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Guest Authors

Guest Post: One Man’s Journey to Marceline

7 March 2013 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

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“To tell the truth, more things of importance happened to me in Marceline than have happened since – or are likely to in the future.”

With those words, Walt Disney certainly set the bar high for Marceline, Missouri. The man created an entertainment empire, winning 32 Academy Awards and millions of admirers the world over, but he held up his adopted Missouri hometown as of chief importance. Whether the proof is in Walt’s own words, the proliferation of barnyard hijinks in the early Disney cartoon shorts, or his famous love for trains, Marceline clearly meant the world to Walt Disney.

But one aspect of this story has stubbornly puzzled me. Born in Chicago, Walt and his family lived in Marceline for only about five years, moving to Kansas City when the young Walt was ten years old. Just how could Marceline make such a big impact on a boy who lived there for such a relatively short time?

That question fueled my interest in visiting Marceline and experiencing Walt’s hometown for myself. This past July finally presented my opportunity to make this Disney pilgrimage. Although my visit lasted little more than one day, that was all the time it took to prove that Disney magic exists in abundance in that small Missouri town.

 

Main Street USA

 

Much like the Disney parks, the Marceline experience begins on Main Street USA. Main Street (née Kansas Avenue) has been renamed to reflect the significance Marceline’s town center had on Walt’s plans for the turn-of-the-century entrance to Disneyland. Lined with antique shops and eateries, Marceline’s Main Street oozes with the spirit of its Disneyland namesake. It is truly authentic, compared to the nostalgic fantasy of its California cousin.

My first stop was the Uptown Theatre. When the Disney brothers returned to Marceline in 1956 for the dedication of the town’s new swimming pool and municipal park, Walt and Roy arranged for the Midwestern premiere of “The Great Locomotive Chase” to be held there. The children of Marceline packed the theatre – often two or three to a single seat – for this special Disney film premiere.

Sadly, those seats now sit empty as the theater has shuttered its operation and now runs as a bed and breakfast. While several different suites were on offer, I couldn’t look past staying in the Walt Disney Suite. This spacious suite was decked out with Disney decor and only reinforced my desire to get out and explore the town. Many thanks to Debbie Foster, the bed and breakfast’s proprietor, who made the entire experience a delight. [Since my visit, Debbie has sold the Uptown Theatre and no longer runs either the bed and breakfast or attached bakery.]

All checked in, it was time to finally see the Walt Disney Hometown Museum. Run by the inimitable Kaye Malins and a cadre of volunteers, the museum is found within Marceline’s old railroad depot. It is the centerpiece of the town’s celebration of Walt Disney and is definitely not to be missed.

One of the more memorable aspects of visiting a Disney park is the boundless charm of the Cast Members. But the impeccable cheerfulness of the Disney employees just might have been outshone by the citizens of Marceline. Main Street was far from bustling, but everyone I met stopped, greeted me warmly, and asked if they could provide any assistance. All were undeniably proud of their town’s fame as Walt Disney’s hometown and equally enthused to welcome any and all visitors.

Walking towards the Museum, I passed by E.P. Ripley Park, named in honor of the Santa Fe Railway founder. After all, Marceline owed its very existence to the Santa Fe. In 1887 the railroad needed somewhere to stop for supplies and fuel on its run between Chicago and Kansas City. The town of Marceline sprung up from this new stop.

 

Gazebo at Ripley Park

 

Housed in a large red-brick building, the Walt Disney Hometown Museum is an impressive sight. Once inside, I could not believe my luck when I learned that today’s tour guide would be Inez. A museum volunteer, Inez holds the special distinction of being an actual family friend of Walt Disney. She recounted the story of how she and her husband, Rush, were asked to host the Disney family during their 1956 visit. Since the town’s hotel did not offer air conditioning, a cooler solution was sought, leading to Rush and Inez’s house.

 

Walt Disney Hometown Museum

 

Inez laughed that, in the run-up to the Disneys’ arrival, she was quite worried that her home was not nice enough for this important honor. Fearing that Walt would be unimpressed with his accommodations, the entire town pitched in and moved their very best furniture into Inez’s house. All was for naught, though, once the Disneys arrived. Their Hollywood guests were humble and unassuming – there had been no need to put on airs for them.

Stories such as this made the tour fly by. After a quick talk about Walt’s life in Marceline, the group was turned loose into the larger galleries in the building’s rear and upper floor. The Hometown Museum has a remarkable collection – ranging from an actual Midget Autopia car to seemingly endless personal correspondence between members of the Disney family. Although my time was in short supply, many more hours would have been well spent fully reading through the many letters Walt exchanged with his sister, Ruth.

My next stop was Walt’s old home, located just a quick drive from the Museum. While the house is privately owned, the owners have been gracious enough to provide a small parking area where guests can get out and walk to the Dreaming Tree and barn.

