Episodes

  • What $2.50 Bought You on Universal’s First Tram Tour (Ep. 25)

    What $2.50 Bought You on Universal’s First Tram Tour (Ep. 25)
    Nov 15 2024
    In this episode of the Epic Universal Podcast, Jim Hill and Eric Hersey cover a range of Universal-related stories, from unique events to fascinating history: Episode Highlights: Universal’s Garage Sale: Discover the details of the 2024 garage sale, where fans can snag exclusive merchandise and rare finds. Green Eggs and Ham Returns: Eric shares his excitement about the return of this iconic Seuss Landing sign and its connection to holiday celebrations. Epic Universe Promotions: Jim discusses Universal’s early marketing efforts for the highly anticipated Epic Universe. Horror Unleashed in Vegas: A deep dive into the year-round horror attraction featuring Universal Monsters and more. The Birth of the Universal Tram Tour: Jim takes us back to the 1960s to explore the humble beginnings of Universal Studios Hollywood’s iconic tram tour. Whether you're a Universal newbie or a seasoned park-goer, this episode has something for everyone. Tune in for news, nostalgia, and plenty of fun! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    39 mins
  • Disney and Macy’s: A 90-Year Thanksgiving Tradition (Ep. 23)

    Disney and Macy’s: A 90-Year Thanksgiving Tradition (Ep. 23)
    Nov 14 2024
    In this festive episode of I Want That Too, Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey explore the rich history between Disney and the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. From Mickey Mouse’s first parade appearance in 1934 to Minnie Mouse’s brand-new balloon debut in 2024, they uncover fascinating stories about Disney’s presence in this iconic holiday tradition. What We Cover: The origins of Disney’s involvement in the Macy’s Parade, starting with Mickey Mouse’s debut. Behind-the-scenes facts about creating and managing those giant character balloons. Minnie Mouse’s highly anticipated 2024 balloon debut and the Disney Cruise Line float tribute. How Macy’s and Disney teamed up to launch the new Mickey and Minnie shops inside 200 stores nationwide. Nostalgic reflections on Disney’s parade history, including the surprising role of the character warehouse and the evolution of holiday merch. Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at the collaboration between two beloved brands and the holiday magic they bring to life! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    45 mins
  • Inside the 'Nightmare Before Christmas Light Trail': Tim Burton’s Latest Haunting Spectacle (Ep. 280)

    Inside the 'Nightmare Before Christmas Light Trail': Tim Burton’s Latest Haunting Spectacle (Ep. 280)
    Nov 12 2024
    In this episode of Fine Tooning, Jim Hill and Drew Taylor dive into the magical world of Tim Burton's Nightmare Before Christmas Light Trail. Hear all about Jim's recent visit to this dazzling event at the New York Botanical Gardens, where he experienced life-sized sculptures, fog-filled forests, and stunning light displays that bring Burton's eerie, whimsical vision to life. Also in this episode: The Wild Robot still dominates the box office, edging closer to $300 million worldwide. D23 Brasil’s big animation reveals, including a new Ice Age film and Toy Story 5 updates. Behind the scenes on Skydance and Netflix's Spellbound promotion in Times Square. Updates on Marvel’s animated lineup and what’s in store for 2025. Get ready for all this and more on this week’s Fine Tooning! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    48 mins
  • Is Disney’s Premier Pass Really Worth It? Plus, Universal’s Year-Round Horror & El Rio Del Tiempo’s Final Chapter! (Ep. 505)

    Is Disney’s Premier Pass Really Worth It? Plus, Universal’s Year-Round Horror & El Rio Del Tiempo’s Final Chapter! (Ep. 505)
    Nov 11 2024
    In this week’s episode, Len Testa and Jim Hill bring you a packed show with the latest theme park news and the finale of Jim’s deep dive into EPCOT’s El Rio del Tiempo. Tune in as they cover: Universal’s Year-Round Horror Nights in Las Vegas: Get the details on Universal’s permanent horror attraction, “Universal Horror Unleashed,” set to launch at Area 15 with classic scares from Texas Chainsaw Massacre, Exorcist: Believer, and more. Magic Kingdom’s Premier Pass Math: Len and Jim respond to a listener’s cost breakdown for Disney’s new Premier Pass. Does the math make sense? Frozen Holiday Surprise: Disney surprised everyone with an early start to this fan-favorite holiday event at the Magic Kingdom. El Rio del Tiempo’s Journey to Gran Fiesta Tour: In the final part of Jim’s history series, learn about Eric and Susan Goldberg’s transformation of the Mexico Pavilion’s iconic boat ride into Gran Fiesta Tour and the arrival of animatronic versions of the Three Caballeros. Listener questions, Disney news, and inside scoops make this an episode you won’t want to miss! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    44 mins
  • Exploring Minion Land: A First-Timer’s Adventure and a Historian’s Perspective (Ep. 24)

