History
Identity Crisis
In “The Lion King,” the ghost of Mufasa reminds Simba to “remember who you are.” Animation legend Floyd Norman thinks that Disney Feature Animation might be advised to do the same.
![](https://jimhillmedia.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/jim-hill-media-featured-1200x675-1.png)
It was only a small change. No one even noticed that Disney’s premiere animation department had stopped using Disney pegs. It was the early eighties and Disney’s animation department had just been spared from an early death. Vice chairman, Roy Edward Disney had just given animation a new lease on life, and animation had to do whatever was necessary. It was understandable of course. When one’s head is on the chopping block, compromise is expected. Though only an animation geek would notice that the horizontal pegs were a bit wider and 5000 was no longer center, this ushered in a series of changes that would in time transform the animation unit from being uniquely Disney to becoming simply generic.
Then again, why not be generic? Why not follow the crowd? Wouldn’t Walt Disney have done that? For arguments sake, why not get rid of Disney pegs, paint and paper? After all, that put you in conflict with every other studio system that used the Acme standard. If Disney animation was going to be in sync with studios around the globe, it only made sense to adopt the standard. It’s efficient, it’s practical, and it’s the way business is done. The reinventing of Disney had slowly begun.
I loved Hollywood’s animation studios. Back in the old days, each studio had it’s own trademark look. It was a distinct in-house style that set it apart from all the others. Today, there might as well be one studio producing movies. It’s a generic, plastic world where the animation is so sterile, the stories so devoid of charm, wit and humor, it hardly matters which “factory” churned them out. Gone are the days when Clever writers and inspired artists worked together to painstakingly craft an animated motion picture that would entertain generations of adults and children. Still, many say this 3-D world is the wave of the future, and it very well may be. To be sure, the images on screen have depth, even though the stories may lack the same.
I suppose it’s no secret that the Disney organization in the nineties was a corporation that seemed uncomfortable in its own skin. That’s what prompted Feature Animation to remove Mickey Mouse from its official logo, and business units removing Disney art from their offices. Executives were happy to take the Disney paycheck but wanted nothing to do with “cartoons.” Ironically, for a company that was so obsessed with “branding,” I was amazed at the lengths executives would go to disassociate themselves from the company. Yet, like it or not, there was a Disney image. An image carefully constructed over time by the Old Maestro himself. In time, people began to recognize that image and what it represented. Family entertainment of course, but Disney also meant creativity, innovation and quality. Values not immediately embraced by the new marketers now in charge of the mouse house in the early eighties. They served the contemporary gods of relevance, edginess, and the latest trends in entertainment. If the Disney organization was going to survive in Hollywood’s brave new world, they had better get on board.
If you think perhaps I protest too much, let’s consider how the Old Maestro himself felt about these things. After laboring long and hard on “Sleeping Beauty,” Disney designers, Ken Anderson, Tom Oreb and Walt Peregoy decided to come up with a new, fresh look for the next feature, “101 Dalmatians.” Though the movie was a hit, I can tell you for a fact that Walt Disney hated the look of the film. Though the artists were going for a modified rendition of a style created by British cartoonist, Ronald Searle, Walt was not pleased and made his feelings known to all. A few years later, development was underway on “Mary Poppins.” Midway through the film an animated sequence takes place within the world of Bert’s fanciful chalk drawings. Once again, Walt’s designers decided to push the envelope and come up with an animation style that would emulate moving chalk drawings. And, again Walt Disney said no. Clever and inventive though the style may have been, it was not the Disney house style, and Walt was having no part of it. Some may have thought the Old Maestro was growing old and stodgy for once again giving thumbs down on an innovative new style. But, Disney stood his ground, and once again the house style prevailed.
However, Disney could occasionally be persuaded to step outside the box. Animation directors, Ward Kimball and C. August Nichols were allowed to produce two wonderful short films in the series, “Adventures in Music.” The first film was entitled, “Melody,” followed by the stunning, “Toot, Whistle, Plunk and Boom.” both films traded the standard Disney style in favor of a simplified stylized technique full of color, energy and verve. Yet, even the skeptical Walt managed a grin when “Toot, Whistle” won an Academy Award for best-animated short. Still, Walt Disney remained a tough man to convince when it came to moving too far a field from his standard style, and didn’t hesitate to let it be known. I was lucky enough to attend a screening of Kimball’s “Mars and Beyond” back in the fifties. At the time, I was dazzled by what I had just seen, but Walt Disney felt otherwise. Once again, he dressed Kimball down for his handling of the cartoon characters. Not Disney enough for Walt, it appeared. Lest you think this is hearsay, let me remind you again — I was there.
As the Disney Company embraces new film making techniques, one might consider what pit falls lie ahead. Outsourced animated fare such as “Valiant” drew only stunned silence from the audience as I watched the trailer in a local multiplex. And, I doubt “The Wild,” another bargain basement cartoon movie will do much better. Walt was continually concerned about his creations being clearly recognizable as “Disney.” Because of the look of digital filmmaking, Disney’s creations could become indistinguishable from the competition. I’m not about to enter into a debate over which film making medium is superior, but the marketers who depend on Disney’s trademark style to keep earning the company millions should be. As more and more digital films crowd the multiplexes, wouldn’t it have been something if the Disney Company had embraced its signature style and produced an incredible motion picture that looked nothing like the competition? In so doing, Disney wouldn’t have been like everybody else. They would have been the leader, not the follower. Besides, Disney had already led the CGI revolution some time ago. They financed, distributed and nurtured a production back in 1995. In case you’ve forgotten — it was called “Toy Story.”
Major corporations spend millions developing and maintaining an image. They nurture and protect that image because it reflects who and what they are. Walt Disney was no fool. He knew the Disney look, and the Disney style was recognized around the world. If that “recognition factor” becomes just a little bit blurred, the results may not be pleasant. As Disney moves forward in the next few years they would be wise to remember the things that made the company great. Wonderful, timeless stories well told. Delightful, memorable characters imbued with charm and appeal. And, of course, beautiful art that nourishes the soul. These things cannot be replaced by superficial flash and dazzle, and the audience will know the difference.
Did you enjoy Floyd’s cautionary tale today? well, if so, please be aware that there are three great collections of Norman’s writings & cartoons currently on the market: his original collection of cartoons and stories — “Faster! Cheaper! The Flip Side of the Art of Animation” (which is available for sale over at John Cawley’s excellent www.cataroo.com web site) as well as two follow-ups to that book, “Son of Faster, Cheaper” & “How the Grinch Stole Disney.” Which you can purchase by heading over to the Afrokids.com website.
History
The Evolution and History of Mickey’s ToonTown
![](https://jimhillmedia.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/toontown-disneyland.jpg)
Disneyland in Anaheim, California, holds a special place in the hearts of Disney fans worldwide, I mean heck, it’s where the magic began after all. Over the years it’s become a place that people visit in search of memorable experiences. One fan favorite area of the park is Mickey’s Toontown, a unique land that lets guests step right into the colorful, “Toony” world of Disney animation. With the recent reimagining of the land and the introduction of Micky and Minnies Runaway Railway, have you ever wondered how this land came to be?
There is a fascinating backstory of how Mickey’s Toontown came into existence. It’s a tale of strategic vision, the influence of Disney executives, and a commitment to meeting the needs of Disney’s valued guests.
The Beginning: Mickey’s Birthdayland
The story of Mickey’s Toontown starts with Mickey’s Birthdayland at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom. Opened in 1988 to celebrate Mickey Mouse’s 60th birthday, this temporary attraction was met with such overwhelming popularity that it inspired Disney executives to think bigger. The idea was to create a permanent, immersive land where guests could step into the animated world of Mickey Mouse and his friends.
In the early ’90s, Disneyland was in need of a refresh. Michael Eisner, the visionary leader of The Walt Disney Company at the time, had an audacious idea: create a brand-new land in Disneyland that would celebrate Disney characters in a whole new way. This was the birth of Mickey’s Toontown.
Initially, Disney’s creative minds toyed with various concepts, including the idea of crafting a 100-Acre Woods or a land inspired by the Muppets. However, the turning point came when they considered the success of “Who Framed Roger Rabbit.” This film’s popularity and the desire to capitalize on contemporary trends set the stage for Toontown’s creation.
From Concept to Reality: The Birth of Toontown
In 1993, Mickey’s Toontown opened its gates at Disneyland, marking the first time in Disney Park history where guests could experience a fully realized, three-dimensional world of animation. This new land was not just a collection of attractions but a living, breathing community where Disney characters “lived,” worked, and played.
Building Challenges: Innovative Solutions
The design of Mickey’s Toontown broke new ground in theme park aesthetics. Imagineers were tasked with bringing the two-dimensional world of cartoons into a three-dimensional space. This led to the creation of over 2000 custom-built props and structures that embodied the ‘squash and stretch’ principle of animation, giving Toontown its distinctiveness.
And then there was also the challenge of hiding the Team Disney Anaheim building, which bore a striking resemblance to a giant hotdog. The Imagineers had to think creatively, using balloon tests and imaginative landscaping to seamlessly integrate Toontown into the larger park.
![](https://jimhillmedia.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/building-toontown-1024x576.jpg)
Key Attractions: Bringing Animation to Life
Mickey’s Toontown featured several groundbreaking attractions. “Roger Rabbit’s Car Toon Spin,” inspired by the movie “Who Framed Roger Rabbit,” became a staple of Toontown, offering an innovative ride experience. Gadget’s Go-Coaster, though initially conceived as a Rescue Rangers-themed ride, became a hit with younger visitors, proving that innovative design could create memorable experiences for all ages.
Another crown jewel of Toontown is Mickey’s House, a walkthrough attraction that allowed guests to explore the home of Mickey Mouse himself. This attraction was more than just a house; it was a carefully crafted piece of Disney lore. The house was designed in the American Craftsman style, reflecting the era when Mickey would have theoretically purchased his first home in Hollywood. The attention to detail was meticulous, with over 2000 hand-crafted, custom-built props, ensuring that every corner of the house was brimming with character and charm. Interestingly, the design of Mickey’s House was inspired by a real home in Wichita Falls, making it a unique blend of real-world inspiration and Disney magic.
Mickey’s House also showcased Disney’s commitment to creating interactive and engaging experiences. Guests could make themselves at home, sitting in Mickey’s chair, listening to the radio, and exploring the many mementos and references to Mickey’s animated adventures throughout the years. This approach to attraction design – where storytelling and interactivity merged seamlessly – was a defining characteristic of ToonTown’s success.
![](https://jimhillmedia.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/gadget-go-coaster-1024x576.jpg)
Executive Decisions: Shaping ToonTown’s Unique Attractions
The development of Mickey’s Toontown wasn’t just about creative imagination; it was significantly influenced by strategic decisions from Disney executives. One notable input came from Jeffrey Katzenberg, who suggested incorporating a Rescue Rangers-themed ride. This idea was a reflection of the broader Disney strategy to integrate popular contemporary characters and themes into the park, ensuring that the attractions remained relevant and engaging for visitors.
In addition to Katzenberg’s influence, Frank Wells, the then-President of The Walt Disney Company, played a key role in the strategic launch of Toontown’s attractions. His decision to delay the opening of “Roger Rabbit’s Car Toon Spin” until a year after Toontown’s debut was a calculated move. It was designed to maintain public interest in the park by offering new experiences over time, thereby giving guests more reasons to return to Disneyland.
These executive decisions highlight the careful planning and foresight that went into making Toontown a dynamic and continuously appealing part of Disneyland. By integrating current trends and strategically planning the rollout of attractions, Disney executives ensured that Toontown would not only capture the hearts of visitors upon its opening but would continue to draw them back for new experiences in the years to follow.
Global Influence: Toontown’s Worldwide Appeal
The concept of Mickey’s Toontown resonated so strongly that it was replicated at Tokyo Disneyland and influenced elements in Disneyland Paris and Hong Kong Disneyland. Each park’s version of Toontown maintained the core essence of the original while adapting to its cultural and logistical environment.
Evolution and Reimagining: Toontown Today
As we approach the present day, Mickey’s Toontown has recently undergone a significant reimagining to welcome “Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway” in 2023. This refurbishment aimed to enhance the land’s interactivity and appeal to a new generation of Disney fans, all while retaining the charm that has made ToonTown a beloved destination for nearly three decades.
![](https://jimhillmedia.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/dinseyland-imagineer-team-1024x576.jpg)
Dive Deeper into ToonTown’s Story
Want to know more about Mickey’s Toontown and hear some fascinating behind-the-scenes stories, then check out the latest episode of Disney Unpacked on Patreon @JimHillMedia. In this episode, the main Imagineer who worked on the Toontown project shares lots of interesting stories and details that you can’t find anywhere else. It’s full of great information and fun facts, so be sure to give it a listen!
History
Unpacking the History of the Pixar Place Hotel
![](https://jimhillmedia.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Disney-Unpacked-YouTube-Thumbnail.jpg)
Pixar Place Hotel, the newly unveiled 15-story tower at the Disneyland Resort, has been making waves in the Disney community. With its unique Pixar-themed design, it promises to be a favorite among visitors.
However, before we delve into this exciting addition to the Disneyland Resort, let’s take a look at the fascinating history of this remarkable hotel.
The Emergence of the Disneyland Hotel
To truly appreciate the story of the Pixar Place Hotel, we must turn back the clock to the early days of Disneyland. While Walt Disney had the visionary ideas and funding to create the iconic theme park, he faced a challenge when it came to providing accommodations for the park’s visitors. This is where his friend Jack Wrather enters the picture.
Jack Wrather, a fellow pioneer in the television industry, stepped in to assist Walt Disney in realizing his dream. Thanks to the success of the “Lassie” TV show produced by Wrather’s company, he had the financial means to build a hotel right across from Disneyland.
The result was the Disneyland Hotel, which opened its doors in October 1955. Interestingly, the early incarnation of this hotel had more of a motel feel than a hotel, with two-story buildings reminiscent of the roadside motels popular during the 1950s. The initial Disneyland Hotel consisted of modest structures that catered to visitors looking for affordable lodging close to the park. While the rooms were basic, it marked the beginning of something extraordinary.
The Evolution: From Emerald of Anaheim to Paradise Pier
As Disneyland’s popularity continued to soar, so did the demand for expansion and improved accommodations. In 1962, the addition of an 11-story tower transformed the Disneyland Hotel, marking a significant transition from a motel to a full-fledged hotel.
The addition of the 11-story tower elevated the Disneyland Hotel into a more prominent presence on the Anaheim skyline. At the time, it was the tallest structure in all of Orange County. The hotel’s prime location across from Disneyland made it an ideal choice for visitors. With the introduction of the monorail linking the park and the hotel, accessibility became even more convenient. Unique features like the Japanese-themed reflecting pools added to the hotel’s charm, reflecting a cultural influence that extended beyond Disney’s borders.
Japanese Tourism and Its Impact
During the 1960s and 1970s, Disneyland was attracting visitors from all corners of the world, including Japan. A significant number of Japanese tourists flocked to Anaheim to experience Walt Disney’s creation. To cater to this growing market, it wasn’t just the Disneyland Hotel that aimed to capture the attention of Japanese tourists. The Japanese Village in Buena Park, inspired by a similar attraction in Nara, Japan, was another significant spot.
These attractions sought to provide a taste of Japanese culture and hospitality, showcasing elements like tea ceremonies and beautiful ponds with rare carp and black swans. However, the Japanese Village closed its doors in 1975, likely due to the highly competitive nature of the Southern California tourist market.