 

Son of the Dreaming Tree

 

Well, what is left of the Dreaming Tree anyway. A victim of repeated lightning strikes, the tree’s lifeless remnants are all that remain of the site where Walt would regale his sister with imaginative tales of wit and whimsy. Long summer days were spent playing and daydreaming beneath that tree, making it even more heartbreaking that it has been ravaged by nature.

To Marceline’s credit, they could not stand to see lightning rob the world of Walt’s Dreaming Tree. A descendant of the original was planted nearby – the Son of the Dreaming Tree. The Son has a long way to go before it will rival the size of its father, but the new Dreaming Tree serves as a simple reminder that imagination cannot be defeated.

Walt’s barn is then just a short jaunt further onto the property. The barn offers something extra special for the visiting Disney fans – everyone is encouraged to sign the interior walls with a short message to honor Marceline’s famed son.

 

Walt's Barn

 

The only problem? In my shortsightedness, I had forgotten to bring a marker. While trying to shrug off this memory lapse, I was reminded of another of Inez’s stories from the Museum tour.

In that very barn, young Walt had once held a makeshift circus for the children of Marceline, charging a small amount for admittance. His show-stopping trick was to fill a sack with cats and then have them jump free. As that was the high point of the show, the audience was less than amused and demanded a refund. Walt’s mother, Flora, made her son return the money to his dissatisfied friends. But he was left with something of far greater value than a handful of dimes. Walt had learned his first lesson in showmanship – always exceed your audience’s expectations.

Marceline has a special peacefulness at night. As the sun set, so too did all of the activity on Main Street. It presented a great chance to fully take in all that I had learned about Walt Disney that day. I had also driven out to the Municipal Park and the Elementary School (which both bear Walt’s name), but the majority of my trip was devoted to those areas that might explain how his time in Marceline shaped the man Walt Disney would later become.

After a restful night in the Walt Disney Suite and an unforgettable breakfast buffet (prepared by Debbie Foster), it was finally time for my long trip home. Yet, as I drove down Main Street USA on my way out of town, I was already mentally planning my next trip to Marceline.

And perhaps that craving to return was the best answer to my quest to learn how Marceline had so deeply affected Walt in such a short time. The true magic of Marceline is that you only have to spend a short time there to be moved and inspired forever.

–Kevin Carpenter

About Kevin Carpenter: Kevin first visited Walt Disney World in 1989 and has been studying the life and career of Walt ever since. When not writing, he works in professional soccer from his home in Ohio. You may also find him on twitter at @kejca.

 

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Filed Under: Disney Past, Guest Authors, Reviews, Top Stories Tagged With: barnyard, Disney magic, Guest Authors, guest post, Kevin Carpenter, Main Street, Main Street USA, Marceline, marceline missouri, missouri town, The Dreaming Tree, uptown theatre, Walt Disney, Walt Disney history, Walt Disney Hometown Museum, Walt Disney's childhood, Walt Disney's hometown, Walt's Barn

Gift Guide: Disney Magic for Your iPhone!

25 November 2012 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

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It’s holiday time, and that means it’s time to pick up some Disney swag for the main Mouse in your life. But what should you wrap up in pretty paper and put under the tree this year? Jen from MickeyFix.com has put together a quick list to help you select the perfect protection for your giftee’s ever-present iPhone.

Best Disney iPhone Case for … Epcot Nerds

What do all Epcot nerds love more than a geodesic sphere? A retro-styled geodesic sphere! This Spaceship Earth iPhone case will not only protect your holiday honey’s precious device, it’ll also allow him to show off his unrelenting love of the Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow.

epcot-case

 

Best Disney iPhone Case for … Haunted Mansion Spooks

If the thought of damaging her iPhone gives your Mouseketeer hot and cold running chills, we have the perfect gift for her: this perfectly disquieting Haunted Mansion iPhone case. There’s no turning back now …

mansion-case

 

Best Disney iPhone Case for … Star Wars Geeks

This is not the case you were looking for … it’s so much better! The Force is strong with this one, and your Star Wars geek will carry the Mickey Ear Death Star iPhone case with pride.

deathstar-case

 

Best Disney iPhone Case for … Disney Dreamers

If thoughts of Pixie Dust and Neverland make her heart skip a beat, let her enjoy it on a daily basis with this Peter Pan iPhone Case. Just make sure she avoids that Hook…I hear he’s no good. 😉

Peter Pan Case

 

Which of these cases is right for the Disney obsessive in your life?

 

About the author:
Jen S. spends her free time chronicling v. cool Disney things over at MickeyFix.com. If you don’t see something you like here, check out other Disney Gift Guides on Mickey Fix!

