Manufacturing the Magic: Universal Studios Hollywood (Ep 11)

In this episode of the Epic Universal Podcast, Jim Hill and Eric Hersey dive into breaking news about Universal’s highly anticipated Epic Universe theme park, set to open May 22, 2025. They discuss the potential impact of this new park and how long they've known about this announcement.  Additionally, the hosts continue their fascinating exploration of the history behind Toothsome Chocolate Emporium. Jim reveals the story of how Universal could have secured the theme park rights to Willy Wonka, but instead created their own steampunk-inspired chocolate factory that has become a fan favorite. Highlights include: Discussion of the confirmed Epic Universe opening date. New Offerings at Universal Studio Hollywood’s FanFest event. Insights into Toothsome Chocolate Emporium's creation and Universal's choice to move away from a Willy Wonka theme. How Universal cleverly developed its own chocolatier, Penelope Tibeaux-Tinker Toothsome, and her robotic sidekick Jacques. Whether you're curious about upcoming theme parks or love behind-the-scenes stories, this episode is packed with must-know info for Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

n this episode of Fine Tooning, Jim Hill and Drew Taylor take you on a fascinating journey through Disney’s forgotten Mickey Mouse projects, including the untold story of "Mickey Columbus" and other abandoned ideas that never made it to the big screen. They also dive into Disney's challenges while bringing Mickey into the world of CGI, from his iconic ears to scrapped anniversary projects like "The Search for Mickey.” The Wild Robot's Box Office Triumph: DreamWorks Animation's The Wild Robot continues its strong performance at the box office, paving the way for a sequel. Jim and Drew discuss what’s next for this hit film, based on Peter Brown’s popular book series. Wallace & Gromit Are Back!: Aardman Animations is bringing the beloved duo back to the screen with Vengeance Most Fowl. Jim and Drew break down the significance of this return and what fans can expect from the upcoming Christmas release. What’s Next for Animation Fans: With new releases like Transformers One and the latest from Aardman, there’s a lot to look forward to in the world of animation. Tune in for all this and more on this week’s Fine Tooning! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Disney Dish Podcast, Jim Hill and Len Testa take you through the latest Disney updates and a deep dive into the fascinating history behind one of Disney’s most ambitious projects. Here’s what you’ll hear: Hurricane Milton Update: How the recent storm impacted Disney parks, and why Jim thinks Medieval Times might be the ultimate hurricane shelter. Disneyland Price Hikes: Len breaks down the latest ticket and annual pass price increases at Disneyland, and what that could mean for your next trip. Fort Wilderness Innovations: Could autonomous delivery robots soon bring food and merchandise to your cabin at Fort Wilderness? Jim and Len explore the possibilities. Listener Questions: Why the ghost of the ‘Creepy Clown Pool’ might still haunt Boardwalk Inn’s occupancy rates, and how AI may make your Disney PhotoPass pictures look better than ever. Main Feature: In a behind-the-scenes look at Disney's battle with Pixar, Jim reveals how Mickey’s PhilharMagicwas developed as a key part of Michael Eisner’s strategy to prove that Disney could create CG animation independently. From its origins as a project for Hong Kong Disneyland to its pivotal role in Disney’s negotiations with Pixar, discover the hidden history behind one of the most beloved 3D attractions in Disney World. Join Jim and Len for a fun, fact-filled episode full of Disney history, news, and a few laughs along the way! SHOW NOTES Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the seventh installment of this educational series, Shelly & Noe Valladolid talk about how a working ranch & farm in the San Fernando Valley eventually became one of Southern California’s most popular tourist attractions  Throughout this episode, listeners will learn about: When was Universal City officially founded Which Disney vet designed the Glamour Trams Who built the 50-foot-tall King Kong animatronic for this theme park On what floor of “Back to the Future: The Ride” was Steve Spielberg’s room located Where does the simulated quake that Universal visitors experience during” Earthquake: The Big One” reportedly fall on the Richter scale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Epic Universal Podcast, Jim Hill and Eric Hersey kick things off by discussing the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles touring show and the impact of Hurricane Milton on theme parks. But the main feature of this episode dives into the origins of one of Universal’s most beloved dining experiences—Toothsome Chocolate Emporium. Highlights include: The latest Epic Universe Construction Photo Drop by @bioreconstruct The Harry Potter-themed Hershey Chocolate Collection How the closure of NBA City paved the way for Toothsome Chocolate Emporium. The fascinating backstory of how Universal almost created a Willy