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TOY FAIR: ‘Monsters University’ Minor Spoilers Ahead of New Trailer Debut

'Monsters University' POP! Vinyl and Plushies from Funko

While potential film spoilers and the American International Toy Fair often go hand-in-hand, rare is the opportunity that we are able to actually photograph (with permission) new items that contain information not yet disclosed to the public. That said, yesterday we were able to do just that with some supporting merchandise for Disney/Pixar’s Monsters University, just ahead of the new trailer launch at 9 am ET and the full Toy Fair product launch with John Goodman and Billy Crystal which kicks off an hour later, at 10.

Despite their products being highly stylized, Funko brings us our first good look at a Randall Boggs in his younger form. It’s probably not a stretch to imagine that back at Monsters University, the bespectacled Randall — or Randy as he appeared to be called based on other merchandise — may have excelled in the scare program, but not so much in the quad, helping to shape the monster he becomes and his relationships with others in Monsters Inc. Funko will offer POP! vinyl figures and wacky wobblers of Randall, Mike Wazowski and Sulley; Mike and Sulley POP! plushies; and a Sulley 3D bookmark. The ‘top secret’ patches on the pictures Sulley figures is covering the Oozma Kappa fraternity logo, which is ironically odd since that fact has been public since November.

Monogram International, best known for its desk accessories, keychains, banks and other tchotchkes, offers up a slew of small items in support of Monsters University. Items include magnets, a lanyard/badge holder, eye poppers and fingerboards (which reveal Randy’s name as well as art for a character named Johnny).

Lastly for now (and in addition to other Monsters University toys we’ve already shared) is the Monsters University Imaginext collection from Fisher-Price. Building on the success of earlier franchises such as Toy Story and Cars, the Monsters University collection will launch with three sets. Of the three, we were able to preview two: the Child Detection Agency (CDA) vehicle with CDA agent figure and the Scare Floor playset with Mike Wazowski and Sulley figures. The figures appear as they do in Monsters Inc, but we are told this is still considered Monsters University as there is overlap between the two films. The third playset, which will preview later today at the media event, was called Monsters University [Fraternity?] Row, which will more directly reflect the content of the film.

Be sure to follow us on Twitter as we tweet live from the Monsters University media event as well as the American International Toy Fair to get a sneak peek of upcoming Disney products in real-time.

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‘Monsters University’ Featurette Reveals Plot Points, First Clip (Minor Spoilers)

Animation Fascination has uploaded a new featurette/sneak peek at Disney/Pixar’s Monsters University, presumed to be included on the upcoming Monsters Inc. blu-ray release. Narrated by director Dan Scanlon, the featurette offers up quite a bit of concept art along with some of the story which involves how rivals Mike Wazowski and James ‘Sulley’ Sullivan were rejected from the prized scaring educational track by Dean Hardscrabble and how Mike concocts a plan to get into the program. To pull it off, they must join the Oozma Kappa fraternity which — although is made up of other scare program rejects — is just OK with us.

Scanlon also talks about character development, particularly with Mike and Sulley, and also provides a good look at some of the other supporting cast, including Art.

P.S. Hi, Squishy’s Mom!

A new trailer for the film, which debuts in theaters on June 21, 2013, is expected this Monday at around 12 pm ET, in conjunction with a Monsters University event being held by Disney at the American International Toy Fair in New York, in which Scanlon will be joined in person by Billy Crystal and John Goodman.

via Upcoming Pixar

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EXCLUSIVE: Duffy to Make Disney Store North America Debut in February

He has sailed across oceans and traveled continents, from Tokyo to Anaheim to Orlando. Along the way, he has captured the hearts and imaginations of many fans of all ages. Most recently, he’s been delighting millions of television viewers from his appearances on programs such as ‘The Neighbors’ and ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ and may even soon be getting a tv show of his own. He is Duffy the Disney Bear and beginning February 13, he’ll be arriving at a Disney Store near you.

Previously only available exclusively at the Disney Parks around the world, Duffy has recently begun appearing at Disney Store locations in the United Kingdom and France and will soon be available at Disney Store locations in North America.

