The Jim Hill Media Podcast Network

Len Testa & Jim Hill start this week’s show by discussing the different “lands” that Guests can explore once they board the Disney Adventure (which begins sailing out of Singapore in 2025). They also share a survey from Universal Orlando about this Resort’s version of the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique. Throughout this episode, listeners will learn about: Which musical acts will be appearing at this year’s “Eat to the Beat” concert series as part of the 2024 edition of EPCOT’s International Food & Wine Festival When did Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster starring Aerosmith come back online at Disney’s Hollywood Studios How many passengers is the Disney Adventure supposed to be able to accommodate on each sailing of this new DCL vessel (Bonus question: How many crew members will be on board to service these passengers) According to Greek mythology, which three very different things is the God Poseidon supposed to watch over / be in charge of What happened to attendance levels at EPCOT Center & Disney-MGM Studios theme park right after Disney’s Animal Kingdom first opened in April of 1998 Show Notes Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Drew Taylor & Jim Hill start off this week’s show by discussing the animated feature that just blew past a billion dollars at the worldwide box office. They also take a look at how Universal Pictures’ promoted “Despicable Me 4” in Las Vegas Over the course of this episode, listeners will learn about; How tall is the High Roller Ferris wheel (which towers above the Las Vegas Strip) How many “SpongeBob” movies have been released theatrically to date What was one of the last scenes to be animated for the original version of Disney’s “The Lion King” (which was first released to theaters back in June of 1994) When did “Batman: The Animated Series” debut on television as part of the Fox Kids programming block Where was Lebo M working prior to helping Hans Zimmer record the soundtrack for Disney’s “The Lion King” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Len Testa & Jim Hill start off this week’s show by discussing WDW’s Genie+ replacement. They then walk through exactly what happened backstage at Disneyland prior to the launch of that Park’s “Fantasy in the Sky” fireworks Over the course of this episode, listeners will learn about:  How far in advance will on-site Guests be able to book Multi Pass reservations  When is this new ride reservation system supposed to officially come online at the Walt Disney World Resort  What holiday-themed projection show is supposed to be updated as part of the 2024 edition of “Jollywood Nights”  Where did Disneyland used to store its fireworks back in the 1980s  Why did Disneyland’s firemen go around backstage checking doors & windows an hour before “Fantasy in the Sky” launched Show Notes Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Len Testa & Jim Hill start off this week’s show by discussing WDW’s Genie+ replacement. They then walk through exactly what happened backstage at Disneyland prior to the launch of that Park’s “Fantasy in the Sky” fireworks Over the course of this episode, listeners will learn about:  How far in advance will on-site Guests be able to book Multi Pass reservations  When is this new ride reservation system supposed to officially come online at the Walt Disney World Resort  What holiday-themed projection show is supposed to be updated as part of the 2024 edition of “Jollywood Nights”  Where did Disneyland used to store its fireworks back in the 1980s  Why did Disneyland’s firemen go around backstage checking doors & windows an hour before “Fantasy in the Sky” launched Show Notes Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the latest installment of this continuing series, Noe & Shelly Valladolid look at the Columbian Exposition of 1893. Which many have called the most influential World’s Fair of all time. Over the course of this episode, listeners will learn about: How Chicago won out over New York, Washington DC & St. Louis when it came to the opportunity to be the host city for this World’s Fair Why the famous poem about Columbus was changed How the Swift Meats Company sponsored the Columbian Exposition and their role in early Disneyland How the White City inspired the City Beautiful movement Why true crime fans remain obsessed with the Columbian Exposition of 1893 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Gaughan & Jim Hill start this week’s show by discussing Daisy Ridley’s recent visit to the Happiest Place on Earth. They also discuss “Star Wars: The Acolyte,” Lucasfilm’s new limited series for Disney+ In this episode, listeners will learn about: How much was James Earl Jones paid to voice Darth Vader on “A New Hope” What happened at Disneyland on the REAL Star Wars Day (i.e., May 25th) Why did Gary Kurtz opt out of producing “Star Wars: Episode VI” When did Disney Studios start its own film distribution company How did George Lucas coach Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher & Harrison Ford when it came to dialogue in the “Star Wars” movies Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Drew Taylor & Jim Hill start this week’s show by talking about “Inside Out 2” ‘s continuing dominance at the worldwide box office. They then discuss some of the television-related news that came out of this year’s