Insights and Sounds

Imagineering Tries Again: Bargain Basement Version 1.5

2009-12-11T06:25:00.005-07:00

Note: I had so much fun offering Bargain Basement Imagineering 1.0 a few weekends ago, I thought I'd repost the 1.5 version. Remember 2.o is on line as well! Also, Tomorrowland Mondays continue next week. Enjoy!

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Once the Grand Opening of Disney's California Adventure was behind them, the executives of The Walt Disney Company waited for the crowds to come- and waited and waited and waited.

Early renderings, models and posters of the park communicated poorly- or maybe accurately, prominently featuring the carnival side of California Adventure and the film making aspects, things that could be found at other southland amusement parks.

Bad weather, the economy, misunderstanding of the park- all these reasons were given as to why the crowds didn't materialize. Why didn't the public appreciate groundbreaking attractions like a small area of crops and a tractor display? What was wrong with carnival attractions that could be found at state fairs? Eventually, reality set in: Disney had tried to sell the park as the peak of Imagineering efforts, but the public saw through all the hype and advertising.

The original Magic Kingdom, Disneyland, was doing just fine, thank you, but its newer sister park was clearly the less favored ugly duckling. The numbers were dimsal. Park managers and sponsors were less than delighted.

From the guest standpoint, surveys seemed to indicate that Disney had forgotten much about what made a beloved park. There were too few attractions for families, too many film-based theater shows, clones of secondary draws from Walt Disney World, and overall very little magic and theme.

The most oft criticized area was Paradise Pier, a modern version of an old seaside amusement park. Unfortunately, this area was executed as a cheap version of a Six Flags park- full of iron rides with little originality or dressing. The park entrance, dubbed the Sunshine Plaza, was said to create a "hip and edgy" vibe for the park, but more excitement was to be found at the very places it emulated: Southern California shopping malls.

The only true new and winning area seemed to be the Golden State, an area that most celebrated the California theme. Even that district was not without it problems, as fans realized the park's icon was a beautifully designed mountain that held a mundane and off the shelf raft ride. Adjacent was an imaginative children's play area themed to California's mountain landscapes. The raft ride, what should have been an incredible attraction, was just passable- much like most of the park. There was one bright spot- Soarin' Over California, and that soon made its way to Epcot, stripping this struggling park of its one jewel.

Something had to be fast as the park was quickly becoming the laughingstock of the theme park and entertainment industry. When it became impossible to change public opinion, the next best plan of attack was to add to the park and add to it quickly. So now, here is a compilation of concept art for the next stage of this poorly executed second theme park at the Disneyland Resort.

A quick addition was made to the Hollywood Pictures Backlot area: Who Wants to Be a Millionaire: Play It! This guest experience was based on the over exposed television show. It was a fun attaction, but really did nothing to bring in the crowds. Once the television show lost its audience, so did the attraction, closing quickly thereafter.

This rush to bring in guests had another down side. Once proposed attractions for the Backlot area were now abandoned. This included the immensely fun Armageddon special effects show built at Walt Disney Studios Paris.

In an effort to bring more Disney to the park, characters were added and the unique California flavors were decreased. The wonderful Eureka parade gave way, and Disney announced that Flik's Fun Fair, a kid oriented play area, and a reworked (but less impressive) Twilight Zone Tower of Terror would soon be added.

One of the odder choices for an attraction in Disney theme park history was Superstar Limo. This journey through Hollywood streets was so unpopular that it was shuttered in 2002. Speculation on a replacement ranged from a reworking of the original theme to a classic Disney character filled excursion to appeal to children.

The characters did end up inhabiting the stomping ground of Superstar Limo, however, they were Pixar characters from the popular Monsters Inc. film. Making its debut in 2006, this attraction made great use of its previous work on a fairly reasonable budget. Certainly, the attraction was as good as any smaller dark ride in Disneyland, but all these changes were not enough. Additionally, this choice signed a new change in strategy- California seemed to be on its way out, characters, and Pixar chracters in particular, were on its way in. This trend would start with the earlier inclusion of A Bug's Land in 2002.

Once Disneyland's 50th anniversary was complete, the focus would reshift to its smaller, less charming sibling. It seems the Disney executives finally understood they couldn't fool the consumer with a second rate park. With a new Chief Executive came a big announcement and much money accompanied with it. Did the company really understand? Time will tell. They have one last chance to convince the public that California Adventure is a real Disney quality park. Will they follow through with the eleborate plans, concepts and models in the Blue Sky Cellar? Stay tuned...

(All concept art copyright The Walt Disney Company. Special thanks to Brett Garrett from Visions Fantastic for his photo of the first piece.)

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As my computer has recently crashed and I lost a lot of files, feel free to send me pieces of concept art YOU have. I will gladly add them to this or future posts! Thanks.