In addition to the 17″ Duffy and his many outfits that have already been sold at the theme parks, however, Disney Store will have several exclusive products and sizes such as this 40″ tall jumbo sized Duffy ($100). Other Disney Store exclusive sizes include the 20″ medium plush ($20), 28″ large plush ($40) and the 7″ mini bean-bag plush ($10).

In addition to the myriad of sizes, Disney Store will also offer another exclusive: the Sailor Mickey with Sailor Duffy plush, available both in 17″ medium ($30) and 28″ large ($60) sizes. This adorable pair pays homage to Duffy’s story (currently available in Amazon Kindle format) in which we learn his origins as a love-stuffed bon voyage gift from Minnie to Mickey.

Duffy the Disney Bear will be available beginning February 13 at Disney Store locations as well as online at DisneyStore.com. Images courtesy of Disney Store. All sizes are approximate.

UPDATE #1: 2/8/13 – Corrected prices on Sailor Mickey plush.

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TOY FAIR: Mattel Previews ‘Planes,’ ‘Cars,’ ‘Toy Story,’ ‘Sofia the First,’ ‘The Little Mermaid’ and More

Just ahead of the American International Toy Fair in New York City, Mattel has shared some upcoming product information offering glimpses into some of its upcoming 2013 products from the Disney universe.

Disney/Pixar Cars Fast-Flip Raceway. Kids can take their Micro Drifters vehicles — featuring their favorite characters from Disney/Pixar’s Cars — from Radiator Springs to the Piston Cup Race with this new track set! With a press of a button the action is started, launching vehicles around Willy’s Butte, where they can race, drift and swarm — just like in the movies. Time it right, and the set will flip to reveal the Piston Cup Race. It”s a perfect way for kids to catch the drift! MSRP: $24, Available July 2013

Disney/Pixar Toy Story 4-Inch Basic Figure Playset. Kids can blast off to planet fun with this tabletop play set! Inspired by Buzz Lightyear’s Spaceship, the item opens up to reveal a multi-level play set. Kids can battle enemies with working projectiles, hold prisoners in the collapsible jail and enjoy space jaunts with the space walking wire. An elevator and Captain’s cockpit add creature comforts for the crew. MSRP: $29.99, Available July 2013

Disney Planes Pilot Pals™ Dusty Crophopper Remote Control Plane. Kids can have high-flying fun recreating the action seen in Disney’s Planes with this RC vehicle that offers role-play remote control, which means the plane moves when they do! Push the button to set its propeller spinning and move it forward, then use the two controllers — one for each wing — to tilt the wings and control its movement through mimicry. Sounds and phrases amp up the action for a thrilling air-venture! MSRPL ARP: $39.99, Available August 2013

Disney Planes Sky Track Challenge™ Track Set. It’s an air-venture for Planes fans! The five-feet of track on this set includes obstacles like a mountain tunnel and crash zone. Planes clip in to the tracks with universal plugs and can be launched for side-by-side racing action with amazing speed and impressive barrel rolls. The first to complete the race is automatically diverted to the winner’s circle -– with a giant shiny trophy –- triggering the checkered flag! Includes one Planes vehicle. MSRP: $29.99, Available August 2013

Disney Sofia the First Talking Sofia and Animal Friends. Wearing her very special amulet from the King, Sofia can understand and talk with animals — just like in the Disney Jr. series. Dressed in her signature princess gown, this Sofia 10 1/2″ doll can recognize and talk with three of her best animal friends: Clover the Rabbit, Robin the Robin and Mia the Bluebird. When girls bring each animal close to Sofia’s amulet, it glows, and Sofia can recognize and talk to each beloved friend and get unique responses in return! With multiple character-specific phrases from Sofia and her animal friends, it’s endless interactive friendship fun! MSRP: $39.99, Available July 2013

