Podcast Episode 48.5: A Chat With Jeff Blyth – Director of The Timekeeper

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Jeff Blythe joins us on this bonus episode, which is a follow-up to Episode 48, which is all about The Timekeeper. Jeff has been a film director for many years, getting his start in Circlevision with the original China film at EPCOT Center. We take a massively deep dive into what it takes to make these types of films. As you listen, your mind is going to be blown and you are in for a few…Read More...

Podcast Episode 48: The Timekeeper

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Welcome to Circlevision and The Timekeeper. This super unique format was used throughout Disney properties and this episode we dive into one of the last productions, The Timekeeper. Our entire crew has a great recollection of this film and animatronic show, starring Robin Williams. The show itself, featured a unique character based on the actual camera system and they called her, Nine Eyes. With this episode, we go scene by scene, discussing the stars, filming, production…Read More...

Podcast Episode 47: A Room Full of Fun

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We start off this month on Main Street, USA - more specifically the Penny Arcade! This classic is part of our overall topic of arcades and game rooms. Then we take you back to one of the greatest vintage spots in all of Walt Disney World – the infamous and now gone, Fiesta Fun Center.Read More...

Podcast Episode 46: Snow White’s Scary Adventure

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This month, we take you back to one of the opening day attractions and one of the more recently closed dark rides at the Magic Kingdom. How takes the lead to go through the various versions of this ride and also takes a deep dive into the word 'scary', relating to this ride. The comparisons to Mr. Toad appear in this episode as well as the vintage origins of this type of ride. Dark undertones are brought…Read More...

Podcast Episode 45: Holiday Potluck

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In this episode we talk about Christmas time in the Vacation Kingdom of the World. Starting us off, Brian takes us through this vintage VHS. This was sold alongside the other VHS tapes - A Day at The Magic Kingdom, A Day at EPCOT Center, and A Day at Disney MGM Studios. We discuss how Santa takes us on a journey, throughout the resort, about what is done for Christmas at WDW. There are some hidden…Read More...

Podcast Episode 44: Mickey’s Birthdayland

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This month we honor our good friend Mickey Mouse by taking a trip back to Birthdayland. We start off in 1988, discussing some of the special events to commemorate his 60th birthday. We examine some old artifacts and events that were done during this era. How moves into the way Birthdayland came to be and also tells us about a hidden gem in the book Todd is holding...Mickey is 60!Read More...

Get your own copy of RetroWDW’s Vacation Kingdom of the World Map!

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A special map has been created by RetroWDW's own artist, Jason Bartel. This map celebrates the Vacation Kingdom of the World, and more specifically, "The way it was, and the way it is in your memories". Taking the style and cues of the 1975 map (and the updated version from the 1976 edition of The Story of Walt Disney World) our version of the encompasses a world that used to be as well as some things…Read More...

Podcast Episode 43.75: A Chat With Jim Sarno

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We are still plugging along in the Episode 43 series, this time with 43.75. The crew welcomes Jim Sarno, an artist who has been all over the entertainment industry. Jim spent some time with The Muppets, Hannah-Barbera and beyond. He moved into the Disney realm, getting his first gig with MAPO, making body parts out of fiberglass.  As you listen to this episode, you will hear Jim drop so many names of his former friends &...Read More...

Podcast Episode 43: MGM-Studios Game Shows

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This month is somewhat unique, as we take you back to the studios and give you a taste of the old, working studio. How takes the lead and the main topic relates to how game shows used to be filmed on site, you could visit the sets and even play with a live studio audience! As a group, we join How with a game show styled game where we answer trivia questions and discuss this history.Read More...

Podcast Episode 42: Communicore West

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A little while back, we dedicated some time to CommuniCore East on Episode 38. This month, we veer right (If you are going through the main entrance) and take you to CommuniCore West. Todd gets us started with some information on Earth Station and where it was originally planned for. The Fountain of Information is discussed, which included road signs, neon, and anything connected to communication in a fountain type of sculpture. Touchscreens are brought up…Read More...