Top 10 Animated Disney Villains

It’s that time of year again, and while I have yet to experience the Not So Scary Halloween party, I would love to celebrate the start of October with my favorite villains. In order to be on my list, these bad guys must have gone toe to toe with the protagonist they were in a tv show or movie with (sorry Chernabog dear!) and have a prominent role in said show/movie. It is also open to include Pixar, as Disney owns it as well.

Please note that this is my opinion, and if you disagree feel free to post a comment. I love quite a few of the villains and while some may not have made my list, it doesn’t mean I don’t think they stand out in the err….worst way!

**Spoilers ahead**

10. Dr. Facilier

Disney did a fantastic job in designing and choosing a voice actor for Dr. Facilier. Also known as the Shadow Man, Dr. Facilier practices dark magic to “help” people as he plots to take over New Orleans. Not only do I like him, but he has developed immense popularity among Disney fans, leading him to become a member of the Villains franchise sold at Disney World. I put him lower on the list because aside from chasing after Prince Naveen and desiring his wealth, I never really felt like he had much weight as a villain.

9. The Evil Queen

A prominent member of the Disney Villains franchise, I’m actually not all that into the Evil Queen. The reason she makes this list is to simply put: she’s insane. She poisons someone just because they are considered fairer than her, and is also calculating enough to disguise herself to do so. To add onto her insanity, one of the most frightening aspects of the movie is her transformation into the witch form- and is one of the reasons I avoided watching Snow White as a child. Her breaking the fourth wall and showing outwardly a more sadistic side earns her the number 9 spot.

8. Gaston

No one is as conceited as Gaston! This handsome walking meme is yet another popular Disney villain who earns his place in our hearts because he is superficially handsome but ugly underneath. He is so well liked in his town that he turns the entire townsfolk into a mob against someone they’ve never met because he looks like a monster. He fixed his spot on the list specifically for his ability to sway a crowd, and stabbing the beast- but at least he gives us a long running gag!

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No one flexes like Gaston!

7. Maleficient

The Mistress of Evil herself graces this list; being an incarnation of evil and misfortune, she curses a baby for not being invited to her christening. A baby. Her elegant, sleek design and use of dark colors screams, “Evil” and is most likely the most recognized villain in Disneys arsenal. Her transformation into a dragon is what cemements her into my list; the fight scene between her and Prince Philip were amazing and I remember as a kid, gripping my couch in fear as they duked it out. I’d place her up higher on the list, but there are villains that stand out a lot more than she does!

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6. Cruella De Vil

Cruella is just plain crazy, I’m not going to lie. Anyone who wants to make a coat out of dogs and then chases down a truck full of them in an insane rage deserves to be in an institution and never released, just like the song says!

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5. Ernesto De La Cruz

Sometimes the scariest Disney villains are regular people who harm others for their own gain. After killing his friend and stealing his music for personal gain, Ernesto rose to fame and destroyed an entire families bond with no remorse. The first Disney villain to have actually killed someone with poison, what is frightening with a villain like Ernesto is that he doesn’t outright scream, “Hey I’m a villain!”. We are told he is a popular and amazing musician, never once shown his sinister side until Hector’s confrontation in the last part of the film.

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4. Judge Claude Frollo

The Hunchback of Notre Dame is one of Disney’s underrated films due to its darker tones. Frollo is one of the darker antagonists as his story is laced with lust and mass genocide against Gypsies and anyone who helps them. What makes Frollo a frightening villain is the fact that he is justified by God to commit these acts as well as a good person.

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Choose me, or the flame.

3. Scar

One of my favorite Disney villains due to aesthetics, Scar is known for the thirst for power and hatred that drove him to kill his own brother Mufasa and attempted murder of Simba. Scar is also best remembered as the villain who created the saddest Disney death of all time. If anyone is ever asked the saddest death in Disney I can guarantee it’s Mufasa’s death that will be given most of all; not only that but he has the best music number….not that it changes anything.

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2. Horned King

One of the most frightening villains in my childhood, the Horned King is the literal stuff of a child’s nightmare. He is one of the villains that is the most serious and darkest characters, with nothing much known about him except that he wanted the Cauldron to resurrect an undead army. He secures the number two spot just for being the most disturbing Disney villain released even to this day.

