In this episode of Disney Junkie, host Jennifer Miller explores the surprisingly grim roots of Pinocchio. While Disney’s 1940 adaptation gave us catchy songs and heartfelt lessons, the original tale by Carlo Collodi was far from child-friendly—complete with deception, murder, and a public outcry over Pinocchio’s tragic fate.

We compare Collodi’s serialized story to Disney’s reimagined version, unpacking the shift from mischievous puppet to innocent boy. Plus, we look at the film’s behind-the-scenes innovations, musical genius, and the fascinating reasons Pinocchio became Disney’s second animated feature—even though it flopped at its first release.

Join us as we navigate creepy donkeys, talking crickets, and the wild ride from twisted fairytale to beloved classic.

Welcome to the very first episode of Disney Junkie—a podcast for the dreamers, the deep divers, and anyone whose heart beats a little faster at the sound of a chime from Cinderella’s Castle. Whether you’re here for the pixie dust or the darker roots behind the stories, this is your new favorite corner of the Disney universe.

In this premiere episode, we take a deep dive into Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, the film that started it all. From Walt Disney’s teenage obsession with a silent film version of Snow White to the uphill battle of producing a full-length animated feature no one believed would work, this episode uncovers the origin story of Disney’s first classic.

Additionally, we’ll explore why Walt Disney chose Snow White, how its roots trace back to ancient myths, and the groundbreaking animation that brought it to life. From the evolving names of the seven dwarves to the financial risks that nearly shut it down, this episode reveals how a bold dream became a timeless classic.

Whether you’re a lifelong Disney nerd or a curious newcomer, you’ll walk away from this episode seeing Snow White in a whole new light.