Last week, I talked about Stage versions of classic Disney songs and I guess you could say that I have been on a Disney stage Binge as of late. Well, today I have decided to talk about songs that were written exclusively for the stage adaptions. Since I forgot it last time, why don't I go ahead and start with the "The Little Mermaid".
Our first song is titled "She's In Love"
Here in this song, Ariel's sisters and Flounder talk about how Ariel is in love with a boy and they how wonder who it is. They sing the differences they have noticed in her personality. This song starts out with just Ariel's sisters but later Flounder joins the group. This has a very '50s type vibe to it and for some reason I listen to this song I can't help but think of "I'm Gonna Wash That Man Right Out of Hair" from "South Pacific". Though that's probably just me.
Her Voice
"Her Voice" is sung by Prince Eric, her he recounts about the girl he met who had a beautiful voice not yet realizing that Ariel and the girl with the beautiful voice are one in the same. It may be a short song but Eric realizes that the girl with the voice will come to him soon.
Next up is Beauty and The Beast
Our first song is titled "If I Can't Love Her"
In this song, Beast is singing about the pain he is going through with not being able to show Belle, his true emotions. This song takes place after Beast kicks Belle out of the room where the flower is kept. You can hear the sorrow in The Beast's voice and how he wants to show Belle that he loves her but is afraid to.
A Change in Me
Here in this song Belle is talking to her father, Maurice about she sees things differently and no longer sees the Beast as a monster but as a man. That he is a good person and that she knows she's in love with him and how she is okay with leaving her dreams behind for love.
Next is Mary Poppins
Our first song is titled "Practially Perfect"
Here Mary Poppins is singing basically her resume to the children and telling them how she will help. It's a fun little number with Mary Poppins really getting the audience in the mood for the play.
Being Mrs. Banks
This is perhaps one of my all time favorite stage songs. In it, Mrs. Banks is singing about what it means to be Mrs. Banks to her and how George, her husband doesn't need money to make her happy. She just wants him to be happy.
Finally, the two best songs ever written for a Disney Stage Adaption. They come to us courtesy of "The Lion King" First up is "Endless Night"
Endless Night
This song takes when Simba sees Mufassa in clouds and he sings about his father was never when he needed them, which led to be so scared and unsure of himself. Just listen to the line"Whenever I called tour name/Your Not Anywhere". This line shows the fear that Simba had growing up without his father and he is scared but know he must face his destiny. This along with the next song can bring tears to my eyes.
He Lives In You
This song is actually a reprise of the "They Live In You" from earlier in the play but I find this song to be much more powerful. In this song Ratiki (feamle Rafiki) is singing about how the spirit of Mufassa lives in all of them and he always will. Now I don't mean to get religious but you could also say that this song is about how God lives in all of us with Mufassa representing God. That's just my theory. I love the line "Have Faith", that line gives me goosebumps each time I hear it.
Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed this. Come back on the third for a special surprise celebrating my birthday.
1/30/11
Let's Watch Toy Story: The Musical Part 7 and My Final Thoughts
Here is the seventh and final part of Toy Story: The Musical. When we left off, last time Buzz was still strapped to the rocket, Woody and the mutant toys has just scared off Sid and the moving van from Andy's house was leaving. Now, Woody and buzz are trying to catch up with the van. Enjoy and stay tuned for my final thoughts.
We pick up with Buzz still attached to the rocket, and then Woody and Buzz figure out that they can light the rocket to catch up to the moving van. Which they do and when they get there the toys are happy to see Buzz and Woody. Unlike the movie, the toys are quicker to forgive for his actions, which are understandable. Then a reprise of "You've goat Friend in Me/That's Why We're Here" is sung by the toys. I love how it ends with Andy opening the box finding Buzz and Woody with the toys onstage singing. So what did I think overall? Time for my final thoughts.
My Final Thoughts
When I first heard about this play, my reaction was "Why?" as in why make a musical based on "Toy Story", a non musical movie. The idea just baffled me but as I watched the play, it turned out to be okay at best. There were a few gripes I had with the play. First off, I felt the song by the Aliens was unnecessary since that was the only time, the aliens were ever used in the play because Sid did not take one home. In fact, I don't think we even needed the Aliens, it could have been anything in the claw machine. Another issue I had is while the play incorporated "You've Got a Friend in Me", it forgot about "I Will Go Sailing No More". It may not be the most popular "Toy Story" song but it's still good. Don't get me wrong the reprise of "To Infinity and Beyond" was nice but it would have been nice if they had included this song in the play as well. I mean, I can picture Buzz singing it. Here take a listen to these two songs and leave thoughts in the comments
It's a good song but take a listen to this song from the classic movie and tell me what you think. Would it work in the musical?
Personally, I think it would have and using a reprise leads me to my next problem, towards the latter part of the play, the show became reprise heavy. Now, I don't mind a good reprise but when every single song in the latter part of a show is a reprise of song, we already heard. That get annoying. But my biggest problem with this show was Sid. The actress playing Sid was all wrong, her voice just didn't capture the character of Sid and when she sang, it was awful.
There were some good things about the play too, though. The actors playing the toys were fantastic and the design on most of the toys reminded me of their movie counterparts. The music was great minus one song but even then the music was awesome. In the end, I still think it's a little weird but not bad. It's a good show, not Broadway worthy but good. Besides, this probably the weirdest Disney musical. It's not like they would make a "Finding Nemo Musical".
We pick up with Buzz still attached to the rocket, and then Woody and Buzz figure out that they can light the rocket to catch up to the moving van. Which they do and when they get there the toys are happy to see Buzz and Woody. Unlike the movie, the toys are quicker to forgive for his actions, which are understandable. Then a reprise of "You've goat Friend in Me/That's Why We're Here" is sung by the toys. I love how it ends with Andy opening the box finding Buzz and Woody with the toys onstage singing. So what did I think overall? Time for my final thoughts.
My Final Thoughts
When I first heard about this play, my reaction was "Why?" as in why make a musical based on "Toy Story", a non musical movie. The idea just baffled me but as I watched the play, it turned out to be okay at best. There were a few gripes I had with the play. First off, I felt the song by the Aliens was unnecessary since that was the only time, the aliens were ever used in the play because Sid did not take one home. In fact, I don't think we even needed the Aliens, it could have been anything in the claw machine. Another issue I had is while the play incorporated "You've Got a Friend in Me", it forgot about "I Will Go Sailing No More". It may not be the most popular "Toy Story" song but it's still good. Don't get me wrong the reprise of "To Infinity and Beyond" was nice but it would have been nice if they had included this song in the play as well. I mean, I can picture Buzz singing it. Here take a listen to these two songs and leave thoughts in the comments
It's a good song but take a listen to this song from the classic movie and tell me what you think. Would it work in the musical?
Personally, I think it would have and using a reprise leads me to my next problem, towards the latter part of the play, the show became reprise heavy. Now, I don't mind a good reprise but when every single song in the latter part of a show is a reprise of song, we already heard. That get annoying. But my biggest problem with this show was Sid. The actress playing Sid was all wrong, her voice just didn't capture the character of Sid and when she sang, it was awful.
There were some good things about the play too, though. The actors playing the toys were fantastic and the design on most of the toys reminded me of their movie counterparts. The music was great minus one song but even then the music was awesome. In the end, I still think it's a little weird but not bad. It's a good show, not Broadway worthy but good. Besides, this probably the weirdest Disney musical. It's not like they would make a "Finding Nemo Musical".