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He is U-G-L-Y

1. Syndrome

No villain has ever been as frightening as Syndrome. Scorned at his hero rejecting him, the once happy Buddy descended into madness and created weapons to use against heroes, killing many. A technical genius and a sociopath, Syndrome believed if he could sell his super hero tech to families everywhere that then no one would be super. This villain tops the list because he is almost the epitome of what makes a villain great to watch.

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The Best of my Youth: Recess

So many of us look back on our days at school and remember how much joy it brought us. Ignoring the tantalizing homework that now as an adult doesn’t seem so bad, we tend to remember all of the things we particularly enjoyed. Friends, our creative minds and most importantly: recess. In the case of the t.v. show Recess created by Joe Ansolabehere and Paul Germain, we can relive the freedom and creativity that being a kid meant.

Recess premiered on ABC in 1997 before moving onto the Disney channel in the early 2000’s. The show was a success to both the young and older audiences, bringing a fresh take on what it means to be a kid in elementary school. It has trends that follow the normal school cliches while making it unique enough to remain a staple in most 90’s kids memories as one of the best kid shows aired on Disney.

Recess follows six kids in the day to day life of school and their daily struggles in growing up alongside their peers. T.J. Detweiler, the leader of the group has excellent leadership and rallying skills when it comes to standing up for what’s right. Next in line is Vincent LeSalle who is the athlete of the group and presumably the best one in the school (I am always amazed to this day how he can play just about any sport SUPERB, heck he even cooks). Ashley Spinelli (aka Spinelli) is the tomboy and tough guy who isn’t afraid to stand up for others with force. Mikey Blumberg is a gentle and large 10 year old who, instead of fighting prefers poetry and dance even when viewed as uncool. Gretchen Grundler is the smart one in the group (like extremely smart), and Gus Griswold who is the shy and unpopular (often bullied) new kid in the school. Each of them together better the others and counters their flaws- making a perfect cast.

Though the cartoon is made for kids, it represents freedom in all of its forms. When watching the show, themes of social orders, monarchy, justice system and finding oneself rings true in each episode. Not only that but each kid had their own problems to learn to deal with that they either learn on their own or with help from their friends. Take Spinelli for example: she is the toughest kid in the show but has to deal with feelings of love, embarrassment and stereotypes of young ladies of the social norm. Another prime example is T.J. himself going so far for freedom that he may be irrational, as seen perfectly in the episode Economics of Recess. Each learns to mature through their friends, and the dynamic they all have together still shines through to this day.

This show was a staple to my childhood. I’d come home from school with a snack, or lay in bed sick watching this show. There were funny jokes, cool pranks and I could see a little of myself in each of the main crew. I remember learning about how being a child watching this, my recesses were filled with hopes and imagination spent with my friends.

I love Recess as a kids show. While it’s animation in today’s world seems lackluster and there are a few poor episodes, it still holds high the value of being a kid in school just looking to be a kid. Every character was memorable and if I can remember a show 18 years after watching it and go to rewatch it, then it sounds like a pretty good show to me. We all have to be an adult someday (trust me it happens quickly), so why not enjoy the time you have as a youth?

Let’s Talk: Mickey Memories

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Disney has been it’s fair share of love and hate. I am one of those fans that loves Disney, but I won’t be quiet just because I love it. Honestly this collection caused a roller coaster of emotions: happiness if I got a plush, extreme disappointment if I missed and anger if the purchase went through and then got an email saying they oversold and I wasn’t getting it. But before we get into that further, let’s talk a bit about what the memories are.

It’s Mickey’s 90th birthday!

This is a milestone meant to be celebrated, and Disney went above and beyond by introducing the Mickey Memories collection. Disney released a mickey mouse plush, pin, mug and ornament in honor of the years Mickey has been around. Every third Saturday of the month this year a limited supply of plushies, pins and mugs are released in the early morning.

While they are adorable and well made, the problem is obtaining them. I get they are limited edition, limited release but that doesn’t mean we should have to try to purchase them Hunger Game style . There’s a couple reasons why fans of the series have been in an uproar.

