Mickey is one lucky guy. Created by animator Walt Disney in 1928, this irrepressible mouse caught a ride on a multimedia juggernaut that rocketed him into a global stratosphere of recognition, money and influence. Plus, he lives in the ‘Happiest Place on Earth,’ an ‘imagineered’ hyper-reality where the streets are always clean, the employees – called ‘cast members’ – are always upbeat and there are parades every damn day of the year.
It would be easy to hate the guy, but since Disneyland opened in 1955, he has been a pretty thoughtful host to millions of guests. There are a few potholes on Main Street, every ride during the holidays is a 60 minute que, and churros cost more than surgery. But even the most determined grouch can find something to warrant a grin. It will forever be the most magical place I know of.