Top 10 Disney California Adventure Attractions Pt. 1

Top 10 Disney California Adventure Attractions Part 1

Disney California Adventure (DCA) may have received some bad-press in the past, but the 2012 re-dedication has really turned that around! Now it truly feels like a Disney Park. To honor Disneyland’s newer sibling, we’ve put together a list for the Top 10 DCA Attractions! Please note that, with so many attractions, some favorites might be left out. If your favorite isn’t here, you might find it on our list for the Top 5 Underrated DCA Attractions! Please understand; Every effort was made to be as inclusive as possible!

[Note: Don’t forget, this is part 1of 2! Part 2 comes next week! want to see our list for the Top 5 Underrated Disney California Adventure Attractions? Or maybe our lists for the Top 10 Underrated Disneyland Attractions Part 1 and Part 2]

So, without further ado…

Red Car Trolleys

The Red Car Trolleys are the cherry on top of DCA’s relatively recent updates. The Imagineers really outdid themselves trying to fix DCA’s problems and bring it the signature Disney Magic it so rightly deserved. Now a scenic ride on the famous Red Car Trolleys provides that extra detail that fully immerses guests into the world of imagination. Just like the Disneyland Railroad, the Red Car Trolleys have become DCA’s signature mode of transportation! Welcome to the Hollywood of the Golden Age; not exactly presented how it really was, but rather how we remember it in our hearts! Just like Main Street at Disneyland, DCA’s Buena Vista Street takes us on a nostalgic journey to something quintessentially American; torn straight out of our romantic dreams of old Hollywood. With these beautifully crafted replicas of the famous vehicles, we finally feel as if the illusion is completed. Now we know that DCA is a Disney park; with the magic that we have come to expect from one!

2 d — The Red Car Trolley Newsboy Show is a real treat!

California Screamin’

2 f — Seriously…the vintage poster theme was a GREAT IDEA!

A rip-roaring ride over Paradise Pier, California Screamin’ truly is a great experience. While not as completely immersive as other coasters at the resort like Big Thunder Mountain or Space Mountain, California Screamin’ is still one of the best attractions at DCA. Have any adrenaline junkies in your party? Then this ride is a must-see! Themed to the old beautiful wooden coasters of seaside boardwalks, Californa Screamin’ takes guests on a ride that they won’t forget. Don’t worry, the coaster only looks like one of those rickety wooden coasters. It’s really made of super-safe steel and won’t break your back with its bumps and jolts! It may simulate the clickety-clack of one of those ancient rides, but it’s much more advanced than that. Are you scared someone down on the boardwalk will hear you scream? Not to worry; the revolutionary technology of the ride has scream buffers to muffle the sound! Just trust us, it’s worth the screamin’!

disneyland — It certainly adds a lot of beauty to the pier landscape!

It’s Tough to Be a Bug

Ever wanted to see what the world looked like from the perspective of a bug? Ever wanted to talk to a grasshopper? Anything is possible at Disneyland Resort! In It’s Tough to Be a Bug, the Imagineers shrink you down to the size of an insect and plop you into the whimsical world of Pixar’s A Bug’s Life! Join inventor Flik for an educational show about how bugs aren’t that bad after all. The show is completely immersive and, via interactive technology hidden throughout the theater and the seats, really pulls you in! Originally created as Animal Kingdom’s premiere attraction (receiving the honor of playing inside the iconic Tree of Life), this show really is spectacular! The show includes a 3D film, live Audio-Animatronics (including a very advanced Hopper figure), water jets, real-time scents, live-action props, and even bugs that crawl under you right where you sit! Trust us, you won’t understand until you experience this attraction for yourself!

2 i — The Hopper Animatronic is super complex!

Frozen-Live at the Hyperion

2 m — The show is quite beautiful and elaborate.

We cannot stress enough about how good this show is! Yes, we are very sad that the phenomenal show ‘Aladdin-Live at the Hyperion’ had to go away, but the show that replaced it is just as beautiful! A little-known fact; the Aladdin show that was originally created for this theater was the main inspiration for the super-popular Broadway performance! To make way for Prince Ali to move onto Broadway, the show was replaced with one based on the ever-popular Frozen film. Now you can relive the movie again in a live performance full of high-quality sets, costumes, music, and production design. The high-caliber show will have you singing ‘Let It Go’ all day long again! With puppetry, pageantry, lights, music, and imagination, Frozen-Live at the Hyperion is a truly breathtaking show! Thaw your frozen heart with the true love and sisterhood of this Disney classic! And now that Frozen is getting its turn on Broadway, who knows might be coming next to DCA’s famous Hyperion Theater!

2 k — The actor/singers are some of the best the resort has to offer.

Grizzly River Run

2 q — Grizzly Peak, DCA’s original icon, adds a breathtaking vista to the park’s landscape!

An Opening Day attraction, Grizzly River Run was one of the few original things about DCA that seemed to avoid scrutiny. The ride was good enough that it avoided much of the backlash and disappointment of fans who had come to the park in the early days of its operation. We fully understand why it survived! This ride is a rollicking adventure on a careening river of mayhem and fun. Take a trip into the California wilderness and brave the rapids of DCA’s original icon, Grizzly Peak! Face the temperamental geysers, brave the plummeting falls, smell the fresh pines, and see if you can endure the growling winds of Grizzly Peak’s cave! Just remember, you will get wet! WE ARE NOT KIDDING!