1. They release at 3 am, however don’t state specifically when the site will update. This means some people see the items on sale exactly at 3am while others may see it 10-30 minutes later. This is incredibly irritating, especially for those of us who have no Disney Store nearby to wait in line for one instead.

2. They over sell their products and take your money out of the account and give you an order confirmation, however you get a cancellation email 24-48 hours later and then it takes another week to have your money returned.

The worst part about it is that even though they only allow one plush per household, eBay sellers somehow presell them or still manage to buy multiples and sell them online for 3x the amount they’re worth and because there weren’t enough sold online, collectors like myself who want the plushes either went without or had to pay triple for them.

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3. Before the complaints stock piled, ShopDisney basically just said “Oh, our bad, have a $5 coupon” and kept moving forward. They fixed it in June by preordering the July plush to random customers who had orders that were cancelled.

The Disney store is trying to do better though, so I give them credit. After the site oversell of the plushies from the June Mickey I wanted, customer service called me in July and allowed me to pre-order that months plushie. On top of that, they are apparently increasing the production of plushes as of last month so even though I don’t like how this goes, I’m still going to wake up at 3 am tomorrow to try to get the September one.

Don’t get me wrong please! I adore Disney, and this Mickey Memories collection has been very impressive. It’s just frustrating from a consumer to even have to deal with something this chaotic.

But if you don’t like it Spot, don’t buy it.

That’s very true, however I am a fan of Mickey and am interested in trying to invest in something I love (aka plushes). I’m just voicing my concern that collectors would like a fair shake at the collectibles by making sure you don’t over sell your product and maybe make a bit more since you know they are a big hit.

Every company has flaws, and you can’t improve without listening and addressing complaints that customers have. By doing so you will have less of a backlash, and celebrate the joy that Walt and his fellow creators brought to life In November 1928!

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See you next time folks,

Spot

Top 10 Underrated Disney Movies

As we enter the fall and winter months, a few new Disney movies are on their way into theaters. With Christopher Robin leaving, we are preparing ourselves for Mary Poppins Returns and Wreck-It Ralph 2 which break into theaters this upcoming holiday season.

Nothing makes me feel happier than looking back at all of my favorite movies, but I noticed something. There are quite a few movies out there that are under appreciated, or not talked about nearly as much as the normal Disney movies. Quite a few of them are loved by me, yet sad to see next to no merchandise *clears throat*. Anyways, I put them in a list of my top 10 favorite yet underrated Disney movies (which yes, includes Pixar).

Please note this list is based on my favorites and is based solely on my opinion! If your favorite isn’t on the list I’m sorry, but feel free to leave a comment!

10. Meet the Robinsons

Meet the Robinsons is a slightly touchy feel comedic movie made in 2007 that tends to touch on moving forward in life despite mistakes that have been made. It gets a bit of flack because despite the bright colors and crazy characters, it’s a bit lackluster in the way it presents its story.

The reason I urge you to take a look at it, despite its many flaws, is because you can see just how one decision can alter the future; it also gives decent lessons to your children about the importance of moving on and continuing to try new things even if you fail. This movie (if you can manage to watch it), while it is a wild ride is actually pretty touching and is worth at least seeing once.

9. Brother Bear

Despite the general plot that this 2003 movie has, the music and the animation is gorgeous. This story follows the Inuit boy Kenai losing his brother from a fight with a bear that he provoked, however gains a brother in the bear cub of the bear had killed in revenge.

The music brought a smile to my face all the time as a child; I used to dance to it with my younger sister because it was just had so much emotion in it. The movie in general was filled with emotion; it serves as a colorful and fun adventure story that teaches you about your love and compassion for siblings.

8. Oliver and Company

This movie is a fantastic and fluffy adaptation for Charles Dickens novel Oliver Twist that was released in 1988. It’s filled with energetic characters while showcasing both sides of New York that most of us know of. While being another talking animal movie, one can’t underestimate the charm of Dodger and the wit of Oliver.

7. Pocahontas

A controversial movie for its racial tones and lack of historical accuracy, Pocahontas is still a pretty great movie. Between visuals, gorgeous soundtracks and an all to real villain, this movie is worth checking out.