Annecy International Film Festival and Market For this episode, listeners will learn about: What’s the subtitle of the next holiday special in Disney’s “Prep & Landing” series supposed to be called Who did Steven Spielberg want to hire to handle all of the animation in “Who Framed Roger Rabbit” What’s the title of the new “Gravity Fall” -related book that’s supposed to hit store shelves on July 23rd Where is the world premiere of DreamWorks Animation’s “The Wild Robot” going to be held What happened in the “Pig Head” scene that was cut out of “Who Framed Roger Rabbit” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Len Testa & Jim Hill start this week’s show by looking at the “Dark Universe” concept art that the Universal Orlando Resort just revealed. Then they wrap up their history of fireworks displays at Disneyland Throughout this episode, listeners will learn about: Who was Disney’s partner when it came to developing a compressed air-based launch system for its fireworks displays When is work supposed to get underway on the refurbishment of WDW’s version of Big Thunder Mountain Why do golf enthusiasts love the 18-hole putting green over at the Palm & Magnolia course Where had the Imagineers originally wanted to build an Ursula-themed spinner at Disney California Adventure What was the computer-controlled fireworks firing system that Harold “Mickey” Aronson designed for the Disney Parks called Show Notes Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of "I Want That Too," Lauren Hersey & Jim Hill discuss the history of Disney's first animated star. Then Oswald collector Noe Valladolid shares how he acquired some of his most valuable pieces. For this episode, listeners will learn about: How "Inside Out 2” blew past its initial box office projections Where at Disney Springs you can find the new Aloha Collection mini-store What veteran sports broadcaster did Disney trade to NBCUniversal in exchange for a certain cartoon rabbit Where on the Disney Lot in Burbank Oswald was hiding in plain sight for decades Which souvenir from Universal Studios Japan do Oswald collectors especially lust after Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Eric Hersey & Jim Hill start off this week’s show by sharing what Universal Parks & Experiences has just revealed about Epic Universe’s next land. They also continue the tale of USH’s efforts to get more monsters into that theme park In this episode, listeners will learn about: Where’s the best place to stand in Universal Studios Florida to view “CineSational: A Symphony Spectacular” On which coast did the “Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts Castle” show first debut Why did Stephen Sommers pass up the opportunity to make a third “Mummy” movie at Universal Pictures How is Voodoo Doughnuts getting in on the celebration of the 60th anniversary of USH’s Tram Tour Which Classic Universal Monster is rumored to be getting his own attraction as part of a future expansion of Darkmoor Village Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Drew Taylor is fresh back from France. And he tells Jim Hill all about the animated films that he got to see at this year’s international animation film festival and market For this episode, listeners will learn about: What did Nick Park have to say when he learned of Steven Spielberg’s love of the runaway train scene in “The Wrong Trousers” Which recently retired Disney Legend received this year’s Annecy Walk of Fame Award Where do Porky, Daffy & Petunia Pig work in “The Day The Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie” The work of which visual futurist reportedly served as the inspiration for the world in which Dreamworks Animation’s “The Wild Robot” is set How is Disney expanding the cast for “Moana 2” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Len Testa & Jim Hill start off this week’s show by talking about the operational issues that “Tiana’s Bayou Adventure” continues to have during its preview period. They also share listeners' theories about why WDW sit-down restaurants have seemed so empty lately Throughout this episode, listeners will learn about: What changes have been made to the on-board narration for Disneyland’s Mark Twain When will the revamped version of “Country Bear Jamboree” be opening at the Magic Kingdom in Florida Who personally supervised the fireworks display over Seven Seas Lagoon back on October 23, 1971 What’s happening with WDW’s old “Pirates Leagues” facility Why were the fast food restaurants & motels built around Disneyland back in the Late 1950s / early 1960s all clustered around the corner of Harbor & Katella Show Notes Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the fourth installment of this new educational series, Noe & Shelly Valladolid look at even more early World’s Fairs. With the focus this time around being on French advances in themed entertainment. In this episode, listeners will learn about: • Why the Exposition Universelle de Paris of 1899 dwarfed all others • How the temporary Eiffel Tower led to the discovery of gamma rays • The problem with “human zoos” • Why the Tower’s most vehement critic dined there every day • Which themed international buildings served as a precursor for EPCOT’s World Showcase Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Len Testa & Jim Hill start this week’s show by discussing the technical issues “Tiana’s Bayou Adventure” has been