Enjoy our list? Like and subscribe! new posts coming weekly! Until next time, we hope you have a magical week!

Top 10 Underrated Disney Sidekicks Part 2

Top 10 Underrated Disney Sidekicks Part 2

In Loving Memory of Francis Xavier “X” Atencio (1919-2017)

Disney has always been known for having the most memorable characters in animation, and with every memorable main character comes the lovable sidekick! Whether carrying out their partner’s plans, or offering moral support, the sidekick often steals the show. Even then, there are a few of these Disney buddies that just don’t get the attention they deserve. To honor them, here’s Part 2 of our picks for the Top 10 Underrated Disney Sidekicks!

Don’t forget; this is Part 2 of 2! Click here if you want to read Part 1

[Note: For this list, we’re sticking with sidekicks from the 56 current films in ‘Disney’s Animated Canon’.If you want to see more underrated Disney stuff, you can check out our lists for Animation, Disneyland attractions Part 1 and Part 2, and Disney California Adventure Attractions!]

So, without further ado…

Maximus

This lovable horse seems to be far more competent than any ordinary soldier in the kingdom…probably a lot smarter too! With a doglike manner, and an eye for justice, Maximus became an unexpected friend to the very fugitive that he had been tasked to hunt down. As one of the most hilarious and entertaining parts of Tangled, Maximus always brings out a laugh when he’s attempting to outwit Flynn Rider, or stealing the scene with another lovable sidekick; Pascal. We’re very glad when Flynn cleans up his act as Eugene Fitzherbert and becomes unlikely friends with this noble steed, otherwise we may have never gotten to see Maximus’s hilarious adventure as one of Rapunzel and Eugene’s ringbearers in Tangled Ever After!

Dopey

The original, lovable, clumsy, and all-around wonderful comedian from Disney’s very first full-length feature film, Dopey will always have a place in our hearts! Originally one of Disney’s most popular characters, Dopey started the legacy for all Disney sidekick characters that followed. The silent star made us wish we could wiggle our ears and made us want to try out diamond spectacles! Not to mention his extreme athletic skills at balancing on top of two other dwarfs! He may not talk much, but he has a charm that enchants millions of Disney fans around the globe; even after 80 years! With his enthusiasm, simple-minded kindness, and affinity to trip on his own robe, Dopey will always have the last laugh!

Jaq and Gus

1 p.gif — destined to be friends forever!

Ok, we know that these guys are really two characters instead of one, but could we really have one on this list without the other? Let’s face it, just like Lumière and Cogsworth or Timon and Pumbaa, Jaq and Gus couldn’t be as lovable without each other to interact with. The most loyal pair of mice you’ll ever meet (besides good old Mickey and Minnie of course!), Jaq and Gus would do anything to help their kindhearted friend Cinderella fulfill her dreams. Considering how many dangers they face in their quest to help Cinderella find true love, we think that these mice are the real heroes! They faced the evil cat Lucifer, stole back the key of Cinderella’s freedom from Lady Tremaine, and climbed up a mountain-sized staircase to try and get it back to her! Their bravery is astounding! With Jaq’s shrewd and mischievous mind, and Gus’s selfless bravery, no one could ask for better friends! Gus-Gus fight Lucify! Help Cinderelly!

Baloo

1 k — When good old Papa Bear’s around, that’s when the bear necessities are found!

Now we’re getting into those characters who blur the line between the underrated and the best of the best, but we still think that Baloo doesn’t get as much credit as some of the more iconic sidekicks. This ‘jungle bum’ (as uptight Bagheera calls him), always knows how to grab ahold of a swinging beat when he hears one! So, fall apart in Baloo’s backyard and rest at ease with the Bear Necessities of Life; you’ll want to stay in the jungle too after you’ve spent a day with this huggable companion! A true friend who risked his life to save Mowgli from the opulent Shere Khan, old papa-bear Baloo has got it where it counts. Voiced to perfection by Disney personality Phil Harris, Baloo the Bear will have you wishing that you could dance like him! We’ll tell you something true; the Bear Necessities of Life will come to you!

Tigger

1 a — T-I-Double-Guh- Er! That spells Tigger!

Again, here’s another sidekick that deserves to be ranked with the best, but often gets pushed under the rug when compared to the likes of The Genie or Olaf. In our opinion, Winnie the Pooh would not truly be Pooh without this bouncy, trouncy, flouncy, pouncy, and fun friend! He may get a little overexcited sometimes, and think that he’s the best at everything (He somehow thinks that ice skating is what Tiggers do best…we don’t know how he feels about that after what happened to poor Rabbit), but he’s a true friend through and through. An expert on Heffalumps and Woozles, and the resident bouncer of the Hundred Acre wood, Tigger always delights us and leaves us wanting more fun. Paul Winchell delivered a hilarious performance as this lisping stuffed cat, and Jim Cummings (also the official new voice for Pooh) carried on the legacy after Mr. Winchell passed away. But whoever is voicing this energetic enigma, the character is alway sure to steal the show! The most wonderful thing about Tigger? He’s the only one! And that’s the end of our list! As Tigger always says “TTFN; Ta, Ta For Now!

Enjoy our list? Like and Share! Let us know your favorite sidekicks in the comments and stay tuned for more Disney fun every week! Until next time; have a magical week!

X Marks the Spot; A Tribute to X Atencio

In loving memory of Francis Xavier Atencio (1919-2017); today, we honor one of the greatest Disney Imagineers of all time.

