Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Pixar's John Lasseter defends <em>CARS 2</em>]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/19/pixars-john-lasseter-defends-cars-2/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/19/pixars-john-lasseter-defends-cars-2/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/19/pixars-john-lasseter-defends-cars-2/#commentsFiled under:

cars 2

Pixar movies have a history of being massive commercial success stories. They seem to mint money, and CARS 2 was no different. The sequel to CARS pulled in $551 million in global box office receipts and vast riches await thanks to a DVD release date that coincides with the beginning of the holiday shopping season. Oh, and did we mention that the CARS franchise has already produced $2 billion in merchandise?

Is all that monetary success cause for celebration? We're thinking yes, but at the same time, Pixar has received a great deal of flack for CARS 2. We thought it was a fun movie, but plenty of critics and naysayers feel otherwise.

The New York Times sat down with director John Lasseter, who is also a founding member of Pixar, to talk about some of the controversy surrounding the movie. Lasseter appears mostly unaffected by the criticism, and he denies that parent Disney forced Pixar to make CARS 2 to maximize profits. Lasseter goes on to call CARS 2 "a very, very special film to me," and adds that he makes movies for kids who love the characters so much that he wants to "pack his clothes in a Lightning McQueen suitcase."

Head over to NYT to read the entire interview for yourself.

Pixar's John Lasseter defends CARS 2 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 Oct 2011 14:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carscars 2disneypixarWed, 19 Oct 2011 14:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20084727/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/19/pixars-john-lasseter-defends-cars-2/20084727/article-detail.xml 20084727 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/cars2firstlookimage-opt-1308849813_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/cars2firstlookimage-opt-1308849813.jpg <![CDATA[Disney AppMates creates interactive iPad experience with Pixar's <i>CARS</i>]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/28/disney-appmates-creates-interactive-ipad-experience-with-pixars/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/28/disney-appmates-creates-interactive-ipad-experience-with-pixars/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/28/disney-appmates-creates-interactive-ipad-experience-with-pixars/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Disney AppMates for Cars 2

Disney is looking to give younger children an excuse other than Angry Birds to play with their parents' Apple iPad. The company's new AppMates toys feature small Cars 2 characters with unique sensors inside them. Download a free application, place the toys on the screen, and kids can drive around a virtual interpretation of Radiator Springs. There are even games and missions to complete for older tikes. Each set comes with two characters for $19.99, and with the potential for endless updates to the Radiator Springs universe, chances are good that kids won't get bored of the game too quickly.

Of course, the only question is, who wants to hand over their tablet to their child aged four to nine? Fortunately, Disney has thought of that, too, and will release a well-padded Cars 2-themed iPad case later down the line. That little piece of kit will set you back a heady $49, but that's considerably less than the cost of a brand-new iPad. Hit the jump to take a look at a video of the AppMates in action.

Continue reading Disney AppMates creates interactive iPad experience with Pixar's CARS

Disney AppMates creates interactive iPad experience with Pixar's CARS originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 28 Sep 2011 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appmatescarscars 2childrens video gamedisneydisney appmatesipadlightning mcqueenpixarvideovideo gameWed, 28 Sep 2011 10:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20068395/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/28/disney-appmates-creates-interactive-ipad-experience-with-pixars/20068395/article-detail.xml 20068395 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/disney-appmates-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/disney-appmates-628.jpg <![CDATA[<i>CARS 2</i>]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/23/cars-2/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/23/cars-2/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/23/cars-2/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Pixar Picks Our Obsession For A Rare Sequel

CARS 2 review
CARS 2 - Click above for high-res image gallery

I saw an advanced screening of CARS 2 last weekend with my friend Chris and his four-year-old son Noah. This was the little guy's first time seeing a movie in a theater, and his father told me it was all he could talk about in the days leading up to our play date.

"Are you excited to see the movie, Noah?" I asked as we pulled out of their driveway at 9:00 AM, a time that I considered obnoxiously early to be heading out for a movie, but Noah was already on hour four of being awake. He screamed an affirmative back at me from his car seat, to which I quickly replied, "Bet you're not as excited as me!" This is how I interact with kids: one-upping them.

His dad piped up then, "Are you wearing CARS underwear?" Damn.

And that right there is the amazing thing about the CARS franchise: It's equally appealing to four-year-olds and forty-year-olds. Oh, and anything emblazoned with its V-shaped hood ornament logo or the likes of its lead character Lightning McQueen will sell by the truck load, including Underoos.

That morning I knew it wasn't going to be a question of whether or not Noah and I liked CARS 2, but rather did we like it like it or totally love it, and would that affection eventually blossom into the purchase of branded undergarments.