Cross Park Connections

2009-12-10T05:21:00.001-07:00

Does the mural above look or sound familiar? It is a nifty little piece of art that resides in Disneyland's Frontierland. Look right by the Stage Door Cafe and you'll find it as the backdrop to the utensils. Quite unusual- but the name "Laod Bhang" rings a bell.

Aha! Go across the way to California Adventure, and you'll find Laod Bhang is also the owner of the local pin cart! To my knowledge, this is the first time that the Disney Imagineers have done this sort of cross park marketing in California. Can you find more? Do other examples exist?

(Top photo copyright Mark Taft. Bottom photo from MouseTimes.)

Downtown Disney's Retail Therapy

2009-12-09T06:56:00.014-07:00

An evening at Downtown Disney is designed to pull money out of your wallet! It is not just a visit to Disneyland or California Adventure that requires a significant cash outlay. Yet this retail expansion of the Disneyland Resort is currently the most successful addition.

An early morning tram ride left me at the entrance to the ticket booths well before opening time. As is my custom, I always buy my tickets the night before, so I had plenty of time to walk around and enjoy the quiet before hoards of guests come in. It is just beautiful here, and the planter and seating (above) is even elegantly designed and executed.

Whether it was the closed World of Disney store or the soon to open La Brea Bakery, I found the area to be quite DisneyWorldesque, an unexpected taste of what it is like to be in Florida while enjoying a vastness of scope and scale not found in Anaheim.

For all the flaws I find in the expansion's design and execution, there is one aspect I absolutely love: everything is together and easily accessible. Two theme parks, three hotels, and a shopping district all within a few minutes walk. In Florida, you have to get on the monorail or the ferry boats, in a car or hop a bus, to go from one spot of the enormous resort to another. Although most times it is easy, just try going from Port Orleans Riverside to Animal Kingdom Lodge for dinner and then go back to the Contemporary Resort for drinks, and you'll see what I mean.

In the evening, as the lights turn on and the sun goes down, Downtown Disney takes on a new flavor and the absence of lakes and deep expanses of lawn just disappear. Since guests are leaving or heading to the parks, the area has a vibrancy that is glaringly missing from the Walt Disney World version of the shopping area. It's a great place to people watch!

The Catal restaurant serves up a decent bowl of pasta for a not-too-much out of the ordinary price. The Uva bar is elegantly lit and very inviting in the warm evenings. It seems the locals have discovered the downtown district as well, and that only makes sense as backyards tend to be smaller and public spaces must carry the burden of also being places to walk and relax as well as provide retail therapy.

A quick journey through the World of Disney, and I was lured by Ralph Brennan's Jazz Kitchen. Last year's lunch more than held its own with anything I've eaten in New Orleans, and the beignets are among my favorite treats ever. Even though I was happily full after a nice meal at Catal, the thoughts of the pastry lingered. I didn't cave in, however.

My wife and I strolled the grounds, stopping into the Grand Californian for a peek. It was a terrific way to end our evening out as for a moment once more, we felt like we were at the Walt Disney World Resort instead of the middle of California. This alone proves the success and failure of the resort expansion. It's not the new theme park that brings a Disney feel to the area (at least for now); it is a elegant and lovingly designed detail of the new hotel and the shopping street that up the ante. Hope the suits at the Walt Disney Company and the amazing Imagineers are listening and learning.

(Photos copyright Mark Taft.)

The Wisdom of Starbucks

2009-12-08T07:10:00.001-07:00

As found on the side of my Starbucks cup: "We invite you to listen to your desires and renew your hope. To see the world not as it is but as it could be. Go ahead. Wish. It's what it makes the holidays the holidays."

All very nice sentiments, but it falls short- way short. Wishing is nice, but it is not enough. Take action to make the world a better place. Make a difference by investing your heart, your energy, your time. And in regards to the sentiment expressed, may I ask "Who is your hope in?"

The Magic Kingdom's Tomorrowland 1971

2009-12-07T06:28:00.001-07:00

The Walt Disney World Magic Kingdom was a much different place at its opening than it is now. Imagine a park with no Space, Big Thunder or Splash mountains. The focus was on musical shows like The Mickey Mouse Revue and the original Tropical Serenade (Enchanted Tiki Birds). The Skyway was still in place as was the beautiful and mysterious 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea attraction. If You Had Wings was debuting in June of the next year. Coming soon afterwards were the Plaza Swan Boats cruising the small river that circled the bridges to the various lands. Western River Expedition was advertised as the next grand adventure in the tradition of the absent Pirates of the Caribbean.