This week, we were saddened by the news that X Atencio passed away on September 10, 2017; he was 98 years old.

Francis Xavier Atencio, fondly referred to as ‘X‘ by his friends, was a beloved animator and Imagineer at Disney. He served the company for 65 years ( he started at 19 years old) and knew Walt Disney personally. In fact, Atencio was favored by Walt as a show-writer at Imagineering (the Disney branch that oversees the creation of the Disney Parks). His credits in the company include, but are not limited to, animation in films as early as Fantasia, the script for Adventure Thru Inner Space, The Haunted Mansion, and Pirates of the Caribbean at Disneyland , and as a voice-actor in many of those same attractions. He is probably most well known to fans as the voice of the talking skull at Pirates of the Caribbean, and for penning the extremely catchy lyrics of ‘Yo Ho, Yo Ho, A Pirates Life For Me’ and ‘Grim Grinning Ghosts’. X Atencio rightfully became a ‘Disney Legend’ in 1996 (the award is the highest honor the company can bestow).

Walt Disney with a young X Atencio. Walt knew talent when he saw it!

There is no doubt that we will miss this Master Imagineer greatly , and his works will live on in the hearts of millions for years to come! Because of you, we sail with theiving pirates on the Seven Seas, dance with grinning ghosts beneath the lonely trees, and sing the songs of all your symphonies! May you Rest In Peace our Pirate Captain, our Maestro of Music, and our Great Storyteller! We miss you dearly X Atencio!

X Atencio drawing what looks to be Winnie the Pooh. We will miss you, and your creative genius, dearly!

Top 10 Underrated Disney Sidekicks Part 1

Top 10 Underrated Disney Sidekicks Part 1

Disney always creates the most memorable characters in animation, and with every memorable main character, there comes the lovable Disney sidekick! Whether they’re carrying out their partner’s plans, or offering moral support, the sidekick often steals the show.

Even then, there are a few of these overlooked Disney buddies that just don’t get the attention that they deserve. To honor these stupendous sidekicks, here’s Part 1 of our picks for the Top 10 Underrated Disney Sidekicks! Now that Part 2 is up, you can find it HERE!

[Note: For this list, we’re sticking with sidekicks from the 56 current films in ‘Disney’s Animated Canon’. Also, if you want to see more underrated Disney stuff, you can check out our lists for Animation, Disneyland Part 1 and Part 2 , and Disney California Adventure!]

So, without further ado…

Timothy Mouse

Poor little Dumbo didn’t have a friend in the world, until this wonderful mouse came along. Dumbo’s best friend, biggest supporter, and faithful protector, Timothy Q. Mouse has a heart of gold. While not as popular as other sidekicks, Timothy was one of the first to touch the hearts of millions. With a brave heart, unwavering faith, and good old-fashioned determination, Timothy Mouse stuck with Dumbo until the end; finally realizing their collective dream of Dumbo becoming a star and astonishing the world with unbelievable story of the amazing elephant who could fly like a bird!

LeFou

1113 — He may be the simple-minded goon, but he’s also a hilarious!

With a name that literally translates to ‘The Fool’, Lefou could certainly use a little more common sense. Gaston’s number one thug and yes-man, Lefou feeds off Gaston’s popularity; getting whatever praise is left over from the huntsman’s adoring fans. Not much brighter than his boss, Lefou is still quite memorable for his impromptu singing skills and motivational pep-talks. Also, who can forget his awesome impression of a snowman? Who cares if he can’t even spell his best friend’s name! With the strongest and most handsome man in town as your buddy, what could possibly go wrong?

1121 — When Gaston was a lad he ate four dozen eggs…but we think LeFou might want to stick to cereal.

Koda

This little firecracker of a cub seems to have boundless energy and enthusiasm. He may talk too much for Kenai’s taste, but for us, he just comes off as lovable. It certainly breaks our hearts when Koda is rejected by Kenai at first, because we wouldn’t even think twice about staying in the body of bear for this little buddy (okay, maybe not forever, but you get the point). He’s the little brother you’ve always wanted, and even though he can be a bit of a handful, he’s got it where it counts! Thank goodness this little brother finally got what he so desperately wanted; a family that’s always there for him, no matter what!

1114 — He certainly loves to talk…kind of like us if you think about it.

Iago

1116 — This sidekick to the Sultan’s Vizier may get a bit too outrageous sometimes…

Okay, we know we probably shouldn’t like villain sidekicks, but Iago is someone who always seems to make us laugh; even when we know that it might not be a good thing we’re laughing at! He’s just so gosh darn outrageous that it’s hard not to let out a giggle every once and while. But then again, what did we expect from the hilariously comic vocals of Gilbert Gottfried. Seriously, after learning Gottfried was the talent behind this sarcastic parrot, we’re ‘so worked up that we’re molting!‘ With Iago’s spot-on voice impressions (seriously, how does he do that Jasmine voice?), and tough guy attitude, Iago makes the perfect backdrop for Jafar’s more subdued villainy; even if they are both just as crazy in the end!

Kronk

1120 — He may have gotten mixed up in the wrong crowd, but Kronk truly is a good guy at heart!