Disney Sofia the First Magical Talking Castle. With so many play areas and hidden surprises, the Magical Talking Castle is the perfect place for the charming Sofia the First to call home. When girls place Sofia or Clover the Rabbit on the castle’s special base, they can ‘magically’ hear phrases said in each character’s voice. But that’s just the beginning: Bring in other 3″ dolls and figures from across the line to bring Sofia’s world to life and unlock even more character phrases. Girls can extend an outdoor play level and footbridge to Enchancia and explore the castle grounds, or take Sofia and Clover on a picnic. Inside the castle, Sofia can glide down the staircase, enjoy royal dancing and dining in the ballroom, or find Clover hiding in the window seat. With another day of princess training about to end, all that’s left for Sofia to do is have sweet dreams in her lavish royal bedroom. Castle includes furniture, Sofia doll and Clover figure. Other dolls and figures sold separately. MSRP: $59.99, Available July 2013

Disney Princess Ariel Royal Ship. Girls will love playing out all of Ariel’s adventures at sea! Aboard her two-level, expandable ship, Ariel can steer from the top deck or slide below to her underwater world; complete with purple vanity and mermaid-princess bed, jelly fish chandelier, treasure chest and various ‘treasures’ to store in this secret hiding place. Find magical surprises, such as her best friend Sebastian who is hiding under the serving platter, or say hello to Flounder who is swimming outside, just like in the movie. Dolls sold separately. MSRP: $49.99, Available July 2013

Disney Princess Mermaid-to-Princess Ariel. Girls will be delighted to re-create Ariel’s unforgettable transformation from mermaid to princess — over and over again! Magically transform Ariel into a princess by pulling her skirt over her tail to reveal a shimmery pink gown. Then, transform her back into a mermaid by pulling down on her sparkly tail. To further add to the fairytale fun, Ariel ‘sings’ two different songs from the movie as she transforms! MSRP: $24.99, Available July 2013

Disney Princess Ultimate Dream Castle. The Disney Princess Ultimate Dream Castle is more enchanting than ever! This brand new castle includes fairytale-themed rooms for all girls’ favorite princesses — including a bedroom for Rapunzel and a spiraling hair ‘elevator’ for her and her princess friends to go up and down. The castle also comes to life with the Disney Magic Mirror App (Available on the App Store?). When girls scan the castle’s defined labels with an iOS device they unlock and trigger activities in each princess’ room and around the outside of the castle. The three-story castle also includes a charming kitchen where Snow White can ‘bake,’ a fancy dining room for Belle to serve her guests, a bathroom for Ariel to lounge in the tub, a sewing room for Cinderella to make pretty dresses, and a royal vanity for Sleeping Beauty to get ready. With so many areas of play, more than 30 accessory pieces, and the new augmented reality app, it’s the ultimate castle for any Disney Princess to call home. Dolls sold separately. MSRP: $189.99, Available June 2013

The 110th annual American International Toy Fair kicks off this weekend. Be sure to follow @StitchKingdom on Twitter to keep up with the latest in Disney toys from Mattel and others.

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‘Oz the Great and Powerful’ International Trailer Prestidigitates New Footage

James Franco, left; Michelle Williams, right Â©Disney Enterprises, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Walt Disney Studios Spain has released this trailer for Oz the Great and Powerful. Unfortunately it’s not in English — fortunately there’s very little dialog.

The trailer begins with an extended look of something we’ve already caught a glimpse of: Oscar/Oz (James Franco) and Glinda (Michelle Williams) — along with China Girl (voiced by Joey King) — traveling by bubble to what appears to be Quadling country. After the extended look, we catch glimpses from the film which evoke the scope and grandeur of the land of Oz through the eyes of the camera’s lens, so to speak. One of the highlights appears to be a mid-air duel between Glinda and Evanora (Rachel Weisz), bubbles not required.

Disney’s fantastical adventure Oz The Great and Powerful, directed by Sam Raimi, imagines the origins of L. Frank Baum’s beloved wizard character. When Oscar Diggs (James Franco), a small-time circus magician with dubious ethics, is hurled away from dusty Kansas to the vibrant Land of Oz, he thinks he’s hit the jackpot—fame and fortune are his for the taking—that is until he meets three witches, Theodora (Mila Kunis), Evanora (Rachel Weisz) and Glinda (Michelle Williams), who are not convinced he is the great wizard everyone’s been expecting. Reluctantly drawn into the epic problems facing the Land of Oz and its inhabitants, Oscar must find out who is good and who is evil before it is too late. Putting his magical arts to use through illusion, ingenuity—and even a bit of wizardry—Oscar transforms himself not only into the great wizard but into a better man as well.