Tomorrowland's entrance consisted of two giant waterfalls pouring over the side of its buildings, providing cool relief from the Florida heat- especially when the wind changed directions! Much like the Anaheim version in California, the attractions were small and not too futuristic at this time, but a next phase expansion was on its way. Just beyond Tomorrowland was the stunning Contemporary Resort, and the available and open land seemed endless.

Guests from Disneyland's main base were shocked and delighted by the park's surroundings. It was all so spacious. The beautiful Polynesian Village drew guests by the thousands as tiki torches and swaying palms beckoned. Modern monorails whisked visitors from location to location as ferries moved others from the Magic Kingdom to the resort hotels. In reality, the entire resort was Tomorrowland, and the fun had just begun.

(Art copyright The Walt Disney Company.)

A Loving Goodbye

2009-12-06T17:05:00.005-07:00

Just received the word that a beloved aunt passed away unexpectedly. She was my wife's aunt, but I grew to love her and her husband quickly. They extended themselves to us when we moved to Colorado twenty years ago, making the move with three young kids so much easier on our young and innocent family.

So much has happened since then. He passed on ten years ago, as did their son, leaving a daughter behind them.

I know right now she is enjoying a much more peaceful life than the one she had here on earth. Because of her deep faith in a God who loves her, I can picture her sitting at Jesus' feet, no longer in pain, and enjoying the company of long departed family and friends.

Goodbye, Peggy. We will so miss you...

Walt Disney and More

2009-12-05T14:59:00.004-07:00

Disney and More has a wonderful photo tribute to the man himself. Just in time for Walt Disney's 108th birthday! Go here to see it. Alain Littaye continues to amaze and delight us with his great site. Thanks, Alain!

(PS- His Disneyland Paris book is the ultimate Christmas gift for those who love the Paris park... And stay tuned for "Tomorrowland Mondays" on the Insights blog!)

Coast Stories

2009-12-04T06:35:00.003-07:00

True confession time: Disneyland was not the highlight of my recent trip to Southern California. It wasn't the construction at California Adventure that made my mouth fall open. It was the beach, or I should say, the beaches that captured my attention, my heart, my thoughts.

Admittedly, I am an Orange County snob. There is not a single beach in Los Angeles County that compares to the beauty found in Newport Beach, Laguna Beach, Capistrano or Dana Point. And please, don't get me going about San Diego- it's absolutely gorgeous, too. Los Angeles does have it charms, however- more on that later as well.

As I had two and a half days to myself, I started the morning by sleeping in and then heading down to Peet's Coffee for my morning java. I sat by the fountain in this little plaza by Fashion Island, sipping my brew, reading the paper, and thinking about the day ahead.

This was to be a driving day, and I'd stop along the way as the spirit moved me. Jumped into the car and turned left onto Pacific Coast Highway. Driving all the way down to Dana Point and San Juan Capistrano, the beauty of the endless stream of bright red bougainvillea contrasted with the gorgeous sky and deep blue waters. There were many moments I wished I were the passenger instead of the driver. Although I missed the company of my wife, it was really a treat to quietly drive and just stare at the seascape I grew up knowing and loving.

After a couple hours at Mission San Juan Capistrano, (photos to come in another post), I stopped in Dana Point for a short little nap on the beach. What a treat to feel the warm sand, hear the ocean waves, and bake in the 80 degree sun of late October. It is an odd thing to say, but I always hear God speak to me in the sound of the waves. The beach is my preferred perfect place to rest, to pray and to focus on the majesty of God. It is more rejuvenating to me than just about anything else I can think of.

After an hour or so, it was time to move on, so I headed north. Eventually, I could feel the calming of my spirit and the gift of quiet. It's impact was undeniable. Things seemed right in my world.

This was my first true vacation since February, a short trip to San Antonio for my Dad's 70th birthday aside. It had been a busy work year for me. Between the planning for three big service projects, including my participation in a two week trip to Central Asia, and my heavier than normal work load, I needed this rest. I was tired but not discouraged. Yet, it had been a full, satisfying but very tiring year.

Next stop was Laguna. I had planned to just walk the beach, but once I walked on to the sand and into the water, I decided I had to go in. I quickly tore off my shirt, dropped by sandals and camera. Diving in straight away, the briskness of the water was refreshing, its salty taste brought me back to my youth. The sun instantly began warming my body. This was why I loved the ocean- and this was what always seemed to be my siren's song.

More time passed as I watched families on the beach. The squeals of little kids experiencing the surf was a treat to hear and a riot to observe. The combination of apprehension, a bit of fear and sheer delight of the unknown brought a smile to my face, and I couldn't help giggling a bit inside.

After enough time, I hopped back in the car and took off for Huntington beach. There were more adventures ahead that day. Those hours before me of quiet, rest, sun, surf, and sand were just what I needed to regroup, pour my heart out to my God, and be encouraged. Soon enough I would be back in Colorado and all would be a memory- but what grand ones they would be!

