked out, but taking him on a whole new adventure. Plus, I was really excited when John Lasseter decided he was going to direct the movie. It couldn’t have worked out better for me.

What can you tell us about the story of the sequel?
“Cars 2” is an action-packed global adventure and we take the crazy “Cars” characters all over the world. There’s also a fun espionage element to the story with the excellent Michael Caine playing a British spy. The movie is a really fun ride.

Where in the world do the characters visit?
The gang travels around the world to places like Paris, London, the Italian Riviera and Japan. The thing I enjoy the most about seeing these places is the way the Pixar animators “car”-ify the locations and the buildings. Instead of Big Ben in London, there’s Big Bentley. Different buildings and locations are made up of car parts. It’s amazing to see.

What new characters do we meet in “Cars 2”?
The filmmakers did a great job of populating the world with fantastic new characters, including spies Finn McMissile, voiced by Michael Caine and Holley Shiftwell, voiced by Emily Mortimer. One of the fun things about the espionage in the film is that they’ve created lots of cool gadgets for the spies. It makes the movie that much more fresh and exciting.

Are you a fan of spy movies and espionage?
I have always been a fan of spy films, especially James Bond. I grew up with Roger Moore playing Bond and my favorite spy movie has got to be “The Spy Who Loved Me” because of the villain Jaws. Jaws was the guy with the metal teeth and he was such a great, iconic villain. I’ve never forgotten him.

What is it like to work with Pixar?
As an actor, working with Pixar has been one of the highlights of my career. The standard of excellence that they set is unmatched. It’s great to be a part of something that they’re doing because their movies stand the test of time.

Why do you think Pixar movies are so popular?
I think the reason their movies are so popular is that they take on universal themes, but tell stories in such a personal, unique and passionate way. You know what? They never cease to amaze me.

Were you surprised by the success of “Cars”?
The success has been incredible. I was in Hawaii recently and an Argentinean family told me that their kids are fanatical about the movie. They watched the first “Cars” 50 times and they couldn’t wait to see the sequel. It’s incredible to work on movies that work their way into the culture the way Pixar movies do.

How much fun do you have in the recording booth?
It’s a whole lot of fun in there. You go in with John Lasseter and feed off his energy and enthusiasm. He gives you the context of the scene and you go for it.

Do you ever work alongside your fellow voice actors?
No, it’s usually just John Lasseter and me, but I’m fine with that. It’s always great to work opposite someone in live-action where you get something back from your acting colleagues, but this seems to work just as well. It’s not a problem.

Do you get the chance to improvise in the sound booth?
To be honest, they have everything scripted so there’s no need to improvise. I’ve added a few lines along the way, but not many. In the original movie, I blurted out the word “ka-chow” and they keep adding it into the script because they like it.

What can you tell us about the DVD and Blu-ray extras for “Cars 2”?
There’s a lot of extra material on the discs, including a commentary from John Lasseter and some short films.

Are you a fan of DVDs and all the extras that come with them?
Yes, I am. I think it’s great to own the DVD of a movie that you really love, especially when you’re able to hear the director talk about his inspiration and the way that he makes his decisions. I’m a huge fan.

Are you a fan of 3D, too?
Yes, I love it. Filmmakers are getting much better at 3D now and it’s amazing to think that “Cars 2” will be released in this format on Blu-ray, too. As a viewer, I used to think, “Geez, how can they improve on HD?” Well, 3D does that. It’s a whole new world.

As a family man, are you looking forward to your son being able to watch “Cars 2” when he gets a bit older?
Very much so. I’ve heard they’re building a “Cars” land at Disneyland, so I imagine that will be a fun destination for us in a couple of years.

What goes through your mind when you start working on a movie?
The first thing that goes through my mind when I start work on a project is the hope that it will turn out well. You hope people will want to see the movie, enjoy it or be drawn to whatever it was that interested you in the script. Sometimes it works out, but sometimes it doesn’t. Thankfully, “Cars 2” didn’t miss the mark.

LARRY THE CABLE GUY (Mater)

How did you react when you discovered that Mater would have a larger role in “Cars 2”?
When I signed up for the sequel, I had no idea that Mater would be the star of the movie. [“Cars 2” director] John Lasseter used a storyboard to walk me through the story during one of my early meetings for the movie and that’s when I first discovered Mater’s role had been upgraded. My first reaction was, “Well, it sounds like Mater is going to have a pretty good part in this!”

Did you have any idea how popular “Cars” would become when you first signed up for the role?
When I first got the role, I had no idea that the movie and the characters would become as popular as they did. We hoped for success, but we had no idea what was going to happen. As soon as the first movie was released, I realized we had ourselves a very successful cartoon.

