Out of the Park

Make Dreams Come True

Matt and Lauren return for a new episode discussing a show that has made an impact on both childhood and parenthood. Spawning from a dream sequence in the 1984 film "Muppets Take Manhattan" the world was introduced to the Muppet babies and endless hours of family friendly entertainment followed. On this episode, we discuss both the 1984 original series as well as the 2018 reboot, how it made an impact on us as children as part of the Saturday morning cartoon lineup, and how it continues to play a role in our lives as a show our daughter embraced. We discuss the characters, the voice actors, some of the memorable storylines (and songs) and of course, how we would introduce the show to the US-based theme parks.

Feel the Rhythm

This episode, the focus is on everyone's favorite movie about bobsledding, as Earnest "EJ" Christian joins the show to discuss "Cool Runnings" and how the film holds up as it nears the 33rd anniversary of its release. We discuss the storyline of the film, how the movie stayed true to the real-life team and how Disney took some creative liberties to make it the feel-good film it became. We also explore the characters, the "villains" of the film and if they are really deserving of the title, and how it ranks along other Disney sports films. Finally, we discuss the ways we would incorporate the movie into the Florida or California parks - from attractions, to dining options, to potential hotel theming.

I Have the High Ground

On this special Star Wars edition of Out of the Park, Matt and Lauren do a deep dive into the Disney+ original series, Obi Wan Kenobi. Breaking down the story, the returning cast, the new characters, the new villains, and how this story does in bridging the storyline gap between Revenge of the Sith and A New Hope, we cover all topics on one of the more anticipated series that has been released. We also explore Obi Wan as the character, how he holds up with other beloved characters from the franchise, and what we would do to incorporate the show and the character into the US Disney Parks.

The Quack Attack

On this episode, we do a deep dive into the Mighty Ducks trilogy, discussing the storyline, the players, the cast and how they've held up. Matt is joined by longtime friend and host of 3CT and Huddle Up Podcast, Big Jim, to lend his hockey expertise to the discussion. We take a look at how the stories progressed, how these films that were beloved during our adolescence speak to us upon viewing as adults, the NHL participation in the franchise, and how that involvement led to further films, as well as made more hockey fans. Finally, we discuss how we'd incorporate the franchise into the parks beyond what already exists. From rides, to restaurants to retail, we get creative with getting the Ducks into the US based parks.

Topsy Turvy

Episode 2 of Out of the Park takes a look at the 1996 film, The Hunchback of Notre Dame. One of the darker themes explored during the Disney renaissance of the 90's (thanks in part to the source material), the film gave stunning animation, an unforgettable soundtrack, and one of the darker and most evil Disney characters in their extensive arsenal of villains. Matt and guest Lauren break down the film, how it measures up to some of the other classics, and how they'd expand upon the park presence beyond what already exists.