1/28/11
Let's Watch Toy Story: The Musical Part 4, Part 5 and Part 6
When we last left off Buzz had just fallen out the window and Andy was heading to Pizza Planet, he wanted to take Buzz but could not find him so instead took Woody. Who actually caused Buzz to fall out of the window and the toys were a little more than angry at him. Now in Part 4, we meet the Aliens at Pizza Planet and hear perhaps the two weakest songs from this entire play. One of which is sung by Sid, I'm sorry you have to suffer that.
Just to note, this video at the ends wraps around back to Sid's song. I must say that the relationship between Woody and Buzz is getting better with each part but Sid is getting worse. I hate this Sid and I don't mean the character, I mean the performance. It just does not work and Sid's singing proves that. Sid's song is in my opinion, the worst in the entire play. Before we talk about Sid's song, let's talk about the Alien's song. Their song is called "The Claw". Shocker, Right! Where they sing about the claw and how its in charge. This song is one I was dreading the most but it was not that bad. For some reason, it reminded of "Bohemian Rhapsody". I don't why but that's what of I thought when I heard the song. Sid's song, good grief that was awful. The lyrics were cheesy beyond belief and again the voice really ruined the song. With the right voice, this song could have been decent. In case you're curious, the name of the song is "Make A Little Noise". Well, it can't get any worse than that song. Now onto Part 5
When Part 5 opens, Buzz learns the truth that he is just a toy through the commercial. Which is depressing but also pretty funny because we find out that "To Infinity and Beyond" is just the theme song from the Buzz Lightyear toy commercial and not the Star Command Anthem. We also meet the mutant toys and boy do they look just like their movie counterparts. I have to say that highlight of this scene comes right after Buzz tries to fly and Woody delivers the line "Your arm". Woody has finally realized that Buzz is all right and isn't trying to replace him and he finally feels sympathy for Buzz. Now since this video ended in the middle of a song, I'll be including Part 6.
In this video opens during the middle of the reprise of "That's Why We're Here". This is nice but this is where one of major complaints starts because from here on out, every song is a reprise. I loved the interaction between Buzz and Woody during this number it was just great. Our next song is a short reprise of "Make a Little Noise", where is Sid about to Send Buzz into orbit and then comes one of favorite scenes. When the toys come to life, that is just so cool and I must admit Sid did a good job acting scared here. The song during this scene is known Busted/Make a Lot of Noise. It is the toy's versions of Sid's song and it is awesome. I feel as though it would make for a great Halloween song. Come back for Part 7, the final part and my final thoughts on Toy Story: The Musical. Which will be up soon.
When Part 5 opens, Buzz learns the truth that he is just a toy through the commercial. Which is depressing but also pretty funny because we find out that "To Infinity and Beyond" is just the theme song from the Buzz Lightyear toy commercial and not the Star Command Anthem. We also meet the mutant toys and boy do they look just like their movie counterparts. I have to say that highlight of this scene comes right after Buzz tries to fly and Woody delivers the line "Your arm". Woody has finally realized that Buzz is all right and isn't trying to replace him and he finally feels sympathy for Buzz. Now since this video ended in the middle of a song, I'll be including Part 6.
In this video opens during the middle of the reprise of "That's Why We're Here". This is nice but this is where one of major complaints starts because from here on out, every song is a reprise. I loved the interaction between Buzz and Woody during this number it was just great. Our next song is a short reprise of "Make a Little Noise", where is Sid about to Send Buzz into orbit and then comes one of favorite scenes. When the toys come to life, that is just so cool and I must admit Sid did a good job acting scared here. The song during this scene is known Busted/Make a Lot of Noise. It is the toy's versions of Sid's song and it is awesome. I feel as though it would make for a great Halloween song. Come back for Part 7, the final part and my final thoughts on Toy Story: The Musical. Which will be up soon.
1/27/11
Let's Watch Toy Story: The Musical Parts 2 & 3
I hope you enjoyed Part 1 of Toy Story: The Musical, now it's time for part 2 and part 3. When we left off Potato Head had opened Buzz Lightyear's box and now in part 2, Buzz joins the play.
So here, Buzz enters and I must admit he is great. I feel that he is the highlight of the play and his chemistry with Woody is perfect. There was only one song in this scene, "To Infinity and Beyond". This song is fun and catchy. It's an improvement over "That's Why We're Here", which was a good song but not as memorable as this song. Also I loved the dynamic between Buzz and Rex, I thought was great. Right at the end of part two we are introduced to Sid, who just like Andy is played by a girl. However whereas I can buy the girl playing is acceptable, I just can't buy the girl playing Sid. That's mostly due to her voice and this isn't a hit on the actress but her voice is too girlish for a lack of a better word. It does not feel right because in the original movie is Sid is basically an emo goth kid. Now onto Part 3.
When Part 3 opens, we see more of Sid and I still can't buy this actress playing Sid. Also Andy's mom in this version seems cold and distant and uncaring. I will say that the actor playing Woody is starting to grow on me. That's mostly due to his song "One Toy", this is a song that I was most anticipating and boy did it deliver. It's heartbreaking and fun at the same time and I also think it makes Woody seem more relatable than his actions in the movie. For some reason though the end of that song reminds of a Disney villain song. Which I guess a little sense because Woody's actions aren't the most honest. Come back for Parts 4 & 5, when we meet the Aliens and hear the song I'm dreading the most.
So here, Buzz enters and I must admit he is great. I feel that he is the highlight of the play and his chemistry with Woody is perfect. There was only one song in this scene, "To Infinity and Beyond". This song is fun and catchy. It's an improvement over "That's Why We're Here", which was a good song but not as memorable as this song. Also I loved the dynamic between Buzz and Rex, I thought was great. Right at the end of part two we are introduced to Sid, who just like Andy is played by a girl. However whereas I can buy the girl playing is acceptable, I just can't buy the girl playing Sid. That's mostly due to her voice and this isn't a hit on the actress but her voice is too girlish for a lack of a better word. It does not feel right because in the original movie is Sid is basically an emo goth kid. Now onto Part 3.
When Part 3 opens, we see more of Sid and I still can't buy this actress playing Sid. Also Andy's mom in this version seems cold and distant and uncaring. I will say that the actor playing Woody is starting to grow on me. That's mostly due to his song "One Toy", this is a song that I was most anticipating and boy did it deliver. It's heartbreaking and fun at the same time and I also think it makes Woody seem more relatable than his actions in the movie. For some reason though the end of that song reminds of a Disney villain song. Which I guess a little sense because Woody's actions aren't the most honest. Come back for Parts 4 & 5, when we meet the Aliens and hear the song I'm dreading the most.
1/26/11
Let's Watch Toy Story: The musical Introduction and Part 1
In this special event, we will be watching Toy Story: The Musical. The entire play is up on YouTube, I don't own them but they are public videos. The play is broken up into seven parts and I will post a different part when I can. Before I do that though, I should give you some background info on Toy Story: The Musical. Well, its pretty obvious that it was adapted form Disney & Pixar's Toy Story. It was created for the Walt Disney theater of Disney Wonder. It's a little odd and hard to explain so I'll let this video explain.
I hope you enjoyed that little behind the scenes feature because now it's time to dive, right in to play with Part 1. Quick, heads up Andy's played by a girl.