How did you win the role of Mater?
When the filmmakers first started work on “Cars,” I got a fax from my manager saying Pixar wanted me to voice a tow truck in their new movie. Mater wasn’t even named Mater at that point. He had a completely different name. I immediately said, “I’d love to be involved.” It was Pixar! Who wouldn’t jump at the chance?

Do you know why they chose you in particular?
John Lasseter said he’d been talking to lots of people, but he hadn’t found the right voice for the tow truck in the film. Then he listened to a “Blue Collar Comedy Tour” CD, which is when he heard my voice for the first time. He realized he’d found his tow truck within the first 30 seconds of listening. He apparently said, “That’s him. That is it. Call that guy up.”

Mater has a lot of scenes with a character called Holley Shiftwell in “Cars 2.” Do you know why British actress Emily Mortimer was chosen for the role of Holley?
John saw Emily in a couple of movies and I can guarantee you that he also saw her getting interviewed by TV crews and the press. During those interviews, he would have seen her personality shining through. From my experience, I know that’s how he would’ve decided that he wanted Emily for the role of Holley. He hires people because of their personalities and you see those personalities when they’re being interviewed.

Did you get the chance to record any of your dialogue with Emily?
Unfortunately, I didn’t get to work with Emily in the sound booth because we always record our voices solo. I don’t think they recorded any of the actors together, which is weird, but it works.

Where did you record your dialogue for the movie?
I record all of my audio at Pixar near San Francisco. But if you can’t make it out there, they make it easy and they come to you. For the “Cars Toons,” they came to me in a studio in Orlando, Florida. They are a very versatile bunch.

Do you get to see any of the movie before you record your dialogue?
No, we don’t get to see any of the animation. We just walk into the recording booth with John Lasseter and he takes us through everything. He tells us exactly what the scene is going to be like. He sets the mood and he tells us exactly how we should play it. He might say, “In this scene, you’re really excited. You’ve just met so-and-so for the first time and you’re over the moon.” It’s a pretty cool process and John is a master at it.

Were you nervous when you recorded Mater’s dialogue for the first time?
When I first started doing the voice for “Cars,” I admitted to John that I was really nervous. This was John Lasseter and Pixar! I couldn’t believe I was part of the project, but luckily he’s very comfortable to work with and pretty soon I calmed down.

What do you think of the animation in “Cars 2”?
The animation gets better and better with every Pixar movie. I was amazed when I saw the first scene of “Cars 2” with the water and the ocean. It looks incredible. I have no idea how an animator can make a fake ship look so real, but that’s exactly what they’ve done here. It blows me away every time.

Do you still pinch yourself when you hear your voice coming out of Mater’s mouth?
It’s crazy, but I never thought in a million years that I would be able to say that I was in a movie with an actor like Michael Caine. That’s not bad for a kid from a town of 1,200 in southeast Nebraska.

You must be incredibly proud…
Oh, I am. I’m over the moon.

Why do you think Pixar is so successful?
Pixar is successful because they are the best at what they do. There are lots of animated movies in the world, but a lot of them don’t have great stories. Then there are great stories with bad animation. Pixar does both well. It’s the market leader.

What’s it like to visit Pixar?
I love visiting Pixar. It’s awesome. It’s such an amazing place. I told John Lasseter, “Man, I bet you don’t have much of a staff turnover at this place.” He said, “That’s the problem. Nobody wants to go home. People come into work at nine o’clock in the morning, but they’re still here at nine and ten o’clock at night.”

How much of that is because of John Lasseter?
I think a lot of it has to do with John Lasseter. He’s a great leader. He has also become a great friend of mine and I love his enthusiasm for animation. He’s always happy about the work. He’s always enthusiastic, and it’s completely contagious. He’s the best.

 CARS 2 races to DVD and Blu-Ray today

For more information about the movie, check out Disney.com/cars. Like CARS 2 on Facebook:facebook.com/pixarcars, and follow “Cars 2″ on Twitter: twitter.com/disneypixar.

 

Cars 2 on Blu-ray, Blu-ray 3D, and DVD on November 1st

Ladies and Gentleman, start your engines!

CARS 2 races to the shelves on Blu-ray™ Combo Pack, Blu-ray 3D™, DVD and Movie Download on November 1, 2011.