Oz The Great and Powerful is produced by Joe Roth, with screen story by Mitchell Kapner and screenplay by Mitchell Kapner and David Lindsay-Abaire. Grant Curtis, Palak Patel, Josh Donen and Philip Steuer are serving as executive producers. “Oz The Great and Powerful” opens in U.S. theaters on March 8, 2013.

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‘The Fosters’ and ‘Twisted’ (‘Socio’) to Premiere on ABC Family in Summer

Michael Riley, president, ABC Family, today announced the pick-up of two, one-hour drama pilots, ‘The Fosters,’ from executive producer Jennifer Lopez, and ‘Twisted’ (formerly ‘Socio’) from executive producer Gavin Polone. Production on both series will begin this spring for summer premieres. Additional pick-ups will be announced later this month.

‘ABC Family is synonymous with groundbreaking storytelling and iconic characters,’ said Riley. ‘These new shows will bring the same depth, heart, close relationships and authenticity that our viewers have come to expect and, will pair nicely with our already established pop culture hits.’

From executive producer Jennifer Lopez and created by Bradley Bredeweg and Peter Paige, who will also serve as writers and executive producers, ‘The Fosters’ stars Teri Polo, Sherri Saum, Jake T. Austin, Hayden Byerly, David Lambert, newcomer Maia Mitchell (star of Disney Channel’s upcoming Teen Beach Movie), Danny Nucci and Cierra Ramirez (‘The Secret Life of the American Teenager’). The series is a one-hour drama about a multi-ethnic family mix of foster and biological kids being raised by two moms. Joanna Johnson (‘Make it or Break it’), Simon Fields, Benny Medina and Greg Gugliotta will also serve as executive producers. The series is produced by Nuyorican Productions, Inc., and Prodco, Inc.

‘Twisted’ (formerly ‘Socio’) is a one-hour mystery full of twists and turns that is centered on a charismatic 16-year-old with a troubled past who recently reconnected with his two female best friends from childhood. He becomes the prime suspect when a fellow student is surprisingly found dead in her home. The series will be executive-produced by Gavin Polone, David Babcock and Adam Milch, who also wrote the pilot. The drama stars Avan Jogia, Maddie Hasson, Kylie Bunbury, Kimberly Quinn, Sam Robards, newcomer Ashton Moio and Denise Richards. The series is produced by Prodco, Inc.

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‘Whodunnit?’ Reality Series to Premiere on ABC in Summer

Anthony E. Zuiker, the creator of the ‘CSI’ franchise, begins production on his first primetime reality series ‘Whodunnit?’ Cris Abrego partners with Zuiker for the new nine-episode summer alternative series, which is produced by Zuiker’s Dare to Pass and 51 Minds. The series puts 13 contestants’ investigative skills to the test in a new mystery reality competition this summer on ABC.

Each week, players will use a variety of crime scene investigation techniques to meticulously uncover evidence that will ultimately reveal who among them is the killer. The interactive series will pit 13 amateur sleuths against each other in a quest to solve a series of puzzling murders. Some will form alliances and others will choose to go it alone just to get them closer to the grand prize. The contestants will reside on a glamorous estate where each week they must solve a new crime in order to advance in the game. Failure to solve the crime will lead to each player’s demise until only three are left. In the final episode, one player will unmask the killer and take home the $250,000 prize.

‘I’ve built a career telling crime stories, and if there’s one thing that I’ve learned, especially from “CSI,” it’s that the audience loves to solve the mystery,’ said Zuiker. ‘”Whodunnit?” allows everyday fans to be in the show themselves and get the chance every week to do what they love best, which is ultimately solve the case.’

‘”Whodunnit?” takes the best elements from the timelessly entertaining narrative form, the murder mystery, and infuses it with all the contemporary energy of a competition based reality show,’ added Abrego. ‘The mystery fans who suddenly find themselves in the middle of an unfolding murder mystery won’t actually be playing for their lives, of course, but they’ll certainly feel like they are, and it promises to be just as engaging and suspenseful for the viewers at home.’

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New Disney Store Arrivals for February 6, 2013 (6 Items)

New Disney Store arrivals and sales for February 6, 2013 Below is a list of new items and sales now available for purchase at Disney Store. Clicking on a product’s image or description will launch the product’s page on Disney Store in another window. Note that this list is generated and posted automatically. Stitch Kingdom should not be held responsible for any inaccuracies, misinformation or item availability. Disclosure: This post includes specially formatted links which allow the site to receive a small percentage of purchases made through them. Using these links does not affect your shopping experience in any way, but it does help the site. Even if you don’t purchase anything, even just sharing products you like through Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest using the icons below them will help the site.

	Glinda Tee for Women – Oz – $19.50You’ll always look enchanting in Glinda the Good’s glittering cotton tee direct from the Land of Oz. Sparkling artwork is inspired by Disney’s new movie Oz The Great and Powerful. share this item
	Mickey and Minnie Mouse Wallet – $14.50Your cash is housed in a solid foundation with Mickey and Minnie’s stylish snap-case wallet. Sized to fit your full dollar bills, there are also plenty of pockets for credit cards, ID, and other daily necessities. share this item
	Jake and the Never Land Pirates Flip Flops for Boys – $7.50Direct from Never Land, Jake’s flip flops with non-skid soles and treasure map graphics will plot a course for fun in the sun all day long! share this item
	Doc McStuffins Tee for Girls – $12.50Patch-up your troubles and wear a healing smile along with Doc McStuffins and her glittering tee made in the soft comfort of 100% cotton. share this item
	Wicked Witch of the West Tee for Women – Oz – $19.50”Beware the Wicked Witch of the West” while wearing her bewitching v-neck fashion tee inspired by Disney’s epic fantasy Oz The Great and Powerful. share this item
	Minnie Mouse Plush Toy – 18” H – New York – $24.50Our soft plush Minnie Mouse is costumed as the Statue of Liberty, complete with torch and tablet, for an embracable, iconic souvenir of your visit to New York City! share this item

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Mariah Carey to Record ‘Almost Home’ for ‘Oz the Great and Powerful’

Disney announced today that multiple GRAMMY® Award–winning superstar Mariah Carey has recorded the song, ‘Almost Home,’ for Oz The Great and Powerful, the studio’s highly anticipated fantastical adventure, directed by Sam Raimi, releasing in theaters nationwide on March 8, 2013.

‘Almost Home’ will be released as a single by Carey’s label, Island Def Jam, on February 19, 2013. ward-winning photographer/director David LaChapelle will direct Carey in the music video for ‘Almost Home.’ The two long-time collaborators are reuniting in what LaChapelle describes as ‘a duet between Mariah and the movie.’ LaChapelle photographed Carey previously for album covers, and directed her in the music video ‘Loverboy.’ Disney, Carey and Island Def Jam plan to launch a promotional campaign to support the single, the video and the film.

‘”Almost Home” has a message that works beautifully with the film,’ Mariah Carey says of the song she co-wrote and co-produced for Oz The Great and Powerful. ‘It’s a feel-good record, evoking the feeling of reaching your home and being with people that you love.’

‘Almost Home’ is performed by Mariah Carey, produced by Mariah Carey and Stargate for 45th & 3rd Music LLC, written by Simone Porter, Justin Gray, Lindsey Ray, Tor Erik Hermansen, Mikkel Eriksen and Mariah Carey. Courtesy of Island Def Jam Music Group/Universal Music Group.

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TOY FAIR: Disney Sneak Peek: ‘Monsters University,’ ‘Planes,’ ‘Sofia the First’ and More

Just ahead of the 110th annual American International Toy Fair kick-off this Sunday, Disney Consumer Products has shared a sneak peek at just some of the toys coming later this year, representing some of its iconic properties. From Monsters University, Oz the Great and Powerful and Planes to ‘Sofia the First’ and ‘Jake and the Never Land Pirates’ to proven franchises such as Minnie Mouse, Disney Fairies and — of course — the princesses, these toys represent some a new take on classic play, often integrating cutting edge technology to enhance the experience.

