90s Disney podcast

1:20:01

It’s Star Trek like you’ve never experienced it before… unless you were lucky enough to visit the Las Vegas Hilton in the late ’90s and early 2000s! This week, AJ, Mike, and Chris beam aboard Star Trek: The Experience , a one-of-a-kind immersive attraction that brought fans into the final frontier in the most Vegas way possible. From Klingon kidnappings to Quark’s Bar and even weddings on the bridge of the Enterprise, this was no ordinary theme park experience. We dive into how Las Vegas rebranded itself as a family destination in the ’90s, the abandoned dream of a full-size Enterprise downtown, and the Hilton’s transformation into a Trekker’s paradise. Relive iconic moments from Klingon Encounter , brave the Borg Invasion 4D , and explore everything from the gift shops and museum to the walkaround characters and their surprisingly deep lore. Plus, what killed this incredible attraction just before Trek’s 2009 comeback? And how did it influence the next generation of theme park storytelling? Things We Talked About The failed $150 million Enterprise replica project for downtown Vegas The rise of family-focused attractions on the Strip, including MGM Grand Adventures and Luxor’s Sega arcade The Las Vegas Hilton’s surprising Star Trek connection Klingon Encounter and its groundbreaking transporter illusion Borg Invasion 4D and how Voyager influenced its creation Deep dive into the museum, Quark’s Bar (Warp Core Breach, anyone?), and character interactions The closure of the Experience and its legacy in themed entertainment Watch and Read More Hollywood Reporter: The Star Trek Saga Musings of a Middle-Aged Geek Memory Alpha: Star Trek: The Experience StarTrek.com: Remembering Star Trek: The Experience YouTube: Walkthrough Video 1 YouTube: Walkthrough Video 2 Follow Us Blue Sky Twitter/X Facebook Threads Instagram Email us your memories or questions: 90sDisneyPodcast@gmail.com…

90s Disney

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69.5 - Mike Goes to Universal Epic Universe 1:20:11

27 days ago1:20:11

1:20:11

It's time for an extra special bonus episode of 90s Disney! This time, we're heading to Universal as Mike gets an exclusive first look at Universal Epic Universe ! Thanks to a friend, Mike got to attend an employee preview of the highly anticipated new theme park, months before its grand opening. Mike walks AJ and Chris through the entire park, discussing his spoiler-free first impressions of Celestial Park, Super Nintendo World, Dark Universe, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, and the Ministry of Magic. From groundbreaking ride technology to next-level theming and food, this episode is packed with early insights into the biggest new theme park in decades! Topics Discussed How Epic Universe compares to other major theme parks Celestial Park – The grand entrance and hub of the park Super Nintendo World – Bigger, better, and featuring Donkey Kong! Dark Universe – Universal Monsters come to life with an incredible dark ride and immersive theming How to Train Your Dragon: Isle of Berk – A sleeper hit with kinetic energy and breathtaking scenery Ministry of Magic – Even though the ride wasn’t open, Mike got a sneak peek at the queue (and it’s massive!) The best food and drinks across the park How Disney might respond to the competition Links and Resources Listen on Spotify Follow us on BlueSky Follow us on X Follow us on Facebook Follow us on Threads Follow us on Instagram Email us at: 90sDisneyPodcast@gmail.com Join the Conversation! Have you been keeping up with Epic Universe? What are you most excited for? Let us know by leaving a comment on Spotify or emailing us at 90sDisneyPodcast@gmail.com . Thanks for listening! See you next time on 90s Disney!…

90s Disney

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69 - The Disney Cruise Line 1:04:14