The film features an all-star vocal cast including Owen Wilson who reprises his role as hotshot racecar Lightning McQueen. Larry the Cable Guy provides the voice of Mater (proprietor of Tow Mater Towing and Salvage), Lightning McQueen’s best friend and the heart and soul of Radiator Springs. Bonnie Hunt is back as Sally, the baby-blue Porsche 911 Carrera whose motor races for Lightning. Acclaimed actor Michael Caine makes his Pixar debut as Finn McMissile, a top British spy who mistakes Mater for an undercover American agent with a genius disguise. Emily Mortimer brings charm, cleverness and cachet as Holley Shiftwell, a rookie field spy who knows every trick in the manual. Versatile actor John Turturro gives a free-wheeling performance as Francesco Bernoulli, the world-renowned Italian racing champ who is Lightning’s chief rival. Tony Shalhoub, Joe Mantegna, Peter Jacobson, Jason Isaacs, Eddie Izzard, Paul Dooley, Cheech Marin, John Ratzenberger, Franco Nero and Vanessa Redgrave also lend their vocal talents. Bonus features include an interactive “World Tour” map, commentary by Director John Lasseter, and much more!!

Features Exclusive All-New Pixar Animated Short “Air Mater”

“Hawaiian Vacation” Animated Short and Hours More Exciting Bonus Features

Take Audiences on a “World Tour” with the Artists and Filmmakers


 

Disney•Pixar’s fast-action summer hit “Cars 2” comes home on Blu-ray Combo Pack, Blu-ray 3D, Movie Download and DVD — November 1, 2011. Celebrating the 25th anniversary of Pixar Animation Studios, the high octane in-home release invites families and fans of all ages to come along on a journey around the world with the #1 animated film of the year and introduces an exclusive all-new animated short “Air Mater,” featuring the fan favorite character spinning his tales in an exciting adventure high above Radiator Springs. The must-own animated release also includes fascinating commentary from award-winning director John Lasseter and “Hawaiian Vacation,” the delightful animated short that accompanied the film in theatres.

The immersive “Cars 2” bonus features include an one-of-a-kind interactive “World Tour” map that takes viewers through nine different locations, including those featured in the film and more. A global thrill-ride, it allows viewers to go behind-the-scenes with the Pixar artists and filmmakers as they circle the globe finding inspiration for the most international of all Pixar films to date. “Cars 2” is also the first Pixar film to be released in spectacular Blu-ray 3D.

Academy Award®-winning filmmaker John Lasseter, chief creative officer for Walt Disney and Pixar Animation Studios, returns to the driver’s seat as director. “Cars 2” is produced by visual effects industry veteran Denise Ream (associate producer, “Up”; visual effects executive producer, “Star Wars: Episode III — Revenge of the Sith”). Oscar®-winning composer Michael Giacchino (“The Incredibles,” “Up”) provides the electrifying score with a surf-rock-meets-spy-thriller flavor and a variety of global accents, evoking a sense of thrills, mystery and emotion. Brad Paisley, Robbie Williams, Weezer, French singer Bénabar and Japanese girl band Perfume lend their diverse musical talents to the film’s soundtrack.

The film features an all-star vocal cast including Owen Wilson who reprises his role as hotshot racecar Lightning McQueen. Larry the Cable Guy provides the voice of Mater (proprietor of Tow Mater Towing and Salvage), Lightning McQueen’s best friend and the heart and soul of Radiator Springs. Bonnie Hunt is back as Sally, the baby-blue Porsche 911 Carrera whose motor races for Lightning. Acclaimed actor Michael Caine makes his Pixar debut as Finn McMissile, a top British spy who mistakes Mater for an undercover American agent with a genius disguise. Emily Mortimer brings charm, cleverness and cachet as Holley Shiftwell, a rookie field spy who knows every trick in the manual. Versatile actor John Turturro gives a free-wheeling performance as Francesco Bernoulli, the world-renowned Italian racing champ who is Lightning’s chief rival. Tony Shalhoub, Joe Mantegna, Peter Jacobson, Jason Isaacs, Eddie Izzard, Paul Dooley, Cheech Marin, John Ratzenberger, Franco Nero and Vanessa Redgrave also lend their vocal talents. Real-life Formula 1 racing champ Lewis Hamilton and NASCAR racer Jeff Gordon add a touch of authenticity with their cameos in the film.


The complete “Air Mater” short is just one of the extras Available On the Blu-ray™ Combo Pack, Blu-ray 3D, DVD and Movie Download November 1, 2011. Pre-order here: http://awe.sm/5RORV

Film Synopsis:

Star racecar Lightning McQueen and the incomparable tow truck Mater take their friendship to exciting new places in “Cars 2” when they head overseas to compete in the first-ever World Grand Prix to determine the world’s fastest car. But the road to the championship is filled with plenty of potholes, detours and hilarious surprises when Mater gets caught up in an intriguing adventure of his own: international espionage. Mater finds himself torn between assisting Lightning McQueen in the high-profile race and towing the line in a top-secret mission orchestrated by master British super spy Finn McMissile and the stunning rookie field spy Holley Shiftwell. Mater’s action-packed journey leads him on an explosive chase through the streets of Japan and Europe, trailed by his friends and watched by the whole world. The fast-paced fun includes a colorful new all-car cast, complete with menacing villains and international racing competitors.