Continue reading CARS 2

CARS 2 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 23 Jun 2011 14:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carscars 2cars 2 reviewfeaturedpixarThu, 23 Jun 2011 14:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19974239/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/23/cars-2/19974239/article-detail.xml 19974239 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/cars2firstlookimage-opt-1308849813_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/cars2firstlookimage-opt-1308849813.jpg <![CDATA[<i>Planes</i> trailer previews Disney tail-spinning off <i>Cars</i> franchise]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/16/planes-trailer-previews-disney-tail-spinning-off-cars/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/16/planes-trailer-previews-disney-tail-spinning-off-cars/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/16/planes-trailer-previews-disney-tail-spinning-off-cars/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Planes
Disney's Planes trailer - Click above to watch the video after the jump

Cars weren't actually the only machines with smiles in Cars. The Disney/Pixar animated feature that's about to spawn its second installment also included trucks, trains, combine harvesters and even helicopters with anthropomorphic faces. But now Disney is planning on taking things one step farther with a new movie called, simply enough, Planes.

The film's not due for release until 2013, and when it does, it will buzz the theaters and land directly on DVD. But to give us a taste of what's yet to come, Disney has released a little teaser video, hinting at the story of a prop plane trying to make it in a jet's world. Looks entertaining enough, but we'll let you judge for yourself from the Top Gun-esque trailer after the jump.

Continue reading Planes trailer previews Disney tail-spinning off Cars franchise

Planes trailer previews Disney tail-spinning off Cars franchise originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 16 Jun 2011 10:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carscartoondisneydisney planesfilmmoviepixarplanesplanes movieplanes trailervideoThu, 16 Jun 2011 10:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19968515/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/16/planes-trailer-previews-disney-tail-spinning-off-cars/19968515/article-detail.xml 19968515 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/planes-vidcap_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/planes-vidcap.jpg <![CDATA[<i>Cars 2</i> trailer remade in Lego Land]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/25/cars-2-trailer-remade-in-lego-land/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/25/cars-2-trailer-remade-in-lego-land/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/25/cars-2-trailer-remade-in-lego-land/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Cars 2 trailer in Lego
Cars 2 trailer in Lego - Click above to watch the video after the break

Cars 2 Lego charactersIf there's a cooler child's toy for adults than a box of Legos, we don't know what it is. To wit, it's possible to take a couple handfuls of Lego blocks and assemble a miniature car... or a couple hundred pounds of the bricks to make a full-size car. And since you're apparently someone who, like us, obsesses over the automobile, there's really no better way to spend quality time with the kids than joining them in a marathon session of Lego building.

But what if you have even grander Lego-based aspirations? The sky's the limit as far as Legos go, as evidenced by the video you're about to watch after the break. Combining two of our most recent we're-really-too-old-for-this obsessions, one pioneering Lego building team recreated the entire trailer for Pixar's Cars 2 using nothing but little plastic building blocks. Well, they may have cheated a little with lighting and, of course, cameras... but we won't hold that against them for such a worthwhile endeavor.

See for yourself in the video after the break.

Continue reading Cars 2 trailer remade in Lego Land

Cars 2 trailer remade in Lego Land originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 25 May 2011 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carscars 2cars 2 trailercars 2 trailer legolegolego carslego cars 2pixarWed, 25 May 2011 19:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19950132/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/05/25/cars-2-trailer-remade-in-lego-land/19950132/article-detail.xml 19950132 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/cars-2-lego-trailer_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/cars-2-lego-trailer.jpg <![CDATA[<i>CARS 2</i> debuts new trailer, releases real character specs]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/13/cars-2-debuts-new-trailer-releases-real-character-specs/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/13/cars-2-debuts-new-trailer-releases-real-character-specs/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/13/cars-2-debuts-new-trailer-releases-real-character-specs/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Cars 2 trailer
Cars 2 trailer - Click above to watch the video after the break

We've got a feeling that you've been dying to know exactly what Lightning McQueen is packing under his hood. Pixar has been kind enough to release specifications on some of the heavy hitters of the upcoming Cars 2, including our hero protagonist. As it turns out, McQueen boasts 750 horsepower from a V8 engine, which is good enough to get him to 60 miles per hour in around 3.2 seconds on his way to a top speed of 200 mph. Those figures would be good enough to make him the quickest machine in the World Grand Prix were it not for Francesco Bernoulli.

The Italian F1 racer also rocks 750 ponies, but can do the 0-60 mph dance in 2.5 seconds and has a top speed of 220 mph. From the sound of things, it's going to take some seriously fancy footwork for McQueen to take the checkered flag.

Pixar has released a third trailer that shows off a few more scenes from the movie. It looks like Mater will have a more prominent role in Cars 2 than in the first feature, as you'll see from the video pasted after the break. You can also check out the specs on the rest of the competitors in the World Grand Prix as well.

While we're on the Cars 2 kick, cruise over to Lego to see a seriously awesome play set. Is it too soon to start our holiday wish list?

