Once Upon an American Dream: The Story of Euro Disneyland
"As Lainsbury shows, Euro Disneyland gave great aid and comfort to Disney critics for a number of reasons: cost, political ramifications, French cries of cultural imperialism, and the financial woes of the opening year. This book is based on Lainsbury's research here and in Europe as well as on interviews, archival data, and, most convincing, his direct experience as a Disney employee. In addition to setting the record straight, he makes a strong and convincing argument for doing cultural history/cultural studies in a new way, based on aesthetic principles and an appreciation for pleasure, as opposed to the literary theory and grim Marxian analysis currently in vogue. It is a bold stroke, a plea for a more inclusive mode of analysis, better suited to what is, after all, a pleasure garden and a work of art. "--Karal Ann Marling, author ofDesigning Disney's Theme Parks: The Architecture of Reassurance"This well-written and well-documented book should appeal to readers in fields ranging from American studies and cultural studies to business and economic history, public history, and tourism studies."--Erika Doss, author ofElvis Culture: Fans, Faith, and Image