#the pool was designed by disney imagineers

[mlady-magnolia]

At a sorority retreat acting normal because they’re not allowed to know how mentally ill I am about spies and superheroes…

[valy-gc]

Had some fun

I imagined for a moment already some OCs school.

Now I decided to see a little more in details.

I may make uniforms later, but you're free to use them in fics or anything, or make characters from them

Lilystar Academy (All-Girls, Pyroxene/Shaftland)

Inspired by Classic Disney Princesses

Location: In a serene, enchanted forest bordered by lakes and mountains, reminiscent of the environments associated with classic Disney princesses.

Equivalent to the Great Seven: Known as “The Graceful Five,” these figures include historical figures inspired by princesses who valued kindness, intelligence, bravery, beauty, and loyalty. These figures resemble Snow White, Cinderella, Aurora, Belle, and Rapunzel, each believed to embody a unique virtue.

Dorms:

Edelweiss (Snow White-inspired): A focus on resilience and kindness. Dorms are nestled in a secluded glade surrounded by flora and fauna, and members are trained in leadership and care for magical creatures.

Glassentia (Cinderella-inspired): Emphasizes determination and charm. Their dorm is located in an elegant manor and focuses on resourcefulness, personal development, and endurance.

Rosa (Aurora-inspired): Represents grace and poise. Dorm rooms are within a magical tower surrounded by roses, and members are known for their keen magical talent in healing and defensive spells.

Asteria (Belle-inspired): Focuses on intellect and courage. The dorm resembles an old library tower, and members excel in research, ancient languages, and magical history.

Starlight (Rapunzel-inspired): Encourages creativity and exploration. Students in Starlight study unconventional magic, including potion-making and alchemy.

Description: Lilystar Academy has high academic standards, though it values compassion and personal growth more than prestige. It's moderately prestigious but less widely renowned than NRC or RSA, attracting students who wish to hone their magical abilities alongside artistic and social skills.

The Abyssal Institute (All-Girls, Coral Sea)

Inspired by Disney Villainesses

Location: A sunken palace deep in the Coral Sea, designed to look like an underwater castle with spired towers, and illuminated by bioluminescent plants.

Equivalent to the Great Seven: “The Dark Coven,” modeled after notable female villains: Ursula, Maleficent, Queen Grimhilde (the Evil Queen), Cruella, and the Queen of Hearts. Each is revered for traits like ambition, cunning, and power.

Dorms:

Vortex (Ursula-inspired): Known for studies in potion-making and enchantments. The dorm is shaped like a spiraling grotto with tidal pools for experiments.

Thornhelm (Maleficent-inspired): Focuses on dark magic and transformations. Dorm rooms are nestled among eerie kelp forests.

Glassgaze (Grimhilde-inspired): Students specialize in divination and mirror magic. The dorm resembles a palace wing with ornate, reflective walls and focuses on personal power and allure.

Bloodspade (Queen of Hearts-inspired): Emphasizes strength and authority, with a fondness for magical games of strategy. The dorm is modeled after a coral fortress and encourages students to master illusion and strategic magic.

Roguecrest (Cruella-inspired): Focuses on creative magic, illusion, and spellcraft with high visual effects. This dorm takes after Cruella’s daring style and values students who push boundaries in visual and auditory illusions.

Description: The Abyssal Institute is highly exclusive and selective, drawing a wide range of skilled students from the Coral Sea region. It's known for producing powerful magic-users, and students here often clash with RSA and NRC graduates in international magical competitions.

Ironclad Academy (All-Boys, Pyroxene/Shaftland)

Inspired by Disney Heroes and Warriors

Location: A secluded mountain fortress in a northern, snow-capped region that resembles a medieval military training ground.

Equivalent to the Great Seven: Known as “The Noble Six,” inspired by valiant Disney heroes and warriors such as Hercules, Mulan, Aladdin, Tarzan, Maui, and Robin Hood. Each figure represents physical and mental attributes important to Ironclad's philosophy, such as strength, honor, resourcefulness, adaptability, resilience, and cunning.

Dorms:

Aegis (Hercules-inspired): Focuses on strength, courage, and heroism. Dorm rooms are fortified with magically reinforced materials, and members are encouraged to master spells for physical enhancement.

Fangblade (Mulan-inspired): A focus on tactical prowess and strategic magic. The dorm resembles a hall filled with weaponry and artifacts, and students train in combat techniques and tactical planning.

Daggerfall (Aladdin-inspired): Specializes in agility, resourcefulness, and charm-based magic. Dorm rooms are located within intricate desertic maze-like structures, teaching students evasion and trickery.

Wildclaw (Tarzan-inspired): Emphasizes survival skills and beast magic. Dorms are within a lush, magical forest attached to the academy, and members bond with various creatures.

Skyfury (Maui-inspired): Studies environmental magic and elemental control. Dorm is built atop a cliff with an open view of the sky, emphasizing storm and ocean magic.

Greenbow (Robin Hood-inspired): Focuses on stealth, precision, and speed. Dorm rooms are located in hidden alcoves, emphasizing agility and archery-based magic.

Description: Ironclad Academy is well-respected among other magical institutions, known for producing graduates who are both physically and magically powerful. While it’s not as academically esteemed as NRC or RSA, its students are highly regarded in security and guardianship roles.

The Gilded Institute (All-Girls, Sunset Savannah)

Inspired by Disney's Animal Kingdom Characters

Location: Located deep in a vibrant, mystical jungle teeming with magical flora and fauna. The institute takes after ancient jungle temples.

Equivalent to the Great Seven: Known as “The Wild Four,” representing figures similar to Disney's most iconic animals: Simba (leadership), Baloo (wisdom), Kaa (cunning), and Bambi (grace). These legendary creatures embody different aspects of primal power and the wisdom of the natural world.

Dorms:

Roarvale (Simba-inspired): Teaches leadership and courage. Dorm rooms are within an elevated area of the jungle, resembling ancient ruins, and students are encouraged to take on leadership roles.

Leafden (Baloo-inspired): Focuses on wisdom, patience, and knowledge of nature. This dorm is centered around a large treehouse, where students study medicinal herbs, druidic magic, and potions.

Fangshade (Kaa-inspired): Known for stealth, agility, and charisma. Dorm rooms are spread out along winding forest paths, hidden in the shadows. Students focus in illusions and mental enchantments.

Gladepaw (Bambi-inspired): Focuses on agility and empathy. Dorm rooms are on ground level, surrounded by streams and lush vegetation. Members are encouraged to study healing magic and natural spellcasting.

Description: The Gilded Institute is lesser-known than the prestigious schools but respected for its unique approach to magic through a connection with nature. Graduates often become conservationists, animal tamers, or rangers within the magical world.

Tidebreak College (All-Boys, Coral Sea)

Inspired by Pirate and Sea-Themed Characters

Location: A maritime fortress on a series of floating islands within the Coral Sea, accessible only by boat or through underwater passages.

Equivalent to the Great Seven: Known as “The Salty Five,” based on infamous sea-faring figures resembling Captain Hook, Davy Jones, Captain Jack Sparrow, Maui, and Ariel’s Father King Triton. The figures represent aspects like exploration, mystery, treasure-seeking, respect for the sea, and adventure.

Dorms:

Skullcrest (Captain Hook-inspired): Focuses on leadership and strategy. The dorm is located within a cave-like fortress, and students learn navigation, naval combat magic, and illusion spells.

Eelspire (Davy Jones-inspired): Centers on fear, respect, and power over the sea. This dorm, filled with eerie nautical relics, teaches binding spells and oceanic curses.

Tidesong (King Triton-inspired): Focuses on marine harmony and defensive magic. Dorms are adorned with coral, shells, and bioluminescent plants, and students study aquatic creature-taming and protective magic.

Mistrider (Jack Sparrow-inspired): Teaches charm, trickery, and quick thinking. Dorm rooms resemble rustic ship cabins, and students excel in persuasion and illusion.

Starcurrent (Maui-inspired): Focuses on environmental magic and water-based spells. Dorms resemble a series of small atolls where students connect with marine currents and weather.

Description: Tidebreak College is a unique school that teaches an unconventional style of magic, with an emphasis on teamwork, creativity, and navigation. It is well-regarded within maritime communities and recognized as a solid choice for aspiring seafarers.

Hearthstone Institute (All-Girls, Queendom of Rose)

Inspired by Disney’s Hearth and Home Characters

Location: A grand castle-like estate on the edge of a magical village, designed to feel warm, welcoming, and safe, with every hall adorned in rich, earthy colors and cozy fireplaces.

Equivalent to the Great Seven: Known as “The Matrons of Virtue,” inspired by Disney’s caring and wise figures like the Fairy Godmother, Mrs. Potts, The three fairies, and Mama Odie. They represent kindness, support, wisdom, resilience, and creativity.

System: Mentorship Halls Instead of Dorms

The Hall of Enchantment (Fairy Godmother-inspired): Specializes in charm-based spells and transformation magic, focusing on personal growth and confidence. Each student has a mentor in advanced charmwork.

The Hearth Hall (Mrs. Potts-inspired): Focuses on protection and enchantment of objects. Students here are trained in household charms, protective spells, and potion-brewing for the home.

The Luminous Hall (the three fairies-inspired): Studies light magic and healing. Students here are paired with healers and trained in physical and emotional healing spells.

The Mystic Hall (Mama Odie-inspired): Teaches voodoo-inspired magic, charms, and fortune-telling. Each student is paired with an elder who teaches intuitive and unconventional magic practices.

Description: Hearthstone Institute emphasizes nurturing relationships over dorm living. Each student is matched with a mentor from her hall, who oversees her magical development, often creating a family-like atmosphere. Hearthstone is well-respected for producing compassionate, community-focused mages.

Mirage University (All-girl, Scalding Sands)

Inspired by Adventure and Exploration Characters

Location: A desert oasis city with elements of ancient architecture, vast libraries, and archeological ruins, with a focus on adventure and magical research.

Equivalent to the Great Seven: Known as “The Compass Council,” inspired by legendary explorers like Sinbad, Indiana Jones, Moana, and Milo Thatch. These figures represent exploration, resourcefulness, curiosity, and bravery.

System: Wanderer’s Houses Instead of Dorms

The Sandstorm House (Sinbad-inspired): Specializes in desert survival magic and treasure-hunting spells. Members of Sandstorm House are trained in combat and desert traversal.

The Seeker’s House (Indiana Jones-inspired): Focuses on artifact discovery and ancient languages. Students learn ancient magic, glyphs, and restoration spells.

The Tidal House (Moana-inspired): Trains students in water manipulation and aquatic exploration. Members are often seafarers and focus on maritime spells and coastal survival skills.

The Horizon House (Milo Thatch-inspired): Specializes in academic and research magic, including archeological magic and knowledge preservation. Members work in grand archives and study ancient tomes.

Description: Mirage University encourages exploration over academics. Students are organized into “Wanderer’s Houses,” which function like guilds that focus on particular regions or types of exploration. Mirage is less prestigious but known for fostering daring researchers who often make historical discoveries.

Silverpine Conservatory (All-boy, Pyroxene/Shaftland)

Inspired by Disney’s Magical Animals and Forest Creatures

Location: Set in a magical woodland area with cabins, trails, and open glades. Students live among the trees in small communal spaces, fostering a strong bond with nature and animals.

Equivalent to the Great Seven: Known as “The Spirit Council,” inspired by legendary animal protectors that resemble figures like Bambi’s mother, Mufasa, Chief (The fox and the hound), and Baloo. These spirits represent harmony with nature, wisdom, protection, and kinship.

System: Communal Cabins Instead of Dorms

Pineclaw Cabin (Mufasa-inspired): Focuses on leadership, courage, and survival skills. Members learn protection spells and defensive animal bonding.