6 weeks ago1:04:14

1:04:14

All aboard! This week, we set sail on a deep dive into the history of the Disney Cruise Line . From its origins with the Big Red Boat to the launch of the Disney Magic in 1998, we explore how Disney transformed the cruise industry into a floating theme park experience. In This Episode: The fan-requested topic that led us to cover Disney Cruise Line history What pop culture looked like on July 30, 1998 – the launch date of the Disney Magic The evolution of Disney’s cruise offerings from the Big Red Boat partnership to their own fleet How Michael Eisner saw an opportunity to bring Disney magic to the seas The unique design and innovations of the early Disney Cruise Line ships The creation of Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay Expanding the fleet: The transition from the Magic and Wonder to the Dream , Fantasy , and beyond Recent expansions, including the Disney Wish , Disney Treasure , and upcoming ships What makes a Disney Cruise different from other cruise lines Mike’s first-hand experience on the Disney Wish Follow Us: Blue Sky Twitter/X Facebook Threads Instagram Contact Us: Email: 90sDisneyPodcast@gmail.com…

90s Disney

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68.5 - World Showcase Showdown 1:05:35

8 weeks ago1:05:35

1:05:35

Welcome to a special bonus episode of 90s Disney ! Inspired by an email from listener Manny, we embark on the ultimate challenge: ranking all the pavilions in EPCOT's World Showcase. Which country reigns supreme, and which one needs a little extra magic? From drinking strategies to pavilion expansions, we debate it all! Topics Covered Preferred routes for drinking around the world (Mexico vs. Canada vs. International Gateway) Ranking all 11 pavilions in the World Showcase Which pavilions need an upgrade? The best snacks, restaurants, and drinks in each country Where does China really belong in the rankings? Why Germany’s caramel and beer keep it strong The impact of Ratatouille on France’s pavilion status What’s missing from the UK pavilion? How Morocco’s potential remains untapped Drinking Around the World Picks Big thanks to Manny for inspiring this episode! Let us know how you would rank the World Showcase pavilions. Send us an email or drop a comment on Blue Sky! Follow & Contact Us Email: 90sDisneyPodcast@gmail.com Follow us on Social Media: Blue Sky Twitter/X Facebook Threads Instagram…

90s Disney

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68 - Rainforest Cafe 1:13:51

10 weeks ago1:13:51

1:13:51

Welcome, explorers! This time on 90s Disney , we’re stepping into the jungle and exploring the history of Rainforest Cafe . From its ambitious start in the '90s as an immersive dining experience to its expansion across Disney properties and beyond, we break down how this animatronic-filled restaurant became a staple of themed dining! In This Episode: The origins of Rainforest Cafe and its quirky, ambitious founder. How Disney got involved and why the restaurant ended up in multiple theme parks. The ups, downs, and lasting impact of Rainforest Cafe on themed dining. Our personal memories and thoughts on the experience of dining in the wild! Follow Us: Blue Sky Twitter/X Facebook Threads Instagram 📩 Email us at 90sDisneyPodcast@gmail.com…

90s Disney

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67.5 - Attraction Songs 59:17

12 weeks ago59:17

59:17

In this special bonus episode, we take a musical journey through some of the most iconic and beloved songs from Disney attractions. Join us as we revisit the soundtracks that made our favorite rides unforgettable and discuss how these tunes elevate the park-going experience. Whether you’re humming along to One Little Spark or grooving to Nothing Can Stop Us Now , this episode will strike a nostalgic chord for any Disney fan.…

90s Disney

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67 - The Death of Horizons 1:05:38

15 weeks ago1:05:38

1:05:38

Grab your hard hards and safety goggles. We've got some wrecking to do! In this episode, we delve into the fascinating and somewhat tragic story of Disney's Horizons. This groundbreaking EPCOT attraction captured imaginations with its vision of the future but eventually faded into history. We explore its conception, its importance in the broader context of Disney history, and its enduring legacy among Disney fans. Get ready for nostalgia, intrigue, and a deeper understanding of a beloved Disney gem. What You'll Learn in This Episode The origins and concept behind Horizons. Why Horizons resonated so deeply with visitors. The factors that led to its closure and ultimate demolition. How Horizons continues to influence Disney attractions today. The passionate fan community that keeps the memory of Horizons alive. Links and Resources RetroWDW's Full Ride-Through Video of Horizons Martin’s Ultimate Tribute to Horizons Defunctland: The History of Disney’s Horizons Horizons Resurrected Project Disney History Institute Wikipedia Article on Horizons Follow Us Blue Sky Twitter/X Facebook Threads Instagram Email: 90sDisneyPodcast@gmail.com…

