Entertainment
Bring the Big-Screen Home for National Movie Night with Epson
Epson’s Home Entertainment Options Make National Movie Night Larger-Than-Life
LOS ALAMITOS, Calif. /PRNewswire/ — Epson is equipped to take National Movie Night to the next level with the latest lineup of home theater projectors. With major blockbuster films set to release over the next few months, Epson has the perfect companion to elevate your movie nights this summer. Fairly new to the holiday calendar, National Movie Night was founded in 2022 as a day to bring new and old movie night traditions to life.* Celebrated on the second Friday in June, it’s a day to turn off distractions and enjoy the excitement of movies with family and friends.
“What better way to celebrate a movie night than enjoying your favorite films in the ultimate life-size fashion, while in the comfort of your own home,” said Rodrigo, group product manager, projectors, Epson America, Inc. “Movies have been bringing friends and family together for decades and with an extensive lineup of projection technology, Epson hopes to add a little something extra to these special moments to help make memories that last for a lifetime.”
Epson announces summer discounts on home entertainment projectors just in time for National Movie Night on June 9.Tweet
Pop the popcorn, grab your favorite beverage and get ready to enjoy the show with Epson projectors. From the living room to your backyard, rooftop patio, or dedicated home theater space, Epson has the perfect big-screen projector to power your National Movie Night setup:
- Take Big-Screen Viewing Virtually Anywhere: From inside walls to hanging sheets outdoors, the Epson EpiqVision® Mini EF12 Smart Streaming Portable Laser Projectors is the perfect solution for those looking for a more flexible viewing party option. Compact and powerful, it delivers up to 150 inches of big-screen entertainment virtually anywhere. Weighing under five pounds, it’s ultra-portable and features advanced 3-chip 3LCD laser technology with auto picture correction. Designed to get the party up and streaming the moment it is powered on and connected to Wi-Fi, the Epson EpiqVision Mini EF12 features built-in Android TV™1 with access to several popular streaming channels, including Hulu, HBO, YouTube, Disney+ and more2. Plus, built-in sound by Yamaha so no external speaker is required. Throughout the summer, the Epson EpiqVision Mini EF12 will be available at Amazon, Best Buy and Epson.com for as low as $699.99**.
- Bring On The 4K Experience: Bring an exceptional 4K experience to your big-screen movie viewing with the Home Cinema 3800. Integrating Epson’s proprietary 4K PRO-UHD3 technology with 3,000 lumens of color and white brightness4 and advanced processing technologies for resolution enhancement, color and image processing, the projector faithfully displays content with exceptional levels of brightness and color accuracy. Making your movie night a truly cinematic experience, the Home Cinema 3800 features Epson Precision Lens technology, a high contrast ratio and digital video processing for a simply stunning picture. It also includes a rear-firing, dual 10 W speaker, or use the audio out mini plug to connect an external sound system. Throughout the summer, the Epson Home Cinema 3800 will be available at Amazon, Best Buy and Epson.com for as low as $1,499.99**.
- Mega-Screen Has Arrived: Delivering next-generation technology, the Epson EpiqVision Ultra LS800 Smart Streaming Laser Projector offers a stunning mega-screen 4K HDR5 viewing experience in virtually any lighting environment. Equipped with 4K PRO-UHD3, 3-chip 3LCD technology, it projects up to 150-inches with 4,000 lumens of color and white brightness4 for bright, colorful and sharp images. Featuring a sleek, modern design that sits inches from the wall for obstruction-free viewing, it seamlessly fits into a range of home décor. It also features built-in Android TV1 for quick streaming and an impressive 2.1 channel virtual surround system by Yamaha. Plus, it supports 4K HDR content with a refresh rate of 60 Hz and comes equipped with a dedicated HDMI port for gaming. Throughout the summer, the Epson EpiqVision Ultra LS800 will be available at Amazon, Best Buy and Epson.com for as low as $2,999.99** and families can also take advantage of the on-going bundle promotion available at exclusive retailers offering Epson’s SilverFlex® Ultra ambient light rejecting screen, available in two sizes – 100- and 120-inch – to enjoy a higher contrast image even when ambient light is present.
About Epson
Epson is a global technology leader whose philosophy of efficient, compact and precise innovation enriches lives and helps create a better world. The company is focused on solving societal issues through innovations in home and office printing, commercial and industrial printing, manufacturing, visual and lifestyle. Epson’s goal is to become carbon negative and eliminate use of exhaustible underground resources such as oil and metal by 2050.
Led by the Japan-based Seiko Epson Corporation, the worldwide Epson Group generates annual sales of more than JPY 1 trillion. global.epson.com/
Epson America, Inc., based in Los Alamitos, Calif., is Epson’s regional headquarters for the U.S., Canada, and Latin America. To learn more about Epson, please visit: epson.com. You may also connect with Epson America on Facebook (facebook.com/Epson), Twitter (twitter.com/EpsonAmerica), YouTube (youtube.com/epsonamerica), and Instagram (instagram.com/EpsonAmerica).
