My Cliffhanger Strategy

Disney is employing the cliffhanger strategy for this summer's Pixar film 'Toy Story 3', releasing only the first 65 minutes of the film in college markets before cutting to black and sending the audience home. A few questions come to mind when I heard about this. Why would 'Toy Story 3' need a risky marketing tool when it's one of the surest blockbuster hits on the summer? Are college kids really the demographic they're concerned about? And is this overall a good idea?

Another thing I have to wonder if that if I would want to pay for a full price ticket when the film is actually release so I could sit through the first half of the film again just to see the second half. I don't think I have the patience for that- especially for a film I'm eagerly anticipating. I can't help but think of this ploy being similar to theatre (shocker!), where the audience has the option to walk out during the intermission if they deem they longer want to see the rest of the show after the first act. (NYT)

My Hong Kong Disney Adventures

One of the two places I wanted to visit during my stay in Hong Kong was the spankin' new Disneyland Theme Park. While there are A LOT of criticism surrounding the lack of entertainment value from locals, I couldn't help but get caught up in the nostalgia of it all. As soon as the 'A Whole New World' played through the speakers, it was as if I was transformed back to my childhood. Blame the magic of Disney.

The very spacious entrance to the park.

The railroad staple to every Disney park.

'The Lion King' done to Broadway-esque perfection AND in under 30 minutes!

Highlight: 'The Golden Mickeys' combine my love of award shows and live theatre from various Disney musicals.

Apparently, it's Sleepy Beauty's castle that lies in Hong Kong, not Cinderella's.

First "ride"- Dumbo.

I'm actually going a lot slower than this picture might indicate.

The park even has its own state of the art subway station...

What a magical day.

My One Man Duet

Oh, just wait until you hear Nick Pitera's version of 'A Whole New World'. I need to hire this guy to sing all my favorite Disney duets. Be prepared to be amazed because I sure was.