Moonlight Cabin (Bambi-inspired): Teaches empathy, gentleness, and nature harmony. Students excel in healing, camouflage, and weather spells.

Echo Ridge Cabin (Chief-inspired): Focuses on cunning and forest strategy. Students learn scouting, stealth, and tracking magic.

Bearpaw Cabin (Baloo-inspired): Studies resilience and self-sufficiency, teaching students to forage, fish, and survive in nature.

Description: Silverpine is a peaceful institution that emphasizes learning from nature, with students staying in small cabins within the forest. Each cabin is like a family, with seniors acting as guides for younger students, passing down spells that enhance nature and animal bonds.

[timeagainreviews]

Bombastically Subtle: The Giggle

In my review for “The Power of the Doctor,” I talked about the power of lowering expectations. It’s good to approach Doctor Who with an open mind as it leaves room for being pleasantly surprised. One major truth for the Doctor Who fandom is how often we play ourselves with our expectations. We get it in our heads how something is supposed to be and we get mad that it isn’t that thing. That being said, there is a rational standard to be expected. Before “Journey to the Centre of the TARDIS,” aired, I had a small list of things I wanted to see in the TARDIS. Things which if included, would mean they didn’t waste the opportunity. I wanted to see a big gothic library. Check! I wanted to see the swimming pool. Check! I wanted to see a room that looked like the outdoors. Check! I wanted to see an M.C. Escher room like from “Castrovalva.” Well, three out of four ain’t bad. Speaking of three out of four, remember “The Celestial Toymaker”?

Of the 97 missing episodes of Doctor Who, three are from the four-part story “The Celestial Toymaker.” It would be four out of four, but the last episode “The Final Test,” was eventually returned to BBC in 1984 but wasn’t made available to the public until 1991. For years, all fans had left of this story was the Target novelisation and their imaginations. You could argue that “The Celestial Toymaker,” is a story which has benefitted from going missing. It enjoys a sort of mythic status no effects budget from 1966 could ever live up to. So when it was revealed that the Toymaker would be returning to Doctor Who in “The Giggle,”  I saw it as an opportunity for them to finally give us the episode that has existed in our collective imagination for decades. 

It makes sense that it took 57 years to return the Toymaker to the screen. It’s easier to write “The Doctor sees himself in puppet form,” than it is to film. Words may be the cheapest way to put big images in our heads, but we’ve got Disney money now. Doctor Who can finally afford to give the Toymaker the visuals he deserves. And the episode delivers on those visuals. It’s as mindbending and dazzling as you would expect for a trickster from the Island of Misfit Toys. Not only are the visuals impressive, but they’re also creative. That last bit is something people often forget. Style is everything. The Toymaker’s old-timey shop is beautiful and this design aesthetic carries over to visuals he produces. He feels appropriately out of time and timeless. I wanted to say this upfront because, honestly, there is so much more going on than stellar visuals.

One complaint I’ve seen consistently about the 60th Anniversary Specials is that they often seem like pale imitations of what came before. Just last week I compared “Wild Blue Yonder,” unfavourably to “Midnight,” but I had to concede to the fact that these specials are a bit of an homage to all of Doctor Who. Of course, there are similarities, it’s a celebration of 60 years of Doctor Who. That would be like complaining that they put a Santa robot in a Christmas episode. “The Star Beast,” harkens to alien invasion stories and evil dictators. “Wild Blue Yonder,” is like our “Midnight,” “The Edge of Destruction,” and “Heaven Sent,” type stories with a healthy dose of body horror. And “The Giggle,” is a bit more like “The Ultimate Foe,” “The Mind Robber,” or even “The Sound of Drums.” If these episodes are, as Russell T Davies said, the finale to the 2005 series, they’re a fitting send-off. 

Much like “Wild Blue Yonder,” I found the introduction to “The Giggle,” to be the weakest section of the episode. Something about both scenes in both episodes had unnatural dialogue and poor pacing. It feels almost as though the episodes are both trying their best to get going as fast as possible. It makes sense when you consider that a major plot point is that the Doctor doesn’t take time to rest. Also, there is a lot of information to be imparted within three episodes. Regardless, I got a little nervous by Neil Patrick Harris’ over-the-top German accent bouncing off of Charlie de Melo’s confused face. But when Banerjee says to the Toymaker that his accent was slipping, I relaxed a bit. It’s like when Dorothy Vallens tears her bad wig off in “Blue Velvet.” You think “Oh thank god, they realise it’s unrealistic.”

I love the inclusion of John Logie Baird into the story. Not only is he from Scotland (my newfound home), but an oft-overlooked person in history. Using the inventor of television to celebrate one of Britain’s oldest TV shows feels appropriate. RTD said in an interview that he started reading up on Baird while working on his miniseries “Nolly.” Initially, the only villain of the story was going to be the puppet, Stooky Bill, but Davies realised that might look a bit naff so he considered who might be the puppet master and the Toymaker was a natural fit. I love hearing how writers form stories from seemingly disparate elements. Had RTD never written “Nolly,” we would have probably not seen the Toymaker, which would have been a different 60th anniversary altogether.

Thanks to things like “Doctor Who Unleashed,” and the commentaries, we’ve been given some intriguing insights into Davies’ creative process. Initially, he worried that the Toymaker was too ancient a character for modern fans to care about, but that never stopped Steven Moffat from introducing a new generation of fans to the Great Intelligence. He also took time to discuss the Toymaker’s racist roots. While I’ve never once thought of the Toymaker as yellowface, I can see how their use of the word “celestial,” and his Chinese silks might send the wrong message in this day and age. It’s funny then that that is also the reason he decided to give the Toymaker various accents, as a call back to his problematic nature. He is a villain after all. But is it really racist to make fun of Germans? I prefer my friend Taryn’s explanation that the Toymaker changes his voice often because the Doctor originally beat him by impersonating his voice.

With London at each other’s throats, it’s easy to see why UNIT would be relieved to see the Doctor. I half-expected Kate Stewart to slap the Doctor, but instead, she greets him with a hug. In the words of the Doctor- “This is new!” Now it’s been said before, so I’ll just agree that yes UNIT HQ looks like Avengers tower. We’ve already established that RTD is taking a page out of the Marvel playbook, no need to belabour the point. Back at UNIT, the Doctor is reintroduced to some familiar faces. We see Kate Stewart, Shirley Bingham, but most excitingly, Mel Bush. That’s right, I said “excitingly,” and “Mel Bush,” in the same sentence. I once met Bonnie Langford at a convention and I feel like she could tell I was lying when I said “I liked you in Doctor Who,” because in all honesty, I didn’t. But after rewatching “Paradise Towers,” and admiring Mel’s individuality in the face of the mocking Kangs, I thought “Maybe Hughie Lewis was right, it is hip to be square.” Furthermore, I knew RTD would do her right.

Something I’ve really enjoyed about the RTD2 era is how he has somewhat elevated the role of companion. Too often in the show's history have the companions been forced into the role of audience surrogate, fit only to ask the Doctor what’s happening and to get captured. Both Mel and Donna are rocking shit at their computer consoles. Finally, a writer who remembered Mel is a computer wiz, go figure! And of course, the best temp in Chiswick is leading the attack. But beyond being useful, he’s allowing the companions to have actual depth of emotion. Mel’s life doesn’t feel like a sad sack existence that landed her in a support group. She had a fun life with Glitz. Furthermore, it was a life she chose. There’s no baggage between her and the Doctor, just delight.

The Doctor learns that it’s not just Londoners losing their minds, but the whole world. Even our beloved Trinity Wells has fallen prone to the vitriol on her Fox News-esque talk show. The source of this anger is an arpeggiated laugh over the image of the first-ever televised face- Stooky Bill. This of course is the aspect that reminded me most of the “Utopia/The Sound of Drums/Last of the Time Lords” three-parter. Like the rhythmic heartbeats of a Time Lord, this signal has laid dormant on every television, computer, tablet, and phone screen for years. This is, of course, Russell T Davies’ comment on the current state of discourse on the internet these days. And in another way, it’s his comment on the state of the Doctor Who fandom lately. He seems well aware of the divisions in the fandom and it’s nice to see that aside from the sexists, racists, and transphobes, he’s interested in bringing the rest of us together, but I digress.

In what may be one of the most effective scenes in the whole episode, Kate Stewart removes her Zeedex, a device invented by the mysterious Vlinx to inhibit the effects of the giggle signal. After removing it, we watch in horror as our beloved Kate Stewart devolves into a paranoid ableist bigot who hates gingers. Jemma Redgrave gives a chilling and vulnerable performance that was hard to watch. I found myself choked up seeing her in this state, and watching her profusely apologise to Shirley afterwards was heartbreaking. That said, I loved Shirley’s reaction. It’s nice that RTD in his desire to portray marginalised people hasn’t forgotten that we’re not all helpless. Shirley understood the situation and she’s strong enough to take it. Even more, I loved it when the Doctor snapped at her with a bit of sass. It’s good to see Davies treating this new diverse cast as flawed and vulnerable people. He’s not ticking boxes, these are real characters.

The Doctor begins to get an inkling as to who they are dealing with. The words “puppetmaster,” and “toying with,” begin entering his vocabulary. The hairs on the back of his neck stand on end as something deep inside him is screaming “Toymaker!” Having correlated the mass outbreak of violence with the launch of a South Korean satellite, Kate gets permission from the Doctor to take out the satellite with a Galvanic beam. I loved how it was the Doctor’s job as President of the World to give the command. He must have hated that. Eagle-eyed viewers will remember galvanic radiation as the poisonous light from the planet Midnight. Once again RTD calls back to one of his best stories. Meanwhile, Donna hits Kate up for a job at UNIT netting her six figures a year and five weeks of holiday. Go Donna! While all of this is happening, Shirley has traced the original Stooky Bill broadcast back to SoHo in 1925. The Doctor and Donna pile into the TARDIS to follow this lead which takes them to the Toymaker’s shopfront.

What I love most about including the Toymaker is that it has introduced magic into Doctor Who. The ‘70s gave us many occult storylines, but even then most of them could be explained with science. Seldom does Doctor Who give us a storyline where the Doctor is unable to explain what happened. We got the Beast in “The Impossible Planet/The Satan Pit,” and the haunted house from “The Chimes of Midnight,” but for the most part, magic has never been real in Doctor Who. Not even the Carrionites used actual magic in their word-based witchcraft. Perhaps RTD’s time working on “Wizards vs Aliens,” rubbed off on him. Either way, it’s an interesting way to breathe new life into Doctor Who. The Doctor hasn’t really ever dealt with actual magic and I am curious how it will affect him moving forward. Superman is one of the most powerful beings in DC comics, but along with Kryptonite, one of his greatest weaknesses is magic. Magic plays by its own rules.

As a being governed by magic, the Toymaker is bound to a set of rules. The Toymaker takes pride in his rules, so much so that when Donna implies he’ll cheat the Doctor, he looks genuinely offended. There is clear animosity between the Doctor and the Toymaker that is palpable throughout the story. The Doctor even antagonises the Toymaker by implying he is a slave to his rules of play. The Toymaker isn’t just interested in revenge, he wants to humiliate the Doctor in front of the person who loves him the most- Donna. He attempts to weaken her faith in the Doctor by illustrating the Doctor’s past failures to save his companions while highlighting the ways the Doctor justifies his failures. The one thing the Toymaker didn’t consider is that Donna knows this about the Doctor already. He can’t break her faith in a man she regularly puts in his place. This woman once called the Doctor “a thin line of alien nothing.” Do your worst, Toymaker, because Donna has already said it and more.