facing during its Cast Member preview period. They also take a look at the room décor for WDW Island Tower (i.e., that new DVC which will be opening right next to WDW’s Polynesian Village Resort on December 17th) In this episode, listeners will learn about: Why would Owen & Dolly Pope always tour the corrals at Disneyland’s Circle D Ranch the mornings after fireworks had been shot off at Walt’s family fun park When will Jollywood Nights be returning to Disney’s Hollywood Studios this year How far back can the Disneyland tradition of a rope drop at the opening of the park be traced Where did Disneyland management turn when it needed to recruit additional security officers to help man that theme park Which Tomorrowland attraction back in the 1960s was able to handle 4000 Guests an hour Show Notes Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lauren Hersey & Jim Hill start off this week’s show by discussing the teaser trailer for “Moana 2.” They also closely examine which Disney Princess moves the most merchandise. Throughout this episode, listeners will learn about: Why did the Magic Kingdom eventually remove the Disney Princess float from its “Share a Dream Come True” parade What were the three robots in Universal Pictures’ “Silent Running” called Which “Will & Grace” star read the role of the Snow Queen in one of the earliest table reads done for Disney’s “Frozen” What happened inside of the Magic Kingdom on the morning of 9/11 When did the delayed version of WDW’s “100 Years of Magic” celebration finally get underway Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Eric Hersey & Jim Hill start this week’s show by discussing Universal Orlando’s new Premium Scream offering. They also continue their look back at how USH kept trying to build a successful show around the Universal Classic Monsters Throughout this episode, listeners will learn about: Where can one find that new Butterbeer Cart souvenir candy bucket at the Universal Orlando Resort How long after “The Simpsons Ride” opened in 2008 did Springfield Fast Food Boulevard come online Who designed the 20-foot-tall animatronic serpent in USH’s “Conan: A Sword & Sorcery Spectacular” show What is the technical name for that space which scareactors hide in before jumping out & frightening event attendees at Halloween Horror Nights When Disney World started holding its “Night of Joy” after-hours hard ticket events Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Drew Taylor & Jim Hill start this week’s show by discussing how “The Garfield Movie” has been doing at the domestic box office. They also share some fond memories of Disney Legend Richard M. Sherman In this episode, listeners will learn about: Which animated feature – released to theaters a year ago this week – sold $120 million worth of tickets over its opening weekend in North America What part of the score for “Pooh’s Hunny Hunt” (i.e., the first trackless ride at a Disney theme park) did Richard M. Sherman personally direct What limitation of early CG convinced Pixar’s original brain trust that they needed to make movies like “A Bug’s Life,” “Monsters, Inc.,” “Finding Nemo” & “Wall-E” According to early box office projections, how much is “Inside Out 2” expected to earn over its first weekend in domestic release In the future, what will the new release pattern be for the animated features released by Pixar Animation Studios Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Len Testa & Jim Hill start this week’s show by discussing the opening weekend of performances of “Disney Dreams That Soar.” They then look back at how fireworks got started at Disneyland Park in the late 1950s In this episode, listeners will learn about: Why Universal Orlando decided to change the name of Epic Universe’s racing coaster When will work begin on the retheming of Dinoland U.S.A. at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Which musical acts is Universal Creative reportedly considering using as the jumping-off point for a maze at a future Halloween Horror Night Why are dining reservations suddenly far easier to get at WDW’s sit-down restaurants Where will road improvements soon begin on Disney World property Show Notes Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the third installment of this new educational series, Noe & Shelly Valladolid look back at the first World’s Fairs. More importantly, the impact that these ambitious expositions had on society In this episode, listeners will learn about: Where in London was the Great Exposition staged Which structure at the Great Exposition inspired a popular WDW restaurant What marvels from the Victorian Age were on display during this 5-month-long event Which event held in France just four years later attempted to throw the Great Exposition of London into eclipse Why is the Palais d’Industrie considered Napoleon III’s “ego building” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jim Hill first talks about how “The Garfield Movie” did domestically over the long Memorial Day Week. He then discusses that new YouTube documentary, “Beyond the Glass: The WDW Animation Building” Throughout this episode, listeners will learn about: Which fairy tale classic was supposed to have served as the basis of Disney’s first-ever live-action musical for television How much of the staff up in Emeryville was reportedly let go as part of the recent round of lay-offs at Pixar Animation Studios