 

 

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Filed Under: Disney Merchandise, Guest Authors Tagged With: death star, Death Star iPhone case, Disney artwork, Disney designs, disney gift, Disney Gift Guides, Disney iPhone covers, Disney magic, Disney Merchandise, Disney shopping, Disney shopping guide, Epcot, Epcot iphone case, experimental prototype community of tomorrow, geodesic sphere, Guest Authors, Guest posts, Haunted Mansion, Haunted Mansion iPhone case, iPhone covers, Mickey Fix, MickeyFix.com, peter pan, Peter Pan iPhone case, pixie dust, Spaceship Earth, star wars geeks

Guest Post: Tom Bricker Shares Spectacular Highlights From Cars Land

16 July 2012 by Suzannah Otis 1 Comment

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I’m so pleased to have Tom Bricker back sharing his amazing photo skills and some highlights from his recent visit to the grand opening of Cars Land at Disney California Adventure. Please welcome Tom again and enjoy his post below:

 

Cars Land at Disney California Adventure is quite possibly the most beautiful land in any Disney theme park, and is definitely the most immersive. As soon as you set foot in Cars Land, you feel as if you’ve exited Disney California Adventure and stepped foot onto Route 66 in the Pixar film, Cars. Words certainly do not do the beauty of this amazing new land justice, and even photos barely do it justice. That said, I’ll try to do justice to the jaw-dropping beauty of Cars Land by sharing some photos I’ve taken of this all-new land.

Cars Land grand opening celebration

Luigi's Flying Tires at night

Flo's V8 Cafe

Mater's Junkyard Jamboree at night

Radiator Springs Racers at night

Ornament Valley

Radiator Springs Racers at night

Cars Land at night

Cars Land at night

Radiator Springs

Radiator Springs at night

Radiator Springs at night

If these photos piqued your interest in Cars Land, make sure to check out my Cars Land photos and Radiator Springs Racers photos, where you can view hundreds of additional photos of Cars Land and its flagship attraction, Radiator Springs Racers! Are you thinking about booking a trip to Disneyland Resort to experience Cars Land? Have you already experienced it? Share your thoughts in the comments!

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Filed Under: Disney Attractions, Guest Authors, Photos From the Parks, Walt Disney World Tagged With: amazing Disney photos, amazing photos, bricker, California Adventure, Cars Land, Disney, Disney California Adventure, Disneyland, Disneyland Resort, DisneyTouristBlog, grand opening, Guest author, guest post, Luigi's Flying Tires, Mater's Junkyard Jamboree, radiator springs, Radiator Springs Racers, route 66, Tom Bricker

VIDEO: Disney’s Wild Africa Trek-A Passage to Africa

8 May 2012 by Suzannah Otis 4 Comments

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Wild Africa Trek rope bridge Correspondent Nicole Siscaretti rounds out her coverage for us with a personal tour of the Wild Africa Trek at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. As you may recall, I was able to preview this trek before it opened to the general public, and shared the Wild Africa Trek Facts and Figures. It remains one of my favorite things to do at Walt Disney World, because it is simply so unique. It is worth every penny, and the experience is one you will remember for a lifetime.

I never shared the video I took that day, but it’s good I didn’t because the tour has been improved since I saw it. You now get to hang by a harnessed cable over crocodiles as well as hippos, and the safari truck tour at the end is covered. I feel like the tour narration was much more in-depth on Nicole’s video and you learn so much about the animals on the trek!

Let’s go on safari with Nicole:

 

 

To recap from the Facts & Figures post, the Wild Africa Trek is a 3-hour group tour held at various times throughout the morning and afternoon at Animal Kingdom. You are also served an African-inspired breakfast or lunch, depending on the time of your tour, and given a PhotoPass CD of the experience. Pricing varies seasonally but right now you can save $50 on tours at or after 11:45 a.m. from 5/29/12 – 8/25/12. Call Disney for pricing details and to book at (407) WDW-TOUR or (407) 939-8687.

I would like to take a moment and thank Nicole for her amazing coverage here on the site and twitter and facebook, giving Zannaland readers all the latest with great photos and videos. Nicole has a new site she’s creating as we speak so keep an eye out for her magical new venture! Asante sana Nicole!

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Filed Under: Disney Planning, Disney Tours, Guest Authors, Walt Disney World Tagged With: african animals, Animal Kingdom, animals, Disney tours, Disney's Animal Kingdom, Disney's Wild Africa Trek, Guest posts, Nicole Siscaretti, safari, safari tour, safari trek, videos, Wild Africa Trek

Disney’s Art of Animation Video Tour With Imagineer Interviews

2 May 2012 by Suzannah Otis 1 Comment

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The Art of Animation Resort is a whimsical new place to stay on Walt Disney World property beginning Summer of 2012 with the opening of the Finding Nemo themed rooms. The family suites start at $249 and sleep up to six with two bathrooms and a kitchenette. Opening at later dates will be Cars (June 18), The Lion King (August 10) and The Little Mermaid (September 15) themed sections.

