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!
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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.
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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Join AJ, Mike, and Chris as they host a nostalgic backyard cocktail party, crafting unique Disney-inspired cocktails: The Shipwreck, The Monorail Yellow, The Pineapple Mule, and the Blackberry Moonshine Sour. They share travel experiences, Disney trip memories, and delve into the history and preparation of each cocktail. The episode touches on the evolution of Disney's cocktail offerings, exclusive ingredient finds, and memorable bar experiences in Disney theme parks. They also recount dining adventures at Disney World restaurants like Morimoto's and Toledo, adding amusing anecdotes and listener recommendations for Tokyo Disney. The show wraps up with a toast to future cocktail explorations and humorous discussions about Disney villain lands.
00:00 Welcome to 90s Disney Podcast
01:24 Backyard Cocktail Party Begins
01:39 Mike's European Adventures
04:39 Disney Cocktail History
06:21 Making the Shipwreck Cocktail
09:25 Memories of Trader Sam's
28:26 Monorail Yellow Cocktail
36:07 Dirty Soda Cups and Fresh Glasses
36:21 McDonald's Adventures Abroad
38:30 Blended Drinks and Blunders
40:00 Mixing Up Classic Cocktails
45:56 Poolside Drinks and Memories
51:05 Unique Bottles and Special Spirits
54:47 Controlled State Liquor Laws
55:34 Winning the Pappy Van Winkle Lottery
58:02 Typhoon Lagoon's Pineapple Mule
01:05:42 Universal's Cocktail Game
01:07:45 Excitement Over the Lounge
01:07:53 Mint and Mule Delights
01:09:07 Disney Water Park Plans
01:09:51 Nostalgic Concert Memories
01:10:46 Dream Disney Lounges
01:13:10 Ginger Beer and Disney Drinks
01:15:28 Disneyland and Oga's Cantina
01:22:57 Disney Merchandise and Stitch
01:24:46 Disney Parks and Attractions
01:35:53 Listener Submitted Cocktail
01:37:57 Discussing Ride Experiences
01:39:02 Super Nintendo World and Epic Universe
01:39:50 Zelda and Harry Potter Themed Beverages
01:41:10 Cleveland and Ohio Memes
01:42:55 Podcasting Challenges and Live Plans
01:44:15 Disney Springs and Food Adventures
01:46:10 Disney Resort Restaurants
02:00:51 Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea Tips
02:03:59 Concluding Thoughts and Emails
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Join AJ, Mike, and Chris as they dive into major announcements from the recent D23 Disney conference, covering exciting new attractions like an Avatar-themed land at Disneyland and a Villains Land at Magic Kingdom along with controversies surrounding the fate of Frontierlan, Tom Sawyer Island, and the Rivers of America for Cars. And where is the new Monsters Inc. land going?! Is Muppet Vision 3D safe?!
We also share insights from AJ's latest Disneyland trip, including experiences at Avengers Campus, various dining adventures, and interactions with beloved characters.
Listen in for details on bold Disney moves to reimagine iconic areas and the hosts' reactions to new rides and special events.
00:00 Introduction and Host Banter
01:23 D23 Reaction and Disneyland Trip
03:17 Avatar Land at Disneyland
07:39 Coco Boat Ride Announcement
10:27 Nighttime Parade at Magic Kingdom
11:49 Disneyland Paris Updates
13:38 Walt Disney Animatronic Show
16:59 Zootopia Show at Disneyland
18:03 Dinoland Replacement: Tropical Americas
33:50 Monsters Inc. Land Rumors
42:59 Cars Attractions in Frontierland
45:46 Disney Parks Blog Announcement
46:10 Tom Sawyer Island Transformation
47:05 Liberty Boat Sentiments
48:28 Rivers of America Refurbishments
48:56 Concept Art and Speculations
52:54 Villains Land Excitement
55:26 Magic Kingdom's Future
59:47 Disneyland Trip Highlights
01:00:01 Avengers Campus Experience
01:03:03 Disneyland Character Moments
01:12:28 Universal Studios Visit
01:25:47 Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up
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Join AJ, Mike, and Chris as they explore the radical history and attractions of Disney's Typhoon Lagoon. Discover the innovations behind the famous wave pool, the tropical theming, and thrilling water slides like Humunga Kowabunga and Miss Adventure Falls. Learn about iconic features such as Mount Mayday with its erupting geyser and the relaxing Castaway Creek. Filled with nostalgic memories, fun trivia, and listener emails, this episode captures the essence of one of Disney World’s cherished water parks.
00:00 Introduction and Hosts
01:13 Typhoon Lagoon Overview
01:52 Wave Pool History
03:48 Early Wave Pool Innovations
08:40 Disney's Wave Machine
09:51 Typhoon Lagoon's Wave Pool Mechanics
30:01 Attractions at Typhoon Lagoon
40:15 Castaway Creek: The Lazy River Experience
46:17 Dining Options at Typhoon Lagoon
50:22 Trivia and Fun Facts
59:18 Emails and Listener Interactions
01:07:26 Upcoming Episodes and Closing Remarks
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