Ep 6. To Infinity and Beyond

To Infinity and Beyond is the sixth and final episode of season 1 of The Imagineering Story. This episode takes us through the late 90s and early 2000s, examining Disney's partnership with Pixar and the creation of new attractions like Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters and the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror.

The episode opens with a look at the partnership between Disney and Pixar, with interviews from John Lasseter and Steve Jobs. We learn about the making of Toy Story, the first collaboration between the two companies, and how it changed the animation industry forever. We then see how this partnership continued with movies like A Bug's Life, Monsters, Inc., and Finding Nemo.

Next, the episode focuses on the creation of Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters, a ride that took the classic shooting gallery concept to the next level. We see the development process, from the first concept art to the final ride, and hear from the Imagineers who worked on it. The ride was a huge success and can still be found in multiple Disney parks around the world.

The episode then switches gears to talk about the creation of the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, an attraction that utilizes the iconic TV show's themes and visuals. We learn about the challenges the Imagineers faced, including how to make the elevator experience both thrilling and safe. There are interviews with Joe Rohde and others who worked on the ride, as well as footage from its opening day.

The final segment of the episode focuses on the shift in Disney leadership, with the departure of Michael Eisner and the arrival of Bob Iger. We see how Iger's acquisition of companies like Pixar, Marvel, and Lucasfilm have shaped Disney's future, including the creation of new theme park areas and attractions based on these properties.

Throughout the episode, there is a strong emphasis on the creative process, showing concept art and storyboards alongside historical footage and interviews with Imagineers and other key figures. We see how the Imagineers constantly push the boundaries of what's possible, both technically and artistically, to create immersive and unforgettable experiences for park guests.

Overall, To Infinity and Beyond provides a fascinating look at the evolution of Disney's partnership with Pixar and the ongoing commitment to innovation and creativity in the theme park industry. It's a fitting end to a season that has celebrated the art and engineering of Imagineering, while also providing insights into the business and financial side of the magic.