As I mentioned Andy is played by a girl but she does a fine job and I must say that majority of the Toys do a fine job. The only one I don't care for is the actor playing Woody. This role just doesn't seem to suit him and his voice sounds wrong for the character. There were som obvious omissions such as Mr. Mic and Binouclars. If you listened, Woody said that Bo held the plastic erosion seminar which was held by Mr. Mic in the movie. Perhaps my biggest complaint is that when the song is over the next moment feels rushed because we go from the song and then all of sudden Buzz shows up in Andy's room. Part 1 contained two songs, it opened with "You've Got a Freind in Me" which was sung by Andy. That was smart open the show with a song the audience already knows to engage them into the world of Toy Story. The next song is "That's Why Wer'e Here" and as you heard the toys are describing their love and reasoning for being there. It's Andy. This is a cute song and after watching "Toy Story 3", this song is a little depressing. All in all, I think the play is off to a good start. Come back for part two when we meet Buzz Lightyear. I don't know why but those monkeys make think of "He's got the Monkeys" line from the song "Prince Ali"
I hope you enjoyed that little behind the scenes feature because now it's time to dive, right in to play with Part 1. Quick, heads up Andy's played by a girl.
As I mentioned Andy is played by a girl but she does a fine job and I must say that majority of the Toys do a fine job. The only one I don't care for is the actor playing Woody. This role just doesn't seem to suit him and his voice sounds wrong for the character. There were som obvious omissions such as Mr. Mic and Binouclars. If you listened, Woody said that Bo held the plastic erosion seminar which was held by Mr. Mic in the movie. Perhaps my biggest complaint is that when the song is over the next moment feels rushed because we go from the song and then all of sudden Buzz shows up in Andy's room. Part 1 contained two songs, it opened with "You've Got a Freind in Me" which was sung by Andy. That was smart open the show with a song the audience already knows to engage them into the world of Toy Story. The next song is "That's Why Wer'e Here" and as you heard the toys are describing their love and reasoning for being there. It's Andy. This is a cute song and after watching "Toy Story 3", this song is a little depressing. All in all, I think the play is off to a good start. Come back for part two when we meet Buzz Lightyear. I don't know why but those monkeys make think of "He's got the Monkeys" line from the song "Prince Ali"
1/25/11
Stage Version of Disney Songs
Many great Disney films have been adapted to stage and along with the story, the music ends up on stage. Today, I will be taking a look at the songs from Different Disney stage productions and I will give my take on each song. I will include two songs from each production.
Our first song comes from international production known Der Glockner von Notre Dame. Which is obviously based The Hunchback of Notre Dame. I have chosen to go with their version of one my favorite songs from the film.
The title is Das Feuer der Holle, this is the stage version of Hellfire. Word of caution it is in sung in German but still very powerful.
The many playing Frollo does a wonderful job, you can feel the passion he has in singing this song. Yes, it may be sung in German but as soon as it starts you know that it's Hellfire. It may be on the short side but the song still hits home.
The second song I have chosen from this play is Helf den Verstoß'nen, you might recnogize this as God Help the Outcasts.
Again, the lady playing Esmerdala puts her all into this song and truly embraces the song and the moment. She makes you feel her pain, even if you cant' understand the language. Don't worry about that though, the stage of Hunchback is heading our way sometime soon. In the meantime, I suggest you check out these song if you are interested.
All right, I'm done with shows of a different language. I'm going to stick English speaking shows now. Next up is the first Disney stage production ever. "Beauty & the Beast".
The first song I have chosen from this production is "Gaston". It's certainly cartoony and I feel that opening is a little weak but it does live to the film version but this Gaston just does not sound manly enough.
The next song I have picked is another favorite of mine, "Belle"
This song is just like the film version except for the villagers speak their lines instead of singing and Belle sounds older than the bookkeeper. All in all, a good song but not as good the film version. Fun fact, I don't think it was this particular production but both Donny Osmond and Hugh Jackman have played Gaston.
Next is the first Disney play, I ever saw, "The Lion King"
The first song I have chosen is "Circle of Life"
This song and entire play I would classify as EPIC. It is just so awesome, they understand the music and it was just so cool to see this play on stage. This song is giving me goosebumps, just listening to it, right now. Interesting Rafiki became a woman in this play and was renamed Ratiki.
The next song I have picked is "Can You Feel the Love Tonight?"
Again, they understand this song and it is a new take on a classic song. I really love how Simba and Nala express their emotions in this song. It hits home and makes you realize along with Simba and Nala that they love each other.
The next play, I have picked is "Tarzan"
The first song I chose is "You'll be in My Heart"
Again, this captures the essence of the original song and it is beautiful. I will admit that Kala does sound younger but I think that works because Kala lost her baby and this way makes look like a young mother who has restored hope.
The next song I have picked is "Strangers Like Me". I think this is one of the most underrated "Tarzan" songs, the play does do it justice I feel. In this scene Tarzan is meeting Clayton for the first time and then the song starts.
Finally, the last play I have picked is "Mary Poppins" Who doesn't love Mary Poppins? It's fun,funny and whimsical. The play is no exception to that either. The music also makes you think while having fun. Such as the case with the first song, I have chosen
"Feed the Birds"
Now of course, no one can capture the essence Julie Andrews had when she sang this song in the film but this version comes darn close and it just as good. It does not veer off to far from the original song but why would you when working with something from The Sherman Brothers?
The last song, I have chosen is "Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious!"
This song is just a bucket of fun and you can tell that the cast is enjoying themselves while singing. why wouldn't you though? This is an awesome song all the way through. Again, they didn't mess with it too much and it works well.
There you have it, these are just few stage versions. I hope you enjoyed this and see you next time.
Our first song comes from international production known Der Glockner von Notre Dame. Which is obviously based The Hunchback of Notre Dame. I have chosen to go with their version of one my favorite songs from the film.
The title is Das Feuer der Holle, this is the stage version of Hellfire. Word of caution it is in sung in German but still very powerful.
The many playing Frollo does a wonderful job, you can feel the passion he has in singing this song. Yes, it may be sung in German but as soon as it starts you know that it's Hellfire. It may be on the short side but the song still hits home.
The second song I have chosen from this play is Helf den Verstoß'nen, you might recnogize this as God Help the Outcasts.
Again, the lady playing Esmerdala puts her all into this song and truly embraces the song and the moment. She makes you feel her pain, even if you cant' understand the language. Don't worry about that though, the stage of Hunchback is heading our way sometime soon. In the meantime, I suggest you check out these song if you are interested.
All right, I'm done with shows of a different language. I'm going to stick English speaking shows now. Next up is the first Disney stage production ever. "Beauty & the Beast".
The first song I have chosen from this production is "Gaston". It's certainly cartoony and I feel that opening is a little weak but it does live to the film version but this Gaston just does not sound manly enough.
The next song I have picked is another favorite of mine, "Belle"
This song is just like the film version except for the villagers speak their lines instead of singing and Belle sounds older than the bookkeeper. All in all, a good song but not as good the film version. Fun fact, I don't think it was this particular production but both Donny Osmond and Hugh Jackman have played Gaston.
Next is the first Disney play, I ever saw, "The Lion King"
The first song I have chosen is "Circle of Life"
This song and entire play I would classify as EPIC. It is just so awesome, they understand the music and it was just so cool to see this play on stage. This song is giving me goosebumps, just listening to it, right now. Interesting Rafiki became a woman in this play and was renamed Ratiki.
The next song I have picked is "Can You Feel the Love Tonight?"
Again, they understand this song and it is a new take on a classic song. I really love how Simba and Nala express their emotions in this song. It hits home and makes you realize along with Simba and Nala that they love each other.
The next play, I have picked is "Tarzan"
The first song I chose is "You'll be in My Heart"
Again, this captures the essence of the original song and it is beautiful. I will admit that Kala does sound younger but I think that works because Kala lost her baby and this way makes look like a young mother who has restored hope.