90s Disney

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66.5 - Jeff Grubb's Disney World Trip Report 1:40:21

17 weeks ago1:40:21

1:40:21

In this bonus episode of 90s Disney , we sit down with our longtime friend Jeff Grubb to hear all about his recent family trip to Walt Disney World! Jeff takes us through the highlights, surprises, and challenges of visiting the parks with his wife and two young daughters. From character dining and iconic rides to Genie+ successes and park navigation adventures, this episode is packed with insights and laughs. What We Cover: Jeff's history with Disney Parks. First-time family experiences at Animal Kingdom, Epcot, Magic Kingdom, and Hollywood Studios. Delicious meals, from the Crystal Palace to Ohana. His daughters' reactions to attractions like Flight of Passage and Rise of the Resistance. A bonus report on Mike and Jeff's recent day spent at Universal Studios Hollywood. How Jeff became a theme park fan for life. Plus, hear Jeff's take on how Disney delivers the magic for first-timers!…

90s Disney

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66 - Beauty and the Beast: The Enchanted Christmas 1:02:52

19 weeks ago1:02:52

1:02:52

Ho ho ho, all you rad dudes and dudettes! Christmas is here on 90s Disney ! Join AJ, Mike, and Chris Minotti as they unwrap the often-overlooked holiday treasure, Beauty and the Beast: The Enchanted Christmas. From festive fun to Forte's chilling villainy, we dive into the magic, the music, and the madness of this direct-to-video Disney sequel. Whether you're nostalgic for your VHS collection or curious about forgotten Disney Christmas lore, this is the episode for you! In This Episode: 🎥 The Enchanted Christmas Origins: A deep dive into the 1997 direct-to-video release. How Disney expanded their animation studios in Canada to capitalize on direct-to-video success. The scrapped sequel concept featuring Gaston’s vengeful brother, Avernon. 🎶 Music and Magic: Meet Tim Curry as Forte, Disney’s first fully CG-animated villain. Explore the festive soundtrack by Rachel Portman, including As Long as There’s Christmas and Forte’s villain song Don’t Fall in Love . Paige O’Hara’s surprise Christmas carol album—yes, it’s on Spotify! 📜 Plot Highlights: How the story retcons Beast’s curse and places Christmas at its emotional center. Belle’s attempts to bring holiday cheer clash with Beast’s Christmas trauma. Forte’s sinister plan to keep the curse intact and a snowy showdown in the Black Forest. 🎄 Legacy and Reception: With 7.6 million VHS copies sold, it’s the fourth-highest-grossing direct-to-video animated film of all time! Critics called it a “soggy Christmas fruitcake,” but fans still find nostalgia in its quirky charm. The film’s role as a proving ground for digital animation techniques that influenced future Disney features. Nostalgia Factor: Why does no one talk about this movie? AJ shares childhood memories of the Paige O’Hara Christmas album, and the brothers compare this forgotten gem to other Disney direct-to-video sequels. Is The Enchanted Christmas a hidden holiday classic or a Disney curio? Share your memories! Email us at 90sDisneyPodcast@gmail.com or leave a comment on Spotify.…

90s Disney

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65.5 - Best Attraction Moments 44:58

