Cannes Film Festival 2013

Disney buys Lucasfilm: 10 things to watch for

New TV series, Disney Store boost, ILM and Pixar collaboration and more

Disney Stores become a one stop shop for kids toys

Anyone who's been to the Disney parks in the last decade is aware just how huge a presence 'Star Wars' already has there.  The 'Star Tours' attractions in Anaheim and Orlando both empty into giant gift stores that are packed with 'Star Wars' toys that already include Disney characters, tons of Marvel superhero toys and clothes (the boys spot 'em a mile away) and classic Muppets, all transformed into familiar icons from the Lucas universe.  The nationwide Disney Stores chain has taken a hit in recent years, with many of the outlets closing, but a deal like this could be incredible news for them, and could easily lead the chain to expand once again. Combine classic Disney with Star Wars and Marvel and the kids might not want to go anywhere else. Moreover, Lucasfilm has never had this direct a line to retail customers before, and it seems like we're about to see an explosion of new merchandising designed to further marry these brands in the minds of the public.

-- Drew McWeeny

Photo Credit: AP Photo

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