Continue reading CARS 2 debuts new trailer, releases real character specs

CARS 2 debuts new trailer, releases real character specs originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 May 2011 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cars 2cars 2 legocars 2 trailercars 2 trailer 3lego carspixartrailervideoFri, 13 May 2011 14:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19939714/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/05/13/cars-2-debuts-new-trailer-releases-real-character-specs/19939714/article-detail.xml 19939714 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/cars-2-trailer_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/cars-2-trailer.jpg <![CDATA[The Royals make an appearance in <i>CARS 2</i>]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/29/the-royals-make-an-appearance-in-cars-2/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/29/the-royals-make-an-appearance-in-cars-2/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/29/the-royals-make-an-appearance-in-cars-2/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Prince Wheeliam in Pixar's CARS 2
More new CARS 2 characters from England - Click above to view them all!

The real Royal Family may be grabbing all the headlines today with the wedding of their Prince William to commoner Kate Middleton, but another Royal Family deserves some attention as well. We've learned that Pixar will be introducing a new Royal Family in CARS 2, set to open in theaters nationwide on June 24th.

The Queen in Pixar's CARS 2The Royal Family in CARS 2 will be represented by The Queen (voiced by Vanessa Redgrave) and Prince Wheeliam. The Queen appears to be a stately old Rolls-Royce of sorts with a diamond-encrusted crown on her roof and royal blue-and-white two-tone paint job. Prince Wheelium, meanwhile, appears as a sharp Bentley Continental GT-like machine. Both Royal Family members in CARS 2 are particularly excited to play their part as hosts to the final stage of the World Grand Prix on the streets of London.

Topper Deckington III in Pixar's CARS 2Chauncy Fares in Pixar's CARS 2Sgt. Highgear in Pixar's CARS 2

Joining them on screen are a few more Brits, including a double-decker bus named Topper Deckington III, a traditional London cab named Chauncy Fares and a royal guard named Sgt. Highgear. Check out all five new characters in our gallery below. All of the English automobiles in CARS 2 will no doubt be rooting for one of their countrymen, either Lewis Hamilton or Nigel Gearsley, to take the checkered flag in the World Grand Prix.


Gallery: CARS 2 Characters

Finn McMissileFinn McMissileHolley Shiftwell

The Royals make an appearance in CARS 2 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 29 Apr 2011 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cars 2chauncy faresdisneypixarprince wheeliamsgt. highgearthe queenthe royalstopper deckington iiiFri, 29 Apr 2011 18:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19928126/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/04/29/the-royals-make-an-appearance-in-cars-2/19928126/article-detail.xml 19928126 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/prince-wheeliam-cars-2-pixar-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/prince-wheeliam-cars-2-pixar-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Zen gardens, Kabuki and sumo wrestling represented in <i>CARS 2</i>]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/15/zen-gardens-kabuki-and-sumo-wrestling-represented-in-cars-2/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/15/zen-gardens-kabuki-and-sumo-wrestling-represented-in-cars-2/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/15/zen-gardens-kabuki-and-sumo-wrestling-represented-in-cars-2/#commentsFiled under: ,

Cars 2 Japan charactersPixar's latest stop on the CARS 2 character roll-out tour is the country of Japan. The Land of the Rising Sun will no doubt provide the World Grand Prix with plenty of racers, but today we have some native vehicles to show you that do anything but compete on a track.

One tends a Zen garden, one is a Kabuki dancer and the other two are sumo wrestling micro vans complete with mawashis and culturally correct hairstyles. Have a look see and read their official descriptions in our burgeoning CARS 2 character gallery.

Zen gardens, Kabuki and sumo wrestling represented in CARS 2 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 15 Apr 2011 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carscars 2disneykingpin nobunagaokunipinion tanakapixarzen masterFri, 15 Apr 2011 16:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19914689/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/04/15/zen-gardens-kabuki-and-sumo-wrestling-represented-in-cars-2/19914689/article-detail.xml 19914689 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/cars-2-japan-characters-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/cars-2-japan-characters-opt.jpg <![CDATA[For the Love of Cars: An inside look at the making of <i>CARS 2</i>]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/13/cars-2/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/13/cars-2/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/13/cars-2/#commentsFiled under: ,

CARS 2
CARS 2 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Pixar CEO and Cars Director John Lasseter looks tired. For the last eight hours, he's been engaged in interviews and fielding inane questions from an assortment of entertainment, foreign and automotive press. But as soon as I ask about his inspiration for CARS 2, his eyes light up. "I just love cars," he starts off, and then begins describing the various locales he visited while doing promotion for the 2006 original, all of which would later influence the sequel.

That's just one of several clear lines of inspiration between CARS and CARS 2. The original came about after Lasseter and his family took a roadtrip across the U.S. while towing a 1962 Ford Falcon. The kids named the Falcon "Arnold" and the RV "Betty."

For the sequel - and Lasseter's overdue return to the director's chair - he and his team decided to take the crew from Radiator Springs global. That includes stop-offs in Japan, Italy and Great Britain to compete in the fictionalized World Grand Prix, pitting racers of all disciplines against each other on circuits inspired by their countries of origin. Underlying all that racing action is a classic spy caper and, after viewing 26 minutes of footage, a slightly darker side to the world of Cars.