“Cars 2” is available in-home in several ways:

2-Disc Blu-ray Combo Pack (1 Blu-ray Disc + 1 DVD)
Suggested Retail Price: $39.99 U.S./$44.99 Canada

Bonus Features:

  • Cars Toon “Air Mater” – Exclusive All-New Short
  • Toy Story Toon “Hawaiian Vacation” – Theatrically Released Short
  • Director John Lasseter Commentary

2-Disc DVD Combo Pack (1 DVD + 1 Blu-ray Disc)
Suggested Retail Price: $39.99 U.S./$44.99 Canada

Bonus Features:

  • Cars Toon “Air Mater” – Exclusive All-New Short
  • Toy Story Toon “Hawaiian Vacation” – Theatrically Released Short
  • Director John Lasseter Commentary

5-Disc Blu-ray Combo Pack (1 Blu-ray 3D Disc + 2 Blu-ray Discs + DVD + Digital Copy)
Suggested Retail Price: $49.99 U.S./$56.99 Canada

Bonus Features:

  • Cars Toon “Air Mater” – Exclusive All-New Short
  • Toy Story Toon “Hawaiian Vacation” – Theatrically Released Short
  • Director John Lasseter Commentary
  • “World Tour” Interactive
  • Sneak Peek: The Nuts and Bolts of ‘Cars Land’

11-Disc 3-Movie Blu-ray Combo Pack “Collector Set” – “Cars 2,” “Cars” and “Mater’s Tall Tales”
Suggested Retail Price: $119.99 U.S./$134.99 Canada

“Cars 2” (1 Blu-ray 3D Disc + 2 Blu-ray Discs + DVD + Digital Copy)

Bonus Features:

    • Cars Toon “Air Mater” – Exclusive All-New Short
    • Toy Story Toon “Hawaiian Vacation” – Theatrically Released Short
    • Director John Lasseter Commentary
    • “World Tour” Interactive
    • One Die-Cast ‘John Lassetire’ Car

“Cars” (1 Blu-ray Disc + 1 DVD + Digital Copy)

Bonus Features: All Bonus Features Currently Available for “Cars”

“Mater’s Tall Tales” (1 Blu-ray Disc + 1 DVD + Digital Copy)

Bonus Features: All Bonus Features Currently Available for “Mater’s Tall Tales”

1 Disc DVD
Suggested Retail Price: $29.99 U.S./$35.99 Canada

Bonus Features:

  • Cars Toon “Air Mater” – Exclusive All-New Short
  • Toy Story Toon “Hawaiian Vacation” – Theatrically Released Short
  • Director John Lasseter Commentary

Movie Download
Suggested Retail Price High Definition: $39.99 U.S./44.99 Canada
Suggested Retail Price Standard Definition: $29.99 U.S./$35.99 Canada

Bonus Features:

  • Cars Toon “Air Mater” – Exclusive All-New Short
  • Toy Story Toon “Hawaiian Vacation” – Theatrically Released Short
  • From the ‘World Tour” Interactive Feature – “Emeryville,” one of nine destinations offered on the 5-disc set as well as the 11-Disc “Collector’s Set”
  • “Bringing Cars 2 To The World” – Available only on Movie Download, it presents a special behind-the-scenes look at how Pixar artists and filmmakers make movies in over 40 different languages for audiences around the world to enjoy.

Specifications:
STREET DATE: November 1, 2011 (Direct Pre-book: 8/23 / Distributor Pre-book 9/6)
Feature Run Time: 106 minutes
Rating: U.S.: G/Canadian: G (Bonus Material Not Rated)

Aspect Ratio: Blu-ray 3D: 2.39:1 Aspect Ratio (Feature Film)
Blu-ray: 1080p High Definition • 2.39:1 (Feature Film)
DVD: 1080p High Definition • 2.39:1 (Feature Film)

Audio: Blu-ray 3D: English 7.1 DTS-HD Master Audio, English 5.1 Dolby Digital EX, English DVS 2.0 Dolby Digital, English Near Field Mix 2.0
Blu-ray: English 7.1 DTS-HD Master Audio, English 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio ES, English DVS 2.0 Dolby Digital, English Near Field Mix 2.0
DVD: English 5.1 Dolby Digital EX, English DVS 2.0 Dolby Digital, English Near Field Mix 2.0 Dolby Digital, English SDH Subtitles