(Photos copyright Mark Taft.)

650 lb. Virgin

2009-12-02T06:09:00.013-07:00

Mix equal parts circus sideshow, inspirational success story, medical drama and visuals of Grey's Anatomy, strong bromance, pursuit of sex with a hot young woman, and you've got David Smith and Chris Powell's story The 650 lb. Virgin. You've also got one great big fat advertisement for their company Reshape the Nation.

David Smith (above) is the morbidly obese young man desperately wanting to change. His long history of depression and friendlessness is triggered by childhood sexual abuse. David is finally at the end of his rope when doctors tell him he'll only live a few more years at the rate he's going. Wisely, he reaches out for hope through a personal trainer- instead of suicide or potentially dangerous gastric surgery.

Enter Chris Powell (above right), a personal trainer with compassion to boot and a heart to help David. As he undertakes the work of transforming him into someone healthy and happy, a very unexpected transformation does occur. David trains hard, eats right, and drops the pounds. The "after" visuals of a skin and bones David is shocking, and the resulting surgeries are there in graphic detail.

However dramatic David's part is, the story is also one of how Chris changes. He seems to grow up a bit as David slims down. A very strong friendship begins, growing into roommates then business partners. As David is transformed into the wanna-be hunk, he is overwhelmed and full of gratitude, but it is Chris who becomes smitten with his creation. Shades of Pretty Woman or a hundred other films. This show is tailor made for a generation of lonely adults who lack deep friendships and healthy marriages.

It's easy for those familiar with the Bible's Old Testament to think of the story of David and Jonathan. Like the men of old, the love and friendship between the two guys is strong and committed- and the women are secondary characters. However, for the camera, David and Chris' story even (intentionally?) flirts with the idea of potential sexual interest between the two men as David makes some comments about Chris' briefs when he drops his pants. And the camera is there to capture it all.

Unlike our Biblical heroes, the focus here is not on a spiritual pursuit to please God, instead it is on making sure David finally gets some sexual action- and gain viewers and potential clients for the company. Cynical? Maybe, but this is America in the new century. Shrewdly used, this idea and the pictures of David's transformation and Chris' shirtless poses make for product placement in the highest sense.

As in any good real life drama, David has setbacks. Despair and weight gain set in. David struggles to understand why he could be unhappy and unfulfilled when so much has changed. Chris keeps encouraging him to grow, and yes, David does eventually get the girl and the sex. All ends well. Or does it? What is next now that the sexual goal is met? In real life versus reality television, there is more to life than fulfilment of our desires.

The story of David Smith and Chris Powell is compelling and our lead characters very engaging. In a world of reality television, this ranks as one of the most intriguing stories I've watched. My wife and I were riveted to the screen. As much as this story is one big advertisement for their company, it is also a story of friendship and the power of someone who believes in someone else. In our world of distress and hopelessness, David and Chris' story is designed to inspire- and it does.

The Toys are Back in Town

2009-12-03T18:17:00.005-07:00

Disney fans are, ahem, aBuzz, with the news that the Toy Story musical from the Disney Cruise Line will replace Aladdin at California Adventure come 2011. The Disneyland Resort changes are in full swing, and this is another move that will anger some friends but also gain new fans.

With The Little Mermaid adventure opening the same year and World of Color a brand new nighttime show, California Adventure stands a good chance of gaining some new visitors in the crowd.

What about Aladdin? Send he and the crew packing to Disney's Hollywood Studios. There are enough tired theater presentations that need replacement. Maybe even use that newly enhanced stage developed for The Hunchback of Notre Dame.

Remember, Disney Imagineers and suits haven't told us everything they plan on doing with the California park- nor do they owe it to us. This may only be the beginning of more surprises.

Voyages Under The Sea

2009-12-03T09:04:00.001-07:00

What is there to say about the demise of Florida's 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea attraction that hasn't already been said? Maybe this photo I took in 1982 will give you some idea of why many of us have fond memories of it. I left the photo very large, so click on it and get a sense of the massive amount of space this Fantasyland classic occupied.

At opening, Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom had few space limitations. More importantly, the Imagineers were still operating under Walt's mandate of high quality as the way to win a fan for life. Compared to today, advertising was few and far between with any extra capital going to a creating a great guest experience versus creating great advertising.

When Jules Verne wrote the novel almost 100 years prior to the opening of this "E" Ticket ride, the Nautilus submarine was nothing more than a very detailed figment of his imagination. As built to the style of the book, the vessel itself is a work of art. Cruising along the lagoon to an undersea voyage would be very popular, and the fact that Disney built twelve of these gorgeous machines testifies not only to the enduring power of Verne's tale but also to the old standards of quality held to by the Walt Disney Company of long ago. For 23 years until its closing, Captain Nemo welcomed enthusiastic guests to his underwater home. The voyage satisfied many boyhood dreams and launched a thousand more.