The theming of the resort is similar to the progression of the making of an animated film. In the lobby you are first presented with the Ink and Paint Shop, a merchandise store, and the character sketch wall which has renderings of some of your favorite pals from the resort’s featured movies. Then as you continue out to the pool area and guest room buildings you are rewarded with fabulous landscapes and backgrounds. Here in this video you’ll have a tour of the resort with interviews and commentary from Disney Imagineers like Gary Hoffman, who was the Senior Project Manager over design and architecture for the resort and offers a personal greeting for Zannaland readers below!

 

I can not get over the wondrous colors displayed here. It was a whole lot of fun to photograph, especially the pool area which was rich in tropical and undersea inspired hues. Check out this gallery and tell us what you think of the design!

 

Disney's Art of Animation Resort
It’s just like walking (driving?) into Radiator Springs.
Disney's Art of Animation Resort
Sneak peek into the Cars area.
Disney's Art of Animation Resort
Map of the Art of Animation Resort property shows the future buildings.
Disney's Art of Animation Resort
Hidden Mickey within the Ariel’s Grotto lighting at the food court.
Disney's Art of Animation Resort
Lion King section of the Landscape of Flavors food court. So pretty.
Disney's Art of Animation Resort
Sunset over the lobby area. The colors and design are gorgeous!
Disney's Art of Animation Resort
Mine! birds at night. Nicely lit.
Disney's Art of Animation Resort
Master bath area features a nice walk-in shower.
Disney's Art of Animation Resort
Fun new Mickey toiletries inside the Finding Nemo rooms.
Disney's Art of Animation Resort
Hopefully no one in your party will have a fear of sharks! I do like the brick-looking tile in this shower area.
Disney's Art of Animation Resort
Fish are friends…not food! Nicole and Suzannah showing the cute mirrors in the Nemo bathrooms.
Disney's Art of Animation Resort
TV and dresser area in the master bath.
Disney's Art of Animation Resort
Master bedroom in the Nemo family suite.
Disney's Art of Animation Resort
Sleep sofa/living area of the Finding Nemo family suite.
Disney's Art of Animation Resort
Finding Nemo family suite kitchenette
Disney's Art of Animation Resort
Pull-down Murphy bed in the Nemo family suite.
Disney's Art of Animation Resort
With the Murphy bed up in the family suite, it’s a table!
Disney's Art of Animation Resort
New touch-key system for secure entry into the rooms. Just touch your Key to the World to gain access to your suite.
Disney's Art of Animation Resort
Hidden Mickey in the hallway carpet at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort.
Disney's Art of Animation Resort
Finding Nemo building, the stairs are topped with “Mine!” seagulls.
Disney's Art of Animation Resort
Duuude! Squirt hanging out by the Big Blue Pool.
Disney's Art of Animation Resort
We all remember these goggles from Finding Nemo right?
Disney's Art of Animation Resort
Shark Bait – hoo ha ha! Outside at the Big Blue Pool.
Disney's Art of Animation Resort
The Big Blue Pool showcases the most popular parts of the Finding Nemo movie.
Disney's Art of Animation Resort
Collage of the lobby elements.
Disney's Art of Animation Resort
The ladies room in the lobby is pretty in pink with Ariel.
Disney's Art of Animation Resort
Sample merchandise from Ink & Paint shop.
Disney's Art of Animation Resort
Ink and Paint merchandise shop waiting for souvenirs!
Disney's Art of Animation Resort
Info for the merchandise shop and food court.
Disney's Art of Animation Resort
Stylized animation scenes as you make your way to the Big Blue Pool.
Disney's Art of Animation Resort
Unique chandelier focal point in the Art of Animation lobby with artwork signed by John Lasseter.
Disney's Art of Animation Resort
Lobby area featuring the animation process from sketch to finished design.
Disney's Art of Animation Resort
Gorgeous check-in area fashioned after color swatches.
Disney's Art of Animation Resort
Animation Hall, as you enter from parking or the bus.
Disney's Art of Animation Resort
Entryway to the lobby.
Disney's Art of Animation Resort
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort entrance.

We took so many photos we had to add them to flickr so you could see them all! Check out our flickr Art of Animation photo set to see even more images.

I think this will quickly be the most popular value resort upon opening. Would you like to stay here with your family? Which themed section are you most drawn to?

[Notes from Suzannah: I was also able to preview Art of Animation last weekend during Disney’s Social Media Moms Celebration and was blown away with the level of detail incorporated into this value resort. I think it sets the bar much, much higher for a value resort and with a family of five, I know the family suites here are now an option I will actually look forward to using.