Wonka-themed restaurant. Whether you're curious about theme park history or just love chocolate, tune in to discover the story behind The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of I Want That Too, Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey are joined by Brandon Sheddon, the founder and CEO of Cakeworthy, to discuss the brand that perfectly blends fan culture with fashion-forward designs. Brandon shares the story behind Cakworthy's humble beginnings and how it grew into a pop culture phenomenon. They dive into some of Cakeworthy’s most popular items, the inspiration behind their signature flannels, and the details of a special Cakeworthy collection that’s making its way into Disney theme parks! What We Cover: Cakeworthy’s journey from a small screen-printing operation to a global brand. The secrets behind their most popular pieces, including their iconic flannel shirts. How Cakeworthy keeps designs both stylish and true to Disney and Universal fandoms. Inside scoop on the latest Cakeworthy collections coming to Disney theme parks. Cakeworthy’s creative process and fan feedback's role in designing new items. Listen in to discover how Cakeworthy brings beloved fandoms to life, one stylish piece at a time!   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Fine Tooning, Jim Hill dives into the latest animation news and rumors. With Drew Taylor away, Jim covers: Unraveling Studio Feuds and Hollywood Drama: What caused the downfall of Fleischer Studios and their ultimate takeover by Paramount Pictures? Jennifer Lee’s Next Move: Disney Animation’s Chief Creative Officer steps down to focus on Frozen 3 and Frozen 4, while Jared Bush steps in. Joker: Folie à Deux’s Box Office Struggles**: Warner Bros. Discovery faces losses as the Joker sequel underperforms despite the original film's success. MuppetVision 3D’s Future: Rumors swirl about the potential impact of Disney’s new Monsters Inc. door coaster on MuppetVision 3D at Hollywood Studios. Plus, updates on DreamWorks’ The Wild Robot and Warner Bros.’ upcoming Dynamic Duo superhero film using innovative animation techniques. Don’t miss this deep dive into the latest animation industry news and history! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Disney Dish Podcast, Len Testa and Jim Hill discuss the latest updates and history behind Mickey’s PhilharMagic. Tune in for: Autonomous Vehicles at Fort Wilderness?: Could self-driving vehicles soon be delivering food and merchandise around this iconic resort? Jim and Len explore the potential future of tech at Disney. Occupancy Rates for Disney Vacation Club Resorts: Discover why DVC properties like the Grand Californian and Bay Lake Tower are at the top of the occupancy charts and what makes them so popular. The Legend of the Lion King: Jim dives deep into the history of this fan-favorite stage show, detailing the ambitious production, massive puppetry, and how it paved the way for future Disney attractions. This episode is filled with Disney news, unique history, and some listener questions. SHOW NOTES Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of I Want That Too, Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey discuss the fascinating history and rise of Disney Villains in the parks, from their early appearances to the exciting new Villains Land coming to Magic Kingdom. They discuss how the villains have transformed from side characters to central attractions.  What We Cover: The announcement of Villains Land at Magic Kingdom and what we know so far. Concept art and ride speculation, including a potential Maleficent roller coaster. How Disney is competing with Universal's Monsters Land. The history of Disney Villains in the parks. Special events like Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party and Villains After Hours. New villain merchandise, including some limited edition finds.  Upcoming villain-themed shows at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The Story Behind Cinderellas Castle Mystery Tour Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Epic Universal Podcast, Jim Hill and Eric Hersey dive into the fascinating tale of how the Looney Tunes almost became part of Universal Orlando’s second gate. A listener question sparked a deep dive into the history of these iconic characters and their long-standing presence at Six Flags. Jim uncovers the intricate details behind Universal’s interest in the Looney Tunes, and the potential licensing challenges that ultimately led to a different path for Universal. Also in this episode: Eric’s family trip to Hershey Park’s Dark Nights and what it taught him about Halloween Horror Nights. Updates from New York Comic Con about Universal’s Epic Universe panel. Honoring Dame Maggie Smith with a special tribute. A look at the new Harry Potter experiences at Universal Studios Hollywood’s Fan Fest Nights. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles at Universal Studios Hollywood? Jim and Eric NEED YOUR HELP! Get ready for a nostalgic dive into theme park history, character licensing, and some fun behind-the-scenes insights! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices