I sit down with former Walt Disney Imagineer Nick DeSomov as we dive into the world of groundbreaking design and technology as Nick takes us behind the scenes of creating immersive experiences at the theme parks. From his work on the Magic Telescope concept to his role in bringing Disney characters to life and designing rock structures, Nick helps us explore the fascinating blend of artistry and innovation that goes into crafting the magic of Disney.
Nick DeSomov began his journey in the film industry at the tender age of 15, when he found himself working as a floor sweeper for small special effects studios in Hollywood during summer trips to visit his father. These experiences sparked his interest in the craft of filmmaking, leading him to learn the intricacies of mold-making and sculpting. Under the guidance of a dedicated mentor, Nick spent the next six years honing his skills and working on various projects. Although some of these projects may have seemed insignificant to others, they were milestones in his journey. Notably, Nick’s first venture was contributing to the iconic Star Trek The Motion Picture, where his tasks included applying stickers to phasers and tidying up molds. These humble beginnings laid the foundation for Nick’s future success in the industry.
In this week’s episode, Lou Mongello sits down with Nick DeSomov, a former Walt Disney Imagineer with a fascinating background in theme park design and cutting-edge technology.
In this episode, we dive deep into Nick DeSomov’s incredible journey from working on the iconic Disneyland concept to becoming a pioneer in virtual reality and advanced digital puppeteering.
Discover the secrets behind the creation of Disneyland Paris, as Nick shares his experiences in digitizing and crafting the park’s breathtaking rock structures. Get an exclusive glimpse into the meticulous attention to detail exhibited by Disney in seamlessly blending different lands and employing visual storytelling techniques.
Uncover the groundbreaking technological advancements Disney has been at the forefront of, from early prototypes of virtual reality to real-time puppeteering digital graphics. Nick sheds light on Disney’s investment in state-of-the-art technology and their research on improving roller coaster experiences.
But that’s not all! Nick also reveals intriguing insights about the unique relationship between Disney, the government, and the military, resulting in access to cutting-edge technology. Plus, hear how Nick’s expertise led to the creation of the first digital design studio at Imagineering.
Hold onto your hats as we explore the enchanting world of interactive characters and the behind-the-scenes process of bringing beloved Disney characters to life. From concept to playtesting, find out how Disney ensures the most magical experiences for guests in their theme parks.
But Nick’s journey doesn’t stop there! Learn about their remarkable new company, Strat, which aims to revolutionize manufacturing by bringing it back to the United States. Discover their flagship project, the Doll for all, a collectible doll designed for children with prosthetic arms or certain defects, empowering them with a relatable and inclusive toy.
Tune in for an episode filled with incredible stories, technological wonders, and a passion for bringing dreams to life. Get ready to be captivated by Nick DeSomov’s extraordinary contributions to the world of Disney and beyond.
Thanks to Nick DeSomov for joining me this week. Find Nick at Geekydom.com
The key moments in this episode are:
I. Introduction
- Introduction of Nick and their background in theme park design and digitization
II. Working on the Magic Telescope concept for Disneyland
- Nick’s involvement in designing the Magic Telescope concept
- Importance of virtual reality (VR) technology in creating immersive experiences
III. Training and experience in 3D modeling and digitizing Disney characters
- Nick’s training in 3D modeling and digitization
- Contribution to digitizing the model for the movie Aladdin and Magic Harbor ride at Epcot
IV. Experience in architectural modeling and carving for film miniatures
- Nick’s role in architectural modeling and carving for film miniatures
- Assigned to work on a tabletop miniature of Disneyland Paris theme park
- Creation of the Fantasy Land castle and surrounding berm area
V. Learning rock work and its importance in theme park design
- Initial lack of interest in rock work and Nick’s role in learning it
- Collaboration with show producer and rock master in finalizing pieces for building rocks
VI. The design and line of sight details in Disneyland Paris
- Explore the seamless blend between different lands in Disneyland Paris
- Importance of line of sight details and visual storytelling techniques
VII. Digitizing and coordinating the installation of rock structures throughout Disneyland Paris
- Nick’s involvement in digitizing and installing rock structures in the park
- Use of foam carving and GFRC techniques for creating rocks
VIII. Immersive experiences in Dragonslayer at Disneyland Paris
- Description of the immersive experience in Dragonslayer, including animatronics and special effects
IX. Disney’s advancements in technology and influence on different industries
- Disney’s pioneering work in virtual reality and other advanced technologies
- Influence of Disney’s technology advancements on mainstream trends
- Examples of Disney’s technological innovations, such as real-time puppeteering and interactive caves
X. Dreaming and exploring parts of Imagineering
- Nick’s dreams and aspirations related to theme park design
- Disney’s unique relationship with government and military in accessing new technology
XI. Creating interactive characters for theme parks
- Process of conceptualizing and creating interactive characters, using Goofy as an example
- Playtesting and adjustments based on feedback from children and adults
XII. Involvement in the Wally robot project
- Nick’s role in working on the Wally robot and its various phases
XIII. Geekydom.com and co-founding Strat
- Nick’s affiliation with Geekydom.com and collaboration with Blaze Gova
- Introduction of Strat and its aim to bring manufacturing back to the US
- Overview of Strat’s flagship project, the Doll for all, designed for children with prosthetic arms
XIV. Early experience in TV and molding for TV productions
- Nick’s early experience in TV and working on molds and models for spaceships
XV. The journey to Imagineering and working on the EDL project
- Nick’s journey to Imagineering and their role as a dimensional designer
- Surprise about the emphasis on cleanliness at Disney
XVI. Enhancing queue experiences with temporary and interactive techniques
- Examples of temporary techniques to entertain people in queues, such as reprogramming a Roomba vacuum cleaner
- Use of 3D holographic imagery to enhance queue storytelling
XVII. Leaving Imagineering and working on the Adventure Dome in Las Vegas
- Reasons for leaving Imagineering and taking on a challenging project in Las Vegas
- Design and construction of the Adventure Dome within a tight timeline
XVIII. Unorthodox rock fabrication process for the Adventure Dome
- Nick’s approach to rock fabrication and design for the Adventure Dome
Overall, the episode covers Nick’s journey in theme park design, their experiences at Disney and Imagineering, advancements in technology, and their current projects in collectible doll manufacturing.
Timestamped summary of this episode:
- 00:02:29 Introduction to eclectic life of creating things.
- 00:10:40 Assessment of skills leads to niche assignment.
- 00:15:22 Disney’s tech gave me revolutionary design opportunity.
- 00:21:13 Line of sight details create seamless theme park experience.
- 00:27:54 Star Wars, Pandora, attention to details
- 00:32:25 Disney tests characters for theme parks. Goofy is a popular character for testing. Play testing and adjustments determine success. Wally robot was a cute and fun success.
- 00:39:22 Enhancements to queues include interactive robots, holographic imagery.
- 00:44:25 Disneyland’s Magic Telescope for Blue Sky concept development. VR team with million-dollar graphic card. Digitizing Disney characters for Aladdin and Magic Harbor ride.
- 00:50:06 Disney pioneers, influences and shapes future technologies.
- 00:57:22 Challenging project in Vegas designing rock work.
- 01:05:49 Geekydom.com and Strat: Collectibles and Manufacturing.
- 01:08:15 Geeky Dom Studios: Remarkable work appreciated worldwide.
Which Disney theme park design or technological advancement mentioned in the episode are you most fascinated by and why?
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Episode Transcript
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