Almost 20 years after closing its attraction doors, the Vulcania lagoon will be transformed into another undersea adverture. This time, a perky little mermaid named Ariel will make us part of her world. The attraction will appeal mostly to girls and their parents, as the area will be part of the large Fantasyland expansion of character meet and greet areas. However, I bet quite a few young men will join the adventure as well. After all, who can really resist an opportunity to travel under the sea?

(Photograph copyright Mark Taft.)

MiceAge Expired?

2009-12-03T08:25:00.003-07:00

Try to pull up Al Lutz' site. I did. Seems the domain name is expired. Really???

New Update: Back up and running...

Popping in to Denver

2009-12-01T06:18:00.004-07:00

Can't wait to see Mary Poppins on April 3rd! We have are seats and are ready for a great time. The practically perfect nanny will make for a wonderful play- and a delightful evening!

More California Adventure Bargain Basement Imagineering

2009-11-27T06:07:00.004-07:00

Blogger Note: While I enjoy a quiet weekend, please enjoy a reposting of one of my most popular articles. Look for versions 1.5 and 2.0 as well!
Watch for a Monday morning series on Tomorrowlands worldwide- starting this Monday!

While Disney fans around the globe are checking out the beautiful new Blue Sky Cellar at California Adventure, it seems more than appropriate to look back on what was actually built come opening day. Why? First, it will help us keep all this new and wonderful concept art in perspective. Remember, this is what the park will potentially look like once work is completed. The painters brush can be unintentionally deceiving! Secondly, due to the cost-cutting measures of the leadership of the time, it reminds us what poor foundations the Imagineers are stuck working with trying to improve this discount park.

As we look at concept art from the first incarnation of California Adventure, let's compare what we saw in the preview center versus what the park really looked like to an opening day guest. Many visitors, myself included, expressed displeasure at what was found at this new park. So did the media and for a good reason.

Let's begin with the park entrance. The tile murals flanking the sides are really well done. The CALIFORNIA letters are a unique touch and both together clearly communicate this is not Disneyland. It's not a bad design, there's just no follow through. When the Disney advertising experts have to create a fictionalized version of the entrance for promotional purposes, this should be the first clue that the park has some serious problems and design flaws.

It is what we encounter once walking past the turnstiles that shouts "bargain basement" design. Looking right through the gates brings a very ordinary looking area, nothing to entice a visitor who is considering a day at this park.

The Sunshine Plaza reigns as the ugliest and least original park entrance area in Disney's history. Yes, this includes the even less imaginative Walt Disney Studios in Paris! Framed by an out of place replica of the Golden Gate Bridge, the environment matches a low budget outlet mall, appropriately setting the stage for what is found in most of the park.

The Sun fountain is an interesting structure, but it really belongs in an open garden at a hotel, in the midst of a walkway from the parking area or just someplace else. Not large enough in scale to impress, not a fitting centerpiece for the park. In some ways, it is appropriate. This is big and flashy with a contemporary edge- but it lacks substance.

Moving on, let's head to the Hollywood Pictures Backlot. At first glance, it is a pretty Disneyesque area, a more playful version of the main drag at Disney's Hollywood Studios. The centerpiece, and clearly the highlight at opening, is Disney Animation.

Frankly, this is one impressive showcase! Beyond the park's signature flight simulator attraction, this gem is filled with the kind of care in execution that should have been found all over the park. The Animation Courtyard has an impressive layout that dazzles, and The Sorcerer's Workshop, including Beast's Library, feels like a walk-thru dark ride, drawing guests in further and further inside. It's easy to spend an hour here just watching the transformation in the library. Well done, Imagineers! In a nod to the Studios old working animation area, The Animation Academy truly provides a fun and informative demonstration of the art of the wonderful and ageless 2-D process. (Below is altogether different concept for Disney Animation.)

Beyond this great little attraction is where the troubles begin. Wandering around the rest of this land, guests discover raw steel and bland walls lie behind the great looking storefronts. Even the seemingly impressive Hyperion Theater is really just one great optical illusion. Just a big box but one with state-of-the-art facilities inside. However, it is a facility with no lobby and no restrooms!

Nearby, the past its prime MuppetVision 3D show is found. Not too thrilling an idea or presentation. It's a quick retread from Florida to save some cash- and an attempt by Disney to relaunch a very tired but admittedly once charming franchise.