Which two movie musicals did the Sherman Brothers write the score AND the screenplays for How many films have been produced to date as part of the “Mad Max” movie series Which installment has been the highest-grossing film (to date) in the “Kung Fu Panda” series Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Len Testa shares what it was like to watch Disney Springs’ new nighttime show from Saratoga Springs. Jim Hill then finishes his history of the miniature golf courses at the WDW Resort Throughout this episode, listeners will learn about: Why do Disney execs really need to pay attention to what Jenny Nicolson shared throughout her four-hour-long “Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser” video What makes the Bacchus hole at “Fantasia Gardens” so difficult for golfers How long after the theme for “Winter Summerland” was selected did this miniature golf course open up right next door to Blizzard Beach What did Tiger Woods have to say about “Fantasia Fairways” Which buildings at Disney’s Saratoga Springs should offer the very best views of “Disney Dreams That Soar” (EDITOR’S NOTE: on the side facing Disney Springs Lake) Show Notes Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lauren Hersey & Jim Hill start this week’s episode by discussing a rare Disney book found at the Brimfield Flea Market. They then take a look at Disney-MGM’s old Streetmosphere program Throughout this episode, listeners will learn about: What “Star Trek” vet directed “Three Men & a Baby” for Touchstone Pictures Which forest creature recently turned up on Jim’s front porch When was “Lady & the Tramp” first released to theaters How much did it originally cost to build the Disney-MGM Studio theme park What will you find at the corner of Mickey Avenue & Dopey Drive on the Disney Lot in Burbank Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Eric Hersey & Jim Hill start this week’s show by discussing the media preview that was recently held for Universal Studios Florida’s reimagining Kidzone area. They then look back at the “Pink Panther” film series Throughout this episode, listeners will learn about: Where did Duffy AKA the Disney Bear initially exclusively sell on Disney World property back in 2002 Why is the new entrance sign for USF’s “E.T. Adventure” attraction deliberately designed to look like something you associate with a forest How did MGM/UA decide to cash in on the “Muppet Babies” craze back in the mid-1980s Which classic Universal cartoon character is reportedly being given the “Hidden Mickey” treatment inside of DreamWorks Land What are the themes of the first three mazes announced for Universal Orlando’s 2024 edition of Halloween Horror Nights Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Drew Taylor & Jim Hill start this week’s show by discussing the first full trailer for Netflix’s “Ultraman: Rising.” They then talk about “Flow,” the dialogue-free post-apocalyptic animated feature which will be debuting at Cannes next week In this episode, listeners will learn about: Who will be voicing Garfield’s Dad in the new animated feature that Sony will be sending out to North American theaters on May 24th Which George Lucas-produced film was Marvel Productions trying to turn into an animated series in 1984 What company did Illuminations get into bed with back in 2017 to help promote the release of “Despicable Me 3” How many “South Park” specials have Matt Stone & Trey Parker produced for Paramount+ so far What was the name of the very first puppet-based series that Jim Henson produced for television Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Len Testa & Jim Hill start this week’s show by discussing who gets to experience “Tiana’s Bayou Adventure” when as part of that WDW attraction’s month-long grand opening event. They then take a look at the interior of the Island Tower at Disney’s Polynesian Resort Throughout this episode, listeners will learn about: What does Disney’s Hollywood Studios do when the IT system at the WDW Resort crashes When might we see a second Taylor Swift concert film show up on Disney+ How did Jack Wrather deal with Disneyland being closed on Mondays & Tuesdays during that theme park’s off-season starting back in the late 1950s What does the future hold for Magic Bands Why is it very appropriate that the road directly behind the Disneyland Hotel is called Walnut Street Show Notes Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the second installment of this new educational series, Noe & Shelly Valladolid discuss the ancestors of today’s Renaissance fairs. To be specific, some of the primitive “rides” that could be found at these medieval entertainments In this episode, listeners will learn about: Elephants walking across the frozen Thames What fairs were like in faraway India How an exhibition of two goats led to today’s county fairs Why Canada’s Hants County Exhibition, the first major fair in North America, is still in operation today What it was like to attend a Frost Fair in the heart of London Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Gaughan & Jim Hill start off this week’s show by talking about how well the 25th anniversary re-release of “Star Wars – Episode One: The Phantom Menace.” They also share Ahmed Best’s conflicted memories of portraying Jar Jar Binks Over the course of this episode, listeners will learn about: According to Josh Gad, which specific brand of cookie is