The real secret behind this episode’s success is in its subtlety, which is hard to imagine in a story where a man turns bullets into flowers while singing to the Spice Girls. Despite all of the big colourful chaos, the most effective moves are quiet. I mentioned in my review for “The Star Beast,” that Davies was more successful in his moments of subtlety than his big declarations, and here is no different. The Doctor and Toymaker play a simple card game. The Doctor loses this game but wins on the technicality that they are now even. There’s no way the Toymaker can allow for a tie, a winner must be decided. You can’t beat the Toymaker with bullets or Osterhagen Keys, but rather by playing his games. Underneath all of the expensive CGI and set design, it ultimately comes down to a game of wits. This is classic Doctor Who, “The Brain of Morbius” stuff.

That art of subtlety had seemed all but gone with the Chibnall era. I grew tired of the Doctor constantly knowing everything and never being out of her depth. It’s good to see the Doctor still has to solve things. It’s why I’ve enjoyed seeing Tennant skulking around being a detective. It’s why people always harp on about “show don’t tell.” It’s better to see how the Doctor slowly pieces things together than for the Doctor to tell us upfront. Knowing everything is not what makes the Doctor clever. Knowing nothing, having no plan, and discovering the path is far more gratifying to see. Ultimately it comes down to Davies having a better understanding of the Doctor as a character. The Doctor is flawed, vain, aloof, and prone to getting frazzled. Its his ability to soldier on that makes him special. The Doctor’s strength isn’t in knowing everything, it’s in knowing his limitations. You can’t learn if you have everything figured out.

While we’re on the subject of subtle changes and Chibnall, it might be worth it to discuss how this story addresses “The Timeless Children,” because I’ve seen zero people talking about it. When the Toymaker flashes the gold tooth in his disturbingly toothy grin, he tells us a little more than the Master’s fate. In a blink-and-you-miss-it line, he implies that he turned the Doctor’s timeline into a jigsaw puzzle. It’s such a subtle moment that it’s not surprising that most people missed it. But think for a moment- what recently turned the Doctor’s life into a convoluted mess? The Timeless Child storyline, of course. I love this line because it does two things. First, it allows the people who enjoyed “The Timeless Children,” to continue on in their enjoyment. Secondly, it allows those of us who disliked it to compartmentalise the storyline into something that finally made sense as a plan devised by a villain. If you ever wondered why the Timeless Child storyline was necessary, you now have a canon explanation- it wasn’t.

Unable to foresee the Doctor’s clever escape clause or Donna’s ability to bash a doll against a wall (love love loved that by the way), the Toymaker decides to change the playing field from his Toyshop to UNIT HQ. Neil Patrick Harris seems to be having the time of his life terrorising UNIT to the tune of “Spice Up Your Life.” At first you think “Oh how funny,” and then you see Mel take a tumble and you think “Woah man, that’s an elderly woman there!” As he gleefully turns two soldiers into a pile of colourful plastic balls, the act is no longer cute. The Toymaker is a horrifying monster with no conscience. Our lives are playthings in his hands and he must be stopped.

This scene illustrates beautifully the exciting possibilities of a magical Whoniverse. The Brigadier once famously quipped “You know, just once I'd like to meet an alien menace that wasn't immune to bullets.” Turning bullets into flowers certainly fits the bill, but it begs an even deeper question- how do you fight an enemy that is immune to science? Kate Stewart took great pride in reforming UNIT to be more science-based, but magic doesn’t care about facts. Magic rewrites reality. The Doctor tries to comfort Shirley by explaining that the Toymaker can change atomic matter with his mind, but admits that even that is a poor explanation. Both the Doctor and UNIT are in new territory. It really ups the danger and makes you wonder how the Doctor will adapt. I said in my review of “The Star Beast,” that the sonic screwdriver was like a magic wand and perhaps it may need to become one! Sorry, War Doctor, it’s no longer a scientific instrument.

Exasperated by the Doctor’s trickery, the Toymaker shocks by shooting the Doctor with the Galvanic beam, stating that he wants to play the final game with the next Doctor. This jumpstarts a new regeneration, but as we all know, it’s not your usual regeneration. But before we get into that, I would like to discuss the moments leading up to that infamous moment because some interesting stuff happens. Having Donna and Mel join the Doctor’s side was exciting because we’re so used to the Doctor regenerating in a blast of energy powerful enough to destroy TARDIS consoles and Dalek ships. It’s easy to forget that the Doctor used to regenerate surrounded by his friends. So there the Doctor stands, surrounded by what the Eleventh Doctor would refer to as “the ultimate ginge.” I think we all sort of expected to hear the Doctor say something like “I don’t want to go,” or “I’m ready to go,” and I applaud RTD for avoiding both in favour of a far more appropriate “Allons y!”

Now, if you’re a terminally online Doctor Who fan like myself, you’d probably read the leak about bi-generation and were therefore not surprised. I kind of regret it because it turned out to be true. I am so used to “leaks,” and “fan theories,” being wrong that I expected the same here. However, part of me is somewhat glad I read the leak as it gave me time to think about the concept. I had seen people immediately hate the idea, so I think a part of me decided to be fair. After all, if you read just the synopsis of any story, divorced of all context and tone, you might also say “That sounds terrible.” In context to the rest of this episode, and what came after, bi-geneation was an absolute joy to behold.

Usually when we get a regeneration, we get maybe 20 seconds to enjoy the new Doctor and then have to wait a few months to see more. But here we not only get to meet Ncuti Gatwa’s Fifteenth Doctor, we get to see him in a mult-Doctor episode with David Tennant! What a treat. Immediately I took to Ncuti as he tells the Fourteenth Doctor to push and then admits he doesn’t know that it will work. This is all new to him as well. I said above that I like when the Doctor is slightly out of his depth, and this is no exception. I will say it’s very lucky for both of them that one of them got the pants and the other got the trousers. Can you imagine that scene playing out with one of them having a Winnie the Pooh thing going on? However, they did miss a chance to call back to the Twelfth Doctor by not giving the Doctor question mark underpants. Oh well.

After watching this episode I asked Taryn what she thought about the Fifteenth Doctor and she told me that she felt it was too early to tell. I then pointed out that while we don’t fully know his personality yet, there was no point during which he didn’t feel like the Doctor. Ncuti takes to the role like a fish in water. He is the Doctor and I cannot wait to learn more about his personality. But first, we have a Toymaker to banish. Now I’ve seen people complain that a game of catch was a disappointing climax to the story, but I disagree. Both of the games the Doctor plays against the Toymaker are simple. Which card face is higher? Can you catch the ball without dropping? It’s nice to have a simple solution against a backdrop of heavy special effects. There are some comical moments such as when Fifteen throws the ball as if he’s trying to win against Fourteen. Also just seeing Ncuti run around in his pants was very funny. Ultimately it is the Toymaker who drops the ball. The Fourteenth Doctor takes his prize in the form of banishing him from our universe forever, but not before the Toymaker warns of his minions spilling into our reality. I was reminded of the ���Babylon 5” spin-off “Crusade,” where the Shadows of B5 had been defeated, but their minions continued to plague the galaxy. Or if you’re a Tolkien nerd, it’s like when Sauron continued the work of Morgoth. It’s very exciting stuff.

They continue to set things up for future episodes. They call back to the salt thing from “Wild Blue Yonder,” when Kate orders her men to encase the Toymaker’s box in salt. They also give us a hint of future Master appearances when a mysterious hand with cherry red nail polish retrieves the Toymaker’s tooth. Is it just me or was that lady floating? Because I can’t tell where she would have been standing. But most exciting of all would be the implications of bi-generation and the Fifteenth Doctor’s prize of splitting the TARDIS. According to Davies, he sees this as something that happens across every regeneration. Now every Doctor goes on to have further adventures with their own TARDIS. I’ll be honest, I like this idea less, but that’s mostly just because it’s a bit messy. But why I like it is that it makes a case for its existence. Doctor Who has always been slightly metafictional. Do you need to replace an actor? Well, now the Doctor’s body can change. But this has also introduced a problem into the show which is that if an actor gets too old to play their Doctor, you have to come up with some weird excuse as to why they now look old and bald. But not anymore! While the concept of time streams would have been a cleaner and more wibbly wobbly way to approach this issue, I’m fine with this explanation. It serves a purpose and fixes one of the show’s oldest conundrums.

One aspect the fandom still seems a bit murky on is whether or not the Fourteenth Doctor will still go on to become the Fifteenth Doctor. I’ve seen some people wonder if the Fourteenth Doctor might go on to become the Currator. But I like to think it’s more like a Clara thing where he’ll eventually return to his original point of death to bi-generate into Ncuti Gatwa. One reason I think this is because the Fifteenth Doctor feels at peace with himself. I like to imagine this is due to living a life with the Noble-Temple-Mott family. Something inside the Doctor heals and he’s eventually ready to get back out there and travel like the good ol’ days. Truthfully though, neither scenario would really bother me. With Donna now working at UNIT and Fourteen sticking around I expect we’ll see them again, but at this point, I’m ready to watch Ncuti dazzle us for a bit. 

The epilogue with Donna’s family was such a nice and necessary scene. While Ncuti had since become the new Doctor, he wasn’t yet the current Doctor. We still needed to say goodbye to the Fourteenth Doctor. A good and proper goodbye. Earlier in the episode, Donna mentions to the Doctor that he never seems to rest, but here he seems at peace. It’s funny how it took 15 years to explore how the Tenth Doctor could have been “so much more,” but here it is. The real reason he came back was to retire, to have a family, to find peace. It’s as though every regeneration still swimming around in the Doctor’s mind is finally able to relax. We do however get a hint that it’s not all sunny days and lemonade. If you read Rose Noble’s Magic Card, it mentions she is ready for adventures in her own right. Seeing as she is known to have the occasional trip to Mars with Uncle Doctor, I suspect we’ll see her in the TARDIS sometime if not Big Finish. 

Back in his own fully accessible TARDIS, the Fifteenth Doctor is finally the current Doctor. He runs around his TARDIS consoles flipping switches and having the time of his life, ready to get out there and show the universe what he can do. And what a joy it is to see, is it not? I had been very nervous about this episode because I was worried about where Doctor Who would end up in the end. So much had changed during the Chibnall era and not all of it was for the better. The future of the show felt very shaky and uncertain. Ultimately I was hoping the show could once again find some sort of equilibrium and I feel it has. Doctor Who feels like it’s finally at a point where it can comfortably move forward. I can’t think of anything better to say now than “Allons y!”

[princess-ibri]

Okay, so since we’re talking about Descendants, I really need to get this off my chest, it’s gonna be a bit long 😅

First of all, I have to say that I LOVE how creative you are with your stories, characters and designs!! Like, you pour so much soul into them and it’s unfortunately something that’s been very lacking lately at Disney! You did the Descendants thing so much better than they could!

There was so much that Disney could have done with the idea of a Fairytale Crossover to make this franchise stand apart from previous works that also went with it! Like, instead of having ALL the Disney characters exist at the exact same time and place, they could have existed on the same fictional continent or in the same fictional world but at different places and times so that all of their stories would have happened as they do in the animated movies. And instead of being their children, the protagonists could have been the grandchildren, great-grandchildren or distant relatives of SOME of them, because I truly don’t think that Maleficent, the Evil Queen, Cruella or Ursula would ever want to have children, but Disney went with that because they needed to sell fashion dolls with as many aesthetics as possible (which is ironic because their outfits are soulless, atrocious and pretty much all look the same compared to the ones in Ever After High)!

Had it been only some of the Disney characters having distant relatives, it would have made more sense and they could have come up with an interesting story to explain why the descendants of specific Disney characters have been brought together at this magical school (which should have been much more grand and Hogwarts-like if you ask me)! Could have been a prophecy? A spell? A curse cast by Yen-Sid? The Evil Queen? Maleficent? Or maybe something that was caused a long time ago by multiple Disney Villains? Have these characters been brought here to undo something? Unleash something?