The worst of the (Back) lot, however, is the only dark ride found here in 2001. In one of the oddest moves ever for a Disney park, the Imagineers designed and built the strange Superstar Limo attraction. The building housing the ride is at once quirky and likable to some degree, but the experience inside is just plain bizarre. Hosted by an on-screen agent who seems like someone you'd never let your children be alone with, the limo ride takes you through a tongue in cheek and trendy Hollywood filled with animatronics of "B" list celebrities from the Disney Studio. It quickly became the laughing stock of the theme park industry and a symbol of everything wrong with California Adventure. Less than a year from its premier, this ride quickly disappeared forever.

In a bit of poor planning, the Backlot's main street becomes a dead end, so let's cross back over to Condor Flats, a recreation of a California desert airfield.

Condor Flats effectively marks the entrance to The Golden State district, the portion of the park that truly strengthens the California theme. The airstrip is a small area to be sure, but it houses the park's signature attraction, Soarin' Over California. All the quibbles of the queue and its minimal theming aside, this film experience is the emotional heart of the park. Californians are rightfully proud of their state and its stunning diversity of landscapes. The photography is exhilarating, the musical score heightens the mood, and the ride mechanism impresses to thrilling results. It is the single standout attraction in the park. This crowd pleaser should not have been duplicated at any other resort. Period.

The true icon of this park, and one that for the first time is positioned to please hotel guests instead of park visitors, is Grizzly Peak. No expense was spared in creating an authentic and beautiful mountain environment. The rockwork created by the Imagineers ranks with the best of their efforts, including Big Thunder Mountain and the younger Expedition Everest. The landscaping is superb. The network of waterfalls, winding paths and viewing areas makes this part of the Grizzly Peak Recreation Area the most beautiful location of the entire Disneyland Resort. (Below is an amazing piece of artwork. Like the others, makes sure you click for a larger image.)

The setting for the Grizzly River Run is spectacular and "E" ticket worthy. However obvious short cuts have been taken with this attraction, starting with the design of the watercraft. The promotional poster below shows a whitewater excursion with an authentically styled raft. Somewhere between concept and execution, the attraction ended up with standard theme park fare circular rafts. Certainly the same company that could imagine and engineer leading edge ride systems for other attractions could find a way to build an authentic raft that was safe while providing the desired thrills!

Further cost-cutting took place by the exclusion of animatronic animals. Every other nature-based attraction designed by Disney uses them to good effect. From slow moving rides like The Jungle River Cruise to the high speed adventures of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, there is simply no excuse for their absence except budgetary restraints. It's still a very fun attraction with terrific views of the park (and the less than beautiful city of Anaheim), but it could be so much more than it is.

Guests quickly noticed a trend in this new era Disney park: there may have been discounting on the attraction detail, but no expenses were lost when it came to the shops! California Adventure has some Disneyland quality shopping areas, and the Rushin' River Outfitters (below) is no exception.

Continuing a trend that began with Disneyland itself, the Redwood Creek Challenge Trail is a new take on the original park's Tom Sawyer's Island. Both provide plenty of fun as well as an area where younger visitors can run free. It is a nicely themed playground but not much more.

The limited number of attractions and cutbacks aside, this region of California Adventure provides the immersive environment that Disney guests are accustomed to finding at the parks. If only the rest of the small park had this much charm and care taken with it! The glaring shortcomings are only heightened when we enter into the San Francisco area, one far removed from the Golden Gate Bridge we found at the park entrance.

This tiny little sliver of San Francisco houses only restrooms, leaving guests who expected an elegant area such as New Orleans Square in a state of shock. In place of a fully realized cityscape, we find Golden Dreams, the film tribute to the history of the state. Originally envisioned as Circle of Hands, it was intended to be a heartwarming multimedia presentation of the brave men and women who settled and worked the land. Budget cuts again derailed the project. We are now left with a small scale but warm and politically correct vision of history. Unintentionally, this show is also one of the best arguments for Disney to stop using its a film stars as part of their attractions.

As we move around the bend, the beautiful Golden Vine Winery comes into view. Of course, so does the Pacific Wharf food court, Bountiful Valley Farm, and the surprising Paradise Pier.

The winery area charms guests with a sophistication not found elsewhere. Of course, like Napa Valley itself, we find a couple of pricy restaurants among the park's vineyard. Attractions? Oh yes, Seasons of the Vine is here- yet another film, this one highlighting the process of the art of winemaking from field to table. It is a slice of Epcot Center, an undiscovered gem. The music and photography perfectly capturing the area.

Across the way on this side of the bay is the Pacific Wharf. What could have been a wonderful setting for some California themed Disney attractions is reduced to mostly a food court with a couple of bakery tours using short films to tell the manufacturing story. The educational aspects of the park are important, however, they needed to be balanced out with traditional Disney attractions to justify the full ticket price.