In our opinion, Kronk is literally the best thing about Emperor’s New Groove and that’s saying a lot! In a movie full of comedic irreverence, Kronk takes the cake (or in this case, spinach puff!), and makes us laugh out loud every time. While not the sharpest tool in the shed, Kronk is a lovable goofball, and we can’t blame Pacha’s family for wanting to ‘adopt’ Kronk as their uncle; even after Yzma tried to burn their house to the ground! It’s a good thing that both Kronk’s Shoulder Angel and Shoulder Devil could agree on fighting back against Yzma, or Kronk wouldn’t have accidentally saved the day! With a superhero jaw, and the perfect physique, it’s hard to believe that he also happens to be such a great cook! Talk about having it all. Voiced to perfection by Disney luminary and television personality, Patrick Warburton, Kronk will always charm us with his impromptu theme music. Just remember, junior chipmunks must be versed in all the woodland creatures…*nods head in understanding* Riiiiiiight!

Enjoy our list? Like and Share! Let us know your favorite sidekicks in the comments and stay tuned for more Disney fun every week! Until next time, have a magical week!

Top 5 Underrated Disney California Adventure Attractions

Top 5 Underrated Disney California Adventure Attractions

While not as beloved as its much older sibling across the street, Disney California Adventure (DCA) is still a great theme park. And with the 2012 rededication, it now truly feels like a Disney Park. However, even with all the great changes it’s gone through, DCA still has some offerings that get pushed under the rug. Here’s our list of the Top 5 Underrated Disney California Adventure Attractions. Please note that, with so many attractions, we had to limit the list to keep it economical. Every effort was made to be as inclusive as possible!

(Note: want to see our lists for the Top Underrated Disneyland Attractions? Check out Part 1 HERE, and Part 2 HERE)

Animation Building

8b7ecfd513a532b010250d0a1bbfa8d9--disneyland-resort-disney-animation — Beast’s Library changes from cursed to restored before your very eyes!

From the exterior look of this attraction, one wouldn’t expect it to be anything more than a sideshow or passing fancy, but there is so much more to this magnificent building than meets the eye. Not only does this building host the more well-known attraction Turtle Talk with Crush, but it also features three other distinct experiences that are well worth checking out! Branching out from a gorgeous high-vaulted room which surrounds you with videos of Disney development art, as well as animations-in-progress, synchronized to classic Disney tunes, these experiences are not to be missed. Perhaps you want to learn to draw Disney style? Maybe you want to say hi to Elsa? You can! In the Sorcerer’s Workshop, you can make your own animations while listening to the real Magic Mirror. Or you could take the cute character quizzes of the Beast’s Library while the space periodically changes as the Enchanted Rose wilts before your very eyes!

38d4f190a0377398a6b4b69223272ea0 — Both Sorcerer’s Workshop and Beast’s Library are stunning examples of Imagineering craftsmanship, set-dressing, and design!

Goofy’s Sky School

e4f1dd1152dd85b1dd0a5071854fa170 — This poster captures the whimsical wonder of Goofy’s lovable clumsiness.

Replacing the cheesey Mulholland Madness Attraction, Goofy’s Sky School is a very welcome addition to the post-2012 update. Loosely inspired by Goofy’s Barnstormers at Walt Disney World, this cute coaster is a great start for small kids who are just starting to get into thrill rides. The ride, based on the famous Goofy ‘How To’ shorts, takes us on a fun and mayhem filled adventure through Goofy’s lesson’s on ‘how to fly a plane’. Obviously, with Goofy being such a lovable klutz, the lessons don’t really go as planned and result in a whimsical roller coaster of cartoon mayhem!

nfp058943LARGE — Goofy’s Sky School is loosely based on The Barnstormer at Walt Disney World as evidenced by this poster showing the similar concept. Even though WDW’s version is considered by most to be the best of the two, Goofy’s Sky School is still fun!

Monsters, Inc. Mike and Sully to the Rescue

midl2342353 — Seriously…this ride is adorable!

While not one the most popular attractions in DCA by a long shot, Monsters, Inc. is much better than most people say. If you compare it to most of the similar movie themed ‘dark-rides’ of Disneyland, you will realize that the production values of this ride are quite high, even if they aren’t the best. And since it thankfully replaced the unwanted Superstar Limo attraction, Monsters, Inc definitely improves the space it’s in! The characters are adorable, the sets are well crafted, especially regarding the limited space they’re built in. Also, most people don’t realize that the eerie wisecracking Roz Audio-Animatronic which interacts with guest in real time was a huge technological breakthrough at the time and paved the way for the likes of Mr. Potato Head at Toy Story Midway Mania. The Marvel Land that everyone is excited about is going to be amazing, but it’s sad that most people don’t care that this attraction might get razed to make way for those new offerings.

Monster's Inc. Sulley Hidden Mickey DCA (Paul Hiffmeyer, Disneyland) photo(c)Disney — It may not be the best ride, but it sure is cute!

Mickey’s Fun Wheel

386bffca6b4cfbd7a109ea3e36ca9893 — This vintage-looking poster captures the feeling of DCA’s massive 2012 remodel.

For the record, every change made in Paradise Pier has been for the better and all the rides in that refurbished land are a bit underrated. We highly recommend riding California Screamin’, The Golden Zephyr, Silly Symphony Swings, Toy Story Midway Mania, etc., and attending the jaw dropping World of Color. However, we wanted to take time to emphasize the beauty and majesty of this oft-overlooked attraction. Most people view it simply as a backdrop and show-piece for World of Color, but the ride itself is quite breathtaking. Replacing the gaudy and cheap looking Sun Wheel, Mickey’s face is a welcome addition of beauty and charm in the landscape. Taking you to a height from which you can see almost the entire park, and letting you view it at a much more leisurely pace than Guardians of The Galaxy: Mission Breakout, Mickey’s Fun Wheel will steal your breath away. It is a high-flying experience that we guarantee you will not want to miss! With its sparkling technicolor show that lights up the night like a rainbow dream, how can anyone resist this gorgeous experience?