It reminds me of the Grimrose Girls book series by Laura Pohl, which gets often compared to Descendants but is actually more comparable to Ever After High because of this idea of a fate that the characters can’t escape. It’s set in a boarding school, where the protagonists find out that they, as well as the rest of the students, are doomed to repeat the gruesome endings of various fairytales, like the ones who came before them and have to find a way to break the curse before it reaches them too. Disney could have done something similar (not with the gruesome-endings stuff but rather with the setting and idea of a curse)!

Or they could have done something similar to Kingdom Hearts and have all these Disney characters exist in different universes and time periods but have some of their descendants be brought together to the dimension of Auradon for a specific reason! Doing all of this would have allowed for the Descendants franchise to stand apart from Ever After High, but instead they decided to be lazy and rip it off! They really needed to be more creative! Imagine the interesting world-building, the lore and the unique, whimsical designs and outfits that we could have had instead of… Leather and headphones. Disney fumbled really hard!

Right??? Yeah allll of this ☝️ You came up with like three different cool ideas right off the bat, and yet the giant corporation with swimming pools of money--nothing :p

What a waste

[emmiedarling]

wally reminds me of my (neurodivergent) childhood.

nauseating chicken nuggets and cheap happy meal toys from mcdonald's, which i found again, broken and clammy, at the bottom of some box. circling so many books on the book fair packets but only having enough money to get one - usually about dogs - the day it comes to school. going to baskin robbins and getting mint n’ chip ice cream with my grandma once school let out. wearing mix matched clothes that i picked out myself, some of them too small for me, but they did the trick. watching spongebob on that big box tv, getting drowsy as i laid on the threadbare couch. brushing my teeth with strawberry flavored toothpaste and some random disney princess toothbrush i didn’t even like.

bright toys and posters in the dentist room that i was terrified of. plastic kiddie pools and swing sets in the backyard that i’d play in for hours if given the chance. dressing up in uncomfortable neon play clothes with my childhood best friend. looking out the car window and imagining something running alongside us. falling asleep under thick blankets with random eccentric designs on them. cutting playdoh of colors mashed together into random shapes, and enjoying the smell of it. playing by myself with my random bits from polly pocket sets. bottles of awful smelling hairspray for kids to help with tangles after bath, but i cried every time anyway. damn that smiling octopus on the front.

everything is so bright and loud, overwhelming and uncontrollable. my head hurts and i miss my mom.

[cloudcountry]

Heck yeah design Overblot Seria! Despite me having no plans for Bobo (my magicless mc fill in) to ever overblot plus I don’t think she could, I still have an idea how that would look. Or at least I have an idea what her phantom(s) would be. I enjoy character design so much!

I do think if somehow a magicless person could overblot, they probably wouldn’t last like even a minute and probably have a very smol phantom. I think this since it seems overblotting is connected to one’s magic pool/how big a mana bar they have. So big phantoms and longer lasting blots for big magic pools.

From the phantoms I’ve seen so far of the overblotters I want to think phantoms may be based off who the person admires the most. Though with the other phantoms I’ve seen, perhaps it’s more like what the person strives towards being? Their ultimate goals? Maybe it’s like a spirit animal..?

im so sorry axvie i am sso sorry but this made me think of how the overblots are based on disney villains and since sereia is a crab my brain was like "overblot sebastian" EVEN THOUGH HE ISNT EVEN A VILLAIN BUT LIKE CAN YOU IMAGINE?>????? HELP ME

i got a request a while ago for mc overblotting (not on here, on quotev ^^) and i didnt really know how to write it at first??? BC MC IS MAGICLESS AND THEY CANT TECHNICALLY OVERBLOT but i found a way around it so we're all good.

[lifejackets360]

SwimWays Disney Princess Swim Trainer Life Jacket, US Coast Guard Approved Life Vest Kids Swim Vest, Pool Floats & Life Jackets for Kids 33-55 lbs, Ariel

As summer approaches, so do the sound of splashes and the laughter of children swimming in pools and lakes. But amidst the joy of water play, ensuring your little ones’ safety is paramount. Imagine this: It’s a beautiful sunny day, the kids are eager to jump into the water, and you can’t help but reminisce about your own childhood adventures. But then, the thought creeps in—what if something goes wrong? This is where the SwimWays Disney Princess Swim Trainer Life Jacket becomes more than just an accessory; it transforms into a vital piece of gear that provides both safety and peace of mind. Approved by the U.S. Coast Guard, this life vest is designed for kids weighing 33-55 lbs and features whimsical designs featuring Ariel, encouraging young swimmers to embrace the water while ensuring their safety.

[meadowssunproperties]

Disney World Vacation Rentals in Orlando FL

Discover the best Disney World vacation rentals in Orlando, FL with Meadows Sun Properties. Enjoy luxury villas and houses just minutes from the magic.

Planning a magical getaway to Orlando, FL? Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Disney fan, finding the perfect place to stay is crucial to making your trip unforgettable. That’s where Meadows Sun Properties comes in. We specialize in offering the finest Disney World vacation rentals in Orlando, FL, ensuring your stay is comfortable, convenient, and full of fun. Let’s dive into why our vacation homes are the best choice for your next Disney adventure.

Why Choose Vacation Homes for Rent Near Disney World?

When visiting Orlando, staying in a hotel is the traditional choice, but nothing beats the comfort and privacy of a vacation home. Our vacation homes for rent near Disney World offer everything you need for a relaxing stay, including spacious living areas, fully equipped kitchens, private pools, and even game rooms. Unlike cramped hotel rooms, our homes give you the freedom to spread out and truly enjoy your vacation.

Plus, our properties are just minutes from Disney World, so you can easily access the parks without worrying about long commutes. Imagine starting your day with a quick breakfast in your own kitchen, then heading out to the parks, and returning to unwind in a private pool while avoiding the noise and crowds of busy hotels. It’s the perfect blend of convenience and luxury.

Discover Our Disney Holiday Rentals in Orlando, FL

At Meadows Sun Properties, we offer a variety of Disney holiday rentals in Orlando, FL to suit different needs and preferences. Whether you're traveling with a small family or a large group, we have the perfect home for you. Our properties range from cozy two-bedroom townhouses to expansive six-bedroom villas, each thoughtfully designed to enhance your vacation experience.

Our Disney villa rentals in Orlando, FL are particularly popular, offering high-end amenities like private pools, hot tubs, and entertainment spaces. These villas are not just places to sleep; they're destinations in themselves. Spend your days exploring Disney and your evenings relaxing in your luxurious villa, enjoying a movie night in the media room, or having a barbecue in your private backyard.

The Advantages of Staying in Villas Near Disney World

Staying in one of our villas near Disney World offers numerous benefits. Not only do you have more space and privacy, but you also save money on dining out since you can cook your own meals in the fully equipped kitchen. This is especially convenient for families with children, as you can prepare their favorite meals and snacks without having to leave your home.

Another advantage is the proximity to Disney World and other popular Orlando attractions. You’ll be so close to the action that you can easily return to your villa for a midday rest before heading back to the parks for the evening shows and fireworks. Our villas provide the perfect home base for all your Orlando adventures.

Why Meadows Sun Properties is Your Best Choice

When searching for the best house rentals near Disney World, Meadows Sun Properties stands out for several reasons. We pride ourselves on offering high-quality, well-maintained homes that are designed to enhance your vacation experience. Our team is dedicated to providing exceptional customer service, from helping you choose the perfect home to ensuring you have everything you need during your stay.

Our Disney vacation houses in Orlando, FL are located in prime areas, close to the parks, shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Each home is carefully selected and inspected to meet our high standards, so you can rest assured that you're staying in a safe, comfortable, and luxurious environment.

Book Your Disney Vacation Rental Home in Orlando, FL Today

Ready to make your Disney dreams come true? Book your stay with Meadows Sun Properties and enjoy the comfort and convenience of a Disney vacation rental home in Orlando, FL. Whether you’re looking for a cozy getaway or a spacious villa for a family reunion, we have the perfect property for you.

Our booking process is simple and hassle-free. Just browse our selection of homes, choose the one that suits your needs, and make your reservation. We’re here to help with any questions you might have, ensuring your stay is nothing short of magical.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What amenities are included in your vacation homes near Disney World? Our vacation homes come with a range of amenities, including private pools, fully equipped kitchens, game rooms, and free Wi-Fi. Some homes also feature hot tubs, media rooms, and themed bedrooms.

2. How close are the rentals to Disney World? Our properties are located just minutes from Disney World, typically within a 10-15 minute drive. This proximity allows you to easily visit the parks and return to your rental for breaks throughout the day.

3. Are there options for large groups or families? Yes, we offer a variety of homes suitable for large groups, including villas with multiple bedrooms and bathrooms. These homes are perfect for family reunions or group vacations.

4. Can I cook my meals in the rental home? Absolutely! All our homes feature fully equipped kitchens where you can prepare meals. This is a great way to save money and enjoy your favorite dishes during your stay.

5. How do I book a rental with Meadows Sun Properties? Booking is easy. Simply visit our website, browse our selection of homes, choose your dates, and make a reservation. If you need assistance, our team is available to help every step of the way.

[ailogomakerr]

Beyond The Slime: A Logo Analysis of Some of Nickelodeon’s Bizzare Logos

You can’t simply think of a kid’s TV channel without immediately thinking of Nickelodeon! It’s every kids’ staple along with Cartoon Network and Disney Channel. All of which has captivated audiences, young adults and even young adults with their iconic shows and series!

But apart from their quirky cartoons and shows that are joint to the hip with fun, there’s much more interesting things about Nickelodeon and that’s how their logo practically is shapeshifter! It is indeed a wonder to look into this symbol strategy and learning about their logo history and symbol success can help you kickstart your logo-making journey. Make sure to check out Ai Logo Generator for a convenient, and fast logo-making journey!

Source: The Guardian

Some of Nickelodeon’s many forms of logo stood out among the pool of slime-themed logos and in this blog, we are going to dive right into the inspiration behind these logo designs and the extent of creativity it took to make them that made Nickelodeon a success. Whether you’re looking to learn for a logo do-over or you’re starting out from scratch, tune in!

The Slime, A TV Icon

Creativity and Fluidity at Its Peak

The Splat went under a bajillion iterations as there’s really no definite number as to what shape liquid would form into and this genius reason represents Nickelodeon’s fluid and ever-evolving nature. It effectively echoed the infinite possibilities and limitlessness of fun, it perfectly reflects a kid’s ideal of what fun means, there’s no set form to it and everything is possible!

A Emblem of Infinite Possibilities

Reinvention is what Nickelodeon’s splat represents: the ability to adapt and reinvent itself, mirroring the limitless imagination of its audience. It acknowledges that children’s interests are varied and ever-changing, and so too must be the network that seeks to entertain them. This logo embodies the spirit of innovation that drives Nickelodeon, reflecting its commitment to being a dynamic and responsive entertainment platform.

The Turkey Logo

Spirit of The Season

This certain season Nickelodeon logo was specifically made for a very special holiday, and you’ve guessed it, Christmas! Kidding aside, this logo really showcased the Thanksgiving spirit and how the channel brings families together even just by gathering them around their TV screens at home. This logo is a perfect mix of celebratory and comedic branding.

Why a Holiday Logo?

The turkey is not just a Thanksgiving cliche, it is strategically adopted to reflect the channel’s awareness and respect for cultural significance of holidays and how important these events are for their viewers. By temporarily changing their logo to that of a turkey, they are showcasing that even if they are a large name in the industry, they can still intimately celebrate familial holidays right inside everyones’ home so long as they have their televisions on.