Subtitles: Blu-ray 3D: English SDH Subtitles, Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital EX & Spanish Subtitles (US Only), French 5.1 Dolby Digital EX & French Subtitles (Canada Only)
Blu-ray: English SDH Subtitles, Spanish 7.1 DTS-HD HR, Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital EX & Spanish Subtitles (US Only), French 7.1 DTS-HD HR, French 5.1 Dolby Digital EX & French Subtitles (Canada Only)
DVD: Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital EX & Spanish Subtitles (US Only), French 5.1 Dolby EX & French Subtitles (Canada Only)

Social Media:
Those who would like to stay connected with the exciting “Cars 2” release are encouraged to:
· “Like” the Facebook page at www.facebook.com/pixarcars
· Follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/disneypixar
· Visit the website and mobile site: www.Disney.com/cars

About Disney Blu-ray Combo Packs:

To provide consumers with unprecedented quality, value and portability of their favorite Disney classics, in 2008 WDSHE pioneered the Combo Pack – a Blu-ray DiscTM plus a DVD in a single package. Current Disney titles available in market as Combo Packs include “Bambi,” “Fox and the Hound,” “Mars Needs Moms,” “I Am Number Four” and “TRON: Legacy,” to name a few.

About Walt Disney Studios:

For more than 85 years, The Walt Disney Studios has been the foundation on which The Walt Disney Company (DIS: NYSE) was built. Today, the Studio brings quality movies, music and stage plays to consumers throughout the world. Feature films are released under four banners: Walt Disney Pictures, which includes Walt Disney Animation Studios and Pixar Animation Studios, Disneynature, Touchstone Pictures and Marvel. Original music and motion picture soundtracks are produced under Walt Disney Records and Hollywood Records, while Disney Theatrical Group produces and licenses live events, including Broadway theatrical productions, Disney on Ice and Disney LIVE!. For more information, please visit www.disney.com.

CARS 2 races to Blu-Ray, Blu-Ray 3D, and DVD on NOVEMBER 1st

YOU SAY TOW MATER… I SAY… TOW MATTER – The Contest

Hey! I kept it clean… Which is more than I can say for Mater! He’s been racing around the world in celebration of CARS 2, and that is bound to dirty up your windshield! So, while he gets some much needed R & R (Rest and Refueling… duh!) WAMG is going to take over the celebration by giving away CARS 2 PRIZE PACKS! Hooray!!!

(Insert Hi-Five’s Here)

WINNERS WILL RECEIVE: (PRIZES SUBJECT TO SUBSTITUTION)

Seriously… Hi-Five this screen or I am not telling you about these fabulous prizes! Go ahead… I’ll wait……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

 

 

…See! That wasn’t so bad!

 

– CARS 2 t-shirt in adult sizes of S, M, L, XL

– CARS 2 soundtrack

pass

– CARS 2 set of 3 bumper tickets

– CARS 2 temporary tattoo sheet (2 per winner)

Now that is one roaring prize pack!

(Yes, I am fully aware of the drastic new level of “cheesy” that I just reached!)

OFFICIAL RULES:

1. YOU MUST BE A US RESIDENT WITH A US MAILING ADDRESS. PRIZE WILL NOT BE SHIPPED OUTSIDE OF THE US.

2. FILL OUT YOUR FULL (REAL) NAME AND EMAIL ADDRESS BELOW. (E-mail will not be visible)

3. ANSWER THE FOLLOWING QUESTION – THE HUMAN RACE HAS BEEN TURNED INTO AUTOMOBILES. WHAT TYPE OF AUTOMOBILE WOULD YOU BE AND WHY?

WINNERS WILL BE CHOSEN THROUGH A RANDOM DRAWING OF QUALIFYING CONTESTANTS. NO PURCHASE NECESSARY.

The contest winner will be picked on MONDAY, JULY 4. SUBMISSIONS MUST BE ENTERED BY SUNDAY, JULY3 at 11:59 p.m CST.

Synopsis:

Star racecar Lightning McQueen (voice of Owen Wilson) and the incomparable tow truck Mater (voice of Larry the Cable Guy) take their friendship to exciting new places in CARS 2 when they head overseas to compete in the first-ever World Grand Prix to determine the world’s fastest car. But the road to the championship is filled with plenty of potholes, detours and hilarious surprises when Mater gets caught up in an intriguing adventure of his own: international espionage. Mater finds himself torn between assisting Lightning McQueen in the high-profile race and towing the line in a top-secret mission orchestrated by master British super spy Finn McMissile (voice of Michael Caine) and the stunning spy-in-training Holley Shiftwell (voice of Emily Mortimer). Mater’s action-packed journey leads him on an explosive chase through the streets of Japan and Europe, trailed by his friends and watched by the whole world. The fast-paced fun includes a colorful new all-car cast, complete with menacing villains and international racing competitors.