Mickeys-Fun-Wheel — Mickey’s Fun Wheel at night, now a central icon for the newer DCA, is literally one of the most breathtaking things you will **ever** see at a Disney Park…especially during World of Color!

The Little Mermaid-Ariel’s Undersea Adventure

mermaid-attraction-poster — This poster gives us the feels!

This adorable dark-ride was made with love for you and your little Princesses and Princes; granting your wish to join Ariel and her friends under the sea! Far more advanced than similar film ‘Dark-Rides’ at Disneyland, and yet before the advantages of Walt Disney World’s Frozen Ever After ‘projection mapping’ Audio-Animatronics faces, the ride has highly sophisticated Audio-Animatronics that literally appear as if they are the actual drawings simply transplanted into real life. Because they were forced to use ‘old-school’ mechanical Animatronics, we believe it caused them to be more artistic and creative with the character’s facial movements. Following the same events of the film, Ariel’s Undersea Adventure takes you into a nostalgia fueled trip through brilliantly crafted scenes and gorgeous visuals. Sadly, due to the more popular attractions nearby, Ariel’s Undersea Adventure rarely exceeds a 5-minute wait and is usually passed by.

little-mermaid-ariels-undersea-adventure_primary3 — Under the Sea!

Enjoy our list? Like and share! Let us know your favorite DCA attractions in the comments!

Top 10 Underrated Disneyland Attractions Part 2

Top 10 Underrated Disneyland Attractions Part 2

Welcome to Part 2 of the Top 10 Underrated Disneyland Attractions! If you haven’t already, make sure to check out the first part to this list HERE. This list honors the overlooked rides and experiences of Walt Disney’s original Magic Kingdom in historical order; specifically geared towards returning Disneyland fans. With a whopping 48 total attractions, some favorites are bound to be left out to keep this list short. Please be aware that EVERY EFFORT was made to be as inclusive possible.

Note: Keep in mind that this is Part 2 of 2! Underrated Disney California Adventure attractions have their own list (HERE) and they will not be included in this post!

So, without further ado…

Alice in Wonderland (1958)

This whimsical journey through Wonderland is quite popular with returning Disneyland guests, but is often overlooked by Disney merchandising and marketing. Its thematic sibling and counterpart, the Mad Tea Party, seems to get all the media coverage and attention. The spinning cups have always been a perennial favorite among park goers, but the far more elaborate dark-ride which sits adjacent to it deserves some praise as well. Alice in Wonderland is a little longer than Peter Pan’s flight and just as magical. With extremely effective, but surprisingly simple special effects, bright and happy colors, memorable music, and a madcap style that dazzles the eye, it is worth the wait in line. And now, with the relatively recent updates such as projection mapping technology, this ride is more engaging than ever! Let yourself be drawn into the crazy world of Alice’s Wonderland and feel the child in you shout for joy.

Matterhorn Bobsleds (1959)

In 1959, the Matterhorn Bobsleds made history as the world’s first tubular steel roller-coaster in a world dominated by rickety wooden thrills. The iconic mountain which towers above everything in sight was a personal favorite for Walt. Inspired by Walt’s own trips to the real-life Matterhorn Mountain, the Matterhorn Bobsleds was an attempt to recreate the feeling of exhilaration one would get from careening down a snowy mountain in a sleek sled; including the danger! It’s a badly kept secret that Expedition Everest and its famous Yeti were directly inspired by this Disneyland original, and although the Walt Disney World masterpiece is far more famous, Matterhorn Mountain is not to be ignored. Space Mountain, Splash Mountain, and Big Thunder Mountain may get the most love, but Matterhorn Mountain lives in the hearts of millions of hardcore fans worldwide. And with the relatively recent addition of the Yeti stalking you in the tunnels alongside your bobsled as you ascend the mountain, the thrill has never felt so real!

Abominable-Snowman-Disneyland-Matterhorn-Concept — Concept art for the Matterhorn Updates. It literally feels like the Yeti is stalking you and roaring in your face!

Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room (1963)

A pioneer for the Audio-Animatronics that would one day populate Pirates of the Caribbean and so many other Disney Masterpieces, Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room is a nostalgic classic that is as endearing as it is colorful. The Enchanted Tiki Room is a blast from the past and is one of the attractions that was extremely close to Walt’s heart. He poured his creative imagination and whimsical sense of innocent fun into a beautifully realized show filled with singing plants, animals, and Tikis! Grab a world-famous Dole-Whip treat and watch as Jose the macaw and all his friends serenade you with tropical fun! Often passed up as old and outdated, much like its neighbor The Jungle Cruise, Tiki Room still commands a deep respect from Disneyland fans from around the globe. In a world populated by adrenaline junkies and savvy smartphone users, some old fashioned wholesome entertainment can be a good thing.

Tiki-RoomLARGE — The Tiki Room may not be the first attraction on everyone’s bucket list, but it certainly was one of Walt’s favorites!

Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln (1965)

Many guests pass this gem without even realizing its there in the first place. Situated amidst the shops and eateries of Main Street, U.S.A, The Main Street Opera House is home to one of Walt’s greatest accomplishments; the advent of the fully-realized Audio-Animatronic. Without Abe Lincoln, Pirates of the Caribbean and other rides like it would never have existed the way they are today. This show may be a bit outdated, and more educational than most park offerings, but it was one of the last shows that Walt personally directed and supervised completely. It is an inspirational show about Walt Disney’s love for America and its values of equality and opportunity, and his unending respect for a man who shared his beliefs. Centering around one of the most sophisticated Audio-Animatronic characters ever, Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln is probably as close as any of us will get to the real Abraham Lincoln in our lives, and the result is uncannily realistic. Because of its nature, and its age, the show is not necessarily for everyone, but for those who do love it, it remains a deeply poignant performance that still brings tears of pride to the eyes of many.

The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh (2003)

Literally and figuratively overshadowed by its infinitely more popular neighbor Splash Mountain, The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh deserves a bit more love. Due to the fact that it replaced the much-loved Country Bear Jamboree, this ride has gotten some bad press from longtime Disney fans. However, It’s actually a very good ride! For an attraction geared towards children, Winnie the Pooh offers an extremely cute journey that is not to be missed. With the beloved characters, song, and story from the animated Disney classic, the story enchants millions who ride through it. Featuring simple and yet extremely ingenious special effects, and eye-popping colors, the ride really does bring you back to your childhood days and makes you feel like you’re having a very happy winds-day with Tigger, Pooh, and Piglet! Especially if you have young children, this ride is not to be missed!

Like our list? Check out Part 1 if you haven’t already! Like and share; let us know in the comments what your favorite Disneyland attractions are!

Top 10 Underrated Disneyland Attractions Part 1

Top 10 Underrated Disney Attractions Part 1

With stories and experiences unlike any other, Disneyland is known for its world-famous attractions. However, some of these amazing attractions still seem to get overlooked when compared with the E-ticket thrills. This list honors those overlooked rides and experiences in historical order; specifically geared towards returning Disneyland fans. With a whopping 48 total attractions, some favorites are bound to be left out to keep this list a reasonable length. Please be aware that EVERY EFFORT was made to be as inclusive possible.

Note: Keep in mind that this is Part 1 of 2! You can find Part 2 here now that it’s up! Underrated Disney California Adventure attractions have their own list (HERE) and they will not be included in this post!

So, without further ado…

Disneyland Railroad (Opening Day, 1955)

91JEcUdnJCL._SL1500_ — Now loading on Track No. 1 for a trip around Walt Disney’s Magic Kingdom!

Most people see the Disneyland Railroad and assume that it’s just a fancy mode of transportation which guests can use to travel around the park. However, there is so much more to this attraction than meets the eye. Believe it or not, the average guest is completely unaware that the Disneyland Railroad travels through a living-breathing Grand Canyon, and then travels back in time to when dinosaurs ruled the Earth! It’s one of the park’s most delightful hidden gems. The Disneyland Railroad was also extremely important to Walt, and was the one thing he insisted on his theme park having, even during the earliest stage of its development. With the recent 2017 update, this attraction is even more magical than ever!

Jungle Cruise (Opening Day, 1955)

World-Famous-Jungle-Cruise-1 — Absolutely breathtaking!

Considering the roller-coasters of today’s world, it is hard to believe that the Jungle Cruise was considered the park’s first ‘thrill-ride!’ It seems extremely tame by today’s standards, but at the time, it was extremely exciting. No one had seen anything like the Jungle Cruise before, and the mechanical animals were a huge technological innovation at the time. Because of its age, the Jungle Cruise often gets ignored in favor of its younger sibling; Indiana Jones Adventure: Temple of the Forbidden Eye. However, the cute animal dioramas, corny wisecracking skippers, and complete immersion into a man-made jungle, continues to fuel an enormous fanbase today.

Trader-Sam — The infamous Trader Sam. The deals he offers will put him ahead of the competition!

Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride (Opening Day, 1955)

5706799125_78b8e5d5dd_b — This stately manor acts as a beacon for all Disneyland fans.

Ask any Disneyland fan; they will all swear by quality of this Fantasyland Dark-Ride! For some reason, millions of zealous Disney fans are obsessed over this quirky ride through the eccentric Mr. Toad’s wild adventures. Usually overlooked in favor of its more famous next-door neighbor, Peter Pan’s flight, Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride does not disappoint. With a zany trip in a motorcar mishap, a courtroom, and bad dreams of punishment in the Underworld, Mr. Toad lets us climb into his own shoes for a day. Unlike Peter Pan, this attraction has proven too much for some very young children to handle, but for more mature audiences it proves to be a blast.

mr-toads-wild-ride-01 — After the ride was closed at Walt Disney World, fans of the Disneyland version rallied together to stop the same fate from befalling their version. The effort was a great success!

Snow White’s Scary Adventures (Opening Day, 1955)

maxresdefault (5) — If you look closely, you might just see the Evil Queen pull back the curtains of her lofty tower and gaze down the guests waiting to go inside!

When most Disneyland newcomers first visit Fantasyland, a trip to It’s a Small World, Dumbo the Flying Elephant, The Mad Tea Party, and Peter Pan’s Flight are always on the itinerary, but rarely do you hear them even mention Snow White’s Scary Adventures. The reason for this is in the name of the attraction. Most people visiting Fantasyland are visiting with their young children; and Snow White’s Scary Adventures has been reported by some to be too scary for some of those same children. However, if you have older kids, or love the Disney classic, we highly recommend this Disneyland classic. It’s well made, atmospheric, and very cute.