The next song I have picked is "Strangers Like Me". I think this is one of the most underrated "Tarzan" songs, the play does do it justice I feel. In this scene Tarzan is meeting Clayton for the first time and then the song starts.
Finally, the last play I have picked is "Mary Poppins" Who doesn't love Mary Poppins? It's fun,funny and whimsical. The play is no exception to that either. The music also makes you think while having fun. Such as the case with the first song, I have chosen
"Feed the Birds"
Now of course, no one can capture the essence Julie Andrews had when she sang this song in the film but this version comes darn close and it just as good. It does not veer off to far from the original song but why would you when working with something from The Sherman Brothers?
The last song, I have chosen is "Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious!"
This song is just a bucket of fun and you can tell that the cast is enjoying themselves while singing. why wouldn't you though? This is an awesome song all the way through. Again, they didn't mess with it too much and it works well.
There you have it, these are just few stage versions. I hope you enjoyed this and see you next time.
1/23/11
Urban Myths of Disney
Like anything that has been around for a while, myths have been built around Disney. Most of them are just fan speculation, some I can by and others in my humble opinion do not make sense in the slightest. I'll be cover four different myths.
Myth 1: Gaston Killed Bambi's Mom
This one I don't understand but it is one of the oldest Disney myths around. The myth being that Gaston is actually the Man who shot Bambi's mom. I just don't buy it and there are a few reasons why. First of all, while never it is never stated where "Bambi" takes place it is hinted at through the plant that is is somewhere in North America while Gaston lives in France. Another reason I find this one unlikely is the time gap between the two movies, "Bambi" came out in 1942 while "Beauty & the Beast" came out in 1991. That is a big gap and I'm sorry I just can't see how people came up with this conclusion.
Myth 2: Andy's Mom is actually Emily, Jessie;s original owner
This one while not as famous as the Gaston myth has been around a while. I think it's a cute idea that Andy's Mom would actually be Jessie's original owner. Right now, I'm going have to place this one in the category of maybe because I have not found any solid proof to go either way and I would like think this is actually the case.
Myth 3: Walt Disney was Frozen and buried in the Disneyland castle
This is perhaps one of the most famous myths regarding Walt Disney. The story goes that when Walt, his body was frozen so that he could be brought back to life years after he died. This one I can say without a doubt is false because from all the reading I have done on Walt Disney, each book has said when he died Walt was cremated.
There you go, these are just a few myths of Disney. Do you know of any? By the way Request Month is coming up.
Myth 1: Gaston Killed Bambi's Mom
This one I don't understand but it is one of the oldest Disney myths around. The myth being that Gaston is actually the Man who shot Bambi's mom. I just don't buy it and there are a few reasons why. First of all, while never it is never stated where "Bambi" takes place it is hinted at through the plant that is is somewhere in North America while Gaston lives in France. Another reason I find this one unlikely is the time gap between the two movies, "Bambi" came out in 1942 while "Beauty & the Beast" came out in 1991. That is a big gap and I'm sorry I just can't see how people came up with this conclusion.
Myth 2: Andy's Mom is actually Emily, Jessie;s original owner
This one while not as famous as the Gaston myth has been around a while. I think it's a cute idea that Andy's Mom would actually be Jessie's original owner. Right now, I'm going have to place this one in the category of maybe because I have not found any solid proof to go either way and I would like think this is actually the case.
Myth 3: Walt Disney was Frozen and buried in the Disneyland castle
This is perhaps one of the most famous myths regarding Walt Disney. The story goes that when Walt, his body was frozen so that he could be brought back to life years after he died. This one I can say without a doubt is false because from all the reading I have done on Walt Disney, each book has said when he died Walt was cremated.
There you go, these are just a few myths of Disney. Do you know of any? By the way Request Month is coming up.
1/14/11
Top 6 Mickey Mouse Shorts
It has come to my attention that Mickey Mouse has not been featured all that much on A Look at Disney. Today, I plan to change to that as I count the Top 6 Mickey Mouse Shorts of all time. Let's get this list started.
6. The Prince & the Pauper
Number 6 has Mickey pulling double duty. In this classic short based on the book by Mark Twain, Mickey not only plays himself but also the prince of London. I must say it was a little odd at first to see two Mickeys and hear one of them speak with a British accent but that was cool. This is a very good short that uses a lot of classic characters. It also has one of my favorite Mickey moments, when Mickey is told the King is about to die and the king wishes to speak to him, it makes me think of Walt Disney a little bit and what he might have said to Mickey before he passed away.
5. Mickey & the Beanstalk
Number 5 is also an adaption of a classic story in this one, Mickey, Donald and Goofy sub for Jack as the story of the magic beanstalk is retold in a new and exciting way. The story remains faithful to the source material for the most part. This short certainly is a fun adventure and I just love it when Mickey and the gang get to Willie the Giant's castle because that is where all the action really starts.
4. The Sorrecor's Apprentice
I just had to put this one on the list as it is classic Mickey Mouse and this where Mickey shines brightest and part of that is because of how the animators were able to convey Mickey's emotions and actions in tune with the music. However, Mickey was not the original choice to play the Apprentice. Oh no, Dopey from the Seven Dwarfs was going to be the Apprentince. I don't know about you but I just can't picture that.
3. Mickey's Trailer
This is one of the funniest and yet most simplisitc shorts. Mickey, Donald and Goofy are moving and their house turns into a trailer. The entire short is filled with so many funny gags such as the guys trying to eat corn and Goofy not driving the car. This is one short that you guys need to see for yourself. I suggest you go look for it if you are interested.
2. Steamboat Willie
Again, this is one short I had to include because this started Mickey's career. It is only at number two because Mickey's personality was not fully fleshed out, just yet. Still, this is a classic that I recommend all cartoon buffs watch at least once in their lives.
1. The Band Concert
The number one Mickey Mouse short is The Band Concert. This is the perfect Mickey short because it is so simple, so fun and most importantly funny. Also, this was Mickey's first color cartoon. I think one of the best sequences of this cartoon comes towards the end with the giant hurricane caused by all the music. That is just so funny.
And now for your viewing pleasure...
The Band Concert
6. The Prince & the Pauper
Number 6 has Mickey pulling double duty. In this classic short based on the book by Mark Twain, Mickey not only plays himself but also the prince of London. I must say it was a little odd at first to see two Mickeys and hear one of them speak with a British accent but that was cool. This is a very good short that uses a lot of classic characters. It also has one of my favorite Mickey moments, when Mickey is told the King is about to die and the king wishes to speak to him, it makes me think of Walt Disney a little bit and what he might have said to Mickey before he passed away.
5. Mickey & the Beanstalk
Number 5 is also an adaption of a classic story in this one, Mickey, Donald and Goofy sub for Jack as the story of the magic beanstalk is retold in a new and exciting way. The story remains faithful to the source material for the most part. This short certainly is a fun adventure and I just love it when Mickey and the gang get to Willie the Giant's castle because that is where all the action really starts.
4. The Sorrecor's Apprentice
I just had to put this one on the list as it is classic Mickey Mouse and this where Mickey shines brightest and part of that is because of how the animators were able to convey Mickey's emotions and actions in tune with the music. However, Mickey was not the original choice to play the Apprentice. Oh no, Dopey from the Seven Dwarfs was going to be the Apprentince. I don't know about you but I just can't picture that.
3. Mickey's Trailer
This is one of the funniest and yet most simplisitc shorts. Mickey, Donald and Goofy are moving and their house turns into a trailer. The entire short is filled with so many funny gags such as the guys trying to eat corn and Goofy not driving the car. This is one short that you guys need to see for yourself. I suggest you go look for it if you are interested.