6. The Hunchback of Notre Dame

Why no one really talks about this film is beyond me.

This movie is one of Disney’s darker films next to The Black Cauldron. With religion, lust, and what truly makes someone a monster the running themes for this movie, you will be completely immersed in it, despite the ridiculous gargoyles who act as comedic relief.

5. The Emperor’s New Groove

This movie is a hilarious approach to teaching someone all about ethics and how disregarding them can affect ones self. While it is slap stick comedy, its gorgeous art style and the way the story is told with effective fourth wall breaking, this one is a top movie to enjoy with your family.

4. The Black Cauldron

The Black Cauldron was released in 1985, the first movie of Disney to receive a PG rating (when it actually almost became PG13). It is a controversial movie that gets its name for having dark and frightening themes, known and loved by old time Disney fans.

This movie follows the hero Taran on a quest to rescue his pig (who is also an oracle) from the horrifying Horned King on his world conquest. This coming of age adventure story isn’t something I wanted to watch more than once as a kid, but I respect it deeply now that I’m older, as it is the beginning of Disney branching out from the usual “Disney-esque” movie….it’s just still a bit frightening even as an adult, which makes it fun!

3. The Incredibles

The Incredibles is…well… incredible! It was ahead of its time when it was released in 2004, the character are well developed and the villain is probably one of the most impactful still to this day. It’s a mix of superhero and spy movies which is shown beautifully through new animation technology of the time. This movie is one you don’t want to miss, and while you’re at it check out the second movie The Incredibles 2 which came out this past summer.

2. Atlantis: The Lost Empire

I’m honestly surprised this movie didn’t make enough money in the box office. It used more CGI than any other film before it, but blended so well you could barely tell. The characters were from the early 1900’s and you could feel like you were a part of their world, following them through dangerous caverns and exploring the land of Atlantis. I really don’t need to say more.

1.Treasure Planet

This is out of all the underrated films, my absolute favorite. The characters (especially Jim) had so much growth, and having pirates in space is so flipping refreshing. It has a pretty good story line and while it isn’t perfect, its breathtaking visuals and intense action sequences makes this movie one of the best underrated film I have had the pleasure of seeing.

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Written 9/12/18

Going to Disney: Medical Needs Edition

Hello fellow Disney lovers!

I spent my weekend of moving, sick. I suffer from a chronic illness that likes to rear its ugly head whenever it feels like it, despite treatment.

While I was in bed resting both days, I kept thinking about my travels to Disney after my diagnosis and how having an illness affected my trips in recent years. It really had affected my enjoyment of the park as there were new situations I had to prepare for, and I didn’t really think of them until -after- I got to the park at how things had changed. So I thought it’d be helpful to post tips on dealing with travelling to Disney while having medical needs.

Check the Guest Services Department for Guests with Disabilities

I know most people don’t need to be told, but the direct website to Disney World has many links and services available for those who have any questions. Not only that, but they have ECVs for rent that is typically $50 to use daily and requires a deposit that is refundable at the end of the day; if that isn’t your style then they also have regular wheelchairs for rent as well for $12 a day. Be sure to check their website for more details, as I’ve heard these things go very fast!

https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/guest-services/guests-with-disabilities/

Know your Limits

The most important thing you need to remember is to know what you are able to do and what you’re unable to do. It would definitely stink to land in the hospital during your visit because you over stepped your boundaries! If you need to take a break, rest up. If you have a specific time you have to eat, plan a visit to a snack line or restaurant a little ahead of time to avoid any unnecessary ill feelings.

Take into Account your Location

I know this one ties in with the “Know your Limits” section, but it is equally important to take into account is the location and its weather. Florida for example ranges in temperature throughout the four seasons; in winter to spring it can be as high as the 70’s with summer going into the 90’s and higher. Not only that, but Florida tends to get rain showers that can either come and go in hours or last days- and don’t get me started on hurricane season! The varying weather can affect you and your mobility and hydration, so be sure to keep an eye out for weather and bring an umbrella!