7434868574_20354237a4_z — Some scenes, like this one, have been deemed by some as too scary for small children.

Sleeping Beauty Castle Walkthrough (1957)

The Sleeping Beauty castle, While not as ornate as the Cinderella Castle at Walt Disney World, is the ***original*** Disney Park icon. it is even now the entire Walt Disney Company’s official logo!

The Sleeping Beauty Castle is without the question the central icon of entire Disneyland Resort. The original fantasy castle has been awe-inspiring since the opening day of Disneyland and has touched the hearts of millions since then. As a result, it’s hard to imagine that you couldn’t go inside the castle itself until several years after its opening. The charming interior of the castle tells the timeless story of Sleeping Beauty in kinetic, special-effects laden, dioramas like the famous Main Street store windows and is quite well done considering the extremely limited space inside. Due to a seven-year hiatus, most people didn’t even realize that it has since reopened. Considering that very few newcomers, and even a great deal of returning guests, know this self-guided attraction even exists, it deserves more attention than it has been receiving. Your dreams of traveling inside a real fairy tale castle can come true!

maxresdefault (4) — Most people pass right by the entrance which is tucked away to the side after you enter the castle.

Like our list? Stay tuned for Part 2 next week! Like and share; let us know in the comments what your favorite Disneyland attractions are!

Top 5 Underrated Disney Movies

Top 5 Underrated Disney Movies

With so many good films to remember in the Disney animated canon, it can sometimes be easy to overlook a few of the lesser-known masterpieces. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of what we think are the ‘Top 5 Underrated Disney Animated Films’, so that these great movies can finally receive their due. For this list, we will stick to 56 films that are presently part of Disney’s official ‘Animated Canon’. It’s very hard to narrow this list down to an economical number, so if your favorite movie isn’t featured, please let us know in the comments and please understand that we did our best to include what we could. Perhaps we’ll compile a Part 2 with your picks if enough people want it!

Now without further ado, here we go…

#5: Fantasia 2000

Fantasia has experienced a great deal of resurgence in popularity since its debut in the 40’s, but its sequel is still vastly overlooked even by Disney fans at large. The same concept of the original Fantasia, a showcase of music synchronized to gorgeous animation, remains; but it is enhanced by valuable lessons learned from the original. With a Rotten Tomatoes score of 82%, Its hard to believe that Fantasia 2000 only broke even at the box-office. However, its breathtaking scenes of melody and imagery have spoken to the hearts of many viewers who have seen it since. But the coup de grace of the film is the final sequence; the beautiful music of Igor Stravinsky’s Firebird Suite synchronized to one of the most beautiful pieces of animation ever created. The breathtakingly beautiful scene of the Forest Sprite and the primeval destructive forces of the world must be seen to believe!

#4: Tarzan

This is by far one of the more well-known films of this list, but we at Disney Magic Fanatic believe it is still vastly underrated. The gorgeous film is listed among many people’s favorite Disney films, but due to licensing issues (The estate of Edgar Rice Boroughs limited what Disney could do with the property), Disney was never able to capitalize on its initial popularity. However, due to its Oscar winning music by Phil Collins, gorgeous backgrounds, animation (Tree Surfing rocks!), and an intense attention to anatomy and detail, this film rises above the rest and deserves more attention than it seems to have been receiving.

The amount of detail in the animation and anatomy of the characters is breathtaking. Tarzan is animated by Glen Keane; the mastermind behind Tangled and the animator of dozens of gorgeous sequences of animation (such as the Beast’s transformation). Not a single frame is wasted with his work!

#3: Winnie the Pooh (2011)

For some reason, no one we ask seems to know that this sequel to the adorable Disney classic even exists. Perhaps it’s the fact that it was released the same weekend as a super-popular Harry Potter film (how could it hope to compete at the box-office!), but regardless of the reason, there is no denying that this film is amazing. Imagine all your childhood nostalgia being fulfilled in an innocent tale of beauty and fun in The Hundred Acre Wood; that’s what this film does. With a Rotten Tomatoes score of 90% and a devoted fan following, there is no denying how well-made this film was. In fact, here at Disney Magic Fanatic, Winnie the Pooh is one of our favorite Disney films since the Renaissance of Animation. Just trust us…GO SEE IT!

winnie_the_pooh-3 — The canonical sequel is absolutely adorable and faithful to the original.

#2: The Emperor’s New Groove

Sure, it’s no Lion King, but The Emperor’s New Groove is hilarious! Everyone we ask seems to love this film and we certainly understand why. What can go wrong with a selfish Emperor being turned into a talking Llama? What’s not to like about a villain who’s scary beyond all reason and proof that Dinosaurs once roamed the earth? Nothing; except for the full comedy of ridiculous events and crazy meta-commentary in which those things are found! Plus…who doesn’t love Kronk and his shoulder devil and angel? Spinach Puffs for everyone!

source — Kronk is our favorite! He makes the film into a real hoot!