Five Fingers to the Face (When You Know, You Know)

A Personal Touch

This might not come as a shock to everyone but Nickelodeon’s hand logo is not just something silly that they slapped on (pun intended) and got over with. It actually represents the channel’s hands-on approach to everything they produce and their undying dedication to create television content that can touch their audience’s lives. Even if it’s through a comedic show from Drake & Josh or from a funny banter between Sam and Cat, Nickelodeon knows how to touch people’s lives (not literally we hope). This kind of logo personalization shows creativity and expression within the network.

Significance of the Handprint

Everybody else knows that a hand print is a sign of one’s individuality and uniqueness and Nickelodeon took that to their advantage using a handprint to signify how their channel just stands out among the crowd. It is also evident that this logo symbolizes how their viewers are unique as well, with a different set of interests, tastes and take on things. That can be seen on the shows their produce, this logo only proves that the network fosters individuality among their viewers.

The Feet Logo

This Aged Like Milk

Before the whole Fiasco with Schneider’s alleged demeanor in and out of the Nick show’s set, the feet logo used to be a profound representation of the channel’s fun and quirky spirit. “Go wherever your feet take you!” Is a saying that’s quite inspiring for children that are fans of the channel and the shows it aired at the time and the feet logo is a smart marketing strategy to uphold their ambition to have children explore and engage with the world. It’s also a genius call to action to have viewers kick off their shoes and get comfortable just as how their show aimed to.

Why Feet?

Opting for a foot logo made Nickelodeon stand out among its competitors that are giants in the kids’ TV industry. Although the foot looks like a suspicious option to pull that off with all the choices the channel has for the central visual element. But suffice to say, it worked! Then, that is. Humor and joy was the network’s mission and the logo seemed to have appealed to children, just how Schneider wanted to (just a rough guess.)

To Wrap Up

These logos that represented Nickelodeon are only a few of the ones that the channel made and utilized for certain occasions or events. Talk about dedication for staying current! When it comes to knowing and standing on business on what’s in, Nickelodeon never came to play! This unique yet effective symbol strategy is deeply intertwined with the channel’s personality.

Apart from being quite a hit on the marketing side of things, these logos also represent how the channel really knows their audience and cares about viewer’s preferences. With these bizarre logos, Nick had the edge to stand out and be one of the best TV for kid’s entertainment out there.

What do you think about this versatile type of branding? It’s quite tedious and takes a lot of brainstorming but totally do-able and worth it! So would you dare to incorporate it into your symbol? Let us know!This blog is from Ailogomakerr.com

[parksaversnews]

Pixar Place Hotel Review

The Pixar Place Hotel is the newest and most imaginative hotel offering at the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California. Opened on January 30, 2024, this completely reimagined hotel takes the place of the former Paradise Pier Hotel and brings the stories and characters of Pixar Animation Studios to life through whimsical theming and decor. With 479 guest rooms and suites, the Pixar Place Hotel caters to all guests seeking a family-friendly hotel stay filled with Disney magic. Its prime location allows for easy access to both theme parks at the Disneyland Resort. As a Disneyland Resort hotel, guests also enjoy special perks like early entry to the parks and Disney character dining. Our review will cover all aspects of a stay at the Pixar Place Hotel, including its history and design, guest rooms and suites, on-site dining, pricing and packages, amenities for families, recreation and leisure facilities, and more. Whether you're planning a vacation or simply curious to learn more, read on for an in-depth look at this inventive new hotel.

Table of Contents - History and Design - Exclusive Artwork - Rooftop Pool - Animator's Studio Design and Decor - Guest Rooms and Suites - Standard Rooms - Themed Suites - Dining - Great Maple - Small Bytes - Sketch Pad Café - In-Room Dining - Pricing and Packages - Amenities and Recreation - Pools - Fitness Center - Activities - Shopping - Transportation - Theme Park Perks - Family Accommodations - Special Events and Celebrations - Recreation and Entertainment - Conclusion

History and Design Originally opened in 1984 as the Emerald Hotel, the hotel was purchased by Disney in 1995 and renamed the Disneyland Pacific Hotel as part of the major Disneyland Resort expansion. In 2001, it was reimagined into Disney's Paradise Pier Hotel, inspired by the Paradise Pier section of the newly opened Disney California Adventure theme park. After nearly 25 years as Paradise Pier Hotel, Disney announced in April 2022 that the property would be completely transformed into a hotel celebrating Pixar Animation Studios. The redesign took nearly two years to complete before the Pixar Place Hotel opened on January 30, 2024. The Pixar Place Hotel is designed to resemble an animator's studio. The lobby features colorful character art, concept drawings, storyboards, and other behind-the-scenes looks at the Pixar creative process. Guest rooms also incorporate artwork and themes from Pixar films like Finding Nemo, The Incredibles, Coco, and more. Outside, the white and black building façade resembles a blank canvas or animation cell, with bright yellow, red, and blue accents adding pops of color. The lobby entrance is marked by tall glass doors trimmed in the signature Pixar lamp logo. Inside, the lobby centers around a large Luxo Ball sculpture with the iconic Luxo Jr. lamp perched on top. https://youtu.be/Tn_RGekZhq8?si=jy5PNjKfN6f-9rjN Exclusive Pixar Artwork and Nods to Pixar Films Throughout the Hotel The Pixar Place Hotel is the first fully Pixar-themed hotel, celebrating the stories and characters of Pixar Animation Studios. Exclusive concept art and film artwork is displayed throughout the hotel, created specifically by Pixar artists for the Pixar Place Hotel. Guest rooms also incorporate custom bedding, pillows, and accents inspired by Pixar films like Finding Nemo, Coco, The Incredibles and more. Rooftop Pool with Themed Water Slide and Splash Pad The rooftop pool area is themed to Finding Nemo, with the 217-foot Crush's Surfin' Safari water slide and Nemo's Cove splash pad for kids. Decor includes coral reef theming, ocean-inspired cabanas, and bright umbrellas referencing the East Australian Current scene. The leisure pool features lounge chairs and private cabanas for relaxation. Animator's Studio Design and Decor The lobby and public spaces resemble an animator's studio, showcasing the Pixar creative process. Guests can view character maquettes, storyboards, concept art, color scripts, and other behind-the-scenes looks at Pixar filmmaking. Touches like pencil cups, animation desks, and art supply accents enhance the studio environment.

Guest Rooms and Suites The Pixar Place Hotel features 479 guest rooms and suites, ranging from standard rooms to elaborately themed specialty suites. All rooms reflect inspiration from Pixar stories through artwork and subtle design details.

Standard Rooms The hotel's 400+ standard guest rooms include a choice of accommodations with either two queen beds or one king bed. Standard rooms measure approximately 365 square feet and feature modern amenities like flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, coffee makers, and free Wi-Fi. Select rooms on higher floors offer premium views overlooking Disney California Adventure Park. Decor includes wall murals, bedding, pillows and other accents showcasing Pixar films. Some examples include: - Finding Nemo rooms with an underwater theme - Coco rooms with bright Mexican-inspired patterns - The Incredibles rooms featuring super suit fabrics and Mid-Century Modern style furniture

Themed Suites For families seeking more space or travelers looking for an over-the-top Pixar experience, the hotel offers 25 elaborately themed one-bedroom suites. Ranging from 565 to 1500 square feet, these suites bring Pixar stories to life through custom artwork, props, furnishings and finishing touches. Suite options include: - The 1,500 square foot Luxo Suite featuring A113 details, Zotz candy dispensers, Scare Floor wallpaper and more nods to Pixar lore. - Coco Suite inspired by the Land of the Dead with an ofrenda, guitar accents and alebrije sculptures. - Finding Nemo Suite, allowing guests to sleep inside a submarine surrounded by coral and bubbles. - The mid-century modern Incredibles Suite, highlighting the Parr family with a spy-fi twist.

Dining The Pixar Place Hotel offers a variety of dining options, from quick service to character dining. Great Maple The hotel's signature restaurant, Great Maple, serves American comfort food with California flair for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Their menu features signature dishes like buttermilk fried chicken with maple bacon doughnuts, Cajun shrimp biscuits, and soda shop-inspired shakes. The restaurant has both indoor and outdoor patio seating. - Opened on November 15, 2023, ahead of the hotel's full reopening - Serves modern American comfort food made from scratch for breakfast, lunch, and dinner - Signature dishes include buttermilk fried chicken with maple bacon doughnuts, cajun shrimp biscuits, soda pop baby back ribs, and seasonal doughnuts - Full bar with wine, beer, cocktails, and speciality drinks like margarita floats - Indoor and outdoor patio seating available 

Small Bytes Adjacent to the pool deck, Small Bytes offers counter service snacks, sandwiches and refreshments. Their menu focuses on lighter fare like salads, flat breads and rice bowls. Guests can dine al fresco beside the pool or take food to go. - Rooftop pool bar opening in early March 2024 - Serves snacks, sandwiches, burgers, nachos, and more - Full bar with cocktails and signature beverages like mini-floats - Outdoor seating available on the pool deck - Features pixel art of Pixar characters on the exterior wall  Sketch Pad Café (Quick Service) - Grab-and-go café in the lobby for breakfast and snacks - Open from 6 AM to 11 AM daily - Serves Illy coffee, espresso, tea, juices and pastries from Röckenwagner Bakery - Limited indoor and outdoor lobby seating - Decor includes sketches of Pixar characters and nods to the creative process In-Room Dining The hotel also provides 24-hour in-room dining service for enjoying meals within the comfort of your guest room or suite. The Pixar Place Hotel room service menu offers a range of American classics alongside theme park favorites like Mickey waffles and churros.

Pricing and Packages Nightly rates for standard rooms at the Pixar Place Hotel typically start around $300 per night, depending on dates and occupancy. Themed suites begin around $700, but can cost over $2,000 per night. The hotel offers travel packages that bundle the room stay with theme park tickets, dining plans and extras. Annual passholder and military room discounts are also available. As a Disneyland Resort hotel, staying at the Pixar Place Hotel includes the "Pixar Place Perks" program, with benefits like early theme park entry and complimentary shuttle transportation.

Amenities and Recreation In addition to its well-appointed guest rooms, the Pixar Place Hotel offers families and leisure travelers a variety of on-site amenities and recreational facilities. Pools The rooftop pool deck features a large outdoor swimming pool, two whirlpool spas, lounge chairs and cabanas. Next to the pool is a 217-foot water slide themed to the East Australian Current from Finding Nemo. Fitness Center The hotel's fitness center provides cardio and strength training equipment like treadmills, free weights and resistance machines. Yoga mats are available for stretching and meditation. Activities Complimentary activities are scheduled frequently around the pool deck and lobby. Examples include poolside yoga, family craft activities, movie nights under the stars and Pixar sketch classes. Shopping The hotel's gift shop, STOR-E, sells Pixar merchandise, Disney goods, travel necessities and convenience items. Exclusive Pixar Place Hotel souvenirs are also available. Transportation Complimentary shuttle buses provide transportation around the Disneyland Resort, including to and from the theme parks and Downtown Disney District. Theme Park Perks As a Disneyland Resort hotel, guests enjoy early theme park entry every morning to either Disneyland or Disney California Adventure Park, based on a rotating schedule.