repeatedly visually referenced within the “Star Wars” universe How many Star Wars fans took part in the shoot for the video which promotes the iPhone 15’s “Precision Finding” feature Which big box store currently has TruMoo’s Star Wars Blue Milk in stock (Bonus question: Which direct competitor of this store does NOT have Blue Milk) Who did President Joe Biden recently personally give a tour of the Oval Office to When is Star Wars Celebration Japan being held next year Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the premiere episode of this new podcast series, Noe & Shelly Valladolid explore the origins of themed entertainment. To be specific, how early trade fairs led to the first amusements. Throughout this episode, listeners will learn about: How gunpowder, tea, and paper from China shaped Europe How Rome got the secret of Silk Privileged fairs in Medieval Europe Christmas markets that still operate today And the earliest forms of entertainment Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Drew Taylor & Jim Hill start off this week’s show by talking up “Exploding Kittens.” They then take a look at Mark Dindal’s career as the director of full-length animated features Over the course of this episode, listeners will learn about: What was the one-and-only film to be produced by Turner Feature Animation Why is the Henson family reportedly not all that fond of Pixar’s “Monsters Inc” How many “Garfield” TV specials were produced for CBS back in the late 1988 / early 1990s Where can you go to get an earlier look at “Slide,” Bill Plympton’s next animated film Who voiced Anna & Elsa’s Mom in the first “Frozen” movie Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Len Testa & Jim Hill start this week’s show by talking about what happens next with Disneyland Forward now that the Anaheim City Council has officially approved this project. They also discuss what Disney CEO Bob Iger revealed at the Company’s most recent earnings call. Throughout this episode, listeners will learn about: How long will the WDW version of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad be down for rehab What’s interesting about Disney’s decision to extend the permit it had with the South Florida Water Management District for the area between Fort Wilderness & Wilderness Lodge for another 5 years Which moderate resort at WDW will be having its guest room refurbished now through November What did Michael Eisner want to originally call the water thrill park that the Company first announced for Florida back in December of 1985 Who did Disney initially hire to write the screenplay for that Studio’s “Typhoon Lagoon” movie Show Notes Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Eric Hersey & Jim Hill start this week’s show by discussing the latest “Despicable Me 4” trailer. They then review what Universal Parks & Experiences just revealed about Epic Universe’s Super Nintendo World. Throughout this episode, listeners will learn about: What new variety of Butterbeer-based treat is now available for purchase at the Universal Parks Why was “Yoshi’s Adventure” reportedly not built as part of Phase One of Universa Studios Hollywood’s “Super Nintendo World” What show is now going to be presented inside of USF’s “A Day in the Park with Barney” theater Which Australian-based company wound up with the rights to make “Bluey” & “Despicable Me” toys How far along now is the construction of Universal Horror Unleashed in Las Vegas Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Drew Taylor & Jim Hill start off this week’s show by talking about the series finale for that Lucasfilm Animation production, “Star Wars: The Bad Batch.” They then talk about how pleased Paramount+ is with the debut of its “Knuckles” mini-series Over the course of this episode, listeners will learn about: Where did the “Bluey’s Big Play” traveling stage show make its North American debut When will “The Fairly OddParents: A New Wish” be debuting on Nickelodeon Who was supposed to voice the title character in Jorge Guiterrez’ “I, Chihuahua” When did the $70 million custom-built Walt Disney Feature Animation – Florida production facility officially come online Which animation historian will be creating original content for the Classic television Network’s soon-to-debut channel, MeTV Toons Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Len Testa & Jim Hill start this week’s show by discussing the latest news coming out about the Epic Universe project. They also talk about why Bay Lake Tower is undergoing a year-long refurbishment in the not-so-distant future Throughout this episode, listeners will learn about: Which crime figure from the 1930s inspired Ma Beagle & the Beagle Boys How is Fort Wilderness’ remote location reportedly impacting DVC sales for the cabins there How many animated series featuring Disney’s “Stitch” character have been produced to date How could the Beyond Big Thunder project potentially impact the Rivers of America at WDW’s Magic Kingdom Which two living character initiative shows plowed the road for “Stitch’s Supersonic Celebration” Show Notes Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Star Wars Day, Disney-Henson Complex History and Rare Muppet Collectibles Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey start this week’s show by discussing the latest developments in the "Disneyland Forward" project and what this means for future expansions. They talk about Star Wars Day Merch and share the deep and complex history between Disney and the Jim Henson Company, highlighting how this relationship has evolved over the years. In This Episode: New Pandora Merch lighting up Animal Kingdom Sneak Peek at Donald Duck's 90th Collection. Muppets in Space and the Disney-Henson Relationship: Learn about the significance of this project in their complex history. Jim's Rare Muppet Collection and the story behind it. YouTube Title- Part 1: New Experience Coming to Disneyland, Pandora Merch, and Sneak Peek Donald Duck 90th Anniversary collection. Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey share the stories behind the Disney collectibles. In this episode, they kick things off with the "Disneyland Forward" Updates and the exciting expansion plans at Disneyland. They look at the New Pandora Merch coming to Disney’s Animal Kingdom and share a sneak peek of the highly anticipated Donald Duck 90th Anniversary Collection. SUPPORT THE CHANNEL: patreon.com/jimhillmedia WEBSITE: jimhillmedia.com SUBSCRIBE to JIM HILL MEDIA: https://www.youtube.com/user/jimhillmedia SUBSCRIBE TO DISNEY UNPACKED! https://www.youtube.com/@DisneyUnpacked LISTEN TO THE JIM HILL MEDIA PODCAST NETWORK ON SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/1aaVkv92h4H7kGxrZE5qMH STAY CONNECTED: LIKE US ON FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/JimHillMediaNews X (TWITTER): https://twitter.com/JimHillMedia INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/jimhillmedia EMAIL: [email protected], [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Len Testa & Jim Hill start off this week’s show by congratulating Israel Perez & the team at WDW’s Victoria & Albert’s for the Michelin star they were just awarded. They then welcome back veteran Imagineer Jim Shull for a discussion of WDSP’s upcoming “Alice & the Red Queen: Back in Wonderland” show For this episode, listeners will learn about: Why – when WDW Cast Members finally get to preview “Tiana’s Bayou Adventure” – they may come at this revamped flume ride from backstage How far along is the “Disneyland Forward” project when it comes to Anaheim’s approval process What’s interesting about that construction permit that just got pulled for Epcot’s “Journey into Imagination” pavilion The “Frozen” star recently got the opportunity to try his hand at conducting on the Disneyland Railroad Why – when it comes to updating and/or making significant changes to the African side of Disney’s Animal Kingdom – the Imagineers have very limited choices Show Notes Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Drew Taylor & Jim Hill start off this week’s show by talking up Pixar Fest (which starts this weekend at Disneyland Park). They then look ahead to which studios will be doing presentations at this year’s Annecy International Animation Film Festival & Market For this episode, listeners will learn about: How many Disney-related items are coming up for bid at Van Eaton Galleries’ next big event, “The Joel Magee Auction: Part Two” Which Pixar veteran is directing “Transformers One” for Paramount Animation When will “Robot Dreams” be released to select theaters in North America What became of the plaque in the lobby of NYC’s Broadway Theater which commemorates “Steamboat Willie” ‘s world premiere in that same space back in 1928 Who was supposed to originally voice Fiona in the “Shrek” film series Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Eric Hersey & Jim Hill start off this week’s show by discussing the tram accident that happened this past weekend at Universal Studios Hollywood. They then take a close look at the perks annual passholders will be able to enjoy at the Universal Orlando parks starting in May. Over the course of this episode, listeners will learn about: Which Universal horror classic got transformed from a silent film to a sound picture in 1929 Why did Universal Studios Florida push back the opening of “Twister … Ride It Out” from March of 1998 to early May of that same year Which store used to occupy the space in Universal CityWalk that’s now being transformed into the Epic Universe preview center Back in 1931, who did Universal Pictures originally announce was going to star in that Studio’s upcoming production of “Frankenstein” Which cartoon character is at the wheel of that popcorn bucket that Universal Hollywood is now selling to commemorate the 60th anniversary of that theme park’s tram tour Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Gaughan & Jim Hill start this week’s show by revisiting the whole did-Greedo-shoot-first issue. They then talk about what the last few episodes of “Star Wars: The Bad Batch” seem to be setting up Throughout this episode, listeners will learn about: What honor will George Lucas be receiving at this year’s Cannes Film Festival Where can Disneyland visitors view that theme park’s “Fire of the Rising Moons” fireworks display What did Harrison Ford want to have happen to Han Solo in “Return of the Jedi” Which animated series was the first “Star Wars” show to be set in the era of the High Republic How did Leslie Headland – the showrunner for “Star Wars: The Acolyte” – describe this new limited series for Disney+ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Len Testa & Jim Hill start this week’s show by discussing the Stella Nova & Terra Luna Resorts at Universal Orlando. They then look back