#1: Treasure Planet

In our opinion (note the keyword: OPINION), Treasure Planet is the most underrated Disney film of all time. It seems to grow on you every viewing more and more, until it’s firmly planted in your mind. Directed by Disney luminaries John Musker and Ron Clements (The Little Mermaid, Aladdin, Moana, etc.), Treasure Planet is a breathtaking display of gorgeous animation, brilliant world-building design, and lovable characters. Sure, it lacks a little on the plot side, and has a few bugs with its logic, but it’s all worth it for the sumptuous visuals and unique blend of 18^th century design and high-tech cyberpunk. Featuring a brilliant voice cast, including a now-superstar Joseph Gordon-Levitt, the great Emma Thompson, and the ever-entertaining Martin Short to name a few; this film has an immense imagination and deserves a little more credit!

black_hole — The film’s visuals are the stuff of dreams; taking years to painstakingly animate.

tumblr_n6nee8FgU91r65lvvo2_500 — There is absolutely no shortage of imagination in this film!

treasure-planet-23 — The stylistic design is unique and fresh; always catching the eye with its intricate detail.

Like our list? Please Like and share and also stay tuned for weekly Disney joy!

5 Things You Didn’t Know About Winnie the Pooh (1977)

5 Things You May Not Know About Disney’s ‘The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh’!

The original Winnie the Pooh film’s 40th anniversary is this year, and we thought we might celebrate in our own nerdy way! Here’s our list of 5 Things You May Not Know About ‘The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh’!

c66d8b842f — The El Capitan Theater’s advertisement for a throwback showing of The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh.

#1: It is Actually 3 Separate Films

The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh might feel like several separate adventures stitched together instead of one cohesive film. The reason for this feeling is because this was indeed the case! Most kids who grew up in the 60’s and 70’s already know this, but The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh is an amalgamation of three separate short films edited together; with new sequences added to weave the segments together naturally. The three short films were originally released in theatres in double-bills with live-action Disney features; Winnie the Pooh and the Honey Tree (released with The Ugly Dachshund in 1966), Winnie the Pooh and the Blustery Day (released with The Horse in the Gray Flannel Suit in 1968), and Winnie the Pooh and Tigger Too (released with The Island at the Top of the World in 1974). Therefore, even though the final product wasn’t released until 11 years after Walt Disney’s death in 1966, he personally worked on two out of three in this collection.

#2: It was Responsible for Disney’s Last Oscar

Winnie the Pooh and the Blustery Day (1968) is responsible for the last of Walt Disney’s Acedemy Awards. The award, given posthumously to Walt in 1969 and accepted on his behalf by animator/director Wolfgang ‘Woolie’ Reitherman, was for ‘Best Short Subject’. It was a shame that Walt Disney had passed away before the film was finally released theatrically, but the honor was deeply felt for him; especially since it officially capped off Walt Disney’s record of Academy Awards won at a whopping 26! Walt Disney still holds the world record for most academy awards won by a single individual; as well as the world record for most academy awards nominations at 59 total nominations!

tumblr_o3n7vxzaqn1ueanneo1_500 — Winnie the Pooh’s innocence was something that Walt Disney was especially fond of and he said so several times while making the film.

#3: It Made Winnie the Pooh an American Icon

A.A. Milne’s classic books had been quite popular in England for a long time before Disney purchased the rights to make their films. However, Pooh was comparatively unknown in the U.S. It may be hard to think of a time when kids didn’t know who Pooh was, but his obscurity was very real in the new-era sixties of the United States. Walt Disney was worried that the obscurity would be enough to majorly hinder a full-length feature film. He felt like he needed to start off Pooh in a series of short films, to introduce him to the average American audience and establish his character, then it might have been possible to move on to a full-length film. Sadly, Walt did not live to see his vision of a feature film realized, but he did succeed in making Winnie the Pooh a Very recognizable character in the U.S.

598d62636dce47598995f872cccde202 — When making their Disney themed paintings, the Thomas Kinkade Estate could not ignore the vastly popular Winnie the Pooh stories. Go buy the paintings on the Thomas Kinkade website if you can; they’re fantastic!

#4: It Was the Last Chapter for Several People

As mentioned above, Walt Disney passed away during the production of these iconic shorts and was not able to see all his dreams about it to come true. The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh was the last film project to be released which Walt ever worked on. However, Winnie the Pooh didn’t just mark the last chapter for Walt. It also sadly marked the very last screen performance of the well-respected thespian Sebastian Cabot (the Narrator) as the actor passed away five months later. Interestingly, Winnie the Pooh also marked veteran actor Sterling Holloway’s final theatrical performance to be released before his retirement in film. Sterling was the voice of Pooh, the Cheshire Cat, Kaa, and many other iconic Disney characters.

9817a4d59293ee0f7800fa55aa4355d1 — Sterling Holloway holding, arguably, his most famous character.

sterling-holloway-feat — Sterling Holloway had a long and illustrious Disney career as a voice artist before retiring.

#5: It Spawned one of Disney’s Greatest Franchises

When Walt set out to adapt A.A. Milne’s classic tales into a dream-fulfilling feature film, he had no idea what it would one day become. It spawned dozens of direct-to-video sequels, tv-films, several television shows, thousands of items of merchandise, theme-park attractions, and many more appearances which we do not have room to list here. Pooh’s influence is even acknowledged by a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Also, if you want to relive the nostalgia of the Hundred-acre Wood, Winnie the Pooh is one of only 3 Disney films to have a canonical full-budget theatrical sequel. Winnie the Pooh (2011) is a critically acclaimed film which does justice to the original tale. If you haven’t seen it, we would highly recommend it!

many-adventures-of-winnie-the-pooh_primary1 — The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh attraction at Disneyland takes its namesake directly from the original film and follows the same events. There is a variation on this ride at many Disney Parks; including the extremely popular version at Tokyo Disneyland!

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