Continue reading For the Love of Cars: An inside look at the making of Cars 2...

Fair Warning: We'll be discussing a few plot points and several characters after the jump, and while there aren't any serious spoilers, if you want to enter the theater in a blissful state of ignorance, stop here.


Gallery: CARS 2


Gallery: CARS 2 Characters

Finn McMissileFinn McMissileHolley Shiftwell

Images (C)Disney/Pixar

Continue reading For the Love of Cars: An inside look at the making of CARS 2

For the Love of Cars: An inside look at the making of CARS 2 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 13 Apr 2011 19:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carscars 2featuredjohn lasseterpixarWed, 13 Apr 2011 19:56:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19911176/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/04/13/cars-2/19911176/article-detail.xml 19911176 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/cars2-inside-look_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/cars2-inside-look.jpg <![CDATA[Racers from Germany and Spain announced for Pixar's <i>CARS 2</i>]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/08/racers-from-germany-and-france-announced-for-pixars-cars-2/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/08/racers-from-germany-and-france-announced-for-pixars-cars-2/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/08/racers-from-germany-and-france-announced-for-pixars-cars-2/#commentsFiled under: ,

Max Schnell in Pixar's CARS 2
Two new characters from Pixar's CARS 2 - Click above to view all of the new characters

Pixar has released more goodies this week about its upcoming sequel, CARS 2, due to hit theaters in the U.S. on June 24. What we have for you today are the cars representing Germany and Spain in the movie's championship race, the World Grand Prix.

First up is Max Schnell, who not only represents Deutschland, but also appears to be carrying the torch for all DTM racers in CARS 2. His last name, Schnell, is also a nice touch, being the German word for 'fast'. He hails from Stuttgart, which is the home of both Porsche and Mercedes-Benz, but we think his design is actually inspired by the Audi A4, hence him wearing the #4. He's also won more races at the Motorheimring (Pixar-speak for Nürburgring, and also German for Motorhome-ring) than any other car in the World Torque Champion League (Pixar-speak again for World Touring Car Championship).

Miguel Camino in Pixar's CARS 2Next up, representing the country of Spain, is Miguel Camino, who hails from Pamplona. Miguel gained fame in his homeland by participating in the famous Running of the Bulldozers and competing as a toreador in the dozer ring. He now races as car #5 in the Grand Touring Sport circuit. If we had to venture a guess at who Miguel is modeled after, we'd say Spanish F1 champ Fernando Alonso. Why? The shape of his headlights suggest a Ferrari influence, and Spain's real greatest racer drives for Ferrari in Formula One.

Finally, Pixar has also released some cool retro posters promoting the World Grand Prix in each of the four locations it's raced. Check them out in the second gallery below, and follow the jump to watch turntable videos of Max Schnell and Miguel Camino.


Gallery: CARS 2 Characters

Finn McMissileFinn McMissileHolley Shiftwell

Gallery: CARS 2 posters

Continue reading Racers from Germany and Spain announced for Pixar's CARS 2

Racers from Germany and Spain announced for Pixar's CARS 2 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 08 Apr 2011 19:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carscars 2disneymax schnellmiguel caminopixarworld grand prixFri, 08 Apr 2011 19:25:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19907734/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/04/08/racers-from-germany-and-france-announced-for-pixars-cars-2/19907734/article-detail.xml 19907734 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/cars-2-c2csmaxschnell11-per16n-1rrgb-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/cars-2-c2csmaxschnell11-per16n-1rrgb-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Video: Disney releases new scene from <i>CARS 2</i>]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/05/video-disney-releases-new-scene-from-cars-2/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/05/video-disney-releases-new-scene-from-cars-2/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/05/video-disney-releases-new-scene-from-cars-2/#commentsFiled under: ,

cars 2 promo trailer
Special Cars 2 sneak peak - Click above to watch the videos after the jump

We can't hide the fact that we're pretty excited for Cars 2 to hit theaters June 24th, even if the extensive marketing efforts leading up to the premiere are a bit over the top. Over the weekend at WonderCon, movie promoters gave some very interested fans a sneak peak at what it's like to be super sleuths, which jives with the movie's spies theme.

The promoters placed three vehicles outside the convention wearing some crazy decals that directed folks to head to the Twitter account @ChromeLeaks. Once on the Twitter page, a link was provided to the Youtube video of a faux used car dealer commercial. The predictably cheesy commercial for "Cars N' Deals of Emeryville" was purposely terribly done, but the 57-second mark revealed a very brief surprise. It was a link to a special sneak peak for the new Cars 2 movie. Sneaky, eh?

That's a lot of work to do, even for a kick butt movie trailer, but you can skip the hassle and hit the jump to watch the videos. The first clip is the turd-tastic used car spot, followed by a very cool Cars 2 promo that reminds us of this scene from Back to the Future 2. Enjoy!