Butting up to the Wharf is Bountiful Valley Farm, showcasing the agricultural impact of the state. Aside from yet another film, this one a clone of an additional 3D attraction from Florida, guests to the area are left without much to do except viewing tractors and watching a quite unimaginative fountain. In the age of "bargain basement" Imagineering, it's Disney storytelling at it's sorry best.

Controversial. Cheap and tacky. Off the shelf. Not what Walt would have wanted. Paradise Pier is all these things and more. And less.

Once guests had experienced the limited number of attractions in the other areas and the truly good live entertainment to be found, many headed toward Paradise Pier hoping to round out their day at Disney's recreation of a seaside amusement area.

The California Screamin' coaster stands tall over the area, and it is a roller coaster ride very worthy of a Disney park. Unfortunately, it is just a coaster- no great theming to be found here. No journey to outer space, no wildest ride in the wilderness, just an exposed track reaching for the sky. It is fun, day or night, but there are no Disney touches to be found except the giant glaring Mickey head. In this new fangled park, big, loud and obvious has mostly replaced the charming nuances of designers from earlier generations.

The rest of Paradise Pier is fleshed out with carnival games, kiddie attractions, swing rides, and an impressive Ferris Wheel. There's truly nothing magical or Disney here, yet the advertising department thought this was one of the best areas to show to promote the new park. What were they thinking? The public was not fooled, and the executives at Disney were left with an embarrassment on their hands.

Which brings us back full circle to the Blue Sky Cellar, housed in the old Seasons of the Vine building. Yes, it seems Disney is seriously trying to redeem itself by re-Imagineering the park. Starting with the areas that guests complained about the most, the makeover has started. The entrance to the park will be reworked. The Hollywood Backlot will get more improvements. The Pier will be a challenge but will still be a carnival. Plans even exist for a wonderful new land and a couple of great attractions worthy of the Disney of old. Will we see them? Will the proposed changes turn California Adventure from dud to star?

What can we learn from the "Bargain Basement" Imagineering? Concept art can be deceiving, and budgets can be reduced. However, I have a hunch Disney has learned some important lessons from trying to fool us as they did in 2001. They've got one last chance to redeem themselves, and my money says they will.

(All art copyright The Walt Disney Company.)

When the Future was Forward Thinking

2009-11-30T06:07:00.000-07:00

What was it about the 1967 version of Disneyland's Tomorrowland that inspired so many? If you look at this piece of Imagineering concept art, you'll catch a small glimpse and begin to understand the passion of those older Disney park fans that saw this version in real time.

Here is the McDonnell Douglas sponsored Flight to the Moon adventure, a prominent first version of the Peoplemover, and off to the far right, a freshly rendered version of Space Mountain. Much like Epcot's original version of Future World, the future has never seemed so thrilling, hopeful and inviting!

What do we have today? Potential- but little representation of what is to come. Buzz Lightyear (My favorite space ranger!) and Nemo take up prime property, the space flight to other planets is now a restaurant, tracks from the Peoplemover sit waiting for something to come, with all of it housed in an architectural environment consisting of a mish mash of styles and outdated 80's concepts.

Myabe this last visit to Disneyland and California Adventure reignited my passion to see Tomorrowland return to its glory days. Or my mid-February visit to Walt Disney World and its sci-fi version in the Magic Kingdom. If nothing else, both reminded me what the Walt Disney Company can achieve when they put their mind to it- and what they don't when they focus first on synergy and cross-marketing.

Let's keep looking forward as we continue our explorations of Tomorrowland on Monday mornings.

(Concept art copyright The Walt Disney Company.)

Tomorrowland Mondays

2009-11-29T08:05:00.002-07:00

If the idea of Tomorrowland makes you stand up and take notice. If you miss the 1967 version and detest the newest incarnation in Anaheim. If you long for the bronze Space Mountain to return, and love or loathe what has transpired in Florida's Magic Kingdom, you may want to check in on the next several Monday mornings. I'll be sharing some concept art, some photographs, and a few things to think about as I explore Disneyland's Tomorrowland and onto Walt Disney World.

Turkey and California Adventure

2009-11-26T16:22:00.004-07:00

Waiting for the turkey and ran across this old California Adventure map from the now defunct DCA Central. Hope your day is a great one!

(Concept art copyright The Walt Disney Company)

Reasons

2009-11-26T07:15:00.004-07:00

So much to be thankful for, isn't there?

Just stop and think of the blessings in your life. Even if this season of life has been one of hardship, there are always little things as well as big reasons why God deserves our thanks.

My heart of thanksgiving grows each year I am on the planet, and here are a few of the reasons I choose to give God thanks:

His goodness and His great give of sacrifice in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ- The Ultimate expression of God's love for mankind, and the only payment in full for my sin. That God Himself would reach down to us still amazes me.