Family Accommodations With its whimsical theming and variety of rooms, the Pixar Place Hotel is an excellent choice for families visiting the Disneyland Resort. Conveniences like in-room mini-fridges, microwaves (upon request), and coffee makers allow for easy preparation of snacks and light meals. The pool area includes a shallow splash zone for little ones, along with the thrilling Crush's Surfin' Safari water slide that all ages can enjoy together. Babysitting services are available through a third-party provider at an additional cost. Select guest rooms feature bunk beds alongside the main bed(s) to accommodate larger families. Suites like the three-bedroom Luxo Suite provide even more room for families to spread out. Throughout the hotel, kids can explore and discover new surprises from their favorite Pixar films around each corner. From playing virtual reality games to having breakfast with Pixar characters, it's a one-of-a-kind family getaway.

Special Events and Celebrations The Pixar Place Hotel hosts special character dining events and holiday celebrations throughout the year: - Pixar Character Breakfasts: Guests can enjoy themed breakfast buffets with visits from Woody, Buzz, and other Pixar pals. - Halloween and Christmas parties: The hotel decorates for the fall and winter holidays, with special dessert parties, character meet-and-greets, and holiday entertainment. - Pixar Fest After Hours: Tie-in events are held at the hotel during the Disneyland Resort's Pixar Fest celebration from April 26th through August 4th, 2024. Exclusive after-hours pool parties and private character experiences take place.

Recreation and Entertainment Additional recreation, entertainment, and amenities include: - Outdoor movie screenings by the pool on select nights - Family game nights and Pixar trivia challenges in the lobby - Character sketch classes and animation workshops for kids and adults - Video game consoles and virtual reality experiences themed to Pixar films available to rent for guest rooms

Conclusion With its prime location, close theme park access and whimsical Pixar theming, the new Pixar Place Hotel offers guests a family-friendly resort stay filled with Disney magic. Behind its animated exterior lies contemporary accommodations, delicious dining and fun recreation for guests of all ages. Through its origins from the 1980s to today, this hotel at the Disneyland Resort continues to reinvent itself to create memorable vacation experiences. The Pixar Place Hotel marks an exciting new chapter, bringing some of Disney's most beloved characters and stories into the world of Disneyland Resort hotels. Read the full article

[gms-llc]

Unveiling Unforgettable Getaways: Expedia Vacation Deals and Holiday Home Rentals in Orlando

Are you dreaming of your next memorable vacation? Look no further than the enticing Expedia vacation deals that promise exciting adventures and unforgettable experiences. When it comes to travel packages and accommodations, Holiday Homes Rentals in Orlando by GMS LLC are the perfect complement to your dream vacation. In this blog post, we'll take you on a journey through the world of Expedia vacation deals and the charm of Holiday Home Rentals in Orlando.

Exploring Expedia Vacation Deals

Expedia is a renowned name in the travel industry, known for offering a wide array of vacation deals and travel packages. Here's why Expedia should be your go-to when planning your next getaway:

Diverse Destinations: Expedia caters to a global audience, providing access to vacation deals in destinations across the world. Whether you're craving a tropical escape, an urban adventure, or a tranquil retreat, Expedia has options to suit every traveler's preferences.

Cost Savings: Expedia's vacation deals often come with attractive discounts and special offers. You can enjoy significant savings on flights, hotels, and activities, allowing you to make the most of your vacation budget.

Convenience: Expedia simplifies the vacation planning process by offering all-inclusive travel packages. You can book your flight, hotel, and even activities in one seamless transaction, saving you time and effort.

Flexibility: Expedia understands that every traveler is unique. Whether you prefer a spontaneous trip or a meticulously planned itinerary, Expedia's flexible options cater to your travel style.

The Magic of Holiday Home Rentals in Orlando by GMS LLC

When it comes to accommodations, Holiday Home Rentals in Orlando by GMS LLC offers a unique and comfortable alternative to traditional hotels. Here's why they should be your top choice:

Spacious Living: Holiday homes provide ample space for families and larger groups. You'll have the freedom to relax in your own living room, cook in a fully-equipped kitchen, and enjoy multiple bedrooms for a restful night's sleep.

Privacy: Enjoy the privacy of your own home away from home. No shared spaces or crowded hotel corridors—just peace and seclusion for your vacation.

Personalized Experience: Holiday homes are designed with your comfort in mind. They often feature amenities like private pools, game rooms, and outdoor spaces, ensuring a personalized and enjoyable stay.

Cost-Efficiency: When traveling with a group, holiday home rentals can be more cost-effective than booking multiple hotel rooms. You get more space and amenities for your money.

Creating Your Perfect Vacation

Now, imagine combining the incredible deals from Expedia with the comfort and convenience of Holiday Home Rentals in Orlando by GMS LLC. It's the recipe for a perfect vacation. Whether you're planning a family trip to Disney World, a romantic getaway, or a fun-filled adventure with friends, this dynamic duo has you covered.

Start by exploring Expedia's vacation deals to find the destination and package that speaks to your wanderlust. Then, complement your journey with a stay in one of the charming holiday homes in Orlando. The result? A vacation filled with cherished memories, relaxation, and the freedom to explore at your own pace.

So, why wait? Your dream vacation awaits with Expedia vacation deals and Holiday Home Rentals in Orlando by GMS LLC. Begin your journey today, and let the adventures and memories unfold.

[blossomingbabe]

Check out this listing I just added to my Poshmark closet: Disney High School Musical Admission Ticket Beach Towel Red.

[stayhappilyeverafter]

Stayhappilyeverafter - Indulge in a luxurious escape with our selection of vacation rentals and villas in Florida. Discover the magic of Orlando with our exquisite vacation villas, offering the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. Immerse yourself in opulence with our luxury vacation houses, designed to elevate your stay to new heights. Experience the charm of themed vacation rentals, where imagination meets relaxation. Whether you're seeking luxury vacation homes in Orlando or looking for a unique experience like staying in a vacation rental home frozen in Florida, we have the perfect accommodation for you. Book your luxury vacation home rental today and create memories that will last a lifetime.

[josvphs]

there weren't a lot of women who could stand up to the male and do it with such ease. he truly admired that about her and in many ways, it encouraged him to keep up the charade of their forbidden situationship. with the blonde now scolding him, it left him coming back down to his grounded reality, quite literally, as he rocked back on his heels. a small pout to follow. "yeah, yeah.." the flirtatious advance was shrugged off casually, knowing he succeeded in giving her something to think about for the duration of the afternoon.

the view from behind ( and no it didn't have anything to do with her sexy, toned legs and curvaceous hips ) was definitely going to be engraved into his mind later that night once they all went their separate ways and he was left reflecting on their complicated situation. the genuine kindred spirit she had possessed, soothing his daughter's energetic aura was something he couldn't quite wrap his head around. generally speaking, willa tired out anyone she came across. she was chatty by nature, rambunctious, and very curious in her intellect. he prised his focus off of the woman's backside to check in with the young one in his arms, a delicate tickle reaching the nylon of her polka-dotted one piece. another infectious giggle ejected from her, brought him to his childlike grin as he basks in delphine's amusement. once they meet the radiating heat from the outside temp, leaving the indoor chill behind them, he belts out a speechless wow, completely taken aback by how much effort she put forth and just how imaginative she is. "wow.. how cool! delphie.. willa-bear, look at all this! what do you guys say?" his throat tightens up a bit, warmed to the bone by the gesture and still reeling from it all. "tay.. this is incredible." he's pretty sure he's starry-eyed gazing at her under a nearby umbrella, unable to hold back and now, placing the toddler on her own two feet. the woman's request is met with a friendly nod, he's definitely packed a day bag. despite being a goofball most of his days, down to his core, joe has learned to prioritize his fatherly duties and is constantly bending over backward to prioritize the girls' comfort. "uhh.. i forgot to bring some." but, he lies through his teeth. something about watching her be so maternal has him swooning. today he can stand to take an L, especially if it means he can watch her light up taking care of delph and willa, which very clearly brings her an immense amount of joy. "yoddddddie!" he gleefully shrieks meeting the little girl at her height trying to gain her interest with the designed arm floaties. he leans into the girl's question as she whispers in her ear and he softly nods, encouraging her. it's okay, i think she'll love it. "someone wants to hug you." he gives taylor a heads up so she can turn around to meet his toddler who is shyly striding over.

as joe is punching the juice box, creating a sizeable opening for his daughter, he catches a glimpse of the ocean orbed blonde getting his eldest all pool ready. "currently trying to figure out why they make these things so...challenging." he really wants to say fucking stupid, but he opts for a more kid friendly word choice. once the juice is traded, he moves onto the next task. squirting out a very generous amount of taylor's sunscreen, with a bunch even leftover after rubbing his daughter into a preferred disney character. "oh my god..." he exaggerates, "olaf? is that you? you're going to melt!!" the deep chuckle vibrates through his throat as he spins her around to look at taylor. "help?" the lathered snow white cream on his palms as he playfully lunges towards the other two. "what do you say, olaf? should we make auntie tay and sissy into a snowman too?"

walking swiftly over to the kitchen, taylor opened up the fridge to find the special juices she had bought just for them. hearing their latest craze was star wars, something she could totally get behind, taylor wanted to make the day special for them in every way possible. knowing that hanging out with the two special girls and their father was a rare occasion at best, she wanted to claim her much deserved title of best auntie. as she watched delphine curiously crawl her way over to meredith, she couldn't help but smile. her twinkle diminishing as soon as her blue optics had caught delphine at the right angle. it was absolutely insane how much she resembled her mother, sophie. the lingering feeling of betrayal casted a shadow on her seemingly bright yellow aura as the lump in her throat that had appeared since they had starter their affair grew in size. brought back to reality, by the comforting feeling of his touch, her gaze met his in lustful conversation. "i don't know. we'll see if there is any dessert left for daddy when the girls go down for their nap." the blonde teased, the playful words rolling off her tongue with ease. by this time, her porcelain skin was covered in goosebumps as his fingers danced gleefully with the bikini strings underneath her cover up. if he didn't know just how electric his touch was, he surely would now. "stop it." taylor spoke quietly as she looked back at him again. "your daughters are right over there." shaking her head in playful disappointment she grabbed onto the juice boxes and made her way back to the girls. watching him interact with delphine it was clearly a miracle she didn't melt into a puddle right then and there in her luxury new york apartment. there was something about the way joe lit up when he was around his daughters that kept the blonde coming back for more... and more... and more. "yeah, come on! let's go and check out the pool." taylor vocalized as she fashioned the juice boxes underneath her arm as she bent over and took willa's small hand in hers. the feeling of her soft, baby skin almost bringing the tall blonde to tears as she thought about what could have been years ago. "we have to hold hands though just in case." putting herself back together in a moments notice, something she had certainly become accustomed to, taylor made her way outside with the toddler as joe and his wingwoman followed closely behind. the feeling of the sun's rays on her skin was more than inviting as she brought willa over to the shaded patio area knowing joe would follow. "did you bring sunscreen for them? because, if you didn't, i have some." if there was anything that taylor was, she was more than prepared for every situation. "look! look! look!" she exclaimed as she reached over at the star wars themed kiddie floaties she had bought for both willa and delphine. okay, maybe, at this point, the star wars theme was a bit overkill, but the excitement that lit up on the girls faces' told her otherwise. after all, taylor's biggest critic had always been herself. as willa started to make her way to the pool, a rebel much like her own father, the blonde's cat like reflexes were put to use as she quickly got up from her chair and grabbed her. "you crazy girl! we have to put your sunscreen on first!" swooping the small girl up in her arms she tickled her with one hand before sitting back down in her chair with willa on her lap. "here." she said as she gave the juice to willa after opening it for her. "have some juice while your daddy figures out what he's doing with his life." the blonde joked as her eyes met his in an impatient manner. why did men... have to men?

[mint-yooxgi]

What powers did you add to demon ateez?

Ellie, I am so glad you asked!!!! Thank you for letting me indulge in my daydreams!!!!!!

Okay, so, some of them are a little basic but....

