Seven Little Known Facts About Disney’s 19-Foot Dwarfs

At the front of the Team Disney Building, the Seven Dwarfs overlook the Disney Legends Plaza and greet all who enter the building. You can see them for blocks around the Disney Studio and they are a landmark reminder of the influence Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs continues to have on Disney.

For those who have attended D23’s tour of the Disney Studio and Walt Disney Archives, you’ve had the chance to snap a photo in front of these famous icons.

And you’ve probably even heard a few of these seven little-known facts about these massive Dwarfs:

1. Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs grossed $8.5 million and became the highest-grossing motion picture of all time until Gone with the Wind came along. With profits from Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Walt Disney made a deposit on 51 acres of land in Burbank and began designing a modern studio specifically for the purpose of making animated films. That is why the Dwarfs hold up the Team Disney building.

2. Six of the Dwarfs are each 19 feet tall and weigh 30,000 pounds.

3. Dopey, the smallest Dwarf, is 12 feet tall and is situated at the top, “holding up” the center of the building.

4. The Dwarfs were constructed under the close supervision of Disney Legend John Hench, and are made of a fiberglass and concrete compound, with an internal steel structure.

5. Dopey has even been known to wear a different hat from time to time in honor of a particular holiday or event.

6. Michael Graves, who designed the Team Disney building, is the same architect who created the Dolphin and the Swan in Walt Disney World.

7. The 330,000-square-foot building includes double-barrel vaulted copper roofs, an outdoor courtyard with arcades, an indoor atrium, four screening rooms, and an executive dining room on the top floor of the building, called “The Rotunda Dining Room,” which you can see above the Dwarfs atop the building.

Five Reasons to Love Mickey, Donald, and Goofy: The Three Musketeers

May 29, 2014November 10, 2016

Many Disney fans don’t know much about Mickey, Donald, and Goofy: The Three Musketeers , so here are five reasons to love this animated gem.

5. A villain with old-Hollywood roots
The film features Pete, Mickey’s foe in many classic cartoons, as the sinister head of the Musketeers. Pete’s lead animator wanted to bring him to life as an old-time, big baddie, so he looked to Hollywood and found inspiration that was literally larger-than-life: Jackie Gleason. “They’re both such physical characters,” said Murphy. “Pete looks a lot like him, so Gleason was a big influence.”

4. The soundtrack is a new twist on classical compositions
Due to the classical nature of the subject material (Alexandre Dumas’ source material was written in the mid-19th century and set in the 1600s), the soundtrack is comprised entirely of classical music adapted with modern lyrics and arrangements. From a romantic remix of Tchaikovsky’s “Dance of the Reed Flutes” to a silly finale that incorporates Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony, you might not know the words to every song, but you’ll definitely recognize the melodies.

3. Production spanned two continents
It really is a small world after all! The film took three years to create, and was produced on two continents! Pre-production, including character development and storyboarding, took place in Los Angeles, while actual animation of the film took place in Sydney, Australia.

2. The cast is made up of Disney royalty
The film’s main voice cast includes four Disney Legends: Wayne Allwine (Mickey), Russi Taylor (Minnie), Tony Anselmo (Donald), and of course, Bill Farmer (Goofy). Does the name April Winchell sound familiar? She voices Clarabelle Cow in the film, and if her last name sounds familiar, it’s because her father is the late Paul Winchell, best known to Disney fans for lending his voice to Tigger.

1. It’s a throwback to early Disney animation
Although computer-animated films were just entering their heyday in 2004, when The Three Musketeers was released, its creators purposely chose to make it using classic (and labor-intensive) 2D animation. Donovan Cook, the film’s director, felt “these characters are the strongest when they’re drawn the way they were drawn back in the ’30s and ’40s, which is very honestly, very sincerely.” The backgrounds, including French castles and gardens, were even done in watercolor, an intentional throwback to the “golden age” of Disney animation.

Must-See Haunted Mansion Concept Art

An ominous-looking mansion set adrift in the marshy distance? A ghastly figure hanging in the attic rafters? Ethereal organ music playing to an “empty” ballroom? A ghostly bride beckoning? These, foolish mortals, are some of the all-too-familiar experiences Disney fans have come to expect and embrace in the Haunted Mansion attraction.

this family-friendly fright-fest has entertained Disney Parks guests for nearly half a century

Debuting first at Disneyland Park during the summer of 1969, this family-friendly fright-fest has entertained Disney Parks guests for nearly half a century, leaving lasting impressions of the shared and “supernatural” experiences found within its creaking walls.

The Walt Disney Archives has shared with D23 several story sketches from the development of the attraction, showcasing some instantly recognizable show elements.

Rough charcoal and paper concept sketch of a mansion — This far-off vantage point showcases an exterior view of the Mansion structure, completed in a different style than what was eventually built by Walt’s Imagineers.

Rough charcoal and paper concept sketch of a proposed gallery with body hanging from ceiling apex high above and a transparent floor of the upper room where the body is suspended — This sketch represents the attraction space that would eventually become the famed “stretching room” gallery. Note not only the familiar haunt “hanging” around, but furniture atop a transparent “floor” above guests’ heads.

Rough ink and gouache concept painting of large pipe organ and dark figure playing it — One of the most recognizable “happy haunts” from the Haunted Mansion is its “house” organist—seen here in an early sketch.

pen and goache painted concept of ghostly bride at top of broad carpeted stair holding a bouquet, the walls and bannister choked with cobwebs — A ghostly bride has been part of the myth and lore of the Haunted Mansion from very early on in the attraction’s development. This “dreadfully” colorful sketch helps highlight just that!

The Archives staff members were very excited to rediscover these wonderful drawings . . .

These works of art were likely created in the late 1950s or early 1960s, during early development work on the Mansion. “When an attraction is as popular as Haunted Mansion is, it’s quite a feat to find rarely seen materials to share for its anniversary,” notes Rebecca Cline, Director of the Walt Disney Archives. “The Archives staff members were very excited to rediscover these wonderful drawings in our files recently, and we deemed this a perfect occasion for sharing them. The colors and designs of the four sketches help establish a definitive sense of ‘mood’ and ‘space’ for the attraction—moments that theme park guests have come to love. The best part is that these vivid renderings are from early scripted ideas that ultimately (in one form or another) wound up in the final attraction.”

Rarely Seen Photos From Walt Disney and Ward Kimball’s 1948 Trip to Chicago’s Museum of Science and Industry

April 28, 2014March 27, 2018

Celebrate some of the most legendary artists behind classic Disney animated films with this year’s D23 Member Gift.

In this rarely seen photo, Walt Disney poses for an old-time photo with Disney Legend Ward Kimball during their 1948 visit to the Chicago Railroad Fair, held at Chicago’s Museum of Science and Industry.

In an effort to get “the boss” to relax a bit, Studio Nurse Hazel George suggested that Walt take a trip by train to Illinois for the 1948 Chicago Railroad Fair, held at Chicago’s Museum of Science and Industry.

D23 Presents: Treasures of the Walt Disney Archives Extends Through August 3, 2014 ►

Knowing that Lillian and the girls wouldn’t be particularly interested in attending the event with him, Walt invited animator and train enthusiast Ward Kimball to accompany him on the visit.

The two men took the Super Chief from Pasadena, California to Chicago, Illinois. Upon arrival at the fair on Thursday August 19, a general commemoration of the building of the railroads in America, Walt and Ward were treated royally. The president of the Chicago Museum of Science and Industry, Lenox Lohr, who hosted the fair, let Walt and Ward go backstage at a pageant called Wheels a Rolling, presented on a 450-foot platform off Lake Michigan embedded with tracks for historic locomotives.

The two railroad buffs had a wonderful time at the Fair.

Walt was even allowed to run several of the old engines and gamely appeared as a player in the show. Looking at these historic photos from the trip, Hazel George appears to have been absolutely right, “the boss” seemed to have really relaxed and the two railroad buffs had a wonderful time at the Fair.

D23 Presents: Treasures of the Walt Disney Archives Extends Through August 3, 2014

April 28, 2014March 27, 2018

Due to popular demand, the Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago is extending the run of Treasures of the Walt Disney Archives, presented by D23: The Official Disney Fan Club. Guests will be able to enjoy the exhibit through August 3, 2014.

Join D23: The Official Disney Fan Club at the Museum of Contemporary Art on Saturday, September 6 for D23 Fanniversary Celebration ►

“This interactive exhibit has been so well-received by guests of all ages,” said Anne Rashford, director of temporary exhibits. “It tells the great story of the imagination and perseverance of Walt Disney and offers a rare peek into his life and the unforgettable entertainment he created. We are thrilled to be able to keep it at MSI for an additional three months.”

Disneyland ticket No. 1 purchased by Roy O. Disney.

From Mickey Mouse to Mary Poppins to Captain Jack Sparrow, the exhibition features more than 300 artifacts from nine decades of Disney’s rich history—including props; costumes; memorabilia; and artwork from classic Disney animation, theme park attractions, television shows and live-action films. Hands-on activities allow kids and adults alike to explore animation technology from all 53 Disney animated films and learn to draw one of their favorite characters in the Animation Academy.

The exhibit is not included in Museum Entry but can be added to an Explorer ticket package. D23 Gold and Silver Members will receive a special discount on exhibit entry. For more information and to buy tickets, visit msichicago.org. For more information about D23: The Official Disney Fan Club, visit D23.com. This exhibit is presented by Walgreens.

Walt at the Bat: Watch This Video About Disney’s Baseball Legacy

Certainly a believer in baseball’s inherent benefits, Walt Disney was a big fan of the sport as a spectator and even as a player. Walt often join his employees in friendly games at the old Hyperion Studios in Los Angeles. Over time Disney has celebrated baseball in its films, parks, and more.

The Top Nine Disney Sports Movies (That Aren’t Really About Sports) ►

Now with the MLB season in full swing, let’s sit back (or maybe join in a pick-up game of our own) and enjoy America’s pastime, for as Walt alluded to, it has quite a bit to offer.

Eleven Life Lessons You Can Learn From Disney Bears

April 17, 2014March 27, 2018

Disneynature’s new true-life adventure Bears showcases a year in the life of a bear family as two young cubs are taught life’s most important lessons. In the movie—which opens this weekend at a theater near you—Amber and Scout have to learn to survive in the bitter cold, to find food, and to stay safe from predators.These are undeniably important things for young, impressionable cubs to learn. But Disney has an eclectic collection of bears that have learned other life lessons in films and TV series. Let’s take a look at these important life lessons that Disneynature’s Bears—and even humans—might heed, as well.

Winnie the Pooh
Even “a bear of very little brain” can get by with a few true friends to see him through the tightest of jams. And a word to the wise: It often does come from liking honey too much.

Koda—Brother Bear
You can get all the rest you need when you’re hibernating. Make the most of your time when you’re awake.

Br’er Bear—Song of the South
Brawn can only take you so far. A rabbit with quick wits will defeat an overly trusting bear every time.

The Country Bears
Forget about the chit-chat, yick-yack, and film-flam. Just refrain from hibernating, pick up a jug, and make music with whatever—or whomever—is around and start your own jamboree.

Duffy
A true companion can come in any shape and size. And never underestimate the power of a mouse.

Patch, Scratch, and Rusty—The Bears and I
When you’re a bear, humans are generally to be feared. But if you find the right human, they just might let you raid their kitchen.

Lots-o-Huggin’ Bear
It’s easy to gain the upper hand over an adversary if you begin with a little charm and friendliness. It also doesn’t hurt if you smell like strawberries.

Fozzie Bear
No matter what adversity life throws in your path, whenever you find yourself in disagreement with friend or foe (or frog), never lose your sense of humor—even when critics claim you never really had one in the first place.

Rugged Bear—Rugged Bear
Never let people walk all over you—unless, of course, that’s part of your master plan for survival.

Bongo the Bear—Fun & Fancy Free
When life feels like a crazy circus you need to escape, it might be time to think about getting back to your roots and commune with nature.

Bear in the Big Blue House
Greet the sun every morning. Check in with the moon every evening. And be sure to savor every smell!

The Top Nine Disney Sports Movies (That Aren’t Really About Sports)

Sports can often be a metaphor for life . . .

