AVENGERS! REASSEMBLE!

OK. I’ll admit upfront that I’m a 57 year-old female who you would never expect to be sucked up into the mania of Marvel. Well, one weekend evening while flicking through my cable channels I spotted the first Avengers movie and since there was nothing else to watch, I figure I’d sit down and give it a try. Partly, because I wanted to see for myself what the brouhaha was all about. Well, never was I so happy to be completely wrong as I was swept away into this amazing world of superheroes! I have to admit I haven’t enjoyed a movie this much in a long time. So when the Avengers sequel hit the theaters I went so far as to purchase movie tickets online in advance for Avengers: Age of Ultron and that’s something, until now, I would never do. I’ve also heard such good things about the IMAX 3D experience that I didn’t want to get shut out on opening weekend.

Another thing that I enjoy about these Marvel films is, though I’ve never been a big fan of movie violence, that any action scenes containing violence are so sanitized that it it’s not offensive. Although you may see some blood, it’s not excessively gory to make you feel uncomfortable.

As far as the sequel goes, while I enjoyed it, I felt it didn’t live up to its predecessor. To start with the villain and his minions were weak at best. Besides, he's NO Loki! Ultron, as much as he’s supposed to be this super-intelligent being, never lived up to the expectations. Another thing I felt where the story missed, largely for me, was although Ultron had an intense hatred for his creator, Tony Stark, the film never expands on that. Actually, there’s very little interaction between those characters at all. I was expecting some kind of showdown that may have brought some clarity to the villain’s motives. It was pretty much a foregone conclusion where this film was heading before it was even close to getting there. Speaking of foregone conclusions, I really liked the appearance of Vision and would have loved to see more development of his character and perhaps, we will, in the next project.

Unlike longtime Marvel fans, I didn’t start out reading Marvel comics and I wasn’t familiar with all the superheroes so when new characters were introduced at the end of the film I wasn’t nearly as excited as many Marvel fanatics may have been.  Again, I’m a newbie but I feel, going forward, that too many superheroes will take away screen time from the main characters like Iron Man, Thor and the Captain and, in my opinion, the storyline may suffer. Despite my disappointment in the sequel, I just might have to take another crack at Age of Ultron as it may grow on me. Besides, watching five sexy (and not just in the physical sense) superheroes romping and stomping around in tights and metal in their fight for justice, I feel, is worth another look. 

Love Me Some Loki!

DISNEY HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS NAME CHANGE AND POTENTIAL NEW IDENTITY SPARKS FOND MEMORIES

When Disney CEO Bob Iger accidentally let slip (yeah…right) the possible news of a name change for the Disney’s Hollywood Studios Theme Park in the near future, I wasn’t surprised. This Disney Park has been through this before and since, hopefully, there may be major changes coming it makes total sense. Personally, I think they should drop the “Studios” designation as Disney Hollywood Studios hasn’t been a production studio since CEO Michael Eisner shut it down in 2003. I've also read reports of names like Disney's Florida Adventure and Disney's Hollywood Adventure. Of the two, I prefer Hollywood Adventure as that would fit right in with the theming of the Park. Regardless of the name change, and I may not be alone here, but I still find myself still calling it MGM. Even when the rebranding becomes an inevitable eventuality, I’ll probably still continue to refer to it as the same. The MGM designation has just become so ingrained in me.

This recent news also brings me back to my first time visiting Disney-MGM Studios Theme Park nearly 26 years ago. Most of what is at Hollywood Studios today was not there when the Park first opened in 1989. Today, many people, particularly those under the age of 21 would not appreciate what this park used to be and what it accomplished. Back then, Disney-MGM Studios was a working production facility and occasionally you’d catch a glimpse of an actual TV show or film in production. Aside from the Production Studio Area and Backstage Tour, the Theme Park area was of a modest scale and consisted of one ride, that being The Great Movie Ride, and a handful of shows such as Superstar Television, Monster Sound Show, (one of my favorites), and the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular.

The 2-hour Backstage Tour which took you by tram and on foot through the production studio. The tram portion of the tour took you through New York Streets/Streets of America on to Catastrophe Canyon and from there you would disembark to start the second half of the Backlot Tour which was the walking part that took you through many behind the scenes areas such as the special effects and sound stages which now currently house One Man’s Dream and Voyage of the Little Mermaid.

Another of my favorites, aside from Monster Sound Show, was The Magic of Disney Animation Tour which featured the film Back to Neverland with Robin Williams and Walter Cronkite and a working animation studio. A personal highlight of that tour was when walking by a window looking into a working studio of Disney animators and coming upon an animator’s rather large, and I mean HUGE collection of PEZ. I don’t know why, but at the time, I thought it was pretty cool and even though I’m not a PEZ collector, I now consider it was an amazing detail, since it’s something I still remember so many years later.