My family- What more can I say? Through hardship and trial, my family has been a visible expression of God's heart toward me. Have our lives always been easy? NO! Not even close, but we stick together through it all.

The freedom we have in the United States- Many bash this great country of ours and try to turn it into something that it was never designed to be, but at its core, it is the best representation of our rights and our freedoms in human governments. Yes, there is always room for more improvement, but in all of my travels, I have never experienced a community so hopeful and free to be who they are as I do back home.

Entertainment- Yep, I am thankful for that! Isn't life a whole lot more fun with it? From our theme parks to our sporting events to television, music, the internet and movies, to be able to be blessed by the enormous amount of talent amongst us is a gift.

The ability to work- What a joy to provide for my family in a way that I enjoy. And to have a job in this economic situation is even more of a blessing.

Sharing with others less fortunate- Whether it is sharing food, faith, or in service, giving to others is a gift we also give ourselves.

There are many more reasons to celebrate and thank God together.

May God bless you this Thanksgiving Day with joy and peace and a heart of gratefulness!

Is the Past in Tomorrowland's Future?

2009-11-25T08:04:00.002-07:00

Here's something I really miss from Disneyland and thoroughly enjoy while visiting the Magic Kingdom in Florida: the Peoplemover. Florida's Transit Authority has returned to mixed reviews on its audio tour, but just having this great attraction up and running is a tribute to good old common sense. The future belongs in Tomorrowland, and nothing aside from Space Mountain has represented the land as well.

This great old piece of concept art comes from back in the day when the executives at the company and Imagineering were really interested in keeping Tomorrowland about tomorrow. I still have alot of faith in the Disney Imagineers, especially those working on Walt's original park under Tony Baxter's lead. Can't wait to see what is up next!

(Artwork copyright The Walt Disney Company)

Wedding Belles and a Beau

2009-11-24T07:13:00.000-07:00

Nice photo of some of our family. Taken at a wedding where our daughter was a bridesmaid. Isn't she beautiful? (And my wife, too!)

Shanghai Disneyland Whets the Appetite

2009-11-23T05:31:00.000-07:00

All this talk of Shanghai Disneyland whets my appetite to visit Disney's second park in Asia. Tokyo Disney Sea may always hold title to the most elaborately themed park on the face of the earth. And rightfully so. We have been told for almost ten years now that photos do not do it justice. The stunning views, the premier attractions, and the gorgeous shops and restaurants only prove its status in the eyes and minds of Disney fans worldwide.

But I am concerned. Will the addition of Toy Story Mania do the park any justice? The continued infusion of Disney characters can certainly contribute to the watering down of the theme. (Sorry, pun intended!) First Crush invades with Turtle Talk, now this. When will they stop and how will this growing epidemic impact the first Mainland China park? Stay tuned...
(Art copyright the Walt Disney Company.)

Sunday Night Addiction

2009-11-22T22:27:00.004-07:00

Wow- what has gone on tonight? My brain is running in a million different directions. Maybe it is just knowing I am only working two days next week. Maybe it is a lack of Disney news of significance and not much to blog on. Certainly the upcoming and current music releases have warranted my attention. And yes, there are about five service projects and ideas running through my mind. Maybe its just too much sugar after weeks of "being good" on my diet. Whatever it is, stay tuned in the next few days for much more Disney related postings...

Dreaming Her Dream

2009-11-22T22:10:00.005-07:00

Susan Boyle 's modern day success story will only get better! Her long desired album I Dreamed a Dream hits stores tomorrow much to the delight of fans worldwide. For those of us older than we might care to admit, Susan's success is an encouraging one and a faith story to behold- a nice reminder that regardless of our circumstances, age, and status, God can put us in places we could never imagine. Yes, "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love Him." (I Corinthians 2:9) I think this album is only the beginning of the dream.

Bond, James Bond

2009-11-22T20:05:00.004-07:00

The recent running debate in our house is "Who is the Best James Bond?" Of course, 007 has been played by many men. Purists would say Sean Connery, newbies reply Daniel Craig- of which I echo the sentiment. Mr. Craig brings style, dry wit, and a toughness required for the role- and his new movie in 2011 cannot happen fast enough. Your choice for best Bond?

American Idol Men Make Their Mark

2009-11-22T16:26:00.002-07:00

With Kris Allen's album out now and Adam Lambert's due in a couple of days, it's going to be another American Idol Christmas. Can't speak about Adam's yet, but let me tell you Kris' first one is a solid effort. It's one of the best debut collections from an Idol winner yet. Kris rocks convincingly yet with heart and soul. His trademark high notes are there, his songwriting impressive, and his passion for the art is evident. Go pick up the disc. You'll be glad you did.