. . . highlighting hard work, overcoming adversity, and celebrating achievement (as well as enduring the occasional “agony of defeat”). To that end, movies about sports aren’t usually “about sports”—they’re frequently about these much bigger ideas that tie us all together as humans. And sometimes, for instance, if it includes comedian Don Knotts and a mule… they’re just fun!

Read a D23-Exclusive Interview With Jon Hamm About Disney’s Million Dollar Arm ►

In honor of the upcoming release of the baseball-themed Million Dollar Arm, which stars Jon Hamm as a sports agent in an inspiring film that is definitely not entirely “about baseball,” we have selected our nine favorite Disney sports movies—many based on true stories—that aren’t really about sports.

9. Cool Runnings (1993)
Talk about overcoming obstacles. Three Jamaican sprinters are determined to form a bobsled team, despite the fact that there’s no snow in Jamaica. On their path to the Olympics, they earn the respect and adoration of their country, the world, and audiences everywhere.

8. The Rookie (2002)
After an injury sidelines a pitching career, Jim Morris (Dennis Quaid) settles into life as a high school chemistry teacher and baseball coach. Then his last-place team makes a deal with him: If they win the district championship, he will give baseball another shot. Not only does his team shoot to first place but, despite being oldest guy at try-outs, Jim manages to throw multiple 98-mph fastballs and lands a minor-league contract. Fun fact: The film was directed by John Lee Hancock, who would go on to helm Saving Mr. Banks.

7. Angels in the Outfield (1994)
This remake of the 1951 film of the same name stars a young Joseph Gordon-Levitt as Roger, a boy from a broken home who prays that the last-place Angels can come out of their slump, unaware that his prayers would be answered by a team of real angels. Full of humor, the film also sneaked up on audiences with its heartfelt tale of dreams and courage.

6. Gus (1976)
What professional sports team doesn’t dream of having a kicker who can boot the ball 100 yards with flawless accuracy… and is a mule? OK, maybe sports teams don’t dream about the mule part, but the floundering California Atoms discover Gus, the surprisingly talented football-playing mule who gives their team a winning season. (Hint: This movie is not based on a true story.)

5. Secretariat (2010)
A bit different than Gus… The story of the horse that won the 1973 Triple Crown, this incredible film is more about the transformative experience the horse’s owner—a luminous Diane Lane—undergoes as she grows from housewife and mother to game-changing sporting legend.

4. The Mighty Ducks (1992)
So popular that it spawned two sequels, The Mighty Ducks stars Emilio Estevez as Gordon Bombay, a lawyer sentenced to community service, which turns out to be coaching a peewee hockey team. Like so many other teams on our list, they weren’t doing so well. But when Gordon finally finds his groove, so does the team. And just as much as Gordon changes the kids on the team from “losers” to “winners,” the kids help Gordon change as well.

3. Invincible (2006)
In 1976, the Philadelphia Eagles hosted an unprecedented open try out for their football team. Substitute teacher and part-time bartender Vince Papale (Mark Wahlberg), whose football experience has pretty much been limited to neighborhood games, is persuaded to try out. Much to his surprise—and the shock of the team—he makes it. Even more surprising, he helps the Eagles snap out of their 11-year losing streak. Like The Rookie, the film serves as a reminder that you are never too old to follow your dream.

2. Miracle (2004)
Based on the U.S. Olympic Hockey team’s heart-racing triumph over the Soviet Union in 1980, this film beautifully illustrates that, despite long odds and slim chances, a miracle can sometimes happen. Featuring former Disney child star Kurt Russell as the team’s coach, Miracle shows how 20 players from different teams, schools, and backgrounds can all come together to represent a nation.

1. Remember the Titans (2000)
Academy Award-winner Denzel Washington (and former Mouseketeer Ryan Gosling) starred in this spectacular film about the integration of a high school football team in Alexandria, Virginia in 1971. When a young black coach (Washington) is hired to lead the team over a (white) coach with seniority, intense feelings and issues rise to the surface. But when they are finally able to look past their differences, the men are able to work together and lead their divided and unfocused team to victory.

How Disney’s Iconic Look Has Changed From 1923 to the Present Day

Lillian, Walt, Ruth, Roy, and Edna Disney pictured above outside the Disney Bros. Studio in Los Angeles, California.