[Source: Youtube]

Continue reading Video: Disney releases new scene from CARS 2

Video: Disney releases new scene from CARS 2 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 05 Apr 2011 19:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cars 2cars 2 june 24cars 2 trailerCars N Deals of Emeryvilledisneypixarspecial cars 2 trailerwonderconTue, 05 Apr 2011 19:24:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19903670/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/04/05/video-disney-releases-new-scene-from-cars-2/19903670/article-detail.xml 19903670 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/cars2-promo-trailer_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/cars2-promo-trailer.jpg <![CDATA[Pixar licenses <i>Cars 2</i> AMC villains for a song thanks to Chrysler bankruptcy]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/01/pixar-licenses-cars-2-amc-villains-for-a-song-thanks-to-c/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/01/pixar-licenses-cars-2-amc-villains-for-a-song-thanks-to-c/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/01/pixar-licenses-cars-2-amc-villains-for-a-song-thanks-to-c/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Pixar's Cars 2 characters Grem and Acer
Joe Mantegna and Peter Jacobson from Pixar's CARS 2 - Click above for high-res gallery

Earlier this week, we spent the day at Pixar to get a sneak peak at Cars 2. And before you ask, here's what you want to know: The sequel is an order of magnitude more awesome than the original and chief creative honcho John Lasseter drives a Mercedes-Benz SL65. So with that out of the way...

While interviewing one of the feature's principles, we asked about vehicle licensing. When the flick hits theaters June 24, you'll see "Carified" (their term, not ours) versions of everything from Audi to Opel models, but the villains in the film are made up of what the Pixar team contends are the world's worst cars. So there's an assortment of unloved Eastern European metal mixed in with two main antagonists: an AMC Pacer ("Acer" - voiced by Peter Jacobson) and a Gremlin ("Grem" - voiced by Joe Mantegna).

Obviously, it would be a tough sell to go to an automaker and say "We need villains, and your cars are perfect representations for the most loathsome creations on wheels," but the Pixar people came to AMC's owners - Chrysler - at precisely the right time.

When Pixar approached the automaker about licensing the names and likenesses of two vehicles for the film, Chrysler was in the throes of bankruptcy, it was divorcing itself of Cerberus, and it wasn't sure who its next parent would be... if indeed it was to have one at all. Pixar - knowingly or otherwise - took advantage of the situation and managed to snag usage rights to the vehicles for the film just when the automaker was in turmoil and strapped for cash. The results are spectacular, but you'll have to wait for our full story and the animated feature to come to your local cineplex to find out why.


Gallery: CARS 2


Gallery: CARS 2 Characters

Finn McMissileFinn McMissileHolley Shiftwell

[Images: Pixar]

Pixar licenses Cars 2 AMC villains for a song thanks to Chrysler bankruptcy originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Apr 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amcamc gremlinamc paceramerican motorscarscars 2cars moviegremlinjoe mantegnajohn lasseterpacerpeter jacobsonpixarFri, 01 Apr 2011 17:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19900544/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/04/01/pixar-licenses-cars-2-amc-villains-for-a-song-thanks-to-c/19900544/article-detail.xml 19900544 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/cars-two-pacer-and-gremlin_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/cars-two-pacer-and-gremlin.jpg <![CDATA[Lewis Hamilton and David Hobbscap confirmed for CARS 2]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/28/lewis-hamilton-and-david-hobbscap-confirmed-for-cars-2/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/28/lewis-hamilton-and-david-hobbscap-confirmed-for-cars-2/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/28/lewis-hamilton-and-david-hobbscap-confirmed-for-cars-2/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Lewis Hamilton from Pixar's CARS 2
Lewis Hamilton and David Hobbscap from Pixar's CARS 2 - Click above to see all the new characters

The seemingly endless rollout of new characters appearing in Pixar's upcoming CARS 2 continues today with two new vehicles, one another Autoblog exclusive. That vehicle is none other than Lewis Hamilton, the only character we can think of so far whose name hasn't been changed for the film.

The Formula One superstar will appear in the CARS sequel, set to open on June 24th in theaters nationwide, playing a "sleek and seriously fast #2 Grand Touring Sports champion." Having grown up learning Karate and winning Karting championships, Hamilton's character steps onto the international stage as Britain's representative in the World Grand Prix. Follow the jump to see Lewis Hamilton's CARS 2 character in our exclusive video turntable.

David Hobbscap from Pixar's CARS 2Next up is David Hobbscap, voiced by British F1 announcer David Hobbs. Hobbscap is a 1963 Coombs Lightweight Jaguar E-type, who Car and Driver reports has 20 Le Mans starts under his beltline and retired from racing to become a broadcaster, just like his human counterpart.

Hobbscap will join Darrell Cartrip and yet-to-be-revealed Brent Mustangberger on the three-car commentary team for the World Grand Prix in the film. Check out a screen capture off all three lifted from the official trailer after the jump.