2. Steamboat Willie
Again, this is one short I had to include because this started Mickey's career. It is only at number two because Mickey's personality was not fully fleshed out, just yet. Still, this is a classic that I recommend all cartoon buffs watch at least once in their lives.
1. The Band Concert
The number one Mickey Mouse short is The Band Concert. This is the perfect Mickey short because it is so simple, so fun and most importantly funny. Also, this was Mickey's first color cartoon. I think one of the best sequences of this cartoon comes towards the end with the giant hurricane caused by all the music. That is just so funny.
And now for your viewing pleasure...
The Band Concert
1/13/11
Songs That Did not make the Cut
One of the most memorable aspects of a Disney movie, is the music. The songs can stay with you long after you have seen the movie and sometimes they prove to be more memorable than the film itself. However, for whatever reason songs are sometimes cut from the finsihed film. Today, I'll be taking a look at some Disney songs that didn't make it to movie when the film was first released.
Let's start with perhaps the two most famous songs that were cut from a Disney film.
Human Again - Beauty & the Beast
Human Again was intended for Beauty & the Beast. While not featured in the original run of the movie, it was later used for the Broadway play based on the classic Disney movie and then the song was animated for the IMAX re-release of the film. It is a fun little song, where all the supporting characters sing of how they can't wait to be Human Again and how they know that Belle will break the curse.
The Morning Report - The Lion King
The Morning Report is another song that was originally intended for a movie but never used in the original run. The Morning Report was originally meant to be featured in The Lion King, when Zazu was giving the Morning Report to Mufassa. It too, later found life in Broadway and then was animated for the IMAX re-release of the film. It is a fun little song and very neat that they decided to include it.
I Can't Believe My Heart - Intended for Hercules
Meg was supposed to sing this song in Hercules but instead ended up with I Won't Say (I'm in Love). I feel that song is a better fit for her spunky personality than this one is. While this song is good, it just does not fit right with the character of Meg.
As Long as There's a Moon - Intended for The Hunchback of Notre Dame
This song was meant to be sung by Clopin, when Quasimodo and Pheobous arrived at the Court of Miracles. This is without a doubt, one song I'm glad was not used because it is slow and would slowed down the pace of the movie and I don't feel it would have measured up to the other songs in the movie.
One Dance - Intended for The Little Mermaid
This song is very cute and reminds of Part of Your World. I find it rather sad that this song was not used. On the same token, however, I did say this song was like Part of Your World and perhaps they did not want to use songs that were too similar.
The Middle of the River - Intended forPochantas
I was surprised by this song, whereas I expected it to be a reprise of Just around the River bend, That was not the case, this is a beautiful love song that reminded of If I Never You. I truly like how this songs incorporates nature into a song about love.
I'm Odd - Intended for Alice in Wonderland
I'm Odd was meant to be sung by the Cheshire Cat and if you recall my post on Introduction songs. This would have qualified as an intro song because with this song, we are introduced to Cheshire Cat and learn of his personality and just how he is odd.
Proud of Your Boy -Intended for Aladdin
This is my all time favorite Disney song that was never used. This video can explain the song better than I can. I'll try though, in the original draft for Aladdin, Aladdin was going to have a mother. This song is about Aladdin saying how he will turn over a new leaf and try to make his mom proud. Just watch the video and you'll understand why I like this song.
Thanks for reading, and as always your feedback is welcome
Let's start with perhaps the two most famous songs that were cut from a Disney film.
Human Again - Beauty & the Beast
Human Again was intended for Beauty & the Beast. While not featured in the original run of the movie, it was later used for the Broadway play based on the classic Disney movie and then the song was animated for the IMAX re-release of the film. It is a fun little song, where all the supporting characters sing of how they can't wait to be Human Again and how they know that Belle will break the curse.
The Morning Report is another song that was originally intended for a movie but never used in the original run. The Morning Report was originally meant to be featured in The Lion King, when Zazu was giving the Morning Report to Mufassa. It too, later found life in Broadway and then was animated for the IMAX re-release of the film. It is a fun little song and very neat that they decided to include it.
I Can't Believe My Heart - Intended for Hercules
Meg was supposed to sing this song in Hercules but instead ended up with I Won't Say (I'm in Love). I feel that song is a better fit for her spunky personality than this one is. While this song is good, it just does not fit right with the character of Meg.
As Long as There's a Moon - Intended for The Hunchback of Notre Dame
This song was meant to be sung by Clopin, when Quasimodo and Pheobous arrived at the Court of Miracles. This is without a doubt, one song I'm glad was not used because it is slow and would slowed down the pace of the movie and I don't feel it would have measured up to the other songs in the movie.
One Dance - Intended for The Little Mermaid
This song is very cute and reminds of Part of Your World. I find it rather sad that this song was not used. On the same token, however, I did say this song was like Part of Your World and perhaps they did not want to use songs that were too similar.
The Middle of the River - Intended forPochantas
I was surprised by this song, whereas I expected it to be a reprise of Just around the River bend, That was not the case, this is a beautiful love song that reminded of If I Never You. I truly like how this songs incorporates nature into a song about love.
I'm Odd - Intended for Alice in Wonderland
I'm Odd was meant to be sung by the Cheshire Cat and if you recall my post on Introduction songs. This would have qualified as an intro song because with this song, we are introduced to Cheshire Cat and learn of his personality and just how he is odd.
Proud of Your Boy -Intended for Aladdin
This is my all time favorite Disney song that was never used. This video can explain the song better than I can. I'll try though, in the original draft for Aladdin, Aladdin was going to have a mother. This song is about Aladdin saying how he will turn over a new leaf and try to make his mom proud. Just watch the video and you'll understand why I like this song.
Thanks for reading, and as always your feedback is welcome
1/11/11
Introduction Songs
An introduction song is a song that introduces a character or a set of characters and gives us an idea of what kind of character they are, how they live and their personality. Some movies can have more than one introduction song because other characters may be introduced throughout the film . Introduction songs can also serve as a way to let us know how the characters are feeling about the particular moment in their lives. Today, I'll be taking a look at some introduction songs and will give my opinion on them.
One Jump Ahead - Aladdin
One Jump Ahead introduces us to Aladdin and Abu. This song sets up his character quite, it lets the audience know that he is a poor boy, who has no money and he is just trying to get by. Everyone looks down on him. While this is upbeat, the audience does get the sense from Aladdin that he wants a better life. I feel that this is also shown well and perhaps even better in the reprise of this song also known as Street Rat.
One Jump Ahead (Reprise)/Street Rat - Aladdin
This song has always been one of my favorites. I feel with this reprise Aladdin lets his shield down and shows how he truly feels. The audience can tell that Aladdin is hurt at being thought of a Street Rat but he has no other choice in his life. This is one of my favorites because Aladdin's true emotions come out in this short reprise and is handled beautifully.
Friend Like Me - Aladdin
Friend Like Me is another intro song from Aladdin. Sorry for including so many but this movie has a few intro songs. Just as with One Jump Ahead, this song is upbeat but you can clearly hear that Genie is willing to do anything to help.
Out There - The Hunchback of Notre Dame
Out There from The Hunchback of Notre Dame is a unique song in that the audience is first led to believe it's a villian song as Frollo sings the first part of the song but after he leaves the bell tower Quasimodo opens up and starts to sing and he talks of how, he just wants today in the outside world and just to be treated like a human. It is a very touching and poigant song and works well to introduce us to Quasimodo.