*Source: National Holiday Calendar, https://nationaldaycalendar.com/national-movie-night-second-friday-in-june/
** Promo pricing will vary by date and by product from June–August 2023; pricing may vary between retail locations and online. See individual retail locations or websites for details and current pricing.
1 In order to use the Android TV, the device must be configured on a network via a wireless connection of 5 Mbps or faster.
2 Some apps require paid subscriptions.
3 4K Resolution Enhancement Technology shifts each pixel to produce an image on screen, up to the stated specification.
4 Color brightness (color light output) and white brightness (white light output) will vary depending on usage conditions. Color light output measured in accordance with IDMS 15.4; white light output measured in accordance with ISO 21118.
5 HDR performance available with select devices. For more information, see www.epson.com/hdrcompatibility
EPSON and Epson EpiqVision are registered trademarks of Seiko Epson Corporation. SilverFlex is a registered trademark of Epson America, Inc. Android TV, Google Assistant, YouTube and YouTube TV are trademarks of Google LLC. All other product and brand names are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of their respective companies. Epson disclaims any and all rights in these marks. Copyright 2023 Epson America, Inc.
SOURCE Epson America, Inc.
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SeaWorld is leaning hard into summer nights in 2026, rolling out a coast-to-coast entertainment lineup across Orlando, San Diego, and San Antonio. The headline addition: all three parks will feature all-new nighttime drone shows, paired with nighttime animal presentations, seasonal concerts, parades, and event-style programming designed to keep families in the park after sunset.
SeaWorld says the goal is a bigger, more immersive summer experience that blends animal encounters with high-energy entertainment. Marc Swanson, CEO of United Parks & Resorts (SeaWorld’s parent company), said the company is “raising the bar across the country” with a mix of “cutting-edge drone displays” and “nonstop family fun” meant to create lasting memories.
What’s new across all three parks
Across Orlando, San Diego, and San Antonio, SeaWorld’s summer push centers on nighttime programming. The parks are introducing new drone spectacles (with San Diego and San Antonio debuting drone shows for the first time, and Orlando launching a new version), plus new nighttime animal presentations and event-style entertainment.
Families planning travel around theme parks will want to watch two things: start dates and nighttime schedules, since several offerings roll out in late May and mid-June depending on the park.
SeaWorld Orlando: Electric Ocean returns June 12
In Orlando, SeaWorld’s summer nights are anchored by Electric Ocean, beginning June 12. The event is built as a full evening block: performance show, dance party energy, animal presentations, and a closing sky show.
Electric Ocean includes:
- Hydro Surge: Cirque Spectacular Show, a high-energy cirque-style production with acrobatics, dancers, and live drumming
- Club SeaGlow, an evening DJ party with dancers and atmospheric acts
- An all-new drone spectacle, featuring hundreds of synchronized drones forming ocean-themed scenes
- Ignite: A Fireworks Spectacular, returning with an enhanced mix of fireworks, fountains, lighting, and music
Also beginning June 12, SeaWorld Orlando is introducing three new nighttime animal presentations:
- Shamu Celebration: Light Up The Night
- Sea Lions Tonite
- Dolphins: Touch the Sky
SeaWorld also teased a new attraction opening this summer: Expedition Odyssey: Fire & Ice, described as a scientific mission exploring the most powerful forces that shape one of the most extreme environments on Earth.
SeaWorld San Diego: Drone show debut, Shark Encounter, and a summer concert series
SeaWorld San Diego’s summer programming begins May 22, with a slate that runs from daytime experiences into nighttime entertainment. The biggest “first” is the park’s debut drone show.
New offerings starting May 22 include:
- Ocean of Dreams Drone Show, a 12-minute nighttime show featuring 600 synchronized drones set to a soaring soundtrack
- Shark Encounter, a refreshed, interactive, immersive experience featuring sharks from 11 species
- Dolphin Adventures, featuring dolphins, pilot whales, and “the next generation of dolphins”
- The Wonders of North American Wildlife, highlighting native wildlife diversity and rescue/rehabilitation stories
- Deep Sea Disco, a dance-focused nighttime experience under SkyTower lights
On June 12, SeaWorld San Diego adds three nighttime animal presentations:
- Shamu Celebration: Light Up The Night
- Sea Lions Tonite
- Dolphins: Touch the Sky
The park is also bringing back fan-favorite shows including BMX Blast! Powered by BODYARMOR and Pirates Ahoy! The Battle for Mermaid Cove. Plus, SeaWorld says its 2026 Summer Concert Series will run every Saturday, spotlighting artists tied to ’90s and early-2000s hip hop and R&B.
SeaWorld San Antonio: Electric Ocean, a 400-drone finale, and a new family coaster
SeaWorld San Antonio’s summer lineup also starts May 22, led by its own version of Electric Ocean. The park’s summer nights are built around parade energy, stunt action, and a drone finale.
Electric Ocean in San Antonio includes:
- RhythMotion Ocean Parade, featuring floats, dancers, and characters
- Hydropower: Xtreme FX, a waterski stunt show with pyrotechnics, lasers, and live music
- SeaWorld Illuminight Drone Finale, featuring 400 synchronized drones creating marine-life-inspired animations
San Antonio is also adding two nighttime animal presentations beginning May 22:
- Shamu Celebration: Light Up the Night
- Sea Lions Tonite
For families looking for a ride-centered reason to visit, SeaWorld San Antonio is promoting Barracuda Strike, described as the tallest inverted family coaster in North America.
