I'd call that one a MAJOR stretch. People are citing this one detail as the indisputable proof that it's "clearly" supposed to be Dreamfinder. Last time I checked, the word "Imagination" was not exclusively a Disney term.
Misty,
It really isn't a major stretch for one to conclude that this song might be ripped from JII. If someone can point to another, partially known song that repeats the word Imagination.... over and over.... then we can debate that issue.
Also, I don't think anyone is saying the word "Imagination" is exclusively Disney's. Not at all.
What led me to believe South Park was making a reference to JII is the combination of the three elements that everyone is citing, the funny man, the blimp flying machine, and the song. Each of these elements alone, as presented by South Park, probably would not cause us to sit-up and take notice. But the fact that all three of these elements were used... it makes it hard to not believe they are referencing Dreamfinder.
Again, as I said earlier... if they tried to make the man, the blimp, or the song closer to the actual items from JII, they would probably be talking to Disney's attorneys right now.
One other point.... after the blimp lands in "Imagination Land," that's where the references to the ride stop. No other hints, from what I saw were being tossed into the story line. Plenty of other items were presented such as:
Middle East tensions & our Military response
Saving Private Ryan
And Cartoon characters from across the spectrum.
So I know that this episode is not a specific homage to the ride, but it does give JII a nod. This is my opinion and belief. And so far, none of the arguments against it really hold water.
