As I have discussed on Disney In Depth recently, the purchase of three key film properties – Pixar, Marvel and Lucasfilm – that have further realized Disney’s influence in the entertainment industry. Even the 2004 acquisition of The Muppets has forever changed the outlook for Jim Henson’s most adored faces. All of these characters unite the geek community, even those who enjoy Disney. In this edition, I will share some popular YouTube videos that spoof Marvel Studios, Pixar, Muppet, Star Wars and “regular” Disney films by featuring some famous personalities from the whole Disney universe.

“‘Disney / Pixar’s AVENGERS ASSEMBLE’ – (Original) Mash-Up Trailer (HD)”

In this awe-inspiring mash-up by user Bmoneyrulz that showcases the Pixar gang as The Avengers, we see what a superhero team in the form of our computer-generated buddies would resemble. Featuring the trailer audio from The Avengers, Nick Fury (as voiced by Samuel L. Jackson and visually-depicted by his Pixar character, Frozone, from The Incredibles) recruits the bunch. Of course green-bodied Mike Wazowski is the Hulk. I love how the sound of Iron Man soaring matches with the clip of Buzz Lightyear targeting his laser toward the evil robots on Zurg’s planet. What make these parodies so entertaining to watch is observing how all of the elements add up and blend together seamlessly. This one, like many others, encourages viewers to cheer for the supers!

“Star Wars: Tron Legacy”

The original trailers for the sensational Tron: Legacy energized viewers with frenzied excitement, and the audio for one of them matches the amazing visuals of the Star Wars films. User kevfleth does a masterful job with this mixture, such as assuming Alec Guinness in the role of Bruce Boxleitner‘s Alan Bradley. Of course the dazzling Star Wars space transports’ sights and sounds perfectly fill in for the vehicles found on The Grid. One must also love the “I’m not your father, Sam” line matching to Vader’s image. I am constantly impressed by the careful editing these movie fans take to develop these creations. I would surely love to see a potential Tron 3 utilize the Star Wars characters. How about you?

“Toy Avengers – Toy Story vs. The Avengers Trailer Mash-Up”

If you thought witnessing the entire Pixar clan as The Avengers was pretty awesome, how about seeing the whole Toy Story crew? Though this one by user MrMovieMonkey remains more focused in the character set, this teaser trailer audio for The Avengers nicely corresponds with the action-packed scenes from the Pixar trilogy. Here again is Buzz as Iron Man – the mask must be the reason for his selection in that role. Andy’s toys serve as the other members of the elite group of heroes. I love how nervous Rex shows his fury for a change, as that massive green monster known as Hulk. What an opportunity, Rex. Go seize it.

“Captain America The First Avenger (Original Trailer Re Cut)”

Why has this energetic spoof of Captain America: The First Avenger, starring the insects of A Bug’s Life, not received more attention? User Cracker76 nicely places optimistic Flik into the role of Steve Rogers and threatening Hopper as Tommy Lee Jones’ Colonel Chester Phillips, with the dialogue matching the Pixar creations’ mouth movements, more notably at the beginning of the trailer. It only makes sense to use the colony of ants and grasshoppers as the soldiers, and I enjoy the tension that develops further into the piece.

“The Muppets (2011) Trailer – Toy Story”

We all loved the original trailer for The Muppets, which seemed like a pure romantic comedy with Jason Segel and Amy Adams – until Kermit and his pals entered the scene. Then we knew it was a Muppet movie. Now let’s see an even bigger twist, with Buzz Lightyear and Jessie in the central characters’ roles. That is the premise behind this fun spoof from user keepmeposted25. I shrieked with laughter when I heard Miss Piggy in the form of Hamm. I suppose one swine must substitute for another. Enjoyment infuses into this Muppet mayhem-filled mash-up. Who would not want to watch another Toy Story film with those guys voiced by Fozzie Bear, Gonzo, and company?

“gryffonmanic Disney Trailer – Cars 2 Trailer”

While Cars 2 may have been one of Pixar’s more disappointing efforts, perhaps if Mickey Mouse and Goofy played roles it could have been better. Surely this trailer spoof by user gryffonmania makes it look that way, using two of the most popular Disney characters as Lightning McQueen and Mater, respectively. Wouldn’t you have loved to listen to a Larry the Cable Guy version of Goofy? This premise looks more exciting than the entirety of Cars 2. And who can argue with a Michael Caine version of Zazu? Certainly not me.

“John Carter” Tarzan – A Mash-Up Trailer (HD)”

I felt extremely discouraged when the general public overlooked catching John Carter in the theatres. Now I must wonder if perhaps marketing it with another Edgar Rice Burroughs character would have made a difference in the box office results. After watching this spoof, another one by user BmoneyRulz, I am thinking Tarzan’s inclusion could have helped. Disney’s version of the “ape man” translates perfectly to the parody, as the protagonists of each of the Burroughs stories possess so many similarities. The misunderstood man who questions his belonging in a hostile environment. What a useful translation. This should encourage viewers to check out both Disney’s Tarzan and also the sadly-ignored John Carter.

Here’s wishing all of you a Happy Thanksgiving and a wonderful holiday season. This is Brett Nachman, signing off. Return back next week for another edition of Disney In Depth. Catch alerts for upcoming editions of the column by following me on Twitter. Have a good week!