CARS 2 is in theaters now, and presented in Disney Digital 3D and IMAX 3D in select theaters.
Visit the film’s official site here, like it on Facebook here and follow it on Twitter here.

 

CARS 2: SPY CARS LIKE US Featurette

You heard right! New CARS 2 featurette. Now, I could sit here and give you the ol’ razzle dazzle… or I could just cut to the chase! (Eh… See what I did there?)

Synopsis:

Star racecar Lightning McQueen (voice of Owen Wilson) and the incomparable tow truck Mater (voice of Larry the Cable Guy) take their friendship to exciting new places in Disney Pixar’s CARS 2 when they head overseas to compete in the first-ever World Grand Prix. But the road to the championship is filled with surprises when Mater gets caught up in an intriguing adventure of his own: international espionage. Mater finds himself torn between assisting Lightning McQueen in the high-profile race and towing the line in a top-secret mission orchestrated by master British super spy Finn McMissile (voice of Michael Caine). Directed by John Lasseter and produced by Denise Ream, the fast-paced fun includes a colorful new all-car cast, complete with menacing villains and international racing competitors.

Disney Pixar’s Cars, originally released on June 9, 2006, grossed nearly $462 million worldwide. It was nominated for two Oscars® and one Golden Globe® Award, winning the first ever Golden Globe for Best Animated Feature Film.

Presented in Disney Digital 3D and IMAX® 3D in select theaters, Disney Pixar’s Cars 2 hits the track on June 24, 2011. The film marks Disney-Pixar’s 12th feature-length animated film and will be released as Pixar Animation Studios celebrates its 25th Anniversary this year. The Studio, founded in 1986, has earned 29 Academy Awards® and seven Golden Globes®. To date, its 11 feature films have grossed more than $6.5 billion at the worldwide box office.

For more information about the movie, check out Disney.com/cars. Like Cars 2 on Facebook: facebook.com/pixarcars, and follow Cars 2 on Twitter: twitter.com/disneypixar.

 

CARS 2 Goes Global In this New “Back Into Cars 2” Featurette

Listen in as director John Lasseter and actors Owen Wilson, Emily Mortimer, John Turturro, Joe Mantegna, Michael Caine and Larry the Cable Guy talk about taking Lightning McQueen, Mater and the gang to the World Grand Prix in this new CARS 2 featurette.

ABOUT THE MOVIE

Star racecar Lightning McQueen (voice of Owen Wilson) and the incomparable tow truck Mater (voice of Larry the Cable Guy) take their friendship to exciting new places in “Cars 2” when they head overseas to compete in the first-ever World Grand Prix to determine the world’s fastest car. But the road to the championship is filled with plenty of potholes, detours and hilarious surprises when Mater gets caught up in an intriguing adventure of his own: international espionage. Mater finds himself torn between assisting Lightning McQueen in the high-profile race and towing the line in a top-secret mission orchestrated by master British super spy Finn McMissile (voice of Michael Caine) and the stunning rookie field spy Holley Shiftwell (voice of Emily Mortimer). Mater’s action-packed journey leads him on an explosive chase through the streets of Japan and Europe, trailed by his friends and watched by the whole world. The fast-paced fun includes a colorful new all-car cast, complete with menacing villains and international racing competitors.

John Lasseter returns to the driver’s seat to direct this follow-up to his 2006 Golden Globe®-winning “Cars.” “Cars 2” is co-directed by Brad Lewis, producer of the Oscar®-winning film “Ratatouille,” and produced by visual effects industry veteran Denise Ream (associate producer, “Up”; visual effects executive producer, “Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith”). The film hits the track on June 24, 2011, and will be presented in Disney Digital 3D™ and IMAX® 3D in select theaters.

Pixar’s 25th Anniversary/ CARS 2: WORLD’S SAVVIEST SECRET AGENTS – Finn McMissile, Holley Shiftwell… and Mater!

In honor of Pixar’s 25th Anniversary, we’re continuing to provide a wide array of special stories for the upcoming CARS 2.

DISNEY•PIXAR’S “CARS 2” REVEALS WORLD’S SAVVIEST SECRET AGENTS:

Finn McMissile, Holley Shiftwell… and Mater!

Mater is known for tall tales, superior backwards driving, tractor tipping and uncompromising loyalty.

He’s also a secret agent… though unwittingly.