at Disney’s reaction to Mattel’s 1972 announcement of its Circus World theme park project Throughout this episode, listeners will learn about: How many times will Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights be presented this year What’s the name of the bay that the “World of Frozen” is built alongside at the theme park formerly known as Walt Disney Studios Park in Paris What price range is Universal reportedly considering when it comes to admission to its new kid-friendly park currently under construction in Bliss, TX Why are the popcorn buckets sold at the Disney Parks in Anaheim & Tokyo so much nicer than the ones that are sold at the WDW Resort How were the elephants dressed at the groundbreaking ceremony for Circus World back in April of 1973 Show Notes Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Drew Taylor & Jim Hill start off this week’s show by talking up "Ultraman: Rising.” They then discuss which animation studio is soon to be honored with a Palme D’Odr at this year’s Cannes Film Festival For this episode, listeners will learn about: Which character in Pixar’s “Up” did Peter Docter’s daughter Elizabeth voice What does the future potentially hold for the “Bluey” animated series Which Pixar film was “B.O.O,” DreamWorks Animation’s cancelled supernatural comedy, supposed to go head-to-head with back in June of 2015 How long is the “Mary Blair’s Wonderland: Imagining Disney’s Alice” exhibit running at the Hilbert Museum of California Art at Chapman University Which Animal Planet series from the 2000s is Warner Bros. Pictures Animation reportedly using as the jumping-off point for a feature-length project Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lauren Hersey & Jim Hill start this week’s show by talking about the merch locations that are being readied for the WDW version of “Tiana’s Bayou Adventure.” They then discuss how Disney helped promote the U.S. Forest Service’s fire prevention program Throughout this episode, listeners will learn about: When did Walt Disney Animation Studios finally shut production of shorts for theatrical release What did Rankin-Bass produce as their follow-up to “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” When is Walt Disney World’s redo of “Splash Mountain” rumored to re-open What’s the name of the bear at the bottom of that totem pole that Guests encounter right outside of the Wilderness Lodge Mercantile Which legendary big-screen romance first opened in theaters back in January of 1943 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Len Testa & Jim Hill start this week’s show by deep-diving into the changes the Disney Parks are about to make to their DAS policy. They also continue their look back at WDW’s Tomorrowland Throughout this episode, listeners will learn about: How many episodes of “Law & Order: SVU” has Ice-T appeared in to date What were Disney Legend John Hench’s concerns about the version of World Showcase that was almost built next to WDW’s TTC How long did it take the team at WDW’s Food Labs to create that translucent fruit that was served aboard the “Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser” When was Phase One of “Project Florida” originally supposed to end construction How tall was Thunder Mesa (i.e., the table-top mountain that was supposed to house WDW’s “Western River Expedition” ride) supposed to be Show Notes Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Eric Hersey & Jim Hill start off this week’s show by talking about how the M3gan horde became the break-out hit at last year’s Halloween Horror Nights. They also discuss Universal Orlando’s Stella Nova & Terra Luna resorts Throughout this episode, listeners will learn about: What role did Michael Eisner play in setting Paramount Pictures’ “King Kong” remake in motion back in the mid-1970s Why did Universal Pictures insist that certain scenes in “M3gan” be reshot Why did Universal Studios Hollywood temporarily shut down “Earthquake: The Big One” back in October of 1989 Which Universal Pictures release back in November of 1974 introduced the world to Sensurround Which after-hours event at the Disney Parks inspired Universal’s Grad Bash Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Drew Taylor & Jim Hill start off this week’s episode by looking back at how Walt Disney Studios did effects back in the 1960s. They also talk about the version of “Toy Story 3” that Circle 7 Studios had in development Over the course of this episode, listeners will learn about: When will “Kung Fu Panda 4” be available for viewing on digital platforms like Amazon Video & iTunes How far back did the release date of Disney’s live-action version of “Moana” get pushed back When did Happy Meals toys rethemed around Pixar’s “Elio” become available for purchase in Mexico What name did Disney used for “The Good Dinosaur” when this Pixar production was first announced at the D23 Expo back in August of 2011 Who will be voicing the Mother of the title character in Pixar’s “Elio” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Len Testa & Jim Hill start this week’s show by discussing how the Shooting Gallery at WDW’s Magic Kingdom will soon close to become a DVC lounge. They also take a look back at Tomorrowland in this same theme park circa late 1971 / early 1972. Throughout this episode, listeners will learn about: Which then-husband & wife team were originally supposed to play the leads