I’m thinking one of them, maybe two, can control animals at will, maybe Seonghwa and Yeosang, just because I think it fits their characters. Also, I think it would be funny to tease them about being a Disney princess with how Seonghwa’s a tailor and can manipulate animals to do his bidding. (Gisele from Enchanted, anyone? Snow White probably fits him better lmaoo). I just have this image in my mind of you learning about it and thinking it’s actually really cool and like, wanting to walk alongside like, tigers, and lions, and just any and every type of large predatory cat (jaguar, panther, cheetah, etc) and since the guys would do anything for you (and the two of them, especially, of course because this is something they can do for you), they do exactly that for you, and the image of you stalking down the hallway (or outside, I was originally thinking a grand throne room in my mind when I thought of this) flanked by the large predatory cats nearly sends them all to their knees because you look like a Queen. Not just any queen though, their Queen.

Two of them can shift into different animals at will, including ‘mythical’ creatures (they’re not very mythical to them, if they’re being honest), and it’d probably be Wooyoung and Jongho just because I think it fits their personality really well. I can just imagine them all conjuring a room full of bunnies, or cats, or something, and there ending up being two more of them than at the start because someone has decided to shift into the same creature at some point only to end up in your lap or on your chest nuzzling into your neck or purring up a storm because you’re finally giving them attention, and your hands are all over them!!! Jongho is definitely more of a nuzzler, while Wooyoung would most definitely take this opportunity to kiss (lick) you all over, the little cheeky shit.

Two more can manipulate the four basic elements, like earth, air, fire, and water - probably San and Mingi. They show off more often than not, especially if you’re lounging by the pool (more so San) since, you know, water. Plus, the way you get captivated by the intricate patterns and designs they can create by threading the water through the air makes a sense of pride fill their chest. Finally, he can do something for you that makes you happy (other than cooking, that is). Part of the reason why Mingi handles the drinks is because he can manipulate liquids, makes it more quick and efficient. The fire aspect also helps with San’s cooking, also part of the reason why Mingi almost burns the house down when he attempts to cook lmaoo. Also handy when your get cold cause he could heat you up using his body. Great for the two of them, horrid for you (and the other boys who could essentially do the same, just not as quickly or as efficiently).

Yunho and Hongjoong, I was thinking, can manipulate more intensive elements so they can essentially control the weather. Lighting, storms, lava, etc. I just have this idea that just came to me that maybe you love storms and falling asleep to the sound of rain, so on nights when you find it hard to sleep, one of them will conjure a rainstorm or something to help calm you down and soothe you to sleep. Over time, one of them, if not both, will create a lighting storm for you, and they all get to watch the wonder and amazement shine in your eyes as you observe the storm. Also, I think it would be really funny if both of them, and Mingi and San always had pissing contests about their powers, especially if you were involved.

I also have this headcanon that blood is like an aphrodisiac/alcohol to them, and every human’s blood tastes different based on the ‘quality’ of it, and the type. Hence why they rarely consume it. Besides, souls are more filling that way, and the last thing they want is to not be able to control themselves around you (even if they’ve already proven that that’s an extremely difficult thing to do, they don’t need to make it any harder on themselves). Oh, but the first time they ever get a taste of your blood... ohohohohoho ;)

[damailbox]

Disney Adventures AOL Auditorium

November 1993

Here’s an interesting piece of DA history I recently rediscovered in my “archives”. It’s a transcript for a moderated group chat room with Disney Imagineers, apparently on the day (or the day after) Disney’s America was announced for Virginia. This was still on Disney’s website when I printed it out around 1997.

It’s interesting to read what topics fans were obsessing over, and the sometimes candid responses from Imagineers, at a time when people were still new to chat rooms and virtual reality seemed to encapsulate the future of entertainment.

They mention several upcoming attractions like Tower of Terror, Alien Encounter, WESTCOT, Blizzard Beach, Discovery Mountain, Animal Kingdom and others. To save you from the headache of trying to decipher eight pages of unformatted text, I’ve scanned it in and fixed mistimed comments and stuff. Enjoy!