 

In the Finding Nemo area, the landscaping around the pool and buildings look as though they are undersea plants, specifically chosen to make it look like you are in the Big Blue World. Brilliant. The design and details within the rooms are just breathtaking. They are bright and fun for families with young children, but the design palate is cool and mod; adults will appreciate and enjoy staying there as well. I also love that the family suite rooms are accessed by an interior hallway vs. the usual outdoor access value resorts offer. I asked about this decreasing noise level and was told that yes, sounds are reduced with the interior entry as are the instances of bugs getting into rooms (this is Florida after all, home to prehistoric armies of insects!).

 

After peeking through the construction fence into the Cars section, I can see the level of detail does not stop with Nemo. You truly feel as if you are walking into Radiator Springs. I’m excited to see the lush jungle-feel of the Lion King area as well, after getting a little taste of it in the food court – Landscape of Flavors. Be sure to check out all the photos and let us know what you think of this amazing new resort! Big thanks to Nicole for her wonderful video and photos! ~Suzannah]
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Filed Under: Disney News, Disney Planning, Disney Resorts, Guest Authors, Walt Disney World Tagged With: Art of Animation, Art of Animation pool, Art of Animation rooms, Big Blue Pool, Cars hotel rooms, Disney's Art of Animation Resort, Disney's Social Media Moms Celebration, Finding Nemo hotel rooms, Gary Hoffman, Imagineer interview, Imagineers, Lion King hotel rooms, Nicole Siscaretti, resort preview, resort showcase, Summer to Remember, video

REVIEW: Marvel’s The Avengers Lives Up to the Hype For Fans and Newbies

1 May 2012 by Suzannah Otis 3 Comments

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I must confess, I am sort of a half-hearted comic book geek-girl. I never really got into superhero comics, but I certainly grew up reading others. My summers were filled with Archie and Jughead comics, peppered with Casper the Friendly Ghost and Donald Duck for good measure. I’ve also always enjoyed superhero movies, but never been obsessed with them as others have. The Batman series and the drama that always surrounded the new actors or directors caught my eye, but Iron Man is what really made me a fan. Robert Downey Jr. brought humanity and hilarity to that character and made the film accessible to all level of Marvel fans.

When I attended the D23 Expo last August and learned more about the Marvel history, along with pretty much the entire cast of The Avengers walking out on stage and giving us a preview of the movie (twice), my interest and excitement was piqued. Then, time got in the way and we really hadn’t seen any of the other Marvel films, aside from the first Iron Man. Knowing this screening was coming up, my husband and I went on an Avengers movie-watching spree and got caught up on the franchise. [We still have to see Hulk, but I feel like his story was the easiest to catch up on within The Avengers.]

If you need to catch up on the story behind The Avengers, here’s a featurette which will tell you more, including commentary from Joss Whedon and the actors.

In tweeting about our movie marathon, folks would reply with their favorite Avenger film, and in the case of my Avengers giveaway, everyone seems to have a different favorite character. After seeing almost all of the movies, I still cannot choose a favorite! I love Iron Man and Robert Downey Jr. and think his acerbic wit will always keep him close to my heart, but I also found myself really appreciating the story of Captain America and how his character as a man made him who he was, even before the shot of power he received. And then Thor, who doesn’t appreciate an arrogant heir apparent getting the lesson of humility and humanity (while being quite easy on the eyes at the same time)? So still, even after seeing Marvel’s The Avengers, I cannot choose a favorite character. And perhaps that is why The Avengers is such an amazing film. There truly is something for everyone, and if your favorite is in trouble, another Avenger will be there to help him (or her) out.

Marvel's The Avengers
Iron Man and Captain America are reluctant but eventual partners

 

All of my thoughts aside, I felt the best person to write this review was my husband, a true comic book geek and fan with very pronounced opinions on the subject. I will just add my own thoughts that I think Joss Whedon‘s writing is the true star. The banter and one-liners within the film are reminiscent of every show Whedon has written, and that is what has created such fanboys and girls who think he can do no wrong. I’m there with them now. I think he got it and the audience in our screening appreciated it, as did we. We learned so much more about S.H.I.E.L.D. and The Avengers themselves and watching their alliance unfold before us was a treat. Loki is a great opponent and several times throughout the plot, just when I thought I knew what he was going to do, he surprised me. The ending battle when the Avengers had realized how powerful they were as a team, was full of non-stop action, laughs, and cheers. I left the film excited to see it again and anticipating the next Avengers installment. I cannot think of another superhero film that left me feeling that way. And now that I’ve said my piece, here are my husband, J.F. DiMarzio‘s more in-depth thoughts:

[Warning: some spoilers ahead!]

…

If you are a fan of Marvel’s Avengers you are going to have many reasons to love this movie.  If you are not a fan of Marvel’s Avengers, there are still reasons why you are going to love this movie.

MARVEL'S THE AVENGERS
Joss Whedon with Chris Hemsworth, Chris Evans, and Robert Downey Jr.

Avengers is the culmination of 5 movies worth of set up.  The Hulk, Iron Man, Iron Man 2, Thor, and Captain America were all the set up for this comic book nerd’s dream. Joss Whedon was the perfect pick to helm the single most important comic book movie to date.  His use of humor fit in perfectly with the story.  Fans of Firefly or Buffy will feel right at home with the wit of Joss Whedon (there is even a subtle nod to Firefly as Black Widow swears in Chinese under her breath).

So, what makes this movie so great? This is going to be hard to answer with giving away some spoilers. Be forewarned.

Diehard comic book fans can relax, knowing that their beloved Avengers franchise was handled by someone who loves the characters and the story just as much as they do with the very opening scene. The first moments reveal a Skrull.  Joss Whedon makes it clear he knows what he is doing, by using the Skrull as the major force of evil in the movie.  The best part of using the Skrull is that he doesn’t even stop to introduce them.  For the fans this means no boring backstories to sit through. Whedon unapologetically jumps right into the Avengers’ storyline letting the 5 previous movies provide all of the setup.  The best part of this approach is that even if you do not know who the Skrull are, you do not feel left out; you quickly accept that this is “a bad guy” and you move on.

Where Whedon’s talents really shine are in how he incorporated each member of the Avengers’ abilities and was able to resolve the plot by giving each hero a specific goal to accomplish.  If each goal is not achieved, the team fails.  In this way, I cannot point to one Avenger and say “If it wasn’t for X they would have lost.”  By doing this, much of the intra-team bickering and frailty that was present in the comics is intact in the film.

Captain America
Captain America mid-battle

Going into the film, I was worried about three things; how would Captain America be handled in the present day, how would the 4th Hulk in as many films come across, and would we have to suffer through more painful Thor love story?  Two and a half out of three isn’t bad at all.

Captain America feels totally out of place, as he should.  You see that he is uncomfortable, and very much trying to find his way in a world that he is not familiar with.  Some of the funniest gaffes of the movie come from this “fish out of water” scenario.

As for the Hulk, Mark Ruffalo does the best job he can playing a character that had already be messed up by three other actors. While this is by far the BEST adaptation of Hulk, it is Whedon’s treatment of Bruce Banner that is lacking.  He is portrayed as almost savant-like and at one point even walks around wringing his hands à la Rainman.  This is, in the grand scheme of the things, a very small complaint – and the only flaw I could find with the movie.

Finally there is no Thor love story.  Rather, there is a very quick mention of Jane Foster as having been “moved to safety”.

So, how do you top a movie like this? The closing credits.  Fans of the series know that little Easter eggs lay after the credits in the previous films, and the Avengers, by far, has the best one.  If you do not want to have the secret spoiled, stop reading now.

THOR (Chris Hemsworth) (L) and CAPTAIN AMERICA (Chris Evans) (R)
Thor and Captain America prepare for battle

******

As a set up for, presumably, the next Avengers film, the credits end with the camera back on the Skrull.  This time they are talking to a new character.  Comic book fans will immediately recognize the figure and squeal with delight just as Thanos comes into frame.  Does this mean that next Avengers movie will include the Infinity Gauntlet? Will we see Doctor Strange? Silver Surfer? Spiderman? What do you think?

…

In summary, as if you needed a reminder – go see Marvel’s The Avengers. You will not be disappointed. It is as close to a perfect action film as I’ve ever seen and supporting the franchise will equal more great sequels in the future. Avengers, assemble!

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Filed Under: Disney News, Guest Authors, Movie Reviews, Movies & Books, Reviews Tagged With: Avengers review, Chris Evans, chris hemsworth, comic book heroes, Jeremy Renner, Joss Whedon, Mark Ruffalo, Marvel, Marvel's The Avengers, Movie Reviews, Robert Downey Jr. Scarlett Johansen, Samuel L Jackson, superheroes, superheros, The Avengers, Tom Hiddleston

Imagineer Trevor Bryant on the New Test Track – Video and Photos

30 April 2012 by Suzannah Otis 2 Comments

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At the Summer to Remember Media Event I had the opportunity to ask Imagineering Show Producer Trevor Bryant to give us the scoop on what the re-imagined Test Track will offer. Take a peek at this video and see what he shared!

Here are some images of the concept art that was displayed as well. I am loving the “Tron”esque, futuristic glow!
Test Track concept art
Test Track concept art

 

Test Track concept art
Test Track concept art - on-ride portion

 

Test Track concept art
Test Track concept art - on-ride portion

 

Test Track concept art
Test Track concept art - guest area

 

Test Track concept art
Test Track concept art - ride icons

 

How do you like the new feel of the attraction, now sponsored by Chevrolet, compared to when it was sponsored by GM?
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Filed Under: Disney Attractions, Disney News, Guest Authors, Walt Disney World Tagged With: attractions, Chevrolet, concept art, Epcot, EPCOT Center, gm, Imagineer, Imagineer interview, New Test Track, photos, rides, test track, Test Track concept art, Test Track refurbishment, trevor bryant, TRON, Walt Disney World

Guest Post: Guide For Bringing First-timers to Walt Disney World

8 November 2011 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

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Today brings another great guest post, this time from Scott Gustin, a Senior Web Producer at MyFox8.com in North Carolina, and major Disney fan. You can find Scott on twitter @scgustinwdw and writing for his tech-savvy site, TheSocialMouse.com, where he discusses Disney’s social media forays and use of technology. I love his blog and tweets and am so happy to share his post here today. Below he shares his tips – from personal experience – about visiting Walt Disney World with guests who’ve never experienced the wonder before.

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10 Tips for Taking Newbies to Disney World

 

At some point in your Disney-filled life, you will accept an incredibly scary challenge: taking someone to Disney World for the first time.

Now, let me begin by stating I will primarily focusing on adult touring. While taking a child to Disney World for thefirst time is likely one of the greatest things you will ever do, taking another adult that doesn’t quite appreciate Disney the same way you do can be a real challenge.

A few years ago, my wife and I took two of our best friends to Walt Disney World. We have been dozens of times and go several times each year. After hearing us rave about Disney, they decided they wanted to tag along for a trip to the Happiest Place on Earth. Our friends, also married, flew down to Orlando and met us for the second half of our vacation. They were both making their first-ever visit to Walt Disney World. During this trip, I learned some valuable lessons for making the trip enjoyable for you and the first-timers.

1. Lower your expectations of your friends.
The bottom-line: your friends will never love Disney as much as you do, no matter how much you want them to. Despite gathering dozens of fastpasses, buy them free Dole Whips and locating the perfect spot for fireworks, it’s likely not going to happen. Instead of expecting your friends to reach your high level of Disney fandom, just do your best to show the first-timers the “best of the best.”

Celebrate a Dream Come True parade 2. Take it slow!
One mistake I have made is feeling obligated to show the first-timers EVERYTHING. While it is well known being at the gates at 8 a.m. is the best way to get the most out of your day, your friends don’t know this. You can recommend getting up early by mentioning shorter wait times, but ultimately, I would leave it up to the first-timers to decide if you will be at the park for rope drop.

 

3. Do the parades!

We have seen most of the parades several times. However, with first-timers, you must hit the parades. While I’m not a huge fan, I know that parades are a big part of the Disney experience and what people expect when they visit the parks.

 

4. Make a list of the “best of the best”

I always write down the must-do attractions for each park. Then, before the trip, I go over the list with the first-timers and find out what they are most interested in. If your friends don’t ride roller coasters, there’s no need to have them speed walk to Everest at 9 a.m. An itinerary is also a good idea when planning the trip. While your friends will likely make fun of you, I find it necessary when taking first-timers.

 

5. Know the first-timers   

Before the trip, talk to them about their expectations. You should have a clear understanding of what they expect, their knowledge of Disney, dietary expectations, cost limitations, etc. Talking before the trip will help you avoid unnecessary stress while at Disney World.

 

6. Be knowledgeable

I find that first-timers really appreciate those little “secrets” about the parks. Share your knowledge!

 

7. Be cliché

Buy the Mickey hats, get your first-timers the “first visit” pins, ride ‘It’s a Small World.’ Do all the cliché things to help fulfill the first-timers’ expectations of the Disney experience.

 

Cinderella Castle Dream Lights 8. Pick the perfect time of year

If possible, be sure to pick a time of year that is best for the first-timers. If possible, pick a time of year that has low crowds and cooler temperatures. If the first-timers are less about rides and more about the experience, consider going after Thanksgiving so they can see the Christmas decorations at Disney World.

 

9. Bring snacks into the parks  

While this seems like an obvious tip for everyone, I find that first-timers always have a hard time with the cost of food inside the parks. By packing snacks, it can help offset that frustration when the first-timers realize food inside the parks can be expensive.

 

10. Don’t stress out!

Planning a trip for other people is always stressful. However, if you clearly understand the first-timers’ expectations, you can better plan a trip that is fun for all. If you get stressed out, so will everyone else. As always, never forget – you’re at Disney World!

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What are your top tips for traveling with newbies? Share them below! Big thanks to Scott for sharing his thoughts with us today. Be sure to follow Scott on twitter ( @scgustinwdw & @thesocialmouse ) and check out TheSocialMouse.com.

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Filed Under: Disney Planning, Guest Authors, Walt Disney World Tagged With: Disney planning, Disney tips, First-timers at Disney, First-timers at WDW, Guest author, Guest Authors, Guest posts, Scott Gustin, The Social Mouse, TheSocialMouse.com, Top 10, WDW Tips

Guest Post-Spooky Top 5: Disney Halloween Movies

28 October 2011 by Ryan P. Wilson Leave a Comment

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Here’s another great post from Ryan Wilson of the Main St. Gazette – enjoy! ~Zanna

The leaves have been rustling here, and it is getting darker earlier in the evenings, which can mean only one thing, in just a few days princesses, pirates, monsters, cowgirls, and bugs will be descending upon our streets in search of sweet treats! This, of course, makes it the perfect time to watch a spooky movie with the ones you love the most. Here are my top five Disney flickswhich are sure to give you just as many tricks as they do treats!I need to start off with two dishonorable mentions. Arguably, the two most frightening attractions in Walt Disney World and Disneyland are The Haunted Mansion and The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror. Films based upon both of these attractions have been created, with all-star casts attached, but both features fall well short of their potential. Still, for images that remind you of your favorite attraction, or just a bit of family fun, they will do the trick in a pinch.

Number 5 – The Black Cauldron (1985)
The Black Cauldron, it is said, has the power to bring the dead back to life as a warrior horde. The Horned King, a villain who is sure to send shivers down your spine, seeks the cauldron in order to raise just such an army. However, this is a classic fantasy journey, and the scores of undead are met with plenty to smile and laugh about. This animated feature was seven years in the making, and it feels as if it could have used a couple more years cooking in the cauldron, but still manages to deliver the good vs. evil action!

Number 4 – Hocus Pocus (1993)
Set in Salem, MA in the 17th Century and the early 1990s, this film features a trio of inadvertently humorous witches brought back from beyond the grave. The Sanderson sisters, portrayed by Bette Midler, Kathy Najimy and Sarah Jessica Parker, use their witchy ways to suck the life out of children in order to maintain the young(ish) beauty (if they say so…). After being summoned to the present day, it is up to the children who accidentally brought them back to stop them, along with their talking cat. This film shows that comedy really can be scary!

Sleepy Hollow's Headless Horseman

Number 3 – Animated Shorts
There are tons of animated shorts that would make for the perfect Halloween viewing. These are just a few of my favorites spooky shorts. The Legend of Sleepy Hollow (1949) features Ichabod Crane who has run afoul of the Headless Horseman. Bing Crosby’s narration is sure to give you chills! Night on Bald Mountain (Fantasia– 1940) is the darkest segment of Fantasia and features the heavy Chernabog, the second most memorable character from Fantasia who remains a time-tested, fan-favorite Disney Villain to this day. Chernabog’s beckoning to the dead is sure to frighten even the bravest of souls. Lastly, The Skeleton Dance (1929). This short is the first of the Silly Symphonies and is sure to spark ghoulish grins for the whole family.

Number 2 – Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
This Halloween-Christmas hybrid, which fans watch all the year round, features jack Skellington, the King of the Pumpkin Patch who wishes for something more that scares and finds it in Christmas. While the citizens of Halloween Town may seem terrifying to adults at first glance, the non-menacing way in which they are utilized, along with the terrific songs, call kids back to this film again and again. Though the dastardly Oogie Boogie, may draw out a scream or two, especially from insect-phobic children and moms!

Mister Dark

Number 1 – Something Wicked This Way Comes (1983)
This movie, featuring Jonathan Pryce as the enigmatic Mr. Dark, is the real deal folks. Based upon Ray Bradbury’s novel of the same name, Mr. Dark and his carnival blow into Greentown one fateful autumn evening. They’ve come to town seeking to grant the residents’ wildest wishes… for a price. What secrets are held within the Pandemonium Carnival and can Mr. Dark be stopped by a librarian and two young boys? You’ll have to watch the film to find out, but be warned, it is not for the faint of heart!

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Filed Under: Guest Authors, Movie Reviews, Movies & Books Tagged With: Black Cauldron, Disney Halloween Movies, Halloween, Hocus Pocus, Legend of Sleepy Hollow, Nightmare Before Christmas, NMBC, Ryan P. Wilson, Something Wicked This Way Comes, Top 5, Top 5 Halloween Movies

VIDEO: Fun Overview of LEGOLAND Florida on Opening Day

26 October 2011 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

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I had some friends along with my family at the Grand Opening of LEGOLAND Florida back on October 15, and my good friend Nicole recorded some of our experiences that day. This is just one short example of the many sights to enjoy at LEGOLAND. I’ll still be spotlighting a few of my favorites in the coming days here on Zannaland but until then, enjoy this video from Nicole!


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Filed Under: Florida Theme Parks & Attractions, Guest Authors, LEGOLAND Florida Tagged With: Guest posts, LEGOLAND, LEGOLAND Florida, LEGOLAND Florida Grand Opening, LEGOLAND theme park, Nicole Siscaretti, Polk County FL, video, Winter Haven FL

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