in Disney’s never-produced “Who Framed Roger Rabbit” sequel When does it appear that the Magic Kingdom will be opening its version of “Tiana’s Bayou Adventure” Which “Avatar” film is the new experience that Bob Iger recently revealed was in the works for Disneyland in Anaheim supposed to be based on What significant eco-friendly change is supposedly in the works for Florida’s version of Autopia According to John Hench, which proposed WDW resorts were deliberately designed in such a way that they could then be seen from inside of the Magic Show Notes Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In Episode 4 of "I Want That Too," where we venture into the world of Disney merchandise, with a special focus on the Tiki culture found within the Disney universe. Join entertainment writer Jim Hill and co-host Lauren Hersey as they uncover the stories behind Disney collectibles, explore the history of the Enchanted Tiki Room, and dive into the resurgence of Tiki culture among Disney fans and collectors. In This Episode: The Significance of April 5th in Disney Park History: Discover why this date holds a special place in the hearts of Disney fans. Spotlight on Tiki Culture: A deep dive into the history of the Enchanted Tiki Room and its controversial management change, exploring how Tiki culture has been integrated into the Disney parks and merchandise. Featured Merchandise: The newly released Zazu shoulder plush in celebration of "The Lion King's" 30th anniversary and a look at the coveted Tiki mugs that have become a collector's dream. Book Review: "Before the Birds Sang Words" by Ken Bruce, offers an in-depth exploration of Disney's feathered friends and the technology behind their creation. Sponsor Shoutout: A big thank you to TouringPlans.com for making this deep dive into Disney's Tiki culture possible. Listener Engagement: We invite our listeners to share their Disney collections and stories. Reach out to us at [email protected] or [email protected]. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Drew Taylor & Jim Hill start this week’s show by talking about many of the animation-related books that will hit store shelves later this year. They also discuss how “Aladdin” commemorated its 10th year on Broadway Over the course of this episode, listeners will learn about: Which member of the “Frozen” voice cast just collaborated on a Putnum’s Book for Young Readers How does “Disney Junior’s Ariel!” blend the 1989 animated feature with the 2023 live-action reboot What made the Hanna Barbera-produced “Popeye” cartoons different from the shorts that previously starred this character from King’s Feature Syndicate When was “Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse” originally supposed to be released to theaters How old were Hiccup & Astrid originally supposed to be in Dreamworks’ first “How to Train Your Dragon” movie Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Len Testa & Jim Hill start this week’s show by discussing the truce-of-sorts that’s recently been brokered between the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District & Disney. They also talk about the drone show that will debut at Disney Springs on May 24th Over the course of this episode, listeners will learn about: Which annual event – which is held over in Tampa – made the Imagineers hesitant to bring Disneyland’s “Pirates of the Caribbean” ride to Florida Why is much of Epcot’s Morocco pavilion currently hidden behind construction fences When did Walt Disney make his very last visit to the Studios that he & his brother Roy built in Burbank What is Tiana asking Guests to help out with when they set sail on her “Bayou Adventure” How did WDI upset the turkey vultures who frequent the WDW Resort Show Notes Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Eric Hersey & Jim Hill start this week’s episode by taking a look back at the “How to Train Your Dragon” film franchise. They then pivot to discussing the latest land to be unveiled for Epic Universe Over the course of this episode, listeners will learn about: Which character did Wayne Brady almost get heat stroke playing at a Disney Park How many different movie studios have released “How to Train Your Dragon” films over the past 14 years What was especially cool about the “Casper the Friendly Ghost” ride that Universal Creative developed for that Company’s theme parks Who was originally supposed to be the lead of the first “Ghostbusters” movie Residents of which two states can take advantage of the latest Universal Orlando ticket offer Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Gaughan & Jim Hill start off this week’s show by talking about “Imperial March.” They then discuss why “Indiana Jones & the Dial of Destiny” wound up being such a disappointment Over the course of this episode, listeners will learn about: Who threw the switch at the Empire State Building to start a celebration of Star Wars villainy Which UK Prime Minister played a part in the launching of “May the Fourth Be With You” as a popular phrase among Star Wars fans Who’s writing that “Star Wars ICONS Darth Vader” book that Insight Editions will be publishing later this Fall Which “Rebel Moon” star auditioned to play the role of Anakin Skywalker in “Attack of the Clones” When did Captain Rex, Captain Gregor & Commander Wolffe first appear on “Star Wars: Rebels” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices