Theme Parks & Themed Entertainment

Ruminations: “A Charlie Brown Christmas: The Making of a Tradition”

One of television’s most revered animated productions celebrates its 40th anniversary next month. Roger Colton shares a review of a new edition of book that fondly recalls what it took to make the transition from the printed page to television screens in homes around the world

Published

19 years ago

November 9, 2005

Roger Colton

As far back as I can recall, I was always a fan of Charles Schulz Peanuts comic strips. Living here in Northern California, Sunday just was not complete until I had the chance to read the large panels on the front of the San Francisco Chronicle’s comic pages that carried those adventures in full color. And when, on Thursday, December 9 1965, “A Charlie Brown Christmas” first aired at 7:30 p.m., it certainly seemed that I was pretty much the same age as those memorable characters. As an oldest child and having a group of friends just like Charlie Brown, it was not too hard seeing myself in a similar situation with very similar results. (In fact, my baseball team was all too much like his; especially as we managed to win only one game all summer long.)

Christmas was and continues to be a special time for our family. And the messages conveyed in those 30-minutes continue to ring as true today as then did almost 40 years ago. Without too much trouble, I will hazard a guess that the same holds for many of you and yours as well.

So, when a trip to my local bookstore provided me the chance to pick up a copy of the book “A Charlie Brown Christmas: The Making of a Tradition” I knew that this was one book that I will enjoy for some time to come. And who better than to tell us about the efforts behind the production than the two gentlemen who convinced Charles Schulz to bring it to the small screen in the first place? Lee Mendelson and Bill Melendez.

Lee relates that this classic half-hour of television has roots that stretch back to his first independent film production company in 1963. One of the first projects they produced was a documentary for NBC-TV about San Francisco Giants all-star Willie Mays.

A few weeks later, I was reading a Peanuts comic strip in which Charlie Brown was losing another baseball game. The idea of following my first special about the world’s ‘greatest’ baseball player with a program about the world’s ‘worst’ just popped into my mind.

That idea led him to pitch the concept of another documentary to Charles Schulz. It was to be a look at the life of Schulz and a look at the world he had created, and which millions of readers enjoyed every day in newspapers around the world. With a half-hour format, it was to include a few minutes of animation.

It was Charles Schulz who suggested that Mendelson contact an animator who would be able to handle the task. That person was Bill Melendez. His credentials as an animator were (and still are) impressive. He started in the field at Disney in 1938, working on such features as Pinocchio and Bambi and short subjects with both Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck. Through the Forties, he worked at Warner Brothers doing shorts with Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck and Porky Pig. From there he went on to directing everything from industrial films, television programs and commercials.

Before being approached by Lee Mendelson, he had one very important credit to his name. In 1959, Bill worked directly with Charles Schulz to create animation featuring the Peanuts characters for a television commercial for Ford to introduce their new line of automobiles for that year. (Since then, he has been the sole animator permitted to work using the characters including the MetLife commercials, Hallmark promotions, every television special and cartoon as well as every theatrical production.)

As interesting as that half-hour documentary was to everyone involved, it just wouldn’t appeal enough to network television programmers for a sale to be made. (It finally did make it to television some seven years later and won an Emmy. So much for programmers…)

For a year and a half, it looked like the documentary would just gather dust on the shelf in a storeroom. Finally, a phone call from a New York advertising agency offered the opportunity to produce a thirty-minute animated Christmas special featuring the Peanuts characters. And the sponsor wanted to see an outline of this show in only five days. When asked if that was possible, Lee Mendelson said, “Of course.”

From the book, Lee tells what came next:

I hung up the phone and stared at it for a few minutes. Then I called Sparky. “I think I may have just sold a Charlie Brown Christmas show,” I said. “And what show might that be?” Sparky asked. “The one you need to make an outline for tomorrow,” I replied. Without missing a beat, he calmly said, “Okay. Come on up.”

The next day I took notes as Sparky outlined his ideas. “If it’s to be a Christmas special, I want to certainly deal with the true meaning of Christmas, “he said. “And I’d like to do a lot of scenes in the snow and with skating.” (He grew up in St. Paul, Minnesota, after all!) “And maybe we can do something with a Christmas play and mix some of that jazz music with traditional music.” His ideas flowed nonstop, and by the end of the day I sent a complete outline to Coca-Cola in Atlanta (an outline that, basically, would never change as the show evolved).

The rest is history. Bill Melendez and his crew managed to have the show done a week ahead of the broadcast date. Vince Guaraldi added just the right touch with his special brand of jazz creating songs for the holiday that have become standards in their own right. Even though some network executives had second thoughts about the show, it was an overwhelming success with 45 percent of the television sets in the country tuned in to watch.

