The Nightmare Before Christmas: Redefining Tradition

Jack Skellington isn’t your average cinema hero. First of all, there’s that skeleton-like head and body of his. I mean, let’s face it: Jack Skellington isn’t quite Peter Pan. Of course, that’s what makes him so darn lovable. The Nightmare Before Christmas, based on a story by Tim Burton and directed by Henry Sellick, is, quite possibly, one of the most imaginative films made in the last twenty years. Fusing the holidays of Christmas and Halloween, Nightmare Before Christmas is the story of what supposedly happened when the two holidays collided. When Jack Skellington finds himself in Christmastown, he falls … Continue reading

Secrets of Walt Disney World: Volume #1

When you step into the borders of the Walt Disney World resort, it is almost as if you’re stepping into an entirely different world. Sequestered away from the troubles of the real world, it’s somewhat like stepping into a sort of odd inter-dimensional vortex. And just like a fantasy world, there’s always secret passageways and treasure to be found. So, for your next trip to The World, here are a few secrets that you might not have been aware of before. 1. If you’re staying at a Walt Disney World resort and you have kids, you might find that they’ll … Continue reading

Anne of Green Gables: The Sequel – A Worthy Follow-Up Tale

In Anne of Green Gables, Anne made her way in Green Gables. In the sequel, once titled Anne of Avonlea, but now renamed with the somewhat lackluster title “Anne of Green Gables: The Sequel,” Anne is grown and has fully realized her career as a schoolteacher. As she continues to write stories and, as a result, get said stories rejected, Anne once again attempts to make her way in a society that, at first, has no intentions of accepting her. Taking a position as a teacher at an all girls boarding school in New Brunswick, Anne immediately finds herself at … Continue reading

Anne of Green Gables: An Introduction to a Fantastic Literary Role Model

When I was around eight years old, I fell in love with a character by the name of Anne Shirley and though she first made an appearance in L. Maud Montgomery’s novel, Anne of Green Gables, I was first introduced to her through Kevin Sullivan’s film adaptation. The story of an orphan girl who, after being treated as nothing more than a housemaid and babysitter by her prior foster parents before being taken in by the Cuthberts of Green Gables, is charming and will certainly delight viewers of any age. Those who have either read or seen Pollyanna or Annie … Continue reading

The Flying Dutchman Makes a Visit to Disney’s Castaway Cay

I know, I know. You’re probably sick and tired of hearing about Pirates of the Caribbean, right? Record-breaking box office, new additions to the theme park attraction and even Pirates themed Happy Meals at McDonald’s. Yada, yada, yada. However, when I first saw the press photos from Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay, of a morbid looking ship moored at the shoreline, I couldn’t resist stepping back into the subject of Pirates. Vacationers who take a trip on Disney’s Cruise Line to Disney’s Castaway Cay might be surprised to find Davy Jones’ ship, The Flying Dutchman, waiting for them as they … Continue reading

It’s Tough to be a Bug: The Secret of AK’s Tree of Life

Within The Tree of Life that stands as the centerpiece of Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park, there is a show that bridges both 3D film and interactive entertainment. It’s Tough to be a Bug remains one of Animal Kingdom’s crown achievements and is simply not to be missed. Starring the characters of Disney/Pixar’s “A Bug’s Life,” this 8-minute 3D attraction explains exactly why it’s tough to be a bug. Incorporating music, 3D technology and even some interactive surprises, this attraction is a remarkable experience. As guests are seated and prepare for the attraction to come, Flik, the adorable ant from … Continue reading

Disney’s Annual Passes: Saving Money Year Round

If you’re a Disney fan, you might find yourself at the parks more than once in a year’s span. If that’s the case, you might want to look into purchasing an Annual Pass. First of all, why would you want an annual pass? The first reason is simple: instead of buying multiple multi-day passes, you can purchase one annual pass per visitor a year and save big money on park admission. The second is one that many Disney fans have figured out and taken advantage of: with an annual pass, you receive exclusive discounts. These discounts are good toward lodging, … Continue reading

Epcot Restaurant Review: San Angel Inn

Nestled within Epcot’s Mexico pavilion is, perhaps, one of the most unique Mexican themed restaurants you’ll probably ever find. Housed inside a replica of an ancient Aztec temple, not only does the San Angel Inn fully immerse you in the lore of Mexico’s past, it also has a wide array of dishes on its menu. As you choose from entrees such as Mahi-Mahi a la Veracruzana or Punta de Filete, you and your party can sit “under the stars” of a sky that is always just on the verge of a storm as fires burn from a faux Aztec temple … Continue reading

Superman: The Movie: A Classic That Deserves a Renaissance

There is a memory from my childhood that I always recall with fondness. The memory involved the television premiere of Superman: The Movie and as the film began and those now famous credits began to flash forward on the screen, I couldn’t contain my excitement. It goes without saying that, within Superman: The Movie, Christopher Reeve defined the role of The Man of Steel. Take a look at Brandon Routh’s performance as Superman and you will very clearly see the shades of Reeve’s performance that tint Routh’s. And with good reason, Christopher Reeve redefined the role from the campy portrayal … Continue reading

Disney Theme Park Secret: The Shopper’s Pass

Chances are, if you’ve visited the Walt Disney World or Disneyland Resort, you’ve encountered a time when there was some piece of merchandise that you’ve left the park without and then found yourself regretting it. And, of course, the worst is when you’re just about to leave the resort and you’re completely out of days on your park pass. This is where what’s commonly known as a “Shopper’s Pass” comes in handy. Technically, a Shopper’s Pass is a One Day Pass. Buy the pass at Guest Relations at the front gate, return within one hour, and your price is refunded. … Continue reading