“Cars 2” sends the affable tow truck overseas, along with his best buddy Lightning McQueen, who’s competing in the first-ever World Grand Prix – a race through Japan, Italy and the U.K. to determine who is the world’s fastest car.

Mater’s intentions are good. He wants to lend a helping tire to Lightning and be there to see his best friend win the race and get the glory. Never having been overseas, Mater is a bit naïve to life outside Radiator Springs.

Then he meets Holley Shiftwell. She’s sleek, smart and sophisticated, and she’s interested in him! Mater is smitten with this rookie field spy who’s been sent to rendezvous with an American agent. Her colleague, master British spy Finn McMissile, is the best in the business with all the gadgets and savvy moves to prove it, but even he’s impressed when he meets Mater and finds his rusty undercover disguise particularly admirable.

Indeed, Mater fuels this fast-paced tale of international espionage, but it was Finn McMissile who sparked the story more than five years ago.

A SPY IS BORN

Disney•Pixar’s 2006 release “Cars” featured a blossoming romance between Lightning McQueen and Sally. Filmmakers storyboarded a date scene at a drive-in theater and pondered what movie might be playing. “I love spy movies,” says director John Lasseter, “and I thought it would be so much fun to see what a spy movie would look like in the car world. We came up with this character named Finn McMissile, who was going to be starring in this little movie-within-a-movie.”

Instead, says Lasseter, Lightning and Sally went on the picturesque drive on Route 66. “I never forgot the idea of Finn McMissile and the spy movie,” adds Lasseter. “I thought, ‘There’s a lot of potential there.’”

“Cars 2” took off with vast, global backdrops and an unprecedented multi-location race. But, says Lasseter, “That’s just the setting, the real story is this spy conspiracy.”

Finn McMissile evolved, of course. “He’s a British supercar,” says Jay Ward, art manager for “Cars” and now the “Cars” franchise guardian at Pixar Animation Studios, “and he’s a serious agent in the field.”

And serious agents come with some really serious gadgetry. Finn McMissile has a missile launcher in one headlight, and sports a spy cam in the other. He’s armed with deployable machine guns and an undercarriage-mounted quad harpoon gun, plus surveillance probes, grappling hooks and a rear turn signal oil blaster. His side mirrors feature digital read-outs and a deployable glass-cutter and his front wheel hub is equipped with a magnetic explosives launcher. He has several modes of transportation: drive, hydrofoil for overseas transportation and submarine mode for underwater escapes. And there’s always his roof-deployed holographic disguise emitter for particularly sticky situations. “He has steel magnets on his wheels so he can climb up the side of a steel wall,” adds Ward. “He’s a really cool car.”

But if the audience is in the market for a sixties spy car with Finn’s sharp, British looks—a car that gives new meaning to “fully loaded”—they’re out of luck. “He’s an in-house design,” says Ward. “We looked for British cars with fins, and guess what? They didn’t put a lot of fins on their cars.”

The 1958 Peerless, a British sports car, did feature tailfins, which served as partial inspiration, but the team studied a number of cars—British cars, Italian cars. “We wanted him to be a really elegantly designed English sportscar from the sixties,” says character art director Jay Shuster. “We did this really deep search into that kind of car from that era. We took everything from all the cars we love and baked it into Finn.”

Meanwhile, Holley Shiftwell is assertive, yet refined—and she’s fresh out of the academy. “She’s a really smart, up-and-coming British agent who hasn’t spent a lot of time in the field,” says producer Denise Ream.

“She’s basically a logistics agent,” adds Ward. “She’s not somebody who’s usually out there beating up the bad guys. But in this film, she gets pulled into that world for the first time.”

Holley is sharp and capable, with expertise in computers and logistics. She’s also young, cool and quite fetching (just ask Mater). Like Finn McMissile, she owes her good looks to the team at Pixar who created her design in house. “Holley developed really quickly,” says Shuster. “I came in on a Sunday afternoon and was doodling and sketching based on what John said he’d like Holley to look like. She’s new-school. I referenced the modern supercar from all the makes of the world. There’s a whole new breed of supercar that all these little private manufacturers are putting out in limited runs. I drew this sketch and the next day John saw it and said, ‘Yeah, that’s it.’”

Of course, Holley, too, comes well equipped with state-of-the-art mechanisms, including headlight cameras, a concealed gun and electro-shock device and a telescoping utility arm. “She can fly, actually,” says Shuster. “She’s got wings that protrude from her rocker panels and her rear deck lid becomes a horizontal stabilizer of a rear wing that has a jet intake. She’s got afterburners that appear in her exhaust.”