With the signing of the Alice Comedies contract in 1923, Walt Disney and his brother, Roy, established the Disney Brothers Cartoon Studio. And ever since “Disney Bros. Studio” was first painted on Walt and Roy’s first production facility in Los Angeles, Disney’s trademark logo has evolved over the years to become one of the most internationally recognized brands.

Join us for a look back at how the Disney logo has changed since two brothers founded an animation studio and started what would become a household name in many languages.

Though we may not know the exact dates of when some of these logo designs were created, the eras they speak to are easily identifiable. As an example, “Disney Bros. Studio” was founded in 1923, but it is possible that this letterhead was actually introduced later, possibly in 1924. The simple lettering helps highlight the humble beginnings of one of Hollywood’s greatest success stories.

As Disney Bros. Studio grew and moved to the Hyperion Studios, a certain trademark character arrived and was added to the company’s insignia. Mickey Mouse has stayed connected with the company logo ever since.

In the years that followed, Walt’s success led him to incorporate the company, which he did on December 16, 1929, giving it the new name Walt Disney Productions. Four companies were incorporated, replacing the Disney brothers’ partnership: Walt Disney Productions, Ltd.; Walt Disney Enterprises; Liled Realty & Investment Company, Ltd.; and Disney Film Recording Company, Ltd.

The name Walt Disney Productions saw several logo and stationery letterhead treatments over the years, one of which (pictured above) showcased a variation of what would eventually become the iconic Disney typeface and graphic treatment of Walt’s scrawl. The popular company name remained a mainstay for more than 50 years. Then, in 1986, the Disney enterprise was once again renamed, this time branding itself as The Walt Disney Company.

Referred to internally at Disney as the “tah dah” Mickey, the character was updated to match the more modernized company logo of that time.

More recently in 2009, The Walt Disney Company logo was changed again, but still includes Mickey Mouse. An initial release of the new look showed Mickey Mouse walking, as above, but with his tail a bit higher so that it was covered by his hand. Realizing that this looked like Mickey was holding his tail, the logo was quickly switched out.

As Disney continues to evolve and change, we’re pleased to say that “Mickey” and “Walt Disney” continue to be the most recognized elements of what makes Disney… Disney.

D23 Exclusive: Jon Hamm’s Million Dollar Disney Magic

Jon Hamm steps out from behind his swanky Mad Men desk and steps up to the plate in his new Disney film, Million Dollar Arm. In this inspiring film that’s based on a true story, Hamm takes on the role of sports agent JB Bernstein.

Walt at the Bat: Watch This Video About Disney’s Baseball Legacy ►

In a last-ditch effort to save his career, JB stakes everything on a reality show in India designed to find the next great baseball star. He finds two hopefuls and as the boys learn the finer points of baseball, JB learns about teamwork, commitment, and what it means to be a family.

D23 grabbed a few moments to chat with the dashing actor to chat about the film—and a few of his favorite Disney moments.

D23: Why do you feel fans of Disney will enjoy Million Dollar Arm?
“The ‘Disney’ aspect of the movie is that it’s a story the entire family can enjoy. That is part of what attracted me to the project.”

Now that you’re starring in a Disney film, what’s your favorite Disney movie?
“I’m a big fan of all of the Disney animated films—going back to the early ‘Golden Age’ animation. My favorite is, oddly, Fantasia. Such an outlier of a film, yet tremendously creative.”

Do you remember your first Disney memory?
“I don’t specifically, but I also don’t remember a time in my life when I wasn’t aware of Disney.”

Who’s your favorite Disney character and why?
“Impossible to say—[there are] just too many fantastic, fascinating characters.”

Do you have favorite Disney theme park attractions?
“I came to Disneyland for the first time at the age of 9. I rode every ride in the park. Space Mountain was by far my favorite.”

Lots of famous faces go behind the mic to voice Disney characters. Is there a character —or a type of character—you’d like to voice for a Disney movie?
“If I could sing better I’d love to do an animated Disney movie. I think I’ll have to settle for being in a Pixar movie of some sort. I don’t think anyone wants to hear me sing for any extended period of time. There are people who do that kind of thing way better than I.”

Million Dollar Arm opens nationwide May 16, 2014. Check out the trailer below!