21 weeks ago44:58

44:58

Join AJ, Mike, and Chris in a special bonus episode of 90s Disney as they dive into their favorite individual moments from Disney and Universal attractions. They discuss standout scenes, thrilling rides, and iconic animatronics, from the Wicked Witch of the West in the Great Movie Ride to the launch of the Rock 'n' Roller Coaster. Plus, they share tips for balancing adult and kids' desires on a Disney trip. Don't miss this nostalgic and insightful conversation about the wow factors in your favorite theme park experiences! 00:00 Introduction and Holiday Spirit 01:55 Discussing Disney's Best Attraction Moments 02:28 Radiator Springs Racers Highlights 04:04 Great Movie Ride Memories 05:35 PeopleMover and Rise of the Resistance 08:43 American Adventure and Pirates of the Caribbean 11:30 Tower of Terror and Fantasmic! 14:52 Universal Studios Highlights 22:30 Muppet Vision 3D and Final Thoughts 23:27 Haunted Mansion Highlights 24:25 Avatar Flight of Passage: A Magical Moment 26:12 Mario Kart Ride: Cloudtop Cruise 27:20 Navi River Journey: The Shaman 28:17 Amazing Spider-Man Ride: Gravity Gun Effect 30:30 SpectroMagic Parade Memories 31:50 Bourne Identity Stunt Show: Mind-Blowing Effects 33:00 Star Tours: The Trench Run 34:41 Rock 'n' Roller Coaster: The Alley Reveal 35:42 Catastrophe Canyon: A Thrilling Experience 37:14 Spaceship Earth: Reaching the Top 38:58 Disney Trip Tips with Kids 43:16 Wrapping Up and Future Plans…

90s Disney

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65 - ExtraTERRORestrial Alien Encounter 1:27:08

23 weeks ago1:27:08

1:27:08

Join AJ, Mike, and Chris, as we discuss Disney's ExtraTERRORestrial Alien Encounter at Magic Kingdom. Learn about the attraction's history, including its terrifying effects and controversial nature, and how it was eventually retooled and replaced by Stitch's Great Escape. We highlight the initial endeavor to incorporate the Alien franchise, the involvement of key figures like Michael Eisner and George Lucas, its integration into the 1994 Tomorrowland overhaul, and the development challenges. The episode also notes the enduring influence of the attraction, with references in other Disney-related projects and the subsequent use of the attraction space. 00:00 Introduction and Hosts 01:12 Halloween Vibes and Spooky Talk 01:39 Alien Encounter at Magic Kingdom 02:53 Nostalgia Trip to 1995 05:41 Michael Eisner's Disney Decade 09:51 Alien Franchise and Disney Parks 15:16 Tomorrowland's Evolution 16:00 Mission to Mars and Tomorrowland 2055 24:07 Disneyland's Abandoned Plans 27:24 Walt Disney World's New Tomorrowland 30:13 The Evolution of Tomorrowland 30:56 Extraterrestrial Alien Encounter: The Controversy 32:19 The Pre-Show Experience 33:09 Reworking the Attraction 34:18 The Creative Minds Behind the Changes 37:10 The New and Improved Show 45:38 The Storyline and Audience Experience 55:27 The Terrifying Alien Encounter 01:03:59 The Alien Encounter Finale 01:04:43 Technical Marvels and Effects 01:07:53 The Cast and Characters 01:09:39 The Attraction's Demise 01:11:21 Stitch's Great Escape 01:13:36 Future of the Attraction Space 01:15:45 Nostalgia and Fun Facts 01:26:18 Listener Comments and Wrap-Up…

90s Disney

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64.5 - Ranking Hollywood Studios Attractions 1:16:05

26 weeks ago1:16:05

1:16:05

Join AJ, Chris, and Mike as we rank all of the currently open attractions at Disney's Hollywood Studios! Did we snub your favorite? Do we overrate anything? Should Mike just get over it and ride Tower of Terror? Find out! 00:00 Introduction and Banter 00:30 Ranking Disney's Hollywood Studios Attractions 03:33 Mickey and Minnie's Runaway Railway Review 06:43 Star Tours: The Adventure Continues 11:10 Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular 14:33 Frozen Sing-Along Celebration 16:58 Muppet Vision 3D 20:41 Galaxy's Edge: Millennium Falcon Smugglers Run 23:41 Galaxy's Edge: Rise of the Resistance 26:34 Toy Story Land: Toy Story Mania 38:25 Embracing the Moment 38:36 Tower of Terror: A Timeless Classic 44:54 Rockin' Roller Coaster: A Ride Through Time 52:47 Ranking the Attractions 53:52 Nostalgia and Memories 01:10:09 Listener Feedback and Wrap-Up…

90s Disney

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64 The Rescuers Down Under 1:07:39

28 weeks ago1:07:39

1:07:39

In this episode of the '90s Disney podcast,' hosts AJ, Mike, and Chris Minotti dive into the nostalgic animated film 'The Rescuers Down Under,' discussing its production history, voice cast, and digital animation. They examine how its release coincided with 'Home Alone,' affecting its box office performance. The hosts also review various Disney attractions, debate the appeal of trackless rides, share a fan's experiences at Shanghai Disneyland, and reminisce about Halloween costumes and themed movie props. Listener questions, stories about Disney parks, and food experiences are also featured. 00:00 Introduction to 90s Disney Podcast 00:31 Discussing The Rescuers Down Under 01:20 Box Office Competition and Release Context 02:24 The Original Rescuers and Its Legacy 05:36 Production Insights and Key Figures 11:48 Voice Cast and Character Highlights 19:19 Animation Techniques and Innovations 27:08 Soundtrack and Musical Choices 30:51 Personal Memories and Final Thoughts 36:20 Discussing the Movie's Ending 37:08 Box Office Performance and Marketing Decisions 38:13 Critical Reception and Legacy 38:53 Home Alone and Disney's Direction 39:37 VHS Success and Financial Insights 40:12 Rescuers Down Under in Disney's 100th Anniversary 41:47 Rescue Rangers and Rescuers Down Under 42:16 Underrated Disney Movies 44:01 Listener Emails and Comments 58:07 Shanghai Disneyland Attractions Ranking 01:05:35 Halloween Plans and Farewell…

90s Disney

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63.4 - Best Meals 58:44

30 weeks ago58:44

58:44

AJ, Mike, and Chris share their most memorable dining experiences in Disney parks and beyond. From high-end meals at Victoria & Albert's and California Grill to surprise delights at Nomad Lounge and Morimoto Asia, the episode dives into a variety of unique dishes and the exceptional service they've encountered over the years. The brothers reminisce about standout moments like the personalized touches at Victoria & Albert's, the incredible bread service at Sanaa, and the nostalgic experience at the now-closed Alfredo's in Epcot. Join us as we celebrate the culinary magic of Disney. 00:00 Welcome to the Bonus Episode! 01:29 Favorite Disney Meals: A Trip Down Memory Lane 02:16 Victoria and Albert's: A Culinary Experience 05:32 Nomad Lounge: Hidden Gem 09:11 California Grill Brunch: Post-Marathon Feast 10:44 Yachtsman Steakhouse: The Best Steak Ever 14:54 Sanaa: Bread Service and Beyond 23:07 Liberty Tree Tavern: A Nostalgic First 26:03 Sleepy Hollow: Waffle Sandwich Delight 27:05 Finnegan's at Universal: A Fun Pub Experience 29:12 Disney Wish: Palo Steakhouse and Pasta 30:41 Wine and Nostalgia on the Disney Cruise 31:30 Memorable Meals at Alfredo's in Epcot 36:12 Topolino's Terrace: A Culinary Delight 38:33 Garden Grill: A Hidden Gem 42:05 Narcoossee's: A Perfect Surf and Turf 45:27 Morimoto Asia: A Taste of Excellence 47:44 Homecoming: Southern Comfort Food 49:02 Disney Springs Dining: Boathouse vs. Raglan Road 53:51 Quick Service Surprises 57:30 Wrapping Up and Listener Mail…

90s Disney

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63 - Disney Cocktail Party 2024 2:09:01

32 weeks ago2:09:01