Gallery: CARS 2 Characters

Finn McMissileFinn McMissileHolley Shiftwell

[Source: Pixar, Car and Driver blog]

Continue reading Lewis Hamilton and David Hobbscap confirmed for CARS 2

Lewis Hamilton and David Hobbscap confirmed for CARS 2 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 28 Mar 2011 12:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carscars 2david hobbsdavid hobbscaplewis hamiltonpixarMon, 28 Mar 2011 12:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19894158/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/03/28/lewis-hamilton-and-david-hobbscap-confirmed-for-cars-2/19894158/article-detail.xml 19894158 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/lewis-hamilton-pixar-cars-2-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/lewis-hamilton-pixar-cars-2-opt.jpg <![CDATA[NASCAR star Jeff Gorvette will compete in <i>CARS 2</i>]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/21/nascar-star-jeff-gorvette-gordon-pixar-cars-2/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/21/nascar-star-jeff-gorvette-gordon-pixar-cars-2/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/21/nascar-star-jeff-gorvette-gordon-pixar-cars-2/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Jeff Gordon as voice of Jeff Gorvette in Pixar's CARS 2
Jeff Gorvette from Pixar's CARS 2 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Our onslaught of CARS 2 character debuts continues this week with an exclusive reveal just for Autoblog readers. Pixar is letting us announce that NASCAR racer Jeff Gordon will make an appearance in the film as Jeff Gorvette, an up-and-coming Chevrolet Corvette C6.R that's "turning hoods wherever he competes."

More than just a cameo, Gordon's character will compete as a "respected competitor - and legitimate threat - at the World Grand Prix." Pixar makes no obvious connection to Gordon's actual roots in NASCAR, but the character of Jeff Gorvette is a Chevrolet and will wear #24 like Gordon's actual racecar, although obviously it isn't an Impala. We're not sure how the Corvette Racing team that just finished 3rd and 4th in this past weekend's season-opening 12 Hours of Sebring feels about having an oval racer portray its beloved C6.R GT2 car on film, but Pixar needed an accomplished road-racing car and probably wasn't interested in a character named Jeff Gimpala.

Darrell Cartrip from Pixar's CARS 2We're also privileged to announce that Darrell Waltrip will be returning as a character in CARS 2, reprising his role as racing announcer Darrell Cartrip, the "Kentucky-born #17 Chevrolet Monte Carlo known for his wild color commentary." He's graduated from being a Piston Cup announcer and will be on-hand to call the World Grand Prix in the sequel.

Check out both characters after the jump, including a video turntable of Jeff Gorvette. You can also view all of the new CARS 2 characters in our high-res gallery below that we continually update as new characters are announced.


Gallery: CARS 2 Characters

Finn McMissileFinn McMissileHolley Shiftwell

[Source: Pixar]

Continue reading NASCAR star Jeff Gorvette will compete in CARS 2

NASCAR star Jeff Gorvette will compete in CARS 2 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 21 Mar 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>c6.rcars 2darrell cartripdarrell waltripjeff gordonjeff gorvettenascarpixarMon, 21 Mar 2011 11:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19886148/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/03/21/nascar-star-jeff-gorvette-gordon-pixar-cars-2/19886148/article-detail.xml 19886148 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/jeff-gorvette-cars-2-pixar-opt3_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/jeff-gorvette-cars-2-pixar-opt3.jpg <![CDATA[CARS 2 introduces Rip Clutchgoneski from New Rearendia]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/17/cars-2-introduces-rip-clutchgoneski-from-new-rearendia/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/17/cars-2-introduces-rip-clutchgoneski-from-new-rearendia/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/17/cars-2-introduces-rip-clutchgoneski-from-new-rearendia/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Rip Clutchgoneski from CARS 2
Rip Clutchgoneski - Click above for high-res image gallery

The latest character from Pixar's upcoming CARS 2 sequel is an open-wheel LMP-style racer (score one for commenters, we agree he looks more Le Mans than F1) from the former European colony of New Rearendia. Rip is the new republic's best hope of getting its name on the map, and he's managed to push his way into the World Grand Prix on the back of some impressive and improbable qualifying wins.

Rip has his work cut out for him, and attributes his successes to luck. The real reason for his success, however, is clearly his immense skill. Rip joins an already extensive cast of cars that make up the the characters of CARS 2.

Watch for Rip and the rest of the Lightning McQueen's new buddies when Disney/Pixar's CARS 2 hits theaters on June 24.


Gallery: CARS 2 Characters

Finn McMissileFinn McMissileHolley Shiftwell

Gallery: CARS 2


[Source: Pixar]

CARS 2 introduces Rip Clutchgoneski from New Rearendia originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Mar 2011 15:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cars 2cars 2 charactersdisneynew rearendiapixarrip clutchgoneskiThu, 17 Mar 2011 15:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19881616/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/03/17/cars-2-introduces-rip-clutchgoneski-from-new-rearendia/19881616/article-detail.xml 19881616 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/rip-clutchgoneski_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/rip-clutchgoneski.jpg <![CDATA[Video: Disney releases new Cars 2 trailer, pics]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/08/cars-2-trailer-pics/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/08/cars-2-trailer-pics/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/08/cars-2-trailer-pics/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Cars 2
Cars 2 goes international - Click above for high-res image gallery

Disney has dropped the latest trailer for Cars 2, and along with the two-minute clip past the break, they've released a slew of new images that make a nice addition to our gallery of Cars 2 characters.