Annual Pass angle for repeat visits
SeaWorld is positioning its Annual Pass as the best way to experience the summer lineup, emphasizing unlimited visits and perks like savings on merchandise, reserved seating, and add-ons.
A note on SeaWorld’s conservation and rescue work
Alongside the entertainment rollout, SeaWorld highlighted its conservation and animal rescue efforts. The company says it has helped more than 42,000 animals to date and that the SeaWorld Conservation Fund has provided more than $20 million to nearly 1,400 organizations since 2003.
Planning tips: what to watch before you book
If you’re planning a family trip around these summer events, the key details to confirm are:
- Event start dates (May 22 vs. June 12 depending on the park)
- Nighttime showtimes for drone shows and animal presentations
- Concert dates (San Diego’s Saturday series)
- Park hours and whether any offerings require reservations or have limited seating
Source: SeaWorld (press release distributed via PRNewswire, May 7, 2026).
Related: Sea World Orlando
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Hillbilly Bible Film Relaunch Honors John Amos, Adds Voyage Air Guitar Giveaway
Hillbilly Bible, a Memphis-rooted faith-based dramedy dedicated to John Amos, is set to begin production in Fall 2026 and is launching a $30 fan campaign with a Voyage Air Guitar giveaway.
MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Hillbilly Bible, a Memphis-rooted, music-driven faith-based dramedy, is being relaunched by Hillbilly Bible Movie LLC in association with MVP3 Foundation and MVP3 Network, with director KC Amos stepping in to honor the legacy of his father, actor John Amos.
The film is supported by Voyage Air Guitar as the leading product placement title sponsor and is scheduled to begin production in Fall 2026, with filming planned in Memphis and Nashville, Tennessee, and Clarksdale, Mississippi.
What the film is about
Written by Marie Pizano with co-writer Mark Selker and inspired by the book title Hillbilly Bible by Stevie Rey, the PG-13 story follows Billy Madden, a former foster kid whose early trauma shadows his adult life.
After a public fall tied to pride and addiction, Billy heads south searching for a legendary bluesman known as the “Cool Cat Jesus,” believing the musician can help restore his broken career.
Instead, he meets unexpected messengers who challenge him to face humility, inner-child wounds, and the cost of chasing applause over purpose.
The film tracks Billy’s road to repentance, healing, and restored identity, blending music, drama, and humor while carrying a dedication to John Amos.
The creative team
Pizano leads the project alongside director KC Amos and co-director Al Coronel, who makes his directorial debut. The producing team also includes Kent Wells, a longtime producer associated with Dolly Parton.
“This story carries the spirit of all of us,” Pizano said in the announcement. “We all stumble and fall, but we can get back up and find our ‘yes.’”
Fan campaign + giveaway
To bring supporters into the rollout, the film is launching a $30 fan supporter campaign and a Voyage Air Guitar giveaway. Organizers say the campaign is designed to give back to foster youth, ministries, and mental health advocacy.
Each supporter package includes an exclusive Hillbilly Bible T-shirt, entry into the Voyage Air Guitar giveaway, and access to a private screening before any wider public release.
More details and official rules are available at https://hillbillybiblemovie.com/. Fans can also follow the official Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/share/1ApXMKqqA1/?mibextid=wwXIfr.
What to Watch For
- Fall 2026 production start and location updates (Memphis, Nashville, Clarksdale)
- News from press-only conferences set for March 25, 2026 (Memphis and Clarksdale), plus a later Nashville event
- Casting, music partnerships, and additional sponsor announcements as the project ramps up
Sources: hillbillybiblemovie.com
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pop culture
May the Fourth: Celebrating National Star Wars Day | Fun Facts & Festivities
National Star Wars Day, also known as May the Fourth, is a celebration of the Star Wars franchise that takes place annually on May 4th.
Last Updated on May 4, 2026 by Daily News Staff
National Star Wars Day, also known as May the Fourth, is a celebration of the Star Wars franchise that takes place annually on May 4th. The day is filled with festivities such as costume contests, trivia games, and movie marathons. Fans of the series can dress up like their favorite characters, watch their favorite movies, and make outer space snacks.
The phrase “May the Fourth Be with You” was first introduced by the Conservative Party in the UK in 1979 to congratulate Margaret Thatcher on becoming the first female Prime Minister. Since then, the phrase has become synonymous with Star Wars Day and is used by fans around the world to greet each other on this special day.
National Star Wars Day was first organized in Toronto, Canada, in 2011, and has since become a worldwide phenomenon. Fans of all ages come together to celebrate their love for the franchise and to honor its creator, George Lucas.
Whether you’re a hardcore fan or just a casual admirer, National Star Wars Day is a day to let loose and have some fun. May the Fourth be with you!
National Star Wars Day
https://nationaldaycalendar.com/?s=Star+Wars+Day
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