OnlineHost Good evening everyone. Welcome to the Auditorium and this special Disney Adventures conference. Today we're going to talk with some of the dreamers and doers from Walt Disney Imagineering and learn about some of their exciting new projects. OnlineHost The Imagineering team of more than 1,500 people includes such talents as: artists, writers, engineers, architects, filmmakers, audio and visual specialists, animators, manufacturing groups, computer programmers, land planners, and ride system designers. OnlineHost The sun never sets on Disney Imagineering. These folks are making magic around the world with parks in Southern California, Florida, Japan, and France. OnlineHost Today, on central stage, in fact, all in one room in Glendale, California — are a number of Imagineers who would love to answer questions about the Disney Theme Parks they know so well. CHIEFofDA Hi everyone..Thanks for coming to Disney Adventures first auditorium CHIEFofDA My name is Tommi Lewis and I'm the eidotr in Chief CHIEFofDA For those of you not familiar with us, we're the kids magazine aimed at kids CHIEFofDA we cover everything from entertainment to sports to adventure CHIEFofDA We just celebrated our 3rd Anniversary and have been the fastest growinb magazine in America CHIEFOfDA the past two years. RWWeis Kids, theres a lot of kids older than 14 CHIEFofDA One of our features is a column called COOL JOBS...we think Walt Disney Imagineers have the CHIEFofDA coolest jobs of them all! They are the people who create the Disney magic CHIEFofDA So Disney Adventures is proud to welcome Walt Disney Imagineers. RWWeis We're proud to be here too, Julia Here is some brief biographical info on the Imagineers: OnlineHost Yoshi Akiyamall Executive Producer/Designer Tokyo Disneyland OnlineHost Tony Baxter Senior Vice President Euro Disneyland, Disneyland & WESTCOT Center OnlineHost Barry Braverman Executive Producer EPCOT Center at the Walt Disney World Resort OnlineHost Don Carson Senior Show Designer Creative direction of Disney Theme Park attractions from concept to installation OnlineHost Chris Brown Concept Engineer Technical direction of shows and rides during conceptual development OnlineHost Chris Brown Concept Engineer Technical direction of shows and rides during conceptual development OnlineHost George Gerball Senior Concept Designer Conceptual development OnlineHost Tony Hatch Director of Communications Internal and external communications for Imagineering OnlineHost Eric Jacobson Executive Designer Disney-MGM Studios Theme Park, Magic Kingdom, River Country, Typhoon Lagoon, Pleasure Island and Blizzard Beach at the Walt Disney World Resort OnlineHost Joe Kilanowski Principle Concept Architect Architectual design and production OnlineHost Steve Kirko Concept Design Director Conceptual development OnlineHost Nancy Martin Concept Designer Conceptual development OnlineHost Steve Miller Project Director, Creative Development Creative Administration OnlineHost Katie Poole Senior Analyst, Creative Computing Center Interactive technology department OnlineHost Chick Russell Show Writer Script and story development for Disney Theme Park Attractions OnlineHost Michael Sprout Show Writer Script and story development for Disney Theme Park Attractions OnlineHost Bob Weis Senior Vice President Magic Kingdom and Disney-MGM Studios Theme Park at the Walt Disney World Resort and proposed new Theme Parks in the U.S. and Japan RWWeis and smart aleck OnlineHost Doris Woodward Senior Show Producer WESTCOT Center — a proposed Disney Theme Park for Anaheim, California. Eugene Koh We have with us at our headquarters in Vienna, VA Bob Weis, who would now Eugene Koh like to say a few words… RWWeis Welcome—we’re a little punchy from spending the day announcing Disney’s America RWWeis But we’re really glad everyone logged on! Welcome! Eugene Koh Thanks, Bob! We welcome everyone in the audience to send in their questions and comments to the extraordinary group we have assembled tonight. Eugene Koh Simply use your “Interact with Host” button! One caveat, however (the following) comes to us from legal-types but need to be heard, at least once, anyway :) OnlineHost The following interactive forum is intended for informational purposes only. Theme park plans, designs and concepts or other business suggestions will not be reviewed or considered. Eugene Koh That said, let’s begin! Eugene Koh Our first question comes to us from MarcF7747: Question How will the new theme park be oriented to public? Eugene Koh Would one of the Imagineers in Glendale, CA like to address this? RWWeis I’m having trouble understanding the question, we hope like our others they will come, buy a ticket and enjoy the day RWWeis It will be considerably more cognitive than the others Eugene Koh Thanks, Bob! Our next question has to do with theme park rides, I believe… Eugene Koh …and comes to us from Acid Funk: Question When are you going to make something with a loop in it. Eugene Koh A very practical question :) ImagineerB From Bruce, Indiana Jones, Temple of Peril, looping coaster is open at Euro Disneyland. RWWeis Industrial Revolution at Disney’s America will too Eugene Koh Our next question comes to us from Brisco CJ: Question Will Disney be doing anything with Virtual Reality Simulations? ImagineerB Yes. RWWeis Yes, lots of work on this, but pretty secret now Eugene Koh A question about designs at the new Disney park comes to us from Max 100: Question Are you doing the designs for Disney’s America theme park? I live right next to it. :) RWWeis We are, it will be exciting, and we plan to be good neighbors. Where’s your house? Eugene Koh LOL, Bob…what town will the new park be in? RWWeis The park will be insulated by a lot of green space. Its at route 66 and 15, in Prince William county, near Haymarket. Eugene Koh Keep sending those questions in, folks! Our next question comes to us from Geographer: Question How does one become an imagineer? RWWeis Lots of ways, artist, designer, architect, writer, engineer, a good imagination and a love for lots of hard work ImagineerB Tenacity. RWWeis it helps if you don’t care about making money Eugene Koh Our next question has to do with one of the Imagineers: Eugene Koh Gunstar asks, Question Is Bob Baranick still working on the Indy Adventure for Disneyland? ImagineerB No, Skip Lange and Susan Bonds are running that show. Eugene Koh Tigger01 asks: Question What is going to happen to Tomorrowland at Disneyland in California. RWWeis Tomorrowland in Fla is under construction. There will be a new show in Mission to Mars, Circlevision, and all new architecture. RWWeis Opens in FLA in 1994. Sorry everyone will miss Mission to Mars, but Alien Encounter will be a winner Eugene Koh A question from Nickle736: Question Are there any animators here? Imagineer B No. Eugene Koh BrianJosh asks a pertinent question: Question Can I ask a Imagineer a question? RWWeis sure Eugene Koh Yes, you can…if you have any questions directed specifically toward an Imagineer, ask away.. we have over a dozen of ‘em here, live! RWWeis come on Brian Eugene Koh Our next question comes from PDC Marku: Question What is the Twilight Zone attraction ride going to be like? RWWeis Mike Sprout is the concept designer and writer for the show ImagineerB From Michael Sprout, It is a high speed thrill ride that will drop you through the 5th dimension. Eugene Koh A question about roller coasters from Drrobotni: Question I read about the Temple of Doom ride at Euro disney i.e. coaster with loops . Any chance of that ride or similar coming to America for that matter, any new rollercoaster type rides at Disneyland or disney world? ImagineerB From Bruce, yes WESTCOT Center in Anaheim, California. RWWeis There will be two roller coasters in Disney’s America Eugene Koh Our next question has to do with animal theme parks: from CongoCrai, Question I’d like to ask about the upcoming animal theme park Disney is planning for FL. RWWeis OK RWWeis Do you have a question about it, or just want some info RWWeis It’s huge, will have lots of great animal interactive attractions. It will really be one of our best parks yet. Lots of thrills, and lots of unique environments. RWWeis There will be an Asia and an Africa safari, as well as lots of rides. Eugene Koh A question about Epcot from Owings: Question What are the new communications plans for Epcot? RWWeis Barry Braverman is in charge of EPCOT ImagineerB From Barry, In December of ’94, we’ll be opening a renovated Spaceship Earth Ride and new interactive communications post show. Eugene Koh A question from GaryR1207 Question In the Disneyland Haunted house, how do you get the statues to talk ? And the doors to breath ? ImagineerB From Tony, it’s not done with holograms. ImagineerB We use traditional magic and film special techniques. Eugene Koh A question about hotels from Stephen63: Question what kind of new hotels at wdw RWWeis Everything from luxury, to budget, heavy theme like Grand Floridian, to contemporary theme ImagineerB From Tony, Wilderness Lodge will be the highlight next to Fort Wilderness Campground in November. RWWeis Fort Wilderness has small trailers if you like a camping experience. Eugene Koh A question about the Muppets from DolphinTa: Question What are the plans involving the Muppets? ImagineerB No current plans. Eugene Koh A question from Lennarz: Question Is a “virtual on-line” Disney in the plans!? RWWeis wow, did you read our minds? Eugene Koh A comment from Red Rose: Comment Thanks for making your parks handicapped accessible!! RWWeis It’s pretty important—essential in fact ImagineerB We try very hard to make our parks accessible to everyone. Eugene Koh A question from IHS Greg: Question I was also wondering how the plans for Celebration are coming along. I’m a dentist and I would love to be a “Disney Dentist”. When will Celebration become a reality? ImagineerB That’s being designed by Disney Development, which is a different division of the company. Eugene Koh A question for Tony Baxter: Question This question is for Tony Baxter. Who is currently heading up the Indiana Jones Adventure for Disneyland? ImagineerB I am. Eugene Koh A question from EnigamLin: Question So What’s the first new ride to be opening at Disneyland (CA) and when? ImagineerB From Tony, Roger Rabbit’s Spin-Around, in January ’94. Followed by Indiana Jones in ’95. Eugene Koh A question from Atlanta99: Question What are some of the jobs available at WDI and what type of schooling is needed? ImagineerB Engineering, architecture, design, art, writing, illustration… Eugene Koh Our next question is from Rio Niki: Question OK so how many theme parks are there around teh world and where are they? Wich one is the biggest? ImagineerB Anaheim, Orlando, Tokyo, Paris and soon Virginia. ImagineerB EPCOT Center is the largest. But Disneyland has the most rides. Eugene Koh Seems that a lot of you are asking for more info about Disney’s America. Any comments, Imagineers? Eugene Koh For example, MikkyMous asks: Question Tell us all you can about Disney America! RWWeis It’s a new idea. RWWeis It will be fun, but also educational, and tied to your visit to Washington, There is a folder you can download that has today’s press release RWWeis After you go to museums in Washington, you come to Disney’s America to live history, to play roles in government etc. RWWeis It will open in 1998 Eugene Koh Bongo7690 asks: Question what is going on with westcot? ImagineerB From Tony, WESTCOT is currently being designed for opening near the end of the decade. Eugene Koh A question from R Raymond: Question What’s the story on a Russia pavilion at EPCOT? ImagineerB From Barry, we’ve done some preliminary designs, but the project is on the back burner at the moment…as is Russia at the moment. Eugene Koh An interesting question from Tix36: Question Do you think that these new expansions will prove to be more profitable than the EuroDisney? ImagineerB We hope so. Eugene Koh A question about Typhoon Lagoon from TTSschorr: Question Mr. Jacobson, in Typhoon Lagoon you enter the wave pool from the beach, how do you manage to keep the water from being full of sand? Imagineer B Big filters. ImagineerB The wave doesn’t terminate on loose sand. It terminates on concrete. Eugene Koh A question about the environment from IHS Greg: Question Are there plans to preserve some of the unspoiled land around WDW for wildlife & native Florida flora, or will most of the land be developed? RWWeis We hope not—we need green spaced and forest too. ImagineerB There is an 8,000 acre preserve. ImagineerB It is being managed by the Nature Conservancy. Eugene Koh A question from Roys Teet about Disney’s America: Question Do you think that the virginian park will wipe out nearby colonial Williamsburg? RWWeis I think it will help them, we hope to cooperate with them and bring more people to the area ImagineerB We feel the two will complement each other. Eugene Koh A question from RachelF69: Question Any new rides in disney world? ImagineerB Tower of Terror opens at the Disney-MGM Studios in summer of ’94. RWWeis Tower of Terror (a thrill ride) 1994 Eugene Koh A question about international Disney parks from BGH LA878: Question When you move an attraction to a foreign country, What modifications are the most difficult? ImagineerB Keeping the jokes funny. ImagineerB There’s also different building codes, food service, languages and fire protection. Eugene Koh A question from Mnotaur: Question My 5 year old daughter would like to know when WestCot will be opening… ImagineerB The end of the decade. When she is 13. Eugene Koh A question from Waltopia: Question Tony Baxter- Can you tell us what is being built in Discoveryland? ImagineerB Discovery Mountain, the biggest and fastest Disney roller coaster of all time with three loops and the guest are fired out of a cannon. Eugene Koh A question from JaneEyre2: Question I heard that all the presidents in the hall of Pres. are robots—except Reagan, who actually plays himself, and enjoys the work—that so? RWWeis true ImagineerB Yes, that’s correct. RWWeis He likes the food at WDW ImagineerB Bill Clinton has recorded a speech that will open November 18. ImagineerB In Walt Disney World, Magic Kingdom. Eugene Koh A question from Bushwackr: Question How did you all get involved with Disney? ImagineerB We love the product. RWWeis I came after college, and worked on Tokyo Eugene Koh A question from JBMahoney: Question Is Disney planning on using any type of virtual reality in their present or future parks? ImagineerB Yes, in New Tomorrowland at Disneyland. RWWeis Yes, lots of projects under consideration Eugene Koh A lot of you have been asking about opportunities for work. Bergland asks: Question Where would someone interested in working in a creative capacity for Disney write to call to inquire about job ImagineerB Contact our personnel department. (818) 544-6543 Eugene Koh A question about Disney Adventures: Eugene Koh CharlesW9 asks: Question Can we get the magazine online? ImagineerB Yes CHIEFofDA Sure can! CHIEFofDA We put each month issue on line before it hits the newsstands just look up the section you want to read in our main menu Eugene Koh Explore the Disney Adventures area online for more info. Next, A question from JohnC4142: Question I’d like to hear more about Blizzard Beach ImagineerB Third waterpark at Walt Disney World featuring a blizzard in Florida ImagineerB It will feature the highest speed slide. ImagineerB Opens early 1995. RWWeis About the size of Typhoon Lagoon Eugene Koh A question about statues at the parks from Tigger01: Question The hub in Disneyland now has a few statues…What will be put on the pad in the very center of the flower bed…if anything? ImagineerB From Tony, Walt Disney and Mickey Mouse on Mickey’s 65th birthday, November 18. Eugene Koh Another question about Disney’s America: Question Is there going to be a new group of Imagineers for Disney’s America in Virginia, or is everything going to be designed from existing locations? ImagineerB No, that’s why we’re currently developing WESTCOT to focus attention in California ImagineerB Also, Roger Rabbit, Indiana Jones, and a whole new Tomorrowland. Eugene Koh A question about EuroDisney from JDavid94: Question with the losses at EuroDisney, what is Disney going to do to shore up this venture, and did you not consider the cultural setting in France, i.e. jingoistic? ImagineerB From Tony, yes we considered the culture. More people have visited Euro Disney in its first year than any other theme park in Disney’s history. RWWeis Europe is in the worst recession since WWII RWWeis And that is hurting Euro Disney Eugene Koh A question from Shelli: Question I heard that Star Tours at MGM is Supposed to be changing, Is this ture? I love this ride and I hope it only gets better! ImagineerB We are considering a new show for the 20th anniversary of the Star Wars films in 1997. Eugene Koh A more specific question about virtual reality from REarly: Question I heard they will have VR type stuff. Will it be large simulators like Body Wars, or will it be Head Mount Displays, or what…..? RWWeis Both, but we have some great head mounted displays ImagineerB We can’t disclose the details of this highly confidential project. RWWeis But its great Eugene Koh A question about the historical perspective at America from Roys Teet: Question With the civil war theme, how will the issue of slavery be adressed: from a northern or southern perspective? RWWeis The nature of the park is that it will present history accurately, good and bad Eugene Koh A question about America from Seg: Question Will the new Theme Park be anything like Epcot? RWWeis Smaller, more American in the sense that it deals with American issues not international. Will have more thrill rides, and a little less emphasis on the future Eugene Koh A question about Euro from MikeS2361: Question What types of P/R activities are you undertaking in Europe to help boost park attendance ? ImagineerB We opened 10 new attractions and more emphasis on the activities in the park and not so much on Mickey Eugene Koh A question about the work of Imagineers… I think LindsayE is looking for look at day-to-day life: Question What does an Imagineer do? It is the most beautiful job title I’ve ever heard. ImagineerB We make the dreams come true … Eugene Koh A question from Eric310: Question What is the progress on the new Disneyland Resort plan? What hurdles still need to be cleared? What are some of the ideas for that park? ImagineerB All of the governmental issues are resolved, the question is whether it makes sense economically. ImagineerB Similar to EPCOT, it has Four Corners of the World instead of the World Showcase ImagineerB and you can live in the park. Eugene Koh A question from Geographer:
 Question When will “Cartoon Spin” in Toon Town open and are there any “Sneak previews” planned prior to its opening? ImagineerB It was sneak previewed to people who attended the Disneyana convention last month and opens for everyone in January. Eugene Koh A question about the types of computers used from The Lazer: Question Do you use Macintosh or IbM computers in helping to run, Or Build the rids ImagineerB Both. Eugene Koh What sorts of computers do the Imagineers use? ImagineerB Creative uses lots of Macintoshes. Silicon Graphics work stations ImagineerB The engineering groups use IBMs. ImagineerB And four people use Newtons. Eugene Koh A question fro Kealii: Question Please tell us about the amazing “skin” used on animatronic figure - material, how long it lasts, how applied, and so on ImagineerB It’s a flexible latex alloy called hot melt. ImagineerB It’s injection molded and wrapped around an inner supporting form. ImagineerB Don’t try this at home. Eugene Koh Our final question comes from FlatCat. We have received hundreds of questions over the past hour, and unfortunately weren’t able to address all of them here. However, if your question hasn’t been answered tonight, you can send e-mail directly to Bob Weis, a senior executive at Disney who spoke tonight, at screenname RWWeis. RWWeis I’ll do my best, it was great having everyone here tonight Eugene Koh FlatCat asks: Question Eric Jacobsen - you seem to have the longest title - out of all the projects you are working on, which is the most fun? ImagineerB Blizzard Beach. Eugene Koh Perhaps you all can address this, not just Eric. ImagineerB Whatever’s funded. RWWeis Tower of Terror! AaaaaAAaAAAAAAAAAAAAAA ImagineeerB Thanks to everyone for all their questions. Eugene Koh Great! Well we want to thank all of the Imagineers for coming tonight, and again, if any of your questions haven’t been answered, explore the Disney Adventures area online for the latest info direct from Disney! CHIEFofDA Thanks for coming to D.A.’s first auditorium…look for future events in the Disney Adventures area. CHIEFofDA You can even chat with us live every M-W-F at 7 pm EST RWWeis Thanks Eugene, thanks AOL, and all our guests. CHIEFofDA Thanks to the folks at Disney Imagineering for being here tonight Eugene Koh Thanks to everyone in the audience for your great participation! Your questions and comments make our live conferences fly. Thanks again to our Disney Imagineers! ImagineerB we really had fun CHIEFofDA and, as always…..ADVENTURE ON!