The Emergence of the Emerald of Anaheim
With the surge in Japanese tourism, an opportunity arose—the construction of the Emerald of Anaheim, later known as the Disneyland Pacific Hotel. In May 1984, this 15-story hotel opened its doors.
What made the Emerald unique was its ownership. It was built not by The Walt Disney Company or the Oriental Land Company (which operated Tokyo Disneyland) but by the Tokyu Group. This group of Japanese businessmen already had a pair of hotels in Hawaii and saw potential in Anaheim’s proximity to Disneyland. Thus, they decided to embark on this new venture, specifically designed to cater to Japanese tourists looking to experience Southern California.
Financial Challenges and a Changing Landscape
The late 1980s brought about two significant financial crises in Japan—the crash of the NIKKEI stock market and the collapse of the Japanese real estate market. These crises had far-reaching effects, causing Japanese tourists to postpone or cancel their trips to the United States. As a result, reservations at the Emerald of Anaheim dwindled.
To adapt to these challenging times, the Tokyu Group merged the Emerald brand with its Pacific hotel chain, attempting to weather the storm. However, the financial turmoil took its toll on the Emerald, and changes were imminent.
The Transition to the Disneyland Pacific Hotel
In 1995, The Walt Disney Company took a significant step by purchasing the hotel formerly known as the Emerald of Anaheim for $35 million. This acquisition marked a change in the hotel’s fortunes. With Disney now in control, the hotel underwent a name change, becoming the Disneyland Pacific Hotel.
Transformation to Paradise Pier
The next phase of transformation occurred when Disney decided to rebrand the hotel as Paradise Pier Hotel. This decision aligned with Disney’s broader vision for the Disneyland Resort.
While the structural changes were limited, the hotel underwent a significant cosmetic makeover. Its exterior was painted to complement the color scheme of Paradise Pier, and wave-shaped crenellations adorned the rooftop, creating an illusion of seaside charm. This transformation was Disney’s attempt to seamlessly integrate the hotel into the Paradise Pier theme of Disney’s California Adventure Park.
Looking Beyond Paradise Pier: The Shift to Pixar Place
In 2018, Disneyland Resort rebranded Paradise Pier as Pixar Pier, a thematic area dedicated to celebrating the beloved characters and stories from Pixar Animation Studios. As a part of this transition, it became evident that the hotel formally known as the Disneyland Pacific Hotel could no longer maintain its Paradise Pier theme.
With Pixar Pier in full swing and two successful Pixar-themed hotels (Toy Story Hotels in Shanghai Disneyland and Tokyo Disneyland), Disney decided to embark on a new venture—a hotel that would celebrate the vast world of Pixar. The result is Pixar Place Hotel, a 15-story tower that embraces the characters and stories from multiple Pixar movies and shorts. This fully Pixar-themed hotel is a first of its kind in the United States.
The Future of Pixar Place and Disneyland Resort
As we look ahead to the future, the Disneyland Resort continues to evolve. The recent news of a proposed $1.9 billion expansion as part of the Disneyland Forward project indicates that the area surrounding Pixar Place is expected to see further changes. Disneyland’s rich history and innovative spirit continue to shape its destiny.
In conclusion, the history of the Pixar Place Hotel is a testament to the ever-changing landscape of Disneyland Resort. From its humble beginnings as the Disneyland Hotel to its transformation into the fully Pixar-themed Pixar Place Hotel, this establishment has undergone several iterations. As Disneyland Resort continues to grow and adapt, we can only imagine what exciting developments lie ahead for this iconic destination.
If you want to hear more stories about the History of the Pixar Place hotel, check our special edition of Disney Unpacked over on YouTube.
Stay tuned for more updates and developments as we continue to explore the fascinating world of Disney, one story at a time.
History
From Birthday Wishes to Toontown Dreams: How Toontown Came to Be
![Mickey's Birthday Land](https://jimhillmedia.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/birthday-land-disney-unpacked.jpg)
In the latest release of Episode 4 of Disney Unpacked, Len and I return, joined as always by Disney Imagineering legend, Jim Shull. This two-part episode covers all things Mickey’s Birthday Land and how it ultimately led to the inspiration behind Disneyland’s fan-favorite land, “Toontown”. But let’s not get ahead of ourselves here. It all starts in the early days at Disneyland.
Early Challenges in Meeting Mickey
Picture this: it’s the late 1970s and early 1980s, and you’re at Disneyland. You want to meet the one and only Mickey Mouse, but there’s no clear way to make it happen. You rely on Character Guides, those daily printed sheets that point you in Mickey’s general direction. But let’s be honest, it was like finding a needle in a haystack. Sometimes, you got lucky; other times, not so much.
![](https://jimhillmedia.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/meet-mickey-mouse-birthday-land-room-1024x576.jpg)
Mickey’s Birthdayland: A Birthday Wish that Came True
Fast forward to the late 1980s. Disney World faced a big challenge. The Disney-MGM Studios Theme Park was under construction, with the company’s marketing machine in full swing, hyping up the opening of Walt Disney World’s third theme park, MGM Studios, in the Spring of 1989. This extensive marketing meant that many people were opting to postpone their family’s next trip to Walt Disney World until the following year. Walt Disney World needed something compelling to motivate guests to visit Florida in 1988, the year before Disney MGM Studios opened.
Enter stage left, Mickey’s Birthdayland. For the first time ever, an entire land was dedicated to a single character – and not just any character, but the mouse who started it all. Meeting Mickey was no longer a game of chance; it was practically guaranteed.
![](https://jimhillmedia.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/mickeys-hollywood-theatre-birthday-land-jim-shull-1024x576.jpg)
The Birth of Birthdayland: Creative Brilliance Meets Practicality
In this episode, we dissect the birth of Mickey’s Birthdayland, an initiative that went beyond celebrating a birthday. It was a calculated move, driven by guest feedback and a need to address issues dating back to 1971. Imagineers faced the monumental task of designing an experience that honored Mickey while efficiently managing the crowds. This required the perfect blend of creative flair and logistical prowess – a hallmark of Disney’s approach to theme park design.
Evolution: From Birthdayland to Toontown
The success of Mickey’s Birthdayland was a real game-changer, setting the stage for the birth of Toontown – an entire land that elevated character-centric areas to monumental new heights. Toontown wasn’t merely a spot to meet characters; it was an immersive experience that brought Disney animation to life. In the episode, we explore its innovative designs, playful architecture, and how every nook and cranny tells a story.
![](https://jimhillmedia.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/birthday-land-walt-disney-world-1024x576.jpg)
Impact on Disney Parks and Guests
Mickey’s Birthdayland and Toontown didn’t just reshape the physical landscape of Disney parks; they transformed the very essence of the guest experience. These lands introduced groundbreaking ways for visitors to connect with their beloved characters, making their Disney vacations even more unforgettable.
Beyond Attractions: A Cultural Influence
But the influence of these lands goes beyond mere attractions. Our episode delves into how Mickey’s Birthdayland and Toontown left an indelible mark on Disney’s culture, reflecting the company’s relentless dedication to innovation and guest satisfaction. It’s a journey into how a single idea can grow into a cherished cornerstone of the Disney Park experience.
![](https://jimhillmedia.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/winnie-the-pooh-concept-art-jim-shull-1024x576.jpg)
Unwrapping the Full Story of Mickey’s Birthdayland
Our two-part episode of Disney Unpacked is available for your viewing pleasure on our Patreon page. And for those seeking a quicker Disney fix, we’ve got a condensed version waiting for you on our YouTube channel. Thank you for being a part of our Disney Unpacked community. Stay tuned for more episodes as we continue to “Unpack” the fascinating world of Disney, one story at a time.
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