The spy business is a serious one. Missions pop up around the world, so a good transportation system is key, even for the four-wheeled spies in “Cars 2.” With twin jet engines and a speed of mach 1, Siddeley the spy jet can get them where they need to go faster than anyone—and he can do it completely undetected with cutting-edge cloaking and stealth technologies.

The question remains: is Mater a spy sporting the best disguise Britain’s secret agents have ever encountered?

That’s classified, of course.

Michael Caine lends his voice to Finn McMissile, Emily Mortimer is the voice of Holley Shiftwell, Jason Isaacs voices Siddeley, and both Owen Wilson and Larry the Cable Guy once again brings Lightning McQueen and Mater, respectively, to life.

ABOUT THE MOVIE

Star racecar Lightning McQueen (voice of Owen Wilson) and the incomparable tow truck Mater (voice of Larry the Cable Guy) take their friendship to exciting new places in “Cars 2” when they head overseas to compete in the first-ever World Grand Prix to determine the world’s fastest car. But the road to the championship is filled with plenty of potholes, detours and hilarious surprises when Mater gets caught up in an intriguing adventure of his own: international espionage. Mater finds himself torn between assisting Lightning McQueen in the high-profile race and towing the line in a top-secret mission orchestrated by master British super spy Finn McMissile (voice of Michael Caine) and the stunning rookie field spy Holley Shiftwell (voice of Emily Mortimer). Mater’s action-packed journey leads him on an explosive chase through the streets of Japan and Europe, trailed by his friends and watched by the whole world. The fast-paced fun includes a colorful new all-car cast, complete with menacing villains and international racing competitors.

John Lasseter returns to the driver’s seat to direct this follow-up to his 2006 Golden Globe®-winning “Cars.” “Cars 2” is co-directed by Brad Lewis, producer of the Oscar®-winning film “Ratatouille,” and produced by visual effects industry veteran Denise Ream (associate producer, “Up”; visual effects executive producer, “Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith”). The film hits the track on June 24, 2011, and will be presented in Disney Digital 3D™ and IMAX® 3D in select theaters.

CARS 2: Trailer Debut And Full-Site Takeover On iTunes Movie Trailers!

Rev up your engines and check out the exclusive trailer debut and full-site takeover for CARS 2 currently up on iTunes Movie Trailers!

Click on these links to check it out:

CARS 2 Fun Facts:

·      John Lasseter made his feature film directing debut with “Toy Story” in 1995.  He has since directed such Disney•Pixar classics as “A Bug’s Life,” “Toy Story 2” and “Cars” and served as executive producer of all other Pixar films to date. He is currently the chief creative officer of Walt Disney and Pixar Animation Studios and principal creative advisor of Walt Disney Imagineering.
·      “Cars 2” is the 12th feature-length animated film from Pixar Animation Studios (its first 11 have earned $6.5 billion at the global box office).  Pixar, which has earned 29 Academy Awards® and seven Golden Globes®, celebrates its 25th Anniversary in 2011.
·      “Cars” originally released on June 9, 2006, and grossed nearly $462 million worldwide. It was nominated for two Oscars® and one Golden Globe®, winning the first ever Golden Globe for Best Animated Feature Film.

ABOUT THE MOVIE

Star racecar Lightning McQueen (voice of Owen Wilson) and the incomparable tow truck Mater (voice of Larry the Cable Guy) take their friendship to exciting new places in “Cars 2” when they head overseas to compete in the first-ever World Grand Prix to determine the world’s fastest car. But the road to the championship is filled with plenty of potholes, detours and hilarious surprises when Mater gets caught up in an intriguing adventure of his own: international espionage. Mater finds himself torn between assisting Lightning McQueen in the high-profile race and towing the line in a top-secret mission orchestrated by master British super spy Finn McMissile (voice of Michael Caine) and the stunning rookie field spy Holley Shiftwell (voice of Emily Mortimer). Mater’s action-packed journey leads him on an explosive chase through the streets of Japan and Europe, trailed by his friends and watched by the whole world. The fast-paced fun includes a colorful new all-car cast, complete with menacing villains and international racing competitors.

John Lasseter returns to the driver’s seat to direct this follow-up to his 2006 Golden Globe®-winning “Cars.” “Cars 2” is co-directed by Brad Lewis, producer of the Oscar®-winning film “Ratatouille,” and produced by visual effects industry veteran Denise Ream (associate producer, “Up”; visual effects executive producer, “Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith”). The film hits the track on June 24, 2011, and will be presented in Disney Digital 3D™ and IMAX® 3D in select theaters.

Visit the film’s official site: Disney.com/cars,  “Like” CARS 2 on Facebook at: http://www.facebook.com/PixarCars and follow it on Twitter: twitter.com/disneypixar