Locate all Nearby Restrooms

Anyone with children know that knowing where restrooms are is pretty important- the same can be said for those with medical problems. My medical illness causes frequent and urgent visits to the bathroom, so I know how important they are. It is highly important to try to keep track of them for the sake of an emergency!

Prepare for the Trip

Make a checklist of all things you need for the trip and pack them ASAP-anything that can’t be packed until last minute should be placed near your bag so you see it and can pack it right before you leave (it also doesn’t hurt to double and triple check your list). If you have a doctor or specialist who you meet up with, go over any concerns with them. Pack snacks, plenty of fluids and don’t forget your medication!

It also doesn’t hurt to locate all nearby hospitals with their phone numbers, best routes and what insurance is accepted. Trust me, emergencies don’t care where you are so it’s best to be prepared.

Try to Pick Off Seasons

So Disney is pretty busy year round, but there are times you definitely are going to be more comfortable. A definite no-no (from sad experience) is the Holidays like Christmas, 4th of July and Thanksgiving.

The best times to go are February, the first 1-2 weeks of May, mid August till the end of September. November and December can be iffy and are an “at your own risk” due to the main staple holidays taking place. If you go at any of the other times listed above (from my experience) you are usually in less of a crowd and lines are more manageable.

Make Plans, Be Flexible

Last but not least, try to plan out your trip and what you want to do but be flexible about it. Your medical is most likely (like mine) random and sporadic and can throw curve balls at you. Try to enjoy yourself but if you can’t get on all the rides you wanted to or try the foods you wanted, that’s fine- don’t stress about it. Disney is meant to be a wonderful and happy experience; make the most of what you can and make some memories!

Spot

Types of Disney Fans

Hi fellow Disney fans!

Disney has so many wonderful things to celebrate, including it’s fans. With so many characters, movies, parks, rides and food, there is so much to enjoy. Over the years, I have found there are many different types of Disney fans. Maybe you are one of these (or all of them!) and interested in finding out a bit more about the others. It doesn’t matter what type of fan you are but it’s fun to know nonetheless, so here are the types of (positive) Disney fans I know about!

The Collector Enthusiast is the Disney enthusiast that is into getting all the cool limited edition items. From pin trades and limited release plushes to exclusive Dooney and Bourke bags, collectors go crazy and are willing to spend the money to acquire said items. Travel and expense can sometimes mean nothing, as some items are only available in certain parks or on the site for a specific time. I myself am guilty of being a collector, as I have several lithographs and the fabulous Mickey Memories plushies (more on those in another blog)!

The Stylists are fans who put together outfits and cosplays or custom make bows and ears for themselves and others to enjoy at the parks and events. They want to show off their love for movie characters by recreating them and to be honest I am always amazed at how finely detailed they put things together. Their creativity and adoration are awe inspiring and worth admiring if you ever come across them.

The Artists create fantastic works through digital art, pen and paper, crafting, etc. While not all art made is erm…appropriate (as there’s exception to any rules), the artwork that is usually made is beautiful and true to the Disney name. Many artists like to sell their work, others make it for portfolios- but no matter what they do, their art speaks volumes about their passion.

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Art by me, Sam 2018

The Foodies enjoy the finer things of the parks. Celebrating the park food regularly and spending time at Epcot’s Food and Wine Festival, these fans love trying all the new and exciting things the park chefs have to offer- maybe even try making them themselves at home!

The Park Enthusiasts are those of the fans who love each and every park- even going on every ride and not afraid to wait for it! The thrills and enjoyment that comes from the parks is what drives these enthusiasts wild.

The Hyper Fans know pretty much all the lines to the movies, all the songs and even know tons of historical knowledge of the parks and the company itself. Knowing and showing off their knowledge is what makes them amazing- they know things I myself would never have even guessed!

The Casual Fans are casually into the craze and while they know and remember a lot, aren’t driven to memorize facts or every song (or character), and that’s cool. There’s nothing wrong with being a casual fan; they are there to enjoy what they want to enjoy and just enjoy watching the movies simply because it’s Disney.

And that’s the list of Disney fans; where do you fit? Or are you a little of them all? I myself am definitely a mix of a few of them; let me know where you fit in, or if you know of any other types?

See you next time!

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