Well, much of these attractions are gone now and in my opinion, Disney Hollywood Studios has become a mere shell of its former self. Other than Toy Story Midway Mania, One Man’s Dream, Streetmosphere entertainment and the fact that the Hollywood Brown Derby happens to be onsite, I don’t see much, other than the above, to draw me into the park. Many people claim, and I happen to be one of them, who think Disney Hollywood Studios has become a ½ day park and that’s a shame really. What was once #2 on my favorite park list has sadly become #4. On the upside, are the recent rumors of upcoming projects coming to Hollywood Studios or whatever Disney decides to brand it.

The first of many changes has already begun in removing the studios iconic, and rather intrusive, Mickey Sorcerers Hat. That is a step in the right direction as the only thing this structure accomplished was to block the view of the entrance to the venerable Great Movie Ride. Furthermore, like many, I am looking forward to the much rumored Star Wars Land but until ground has officially been broken then I’ll believe it when I see it, as this has been kicking around for a few years now.  Also, the Cars Land rumors have resurfaced and since these reports keep bubbling up, then the project may not have been entirely abandoned. Cars Land for me personally, is the more exciting of the two ventures. Another project which I would eagerly anticipate with great joy would be the idea of a Villains Land but unfortunately, Disney doesn’t seem to share my vision with the same enthusiasm.

OK, many of you may want to stop reading from here on because I going to say it and I know some of you may also be thinking it, but I wouldn’t be too surprised upon hearing an announcement of a projected Frozen Land at Disney Hollywood Studios. I mean, it’s everywhere now. Actually, it's not a bad idea because it may get it out of the other parks and place it exactly where it’s belongs and is obviously needed. 

IF WINTER COMES, CAN SPRING BE FAR BEHIND? HUH? SORRY, MR SHELLEY BUT I'M NOT BUYING IT!

I have to admit, I’m a big fan of the Disney Vinylmation Series. I don’t have many, but the ones I have, I really enjoy displaying. I generally purchase vinylmations that either have special meaning, are holiday themed or seasonal. I also love birds and one of my favorites is the owl. The last 2 winters I have displayed one of my favored vinylmations in the Cutesters series, “Snow Day Owl’ in the "Vinylmation Place of Honor” on my bedroom window sill. When the time comes, I also diligently pack them away once there have become irrevalent. Well, Mr. Snowy Owl seems to be hanging around a bit longer this year. He made his appearance once my Holiday Mickeys were stowed away right after New Year’s Day and he hasn’t budged since. He’s made up his mind to remain on his lofty perch until that last flake snow has fallen and the last impenetrable snow pile has disintegrated.

Yeah, I know it’s only been officially spring for a little less than 2 weeks now, but someone forgot to notify Mr. Winter.  Since then much of New England has seen snow showers, blustery days, and rather chilly temps even for late March. It may be that things are looking up though because our Easter Sunday forecast went from potential snow flurries to a sunny, windy, and low in 40’s type of day. Not great, but then again, it’s not snow. This surely is a blessing.

Again, Mr. Snowy Owl is not going anywhere while those grimy snow piles remain constant. Well, I’m giving Mr. Owl notice that he has up to 30 days to evacuate the premises. Besides, my spring birthday is a little more than a month away and Mystery Bakery Figment is waiting in the wings.

DISNEY TRADITIONS "FOWL TEMPER" DONALD DUCK FIGURINE BY JIM SHORE

In December of 2013 I picked up this Jim Shore “Fowl Temper” figurine at the Animation Courtyard shop at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. While in the process of purchasing this item, I got into a conversation with the cast member at the register about Donald Duck. I had told him how Donald was my favorite character and how much I loved this piece. We started talking more about Donald and the cast member stated he liked Donald Duck but would not purchase Donald Duck unless he had a happy face. 

I, at once, disagreed and feel exactly the opposite. I told the cast member that the main reason that Donald appeals to me is that he exhibits human characteristics. In fact, Donald is the most human of the Mickey and Friends characters. Most Disney characters appear happy and squeaky clean. Donald has many faces and most of them are not the happy and smiling ones we’re used to seeing.

Well, there’s nothing wrong with a character showing a little emotion, even downright indignation, frustration or anger.   And as we all know, Donald is the epitome of frustration and the master of the slow-burn. At times, we even feel sorry for him. Donald is, in some respects, the yin to Mickey’s yang. Donald is the “Doubting Thomas”. Donald has to be convinced, cajoled and even converted to see the positive side of things. I mean, isn’t that like many of us? When things are going really well, don’t we feel that it’s only a matter of time before something bad will happen? Don’t we, in bad times, need reassurance that everything is going to be alright? When we’re in a mood, some of us, myself included, get frustrated or angered by just the simplest of things. Because of these reasons, I totally relate to Donald and his many faces, even the angry ones.

Donald isn’t the bad guy or a villain, nor is he a saint, he’s just like us, is all.

I didn’t realize until after I left the store, I should have asked the cast member what he thought about a certain dwarf or those famous Disney Villains.

DISNEY HAUNTED MANSION 45TH ANNIVERSARY LIMITED EDITION SHIRT

One of my favorite attractions at Walt Disney World and Disneyland celebrated the 45^th Anniversary at Disneyland. The Haunted Mansion is such a classic Disney ride and is arguably the most popular Disney Theme park ride.  It is certainly is one of the most iconic attractions at any of the Disney Parks.

I remember my first ride on the Walt Disney World attraction in the summer of 1972 (sounds a bit like a movie title?). I was just into my teens and scared to death. I mean this is the “Haunted” Mansion and it looked so creepy from the outside that I couldn't conceive ever going inside. Heck, I’ll admit, I was kind of a wimpy kid! This Disney World trip was my first of many things, one among these, was my first plane ride. As one person in our party stated emphatically, if you can get on a plane and fly 30,000 feet in the air, you should have no problem with this! So after some rather prolonged convincing, I made my way, along with a large and rather cheerful crowd, through the doors to the main portrait hall. Now my favorite part, by the way, but at the time, I was literally shaking!  The creepy cast member didn't exactly ease my trepidation. Well, I think you can all guess what happened after that. The Haunted Mansion quickly became my most beloved attraction at any Disney park. Thanks Mom!

It seems I'm not alone. Not only does the attraction itself top many a Disneyphile's favorite ride list but the Haunted Mansion merchandise has become extremely popular and highly sought. So when Disney came out with a 45th Anniversary limited edition shirt, I just had to have one.

GLOWS IN THE DARK

This shirt is a 100% cotton ribbed crew neck tee with Haunted Mansion screen art on a grey background and it includes glow-in-the-dark elements. It celebrates the 45th Anniversary of The Haunted Mansion at Disneyland (August 9, 1969). 

This item is no longer available from the Disney Store but it can periodically be found on Ebay and at some online stores selling Disney items.

80TH ANNIVERSARY DONALD DUCK SCREEN ART COMMERATIVE COTTON TEE SHIRT

As you already know, I’m a huge Disney fan and one of my favorite Disney characters is Donald Duck. Sure, I love many of the Disney characters. I mean who doesn’t love Mickey Mouse but there has always been something about Donald that I’ve found endearing. Maybe it’s his episodic crankiness or just the fact that he has many of our human traits. Besides, I just love his quacky lisp.

As some of you may already know, June 9, 2014 marked the 80^th Anniversary of this Disney icon and when I saw the Disney Store limited edition tee celebrating this event, I simply had to have it.

I believe Donald gets short shrift when it comes to apparel next to the more famous and identifiable Mickey and Minnie even though Donald tees look to sell pretty well. But again, I’m still steamed that Disney didn’t come out with a 30^th Anniversary EPCOT Figment tee in an Adults Men’s size!

A tidbit that not everyone may know this but I remember years ago being on one of the Disney Cruises and and Donald was nowhere to be found. Well, I was told by a cast member that Donald wouldn't be taking the cruise because his tail, although adorable, was a bit too big to maneuver around the boat, particularly in the elevators. Don’t know if he was kidding or not, but if that was true, I’m very happy to say that since then they may have rectified the problem with Donald’s backside because he’s been back on DCL for a while now.

This 80^th anniversary t-shirt is Donald Duck screen art on a Hanes jersey knit celebrating the 80th Anniversary of Donald's debut in Walt Disney's Silly Symphony cartoon classic The Wise Little Hen (June 9, 1934). It’s a 100% cotton ribbed crew neck. Now sold out through Disney but if you search online you can still find some availability online.

About Me

Hello everyone! My name is Nancy and I’m a Disneyholic.

Well I don’t know if there is such a thing but in today’s society since many people too quickly attach the term “addiction” to ANY human weakness, then I guess Disney is mine.

For as long as I can remember Disney has been part of my life.  I can remember my first Mickey Mouse and as a child sitting down to the Wonderful World of Color every Sunday night. I’m well into my 50s now and my passion has never waned. Disney conjures up some special feelings and memories that for me, will last forever.

This site will be dedicated not only to Disney collectibles, but also to experiences in my life that have led to my love and appreciation of all things Disney. 

My real interest in Disney collectibles didn’t begin until the family’s first trip to Walt Disney World in 1971 and then with the inception of the Disney Stores chain, well, that really led to my obsession.

I have collected everything from pins to cookie jars and snow globes but my absolute favorite items to collect are Disney character figurines and theme park souvenirs. When I say theme park souvenirs, I don’t just mean pins, figurines or t-shirts but collectibles that are exclusive to the theme parks and are hard to find anywhere else other than, maybe, on the secondary market.

On my site you are going to find primarily Disney related collectibles such as shirts, pins, figurines, dolls, ornaments, and Disney’s unique Vinylmation figures. Occasionally you may even find trinkets discovered while just walking down Main Street USA or strolling through Epcot’s World Showcase.  What I really hope you will find above all else, is love of Disney and loads of fun!

If you have a favorite Disney collectible or just want to share a Disney related experience, feel free to leave a comment below and make sure you visit my site regularly as I will be regularly adding many Disney treasures and even some personal experiences that I hope will evoke an emotion or raise a smile.

I wish you all the best and thanks for dropping by and well….you know what’s coming, right…

Have a Magical Day!

Nancy