You’ve Got a Land in Me: Toy Story’s Theme Park Journey (Ep. 587)

About this episode

The episode explores the journey of Toy Story as a theme park concept with insights from veteran Imagineer Jim Shull.

Jim Hill and Len Testa are joined by veteran Imagineer Jim Shull for a globe-trotting look at how Toy Story became one of Disney’s most reusable theme park ideas. First, they cover the latest from Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Universal Orlando, and Disney Cruise Line, including Magic of Disney Animation details, Villains Land rumors, Oogie Boogie Bash logistics, and possible Universal expansion plans. Then Jim Shull shares how Toy Story Playland, Toy Story Hotel, and multiple international Pixar projects moved from clever pitch to built reality. Along the way, there is Godzilla, synergy, Stanley cups, and at least one very laminated airline milestone. NEWS • Bluey’s Wild World shifts to standby as opening-day crowds settle down. • Victoria & Albert’s retains its Michelin star, while Kappa at Four Seasons does not. • Disney reveals new activity areas for The Magic of Disney Animation at Hollywood Studios. • Jim, Len, and Jim Shull discuss the latest Villains Land rumors, including Maleficent, Hades, and possible dark ride concepts. • Universal updates include Universal United Kingdom Resort, Lost Continent demolition, Back to the Future speculation, and Epic Universe expansion…

People in this episode

Hosts: Jim Hill, Len Testa

Guest: Jim Shull

Topics covered

• Toy Story
• Disney theme parks
• Imagineering
• Pixar projects
• Universal expansion
• Villains Land rumors

Keywords

• Toy Story
• Disney
• Imagineer
• theme parks
• Pixar
• Universal
• Villains Land
• Oogie Boogie Bash
• expansion plans

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Disney, Universal Orlando, Disney Cruise Line, Pixar

Books & works: Toy Story

Places: Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Toy Story Playland, Toy Story Hotel, Hong Kong, Shanghai

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