On Monday, Disney will give an invited audience an exclusive look at some of the upcoming merchandising from Disney/Pixar’s Monsters University. To celebrate the announcement (which may or may not include a look at the new trailer), the film’s stars John Goodman and Billy Crystal will join director Dan Scanlon in providing a sneak peek and some insight into the highly anticipated prequel.

While we can expect plenty more from Monsters University such as action figures, vehicles, playsets, plush figures, preschool, remote control items and more to help kids recreate key moments from the film through innovative and fun features, Disney is providing a first look into a couple of the coolest items from Spin Master, who recently released several products for Monsters Inc.

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Children will be able to recreate the fun, action and adventure of the film during playtime with products such as Scare Off Sulley from Spin Master, a feature plush that utilizes life-like animatronics and sound and light detection technology to change play modes and sense the environment. Kids can start their Scare Training as Sulley teaches them everything he knows. But once he feels they’re ready, prepare for a Scare Off! Scream loud enough and Sulley will fall backwards in fear! Scare Off Sulley is the most interactive Monsters University toy delivering Scare Training, Speed Scare, Scare ‘O Meter, Room Guard and the Scare Off Challenge! Ages

The Monsters University Sulley Monster Mask transforms kids into real monsters! It’s 100% kid powered. As your jaw opens, closes or moves side to side, the Sulley Monster Mask’s eyebrows and lips move too – creating fun, scary and memorable faces.

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From Disney Toon Studios — and inspired by Disney/Pixar’s Cars — Planes tells the story of Dusty Crophopper in the pursuit of his dream. Toys set to be released in support of the film include an all-new collection of die cast vehicles, play sets and the ‘Planes Tilt and Fly’ and ‘Planes Air Race Trackset’ from Mattel, anchoring the Planes toy line. Planes fans can also recreate their favorite moments from the film with the deluxe remote control U-Command Dusty from Thinkway, complete with an infrared remote control feature allowing kids to program this Dusty with over 1,000 action combo sequences. Mattel will also offer the innovative Planes Pilot Pal Dusty Remote Control Plane which allows children to control Dusty by attaching the wing-shaped controllers to their own arms.

Disney Sofia the First Magical Talking Castle (Mattel) MSRP: $59.99 Available: July 2013

Disney Junior’s newest sensation, ‘Sofia the First,’ will no doubt be topping the must-have lists of every aspiring princess in the upcoming year. While Disney Store has already launched a limited line of products that are near impossible to keep in stock, look for other companies like CDI and Mattel to up the ante. Featured here are CDI’s Talking Magical Amulet which not only allows the child to wear Sofia’s Amulet of Avalor, but will teach valuable lessons as well. Mattel will introduce the Magical Talking Castle which interacts by playing actual phrases from the television series.

Also representing the Disney Junior fans will be brand new DUPLO sets from LEGO including Jake and the Never Land Pirates’ Bucky set. Fisher-Price will also be introducing Cheering Minnie who speaks 13 different phrases as well as dances and cheers to the classic rock anthem ‘Hey Mickey.’

Disney Princess Ultimate Dream Castle (Mattel) MSRP: $189.99 Available: June 2013

Mattel will also be updating its Disney Princess Ultimate Dream Castle. This time around, instead of a flying carpet, it’s Rapunzel who lends a ~~hand~~ hair to serve as the 3-story castle’s elevator. Not only does the castle come with 30 accessories, but Mattel is also introducing the Disney Magic Mirror app for Apple iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad that will help create several augmented reality experiences.

This year will also be the year of The Little Mermaid, Ariel. In support of The Little Mermaid: Diamond Edition on blu-ray on October 1, look for special merchandise to commemorate the classic film and the Disney princess it gifted us.

Below is a gallery of the items mentioned above as well as several more that are coming soon to a toy store near you. Be sure to follow us on Twitter as we will bring highlights of other Disney toys at the American International Toy Fair in New York City beginning Saturday at the Hasbro preview event, followed by the LEGO event, the Monsters University event and much, much more!

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