Part of Your World - The Little Mermaid
Part of Your World is sung by Ariel when she is surrounded by all her trinkets. This song introduces her personality, her curiousity and how she just wants to spend one day on the land. It's a beautiful song and it shows that Ariel is determined to get what she wants and it is a great intro song for the character.
When Will my Life Begin - Tangled
I'm sorry if i'm spoiling this movie for anyone who has not seen it but this is actually a good song. While it may sound more pop than some of the others but I'm okay with that. This is another great intro song, where we eighteen year old Rapunzel and here she is singing about just wanting to go outside and being able to live an ordindary life. She's tired of being cooped up in the tower but she still has an upbeat attitude and won't let anything bog her down.
These are just a few examples of intro songs, let me know if you can think of any others. Your feedback is always welcome
One Jump Ahead - Aladdin
One Jump Ahead introduces us to Aladdin and Abu. This song sets up his character quite, it lets the audience know that he is a poor boy, who has no money and he is just trying to get by. Everyone looks down on him. While this is upbeat, the audience does get the sense from Aladdin that he wants a better life. I feel that this is also shown well and perhaps even better in the reprise of this song also known as Street Rat.
One Jump Ahead (Reprise)/Street Rat - Aladdin
This song has always been one of my favorites. I feel with this reprise Aladdin lets his shield down and shows how he truly feels. The audience can tell that Aladdin is hurt at being thought of a Street Rat but he has no other choice in his life. This is one of my favorites because Aladdin's true emotions come out in this short reprise and is handled beautifully.
Friend Like Me - Aladdin
Friend Like Me is another intro song from Aladdin. Sorry for including so many but this movie has a few intro songs. Just as with One Jump Ahead, this song is upbeat but you can clearly hear that Genie is willing to do anything to help.
Out There - The Hunchback of Notre Dame
Out There from The Hunchback of Notre Dame is a unique song in that the audience is first led to believe it's a villian song as Frollo sings the first part of the song but after he leaves the bell tower Quasimodo opens up and starts to sing and he talks of how, he just wants today in the outside world and just to be treated like a human. It is a very touching and poigant song and works well to introduce us to Quasimodo.
Part of Your World - The Little Mermaid
Part of Your World is sung by Ariel when she is surrounded by all her trinkets. This song introduces her personality, her curiousity and how she just wants to spend one day on the land. It's a beautiful song and it shows that Ariel is determined to get what she wants and it is a great intro song for the character.
When Will my Life Begin - Tangled
I'm sorry if i'm spoiling this movie for anyone who has not seen it but this is actually a good song. While it may sound more pop than some of the others but I'm okay with that. This is another great intro song, where we eighteen year old Rapunzel and here she is singing about just wanting to go outside and being able to live an ordindary life. She's tired of being cooped up in the tower but she still has an upbeat attitude and won't let anything bog her down.
These are just a few examples of intro songs, let me know if you can think of any others. Your feedback is always welcome
1/10/11
Epic Mickey
Let me start this by saying this is not a review but rather someone trying to understand why Disney has not been pushing this game and relying other people and word of mouth. This game is something that many Disney fans including myself had been very excited about since it was announced. I know that I read all the articles online about the game's progress as it was being made and would scour YouTube for any videos concerning the game. I was excited when the release date started to approach but I couldn't understand why Disney was not actually showcasing the game. Yes, there was a page for the game on Disney.com but to access I had to go through the Mickey Mouse page and once I was there was barely anything there. All that was there a game trailer, some screenshots and a behind-the-scenes. While that is good, I would have expected more. Maybe I'm overlooking this and not being a fair Disney fan. There was never even a bumper or something of the sort pertaining the game featured on Disney Channel that I can recall. Perhaps my biggest disappointment was that the game was not even mentioned on the Walt Disney World Christmas Parade as a new product avaible from Disney.
To me it felt as though Diseny was relying on videogame magazines and channels such as GameInformer and G4 to promote the game. Part of me can understand that but I feel Disney dropped the ball in this area. Why if it wasn't for GameInformer I would have learned the special nunchuck cover and Wiimote charger.
Just as I feel that Disney relied heavily on G4 and GameInformer to promtoe Epic Mickey, the same can be said when it comes to the internet. Three sites in particular come to mind when talking about this game. The first one is IGN, they had a massive amount of articles about this game. The next one is Amazon as that is where I first learned of the Collector's Edition.
1/9/11
Magical Ladies of Disney
Most Disney films usually have what I like to refer to as a magical mentor. A magical mentor is someone that is there to guide the hero on the right path and give them advice and lift their spirits. Some of the best magical mentors have been ladies. Today, I'll be taking a look at four female magical mentors.
Mama Odie - The Princess & the Frog
Mama Odie is a kind, short, old woman whom Naveen & Tiana seek help from. Mama Odie practices voodoo magic but does not use it to grant wishes. Much to the dismay of Naveen & Tiana, instead she makes them "Dig a littler Deeper" to realize what they need because what they want is not the the same thing. Mama Odie is a very spunky old lady, and fun. She also uses a snake as a walking cane.
Grandmother Willow Pochaontas
Grandmother Willow is a wise and ancient old willow tree who serves as an advisor for Pochaontas. She gives Pochanontas on what to do when the war starts. She is also seen to have a comical side, best shown when she meets John Smith and she says "My bark is worse than my bite". It is also implied that she was an advisor and mentor for Pochantas's mother who died before the film takes place.
Fairy Godmother - Cinderella
Fairy Godmother is perhaps the most famous magical mentor of them all. She made her debut in "Cinderella" Fairy Godmother helps Cinderella get ready for the ball with her wand and the magic words, "Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo". Fairy Godmother is best described as a sweet and caring and old lady and serves as the mother, Cinderella never had. She cares for everyone and wants to see to it that Cinderella is happy.
The Blue Fairy - Pinocchio
The Blue Fairy was the very first magical mentor from Disney. She serves a major role in Pinocchio's life as she is the one that brings the little puppet to life and later turns him into a real boy. The Blue Fairy does the most interfering of all the magical ladies listed such as when she frees Pinocchio from Stromboli's birdcage. Her personality is again kind and motherly but a little stern as she wishes for nothing but the best for Pinocchio.
Well, here you go the four female magical mentors of Disney. Are there any other magical mentors, you can think of? Male of female?
Mama Odie is a kind, short, old woman whom Naveen & Tiana seek help from. Mama Odie practices voodoo magic but does not use it to grant wishes. Much to the dismay of Naveen & Tiana, instead she makes them "Dig a littler Deeper" to realize what they need because what they want is not the the same thing. Mama Odie is a very spunky old lady, and fun. She also uses a snake as a walking cane.
Grandmother Willow Pochaontas
Grandmother Willow is a wise and ancient old willow tree who serves as an advisor for Pochaontas. She gives Pochanontas on what to do when the war starts. She is also seen to have a comical side, best shown when she meets John Smith and she says "My bark is worse than my bite". It is also implied that she was an advisor and mentor for Pochantas's mother who died before the film takes place.
Fairy Godmother is perhaps the most famous magical mentor of them all. She made her debut in "Cinderella" Fairy Godmother helps Cinderella get ready for the ball with her wand and the magic words, "Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo". Fairy Godmother is best described as a sweet and caring and old lady and serves as the mother, Cinderella never had. She cares for everyone and wants to see to it that Cinderella is happy.
The Blue Fairy - Pinocchio
The Blue Fairy was the very first magical mentor from Disney. She serves a major role in Pinocchio's life as she is the one that brings the little puppet to life and later turns him into a real boy. The Blue Fairy does the most interfering of all the magical ladies listed such as when she frees Pinocchio from Stromboli's birdcage. Her personality is again kind and motherly but a little stern as she wishes for nothing but the best for Pinocchio.