The book does a wonderful job of taking us behind the scenes during the production. With comments from many of the then children who provided both the voices for the characters to even insights from some of the members of the choir who sang the memorable songs, there is plenty to discover here. Both Lee Mendelson and Bill Melendez offer their own insights into the show in a pair of great in-depth interviews. Lee Mendelson shares a wonderful look back at Charles Schulz and how his life touched (and still touches) those of so many other people. Bill also describes working with Sparky and how they both wanted to keep the simplicity of the strips. A good example was that this show made use of two-dimensional animation. The Peanuts characters don’t move as they do in three-dimensional animation such as the traditionally animated Disney short subject or feature. That maintained the look and feel of the strips.

But the documentation does not end there, by any means. The book includes a look at that 1959 Ford commercial that started it all. From the show’s production, we see some storyboards, the complete, original scene production sheets, a selection of original background sketches, and even bar sheets (used to place dialogue, action, and music frame-by-frame). The book is full of wonderful art from images from frames to special promotional artwork. But the real treat is the illustrated script and even a flip book of the opening scenes of ice skating.

A sample of the storyboards from the book

If there is anything truly missing from the descriptions of the work on the production, it has to be more information about the animation staff that actually produced the project. While it is nice to see a few photographs, it would have been even better to have learned more about who they were and why Bill had them as part of the team. At least the full production credits appear as they did at the end of the show.

Unidentified “Graphic Blandishment” team members and Bill Melendez review the work in progress

The musical side of the show gets attention as well. A look at the career of Vince Guaraldi and the music he brought to the Peanuts cartoons is a rare treat. Also included are original artwork for the covers of the albums the Vince Guaraldi Trio released afterwards, and even sheet music for “Linus and Lucy” and “Christmas Time Is Here” — complete with the lyrics Lee Mendelson wrote on the back of an envelope in all of fifteen minutes!

While the book first appeared in a hardback edition in 2000, the paperback edition is a real bargain. With a retail price of $14.95, this is a must have for anyone with an appreciation of animation. You might even want to throw in a copy of the DVD or other merchandise related to the show through the link here to Amazon. And if you want to truly step up, copies of the hardback edition are also still available. Or if you want it all, throw in copies of the original soundtrack on CD’s by the Vince Guaraldi Trio for both “A Charlie Brown Christmas” and “A Boy Named Charlie Brown.” Of course, the soundtracks are also available here and here, respectively, on the iTunes Store.

As this is a special anniversary for the show, there are a number of activities and products planned to commemorate that first airing in 1965. ABC will air the show twice in December, and it will be released in a special 40th anniversary package by Paramount Home Video on both VHS and DVD. Even NASCAR got into the spirit as Bill Elliot drove a specially painted car to commemorate the anniversary. And a variety of other special 40th anniversary merchandise will also be available. Check this link for further details.

Bill Elliot’s NASCAR Dodge featuring the 40th

And of course, the Charles M. Schulz Museum will participate in the festivities as well! From their web site:

“From November 16 through January 9, 2006, the Schulz Museum will commemorate the anniversary of A Charlie Brown Christmas with an exhibition of books, figurines, and archival artifacts from the last forty years including the toy piano used to record Schroeder’s plinking piano notes from his reluctant rendition of Jingle Bells.”

Something I may have to do and share will all of you, too. Especially as the Museum has this event coming:

“Saturday, December 17, 12 – 5pm. Celebrate the 40th Anniversary of the animated special, “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” with memories, music, and a viewing of the movie. Producer Lee Mendelson will join original cast members to talk about the making of the movie.”

Now that sounds like a trip well worth making!

I hope you will enjoy this book as much as I have. The message of “A Charlie Brown Christmas” is a simple one and it hasn’t changed in all of those 40 years. While the world is a more complicated place since that time, perhaps this look back at such a simple and enduring piece of entertainment helps to remind us how important such things can be to all of us.

With the holidays approaching, it is definitely going to be a difficult time for many people across the country. If you can find a way, do what you can to share with those in need. A donation to a charity in your community will go a long way right now. Everything from the United Way to the Salvation Army to Toys for Tots and more will appreciate your help.

History

The Evolution and History of Mickey’s ToonTown

Published

6 months ago

February 7, 2024

Jim Hill

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.

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.

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.

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

Published

6 months ago

January 30, 2024

Jim Hill

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

Published

6 months ago

January 14, 2024

Jim Hill

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.

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.

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.

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.

Interested in learning about Jim Shull’s original idea for a Winnie the Pooh ride? Here’s concept art of the attraction proposed for the original Toontown in Disneyland. More on [Disney Unpacked].

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.