    Exploring Minion Land: A First-Timer’s Adventure and a Historian’s Perspective (Ep. 24)
    Nov 8 2024
    In this episode of the Epic Universal Podcast, Jim Hill and Eric Hersey share a first-time experience exploring Universal's Minion Land. Jim provides unique historical insights, connecting the new attractions to Universal’s storied past and its evolution in theme park innovation. Episode Highlights: A First Look at Minion Land: Eric’s first impressions of Minion Land’s unique attractions, rides, and immersive details. History of the Minions at Universal: Jim reveals how the Minions evolved from movie icons to major theme park stars and their journey to becoming a land of their own. What’s New and What’s Next: Discover the standout features of Minion Land and hints about potential expansions and updates from Universal. Behind the Scenes of Minion Mayhem: Gain insider knowledge on the making of Minion Land and the creative choices that brought it to life. Jim’s Historian Perspective: How Minion lLand fits into the larger history of Universal theme parks and its significance for fans of all ages. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a Universal veteran, this episode will make you see Minion Land in a whole new light. Tune in now to experience the magic, mischief, and history! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    38 mins
  • Meet the Man Behind Disney’s Most Famous Animatronics (Ep. 22)

    Meet the Man Behind Disney’s Most Famous Animatronics (Ep. 22)
    Nov 7 2024
    This week on I Want That Too, Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey welcome a true icon in the theme park industry: Garner Holt, the mastermind behind Garner Holt Productions and the creative force behind some of the most jaw-dropping animatronics in Disney, Universal, and even Chuck E. Cheese locations worldwide! What We Cover: Learn how a young Garner transformed his passion for animatronics in his parents' garage into the largest animatronics company in the world. Hear about Garner's experience creating unforgettable figures for beloved Disney attractions, from Haunted Mansion Holiday to Buzz Lightyear, Monsters Inc., and Cars Land. Garner shares how he's inspiring a new generation with "Animaker Spaces," where kids can build their own animatronics. Plus, find out how you can bring the animatronics experience home with Garner's "Make-Your-Own Animatronic Kit," a one-of-a-kind project that lets you assemble and program your own interactive Tiki bird right at your kitchen table! Hear how Garner’s team uses animatronics to train soldiers in life-like scenarios, blending creativity and technology to save lives. With over 5,000 animatronic figures in 36 countries, Garner Holt reflects on his extraordinary career and his favorite projects, from haunted houses to high-tech figures in top theme parks. Whether you’re a Disney fan, a collector, or simply fascinated by the art of animatronics, this episode is packed with stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    40 mins
  • Did You Know Godzilla Had a Sidekick? Godzilla's Forgotten Cartoon (Ep. 279)

    Did You Know Godzilla Had a Sidekick? Godzilla's Forgotten Cartoon (Ep. 279)
    Nov 5 2024
    In this episode of Fine Tooning, Jim Hill and Drew Taylor dive into some of animation’s quirkiest corners and biggest news: Godzilla’s 70th Anniversary: Celebrating Godzilla Day with a look back at the 1978 Godzilla animated series and the fascinating story behind Hanna-Barbera’s unique take on the King of Monsters. The Wild Robot’s Box Office Success: DreamWorks' hit continues to climb, surpassing $250 million worldwide. "Emily the Strange" Returns: A new animated feature from Warner Bros. and J.J. Abrams brings the iconic goth character to life. The Simpsons’ NFL Takeover: A real-time Simpsons Monday Night Football game using innovative animation technology. Halloween Treats & Holiday Previews: Highlights from Netflix’s That Christmas, Marvel’s upcoming series lineup, and spooky animated specials. Tune in for a monster-packed episode celebrating everything from classic kaiju to modern animation news! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    44 mins
  • Tropical Americas is Coming, $25 Cake Slices, and the Grand Finale of EPCOT’s El Rio Del Tiempo (Ep. 504)

    Tropical Americas is Coming, $25 Cake Slices, and the Grand Finale of EPCOT’s El Rio Del Tiempo (Ep. 504)
    Nov 4 2024
    ver exciting updates and wrap up a beloved EPCOT attraction’s history in the grand finale of their series on El Rio del Tiempo. Here’s what’s in store: Cake Bake Shop Review: Len shares his experience at the newly opened Cake Bake Shop, highlighting the quality of their offerings and discussing the pricing. Universal's Animatronic Monsters: The hosts discuss Universal Orlando's recent trailer featuring 14 advanced animatronic monsters for the upcoming Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment attraction. They marvel at the lifelike fluidity of these figures, comparing them to Disney's Na’Vi Shaman and Rise of the Resistance animatronics. Disney's Tropical Americas Plans: Len and Jim examine Disney's new permit filings, revealing plans to transform Dinoland into Tropical Americas. They explore potential attractions, including a character greeting area, a Mayan-themed play area, and expansive queue designs for upcoming rides. Listener Questions and Surveys: The episode answers listener questions about various Disney experiences and discusses recent surveys from Universal Orlando and Disney Cruise Line, touching on possible new ticketing options and guest feedback. Additionally, join us for the grand finale in Jim’s multi-part series on the history of EPCOT’s El Rio del Tiempo boat ride, where he shares fascinating details about the journey to the Gran Fiesta Tour. Catch all the latest Disney news, updates, and in-depth theme park insights in this jam-packed episode! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    49 mins