Well, here you go the four female magical mentors of Disney. Are there any other magical mentors, you can think of? Male of female?
1/8/11
Kids of Disney
I'm sure you are all fairly familiar Max Goof and Huey, Dewey, & Louie. But what about the other Disney kids? Are you surprised that there are other Disney kids? Well yes, there are. You see each of the Disney mainstay characters was given a kid counterpart. Most of them only appeared in comics but others did make the move to cartoons. Today, I will be shedding the light on the Kids of Disney.
Goofy Jr./Max Goof
Believe it or not, Max was not the first version of a son for Goofy. Oh no that would be Goofy Jr. Goofy Jr. appeared in "The Everyman" cartoon of Goofy's career. Here Goofy was usually referred to as George Geef. Goofy Jr. was a typical boy of 1950's, he loved to play and hang out with his dad. One notable distinction between Goofy Jr. and Max is that you actually do see Goofy Jr's mother. Only from the neck down but still in these shorts, Goofy was married.
While chronologically speaking Max made his debut in the first episode of "Goof Troop", he appeared youngest in the short, "Have yourself a Goofy Christmas" from "Mickey's Once Upon a Christmas". This short serves as a semi-prequel to "Goof Troop". While his exact age is never given, I would figure that he was probably seven years old in this short. In "Goof Troop", Max made his debut appearance and at the time of show, he was eleven. Here Max was portrayed as a fun-loving kid just trying to do his best. Of course he does get into trouble from time to time. After the show ended it's run, Max is next seen in "A Goofy Movie".
In "A Goofy Movie", we get to see Max as a teenager roughly around the age of fifteen. Here Max is portrayed as a typical teen, he loves his dad but is easily embarrassed by him and because of this and many other things, he is considered the Goof of his school. Max's emotions towards this are best expressed in the opening song, "After Today". Here, Max talks about he wants to become popular and not feel like a loser. Over the course of the movie, Max learns to except his dad as he is and more importantly learns to except himself.
Max is next seen in "An Extremely Goofy Movie", here he is an eighteen-year-old about to start college. In this movie, he certainly seems as if Max had forgotten everything he learned in "A Goofy Movie" and just appears to be a jerk. Luckily, when Max makes his next appearance he has toned down.
Max is next seen in "House of Mouse", here he works as parking valet and his age this time appears to be early twenties. Max is perhaps the most leveled headed of the group. The relationship between Max and Roxanne is explored in one episode of "House of Mouse", that episode is "Max's Embarrassing Date". Here Max wants to have a perfect date but things are going awry when the staff tries to help.
Other than "A Goofy Movie", this is the only other time, we see Roxanne because when Max makes his next appearance, he is dating someone new.
Max is next seen in "Mickey's Twice Upon a Christmas" in the short "Christmas Maximus". In this short, Max is coming home from college with his new girlfriend Mona (not Roxanne) for Christmas. In this short, Goofy goes overboard and easily embarrasses Max. Ironically, Max appears at his oldest age in this movie. Yet in "Mickey's Once Upon a Christmas", he appeared at his youngest age. Max is on of the few Disney kids who has consistently aged over the years. In fact I think he is the only Disney kid to consistently age.
Huey, Dewey, & Louie
Huey, Dewey & Louie first appeared in the Donald Duck comics. They were sent to stay with their Uncle Donald by their mother, Della Duck. They did make the move to cartoons and first appeared in "Donald's Nephews". Here their mother was named Dumbella Duck. They served as foils for Donald but they didn't get the starring bill until "DuckTales" came around.
In "DuckTales", Donald sent them to live with their Uncle Scrooge. With Uncle Scrooge, they went on a lot of adventures. "DuckTales" would not be the last time they starred in their own seires.
Huey, Dewey & Louie would later headline their own cartoon series, "Quack Pack". For this series, they went through a dramatic change. First, they lost sweaters and caps and instead were each individual styles of clothing.. Along with individual personalities. Huey served as leader. Dewey became a brainiac and Louie became a prankster. Perhaps the most dramatic change of all is that they lost the famous Disney duck voice and started talking like normal teens.
Huey, Dewey, & Louie next appeared in "House of Mouse" as the house band for the club. One of the ongoing gags was at the start of each season, the band name would change. In season 1 as depicted here, they were the QuackStreet Boys. Just as with Max, they appeared as young adults and noticed seem as though be heading down the same path as Max and continue aging that was until...
In "Mickey's Once Upon a Christmas", they once again appear as little kids in the short "Stuck on Christmas". Here, they live with their Uncle Donald just as they did in "Quack Pack". This may be stretching it but this could almost serve as a semi-prequel. Of course, everything is thrown for a loop in the sequel concerning the boys.
In "Mickey's Twice Upon a Christmas", they once again appear as little kids. While this works for the most part there is one minor gripe I have with that.
While Huey, Dewey & Louie appear as little kids, Max is a young adult and that goes against everything else where these four characters have been featured together. A minor complaint but that's it. Back to Huey, Dewey & Louie, they appear in two shorts in "Mickey's Twice Upon a Christmas". However out of the two, they are more prominently featured in "Christmas Impossible" where they along with Donald and Daisy are visiting Uncle Scrooge at his mansion. It is shown in the other short that they appear in that they do live with Donald. I have to say I'm rather bummed that unlike Max that they did not continue aging and instead were reverted back to being little kids.
Pete Jr./P.J.
Just as how Max was not the original version of a son for Goofy, the same can be said for P.J., Pete's son. Pete's first son, Pete Jr. first appeared in the Donald Duck short, "Bellboy Donald". Pete Jr. was basically his father in kid's body. Peter Jr. was a brat and whatever chance he could he would torment Donald for his pleasure. In short, Pete Jr. and P.J. are as different as day and night.
P.J. made his first appearance in the first episode of "Goof Troop" In it, he was an older brother and appeared as a timid, shy and unsure character. P.J. was best friends with Max and that friendship lasted a very long time. I would say that P.J. was around eleven when the show started.
We next see P.J. in "A Goofy Movie", here is a teen and I would assume the same age as Max. His character didn't change that much. Of course, I can't give a fair assessment of his character in this movie because he is only in a few scenes but for the most part, he seems the same.
The last time, P.J. is in "An Extremely Goofy Movie". As much as I dislike this movie I will admit that P.J. does go through a character change, he goes from being shy and timid to open and fun. Of course this is due to the fact that he was given a girlfriend in this film.
If nothing else that movie did give us this great shot of P.J.
Morty & Ferdie
Morty and Ferdie are the nephews of Mickey Mouse. They first appeared in the Mickey Mouse Sunday comic strip. They also have made appearance in Disney books, however their names were given as Morty and Monty. Morty & Ferdie's cartoon appearance was rather sproadic. They first appeared in "Mickey Steamroller". Which came out in 1934 and thier next major appearance would not be until Mickey's Christmas Carol" that was released in 1983.
Morty and Ferdie's next appearance would not be until "Around the World in 80 Days". However, this was just a cameo appearance.
April, May, & June
April, May, and June are the nieces of Daisy Duck. According to offical Duck family tree, they are the daughters of Daisy's brother Fred. They first appear in Walt Disney Comic issue 149. According to their biography, they are three feisty little girls. Which is approiate considering who their aunt is. I know of only one televison appearance from the three. They are featured as the house band in the episode "Ladies Night" from "House of Mouse", when they fill in for Huey, Dewey & Louie.
I beleive this is the only time, they are featured in a cartoon and never again. It's just really a cameo and nonspeaking one at that.