In the second installment of our favorite car-related, Pixar-animated feature, the crew from Radiator Springs goes global, racing in the World Grand Prix and getting caught up in an international espionage ring. Naturally, Lightning McQueen (Owen Wilson) and Mater (Larry the Cable Guy) once again take center stage, and judging by the trailer, the Pixar people continue to one-up their own efforts.

Hit the jump to see the action and check out the new gallery of pics below.


Gallery: CARS 2


Gallery: CARS 2 Characters

Finn McMissileFinn McMissileHolley Shiftwell

[Source: Pixar]

Continue reading Video: Disney releases new Cars 2 trailer, pics

Video: Disney releases new Cars 2 trailer, pics originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Mar 2011 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carscars 2cars 2 moviecars 2 trailerdisneylarry the cable guylightning mcqueenowen wilsonpixartow materTue, 08 Mar 2011 20:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19872884/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/03/08/cars-2-trailer-pics/19872884/article-detail.xml 19872884 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/01-cars-2-trailer-pics-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/01-cars-2-trailer-pics-630.jpg <![CDATA[CARS 2 cast adds a plane, a Reliant Robin and a Zundapp Janus]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/05/cars-2-cast-gets-a-plane-a-reliant-robin-and-a-zundapp-janus/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/05/cars-2-cast-gets-a-plane-a-reliant-robin-and-a-zundapp-janus/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/05/cars-2-cast-gets-a-plane-a-reliant-robin-and-a-zundapp-janus/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Siddeley from Pixar's CARS 2Professor Z from Pixar's CARS 2Tomber from Pixar's CARS 2
New characters from Pixar's CARS 2 - Click above to view high-res

The cast of characters for CARS 2, opening in theaters on June 24, continues to grow this week with three new additions... three very unlikely, odd and interesting additions.

The first isn't a car at all, but a plane named Siddeley, voiced by Jason Issacs. Described as a state-of-the-art supersonic British twin-engine spy jet by the folks at Pixar, Siddeley is a partner to Finn McMissile.

Next up is a Zündapp Janus named Professor Z, voiced by Thomas Kretschmann. Professor Z is an internationally wanted weapons designer who plans to sabotage the World Grand Prix.

And finally, we have Tomber, voiced by Michael Michelis, whose name means "to fall" in French. A fitting moniker if ever there were one because Tomber is a Reliant Robin, the British three-wheeler that the boys on Top Gear UK like to play with so much.

Check out the official character descriptions from Pixar and a turntable video of Professor Z after the jump, and click here to read about all of the new characters in CARS 2.


Gallery: CARS 2 Characters

Finn McMissileFinn McMissileHolley Shiftwell

Continue reading CARS 2 cast adds a plane, a Reliant Robin and a Zundapp Janus

CARS 2 cast adds a plane, a Reliant Robin and a Zundapp Janus originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 05 Mar 2011 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cars 2januspixarprofessor zreliantreliant robinrobinsiddeleytomberzundappzundapp janusSat, 05 Mar 2011 19:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19861696/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/03/05/cars-2-cast-gets-a-plane-a-reliant-robin-and-a-zundapp-janus/19861696/article-detail.xml 19861696 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/siddeley-cars-2-a-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/siddeley-cars-2-a-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Exclusive: Meet Rod "Torque" Redline from CARS 2]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/23/exclusive-meet-rod-torque-redline-from-cars-2/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/23/exclusive-meet-rod-torque-redline-from-cars-2/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/23/exclusive-meet-rod-torque-redline-from-cars-2/#commentsFiled under: ,

Rod
Rod "Torque" Redline from Pixar's CARS 2 - Click above for high-res image gallery

We're pretty big fans of the Pixar film CARS and have been following closely the gestation of its sequel, CARS 2, due in theaters on June 24. To that end, we've already introduced you to a dozen brand new characters who'll be rubbing bumpers with Lightning McQueen and Mater in the new movie. The folks at Pixar picked up on our enthusiasm and offered what is, to us, a very big honor: revealing a new character from CARS 2 exclusively on Autoblog!

So here he is. Meet Rod "Torque" Redline, described by the boys and girls at Pixar as "the greatest American spy in the world" and voiced by legendary Army of Darkness star Bruce Campbell. Clearly inspired by the best Made-in-the-USA muscle machines on the market today, Rod's shape appears to be most heavily influenced by the Ford Mustang and Dodge Challenger, with just enough cues from both to keep his shape ambiguous enough to avoid the lawyers. Sorry Camaro, your influence seems AWOL on Mr. Redline, but you're already the star of a little independant film franchise called Transformers. Regardless, Rod looks ready for action in what's shaping up to be a much farther reaching story than the stuck-in-Radiator-Springs plot of the first film.