Millie & Melody
Millie & Melody are the nieces of Minnie Mouse. Not much is known about them excpet for they first appeared in the comic book "Mickey Mouse Album" Issue 1. Their only onscreen appearance was in "Mickey's Christmas Carol" playing the daughters of Bob Crachit. Other than that, not much else is known about Millie & Melody.
Goofy Jr./Max Goof
Believe it or not, Max was not the first version of a son for Goofy. Oh no that would be Goofy Jr. Goofy Jr. appeared in "The Everyman" cartoon of Goofy's career. Here Goofy was usually referred to as George Geef. Goofy Jr. was a typical boy of 1950's, he loved to play and hang out with his dad. One notable distinction between Goofy Jr. and Max is that you actually do see Goofy Jr's mother. Only from the neck down but still in these shorts, Goofy was married.
While chronologically speaking Max made his debut in the first episode of "Goof Troop", he appeared youngest in the short, "Have yourself a Goofy Christmas" from "Mickey's Once Upon a Christmas". This short serves as a semi-prequel to "Goof Troop". While his exact age is never given, I would figure that he was probably seven years old in this short. In "Goof Troop", Max made his debut appearance and at the time of show, he was eleven. Here Max was portrayed as a fun-loving kid just trying to do his best. Of course he does get into trouble from time to time. After the show ended it's run, Max is next seen in "A Goofy Movie".
In "A Goofy Movie", we get to see Max as a teenager roughly around the age of fifteen. Here Max is portrayed as a typical teen, he loves his dad but is easily embarrassed by him and because of this and many other things, he is considered the Goof of his school. Max's emotions towards this are best expressed in the opening song, "After Today". Here, Max talks about he wants to become popular and not feel like a loser. Over the course of the movie, Max learns to except his dad as he is and more importantly learns to except himself.
Max is next seen in "An Extremely Goofy Movie", here he is an eighteen-year-old about to start college. In this movie, he certainly seems as if Max had forgotten everything he learned in "A Goofy Movie" and just appears to be a jerk. Luckily, when Max makes his next appearance he has toned down.
Max is next seen in "House of Mouse", here he works as parking valet and his age this time appears to be early twenties. Max is perhaps the most leveled headed of the group. The relationship between Max and Roxanne is explored in one episode of "House of Mouse", that episode is "Max's Embarrassing Date". Here Max wants to have a perfect date but things are going awry when the staff tries to help.
Other than "A Goofy Movie", this is the only other time, we see Roxanne because when Max makes his next appearance, he is dating someone new.
Max is next seen in "Mickey's Twice Upon a Christmas" in the short "Christmas Maximus". In this short, Max is coming home from college with his new girlfriend Mona (not Roxanne) for Christmas. In this short, Goofy goes overboard and easily embarrasses Max. Ironically, Max appears at his oldest age in this movie. Yet in "Mickey's Once Upon a Christmas", he appeared at his youngest age. Max is on of the few Disney kids who has consistently aged over the years. In fact I think he is the only Disney kid to consistently age.
Huey, Dewey, & Louie
Huey, Dewey & Louie first appeared in the Donald Duck comics. They were sent to stay with their Uncle Donald by their mother, Della Duck. They did make the move to cartoons and first appeared in "Donald's Nephews". Here their mother was named Dumbella Duck. They served as foils for Donald but they didn't get the starring bill until "DuckTales" came around.
In "DuckTales", Donald sent them to live with their Uncle Scrooge. With Uncle Scrooge, they went on a lot of adventures. "DuckTales" would not be the last time they starred in their own seires.
Huey, Dewey & Louie would later headline their own cartoon series, "Quack Pack". For this series, they went through a dramatic change. First, they lost sweaters and caps and instead were each individual styles of clothing.. Along with individual personalities. Huey served as leader. Dewey became a brainiac and Louie became a prankster. Perhaps the most dramatic change of all is that they lost the famous Disney duck voice and started talking like normal teens.
Huey, Dewey, & Louie next appeared in "House of Mouse" as the house band for the club. One of the ongoing gags was at the start of each season, the band name would change. In season 1 as depicted here, they were the QuackStreet Boys. Just as with Max, they appeared as young adults and noticed seem as though be heading down the same path as Max and continue aging that was until...
In "Mickey's Once Upon a Christmas", they once again appear as little kids in the short "Stuck on Christmas". Here, they live with their Uncle Donald just as they did in "Quack Pack". This may be stretching it but this could almost serve as a semi-prequel. Of course, everything is thrown for a loop in the sequel concerning the boys.
While Huey, Dewey & Louie appear as little kids, Max is a young adult and that goes against everything else where these four characters have been featured together. A minor complaint but that's it. Back to Huey, Dewey & Louie, they appear in two shorts in "Mickey's Twice Upon a Christmas". However out of the two, they are more prominently featured in "Christmas Impossible" where they along with Donald and Daisy are visiting Uncle Scrooge at his mansion. It is shown in the other short that they appear in that they do live with Donald. I have to say I'm rather bummed that unlike Max that they did not continue aging and instead were reverted back to being little kids.
Pete Jr./P.J.
Just as how Max was not the original version of a son for Goofy, the same can be said for P.J., Pete's son. Pete's first son, Pete Jr. first appeared in the Donald Duck short, "Bellboy Donald". Pete Jr. was basically his father in kid's body. Peter Jr. was a brat and whatever chance he could he would torment Donald for his pleasure. In short, Pete Jr. and P.J. are as different as day and night.
P.J. made his first appearance in the first episode of "Goof Troop" In it, he was an older brother and appeared as a timid, shy and unsure character. P.J. was best friends with Max and that friendship lasted a very long time. I would say that P.J. was around eleven when the show started.
We next see P.J. in "A Goofy Movie", here is a teen and I would assume the same age as Max. His character didn't change that much. Of course, I can't give a fair assessment of his character in this movie because he is only in a few scenes but for the most part, he seems the same.
The last time, P.J. is in "An Extremely Goofy Movie". As much as I dislike this movie I will admit that P.J. does go through a character change, he goes from being shy and timid to open and fun. Of course this is due to the fact that he was given a girlfriend in this film.
If nothing else that movie did give us this great shot of P.J.
Morty & Ferdie
Morty and Ferdie are the nephews of Mickey Mouse. They first appeared in the Mickey Mouse Sunday comic strip. They also have made appearance in Disney books, however their names were given as Morty and Monty. Morty & Ferdie's cartoon appearance was rather sproadic. They first appeared in "Mickey Steamroller". Which came out in 1934 and thier next major appearance would not be until Mickey's Christmas Carol" that was released in 1983.
Morty and Ferdie's next appearance would not be until "Around the World in 80 Days". However, this was just a cameo appearance.
April, May, & June
April, May, and June are the nieces of Daisy Duck. According to offical Duck family tree, they are the daughters of Daisy's brother Fred. They first appear in Walt Disney Comic issue 149. According to their biography, they are three feisty little girls. Which is approiate considering who their aunt is. I know of only one televison appearance from the three. They are featured as the house band in the episode "Ladies Night" from "House of Mouse", when they fill in for Huey, Dewey & Louie.
I beleive this is the only time, they are featured in a cartoon and never again. It's just really a cameo and nonspeaking one at that.
Millie & Melody
Millie & Melody are the nieces of Minnie Mouse. Not much is known about them excpet for they first appeared in the comic book "Mickey Mouse Album" Issue 1. Their only onscreen appearance was in "Mickey's Christmas Carol" playing the daughters of Bob Crachit. Other than that, not much else is known about Millie & Melody.
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