Check out Rod "Torque" Redline's official description and turntable video after the jump, as well as our ongoing gallery of new CARS 2 character below.


Gallery: CARS 2 Characters

Finn McMissileFinn McMissileHolley Shiftwell

Continue reading Exclusive: Meet Rod "Torque" Redline from CARS 2

Exclusive: Meet Rod "Torque" Redline from CARS 2 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 23 Feb 2011 11:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cars 2featuredpixarrod torque redlineWed, 23 Feb 2011 11:20:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19855853/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/02/23/exclusive-meet-rod-torque-redline-from-cars-2/19855853/article-detail.xml 19855853 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/rod-torque-redline-cars-2-pixar_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/rod-torque-redline-cars-2-pixar.jpg <![CDATA[Meet the Italian and British cars appearing in <i>Cars 2</i> [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/14/meet-the-italian-and-british-cars-appearing-in-cars-2-w/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/14/meet-the-italian-and-british-cars-appearing-in-cars-2-w/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/14/meet-the-italian-and-british-cars-appearing-in-cars-2-w/#commentsFiled under: ,

Francesco Bernoulli from Cars 2
Francesco Bernoulli from Cars 2 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Pixar has revealed five more new characters from its upcoming film, Cars 2. Since the seqie; takes place on a global stage, the characters are from all over the world, with the five newest members of the Cars 2 family hailing from Italy and the United Kingdom.

Francesco Bernoulli is a Formula Racer champion and his own biggest fan. Uncle Topolino - cleverly named after the miniscule Fiat he's modeled after - runs a tire shop in the tiny town of Porto Corso, Italy. His wife, Mama Topolino, is a great cook who dishes out delizioso fuel.

Miles Axlerod is a former oil baron turned all-electric sport utility vehicle. He is joined by an Aston Martin lookalike in the form of Nigel Gearsley. Nigel is a former hill-climber who has turned to grand touring events.

In addition to this latest crop of characters, you can see the full set of Cars 2 players in our high-res gallery below, and click past the jump to see Francesco Bernoulli, Miles Axelrod and Nigel Gearsley on the Cars 2 turntable.


Gallery: CARS 2 Characters

Finn McMissileFinn McMissileHolley Shiftwell

[Source: PixarTimes.com, Car and Driver]

Continue reading Meet the Italian and British cars appearing in Cars 2 [w/video]

Meet the Italian and British cars appearing in Cars 2 [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Feb 2011 18:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carscars 2Francesco BernoulliMama TopolinoMiles AxlerodNigel GearsleypixarUncle TopolinovideoMon, 14 Feb 2011 18:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19843196/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/02/14/meet-the-italian-and-british-cars-appearing-in-cars-2-w/19843196/article-detail.xml 19843196 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/cars-2-franceso-bernoulli-1297704477_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/cars-2-franceso-bernoulli-1297704477.jpg <![CDATA[Meet seven new characters appearing in <i>CARS 2</i>]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/03/meet-seven-new-characters-appearing-in-cars-2/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/03/meet-seven-new-characters-appearing-in-cars-2/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/03/meet-seven-new-characters-appearing-in-cars-2/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Cars 2 Characters
Grem from Cars 2 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Disney and Pixar have given us a closer look at some of the stars of the upcoming flick, Cars 2. Mater, Lightning McQueen, Sally and the rest of the crew from the first film will be joined by a host of new faces this time around. Those will include Shu Todoruki, a Le Mans prototype race that hails from Japan, Raoul CaRoule, a WRC racer, Carla Veloso and others. As we've seen from the movie's trailers, a duo of crime fighters will help McQueen and Mater as they work to fight off a pair of sinister evildoers.

Those bad guys officially have a name now, too. Grem, a crusty looking Gremlin and Acer, a similarly dilapidated Pacer (Are all AMC's bad guys? Certainly not the Eagle!) are both out to cause havoc in the best way possible. Fortunately for our heroes, Holley Shiftwell and Finn McMissile are both there to lend a hand, er, tire.

Cars 2 centers around an international plot to disrupt the World Grand Prix, and it's up to McQueen and Mater to save the day. Hit the jump to check out a heap of videos of the newest characters, and scroll through the gallery for an image and detailed description of each character.


Gallery: CARS 2 Characters

Finn McMissileFinn McMissileHolley Shiftwell

[Sources: Facebook, HeyYouGuys]

Continue reading Meet seven new characters appearing in CARS 2

Meet seven new characters appearing in CARS 2 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Feb 2011 19:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acercarscars 2cars 2 characterscars 2 trailergremlightning mcqueenmoviespixarvideoThu, 03 Feb 2011 19:24:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19827917/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/02/03/meet-seven-new-characters-appearing-in-cars-2/19827917/article-detail.xml 19827917 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/01-630-1296769593_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/01-630-1296769593.jpg -1 2