Disney movies, Online Disney movies, New Disney Movies

• 08Nis

  Muppet Vision 3-D

  Disney's Hollywood Studios No Comments

  Muppet Vision 3D_05Opened: May 1991

  Fun Fact: Name changed from Jim Henson’s Muppet*Vision 3-D on 10/1/04

  

  Muppet*Vision 3-D is in a word “cute.” Its also very funny, so make that three words “cute and funny.” This is one of those attractions that brings smiles to kids and adults.

  Muppet*Vision 3-D entertains you from the moment you get on line all the way through to the show itself. The posters along the queue show the Muppets as “stars” of some popular movies.

  The pre-show is one of the best. Amidst the props, there are elevated TV screens that are easily seen no matter where you are. A video about the “spectacular” 3-D show that lies ahead featuring Gonzo, Scooter and Sam Eagle is shown. You’ll also be instructed about theater protocol and to move to the end of the row when you enter. In the words of Sam Eagle, to do otherwise is “very unpatriotic.”

  While you’re in the lobby, take the time to look around. Among the crates and boxes are some great sight gags. See if you can find “a net full of jello” (Get it, Annette Funicello.) HEY! No groans please.

  The doors open and you’re ushered into the 584 seat theater. As Sam Eagle said, move to the end of the row. No matter where you are, you’ll have a good view. Up in the balcony is Waldorf and Statler. Betcha didn’t know that Jim Henson did the voice of Waldorf. He’s also Kermit and the Swedish Chef. (When you hear the Chef, be sure to turn around and look at the back of the theater.)

  The basic premise is that the Muppets are going to put on a variety show starring the multi-talented Miss Piggy. Kermit tries to make the cast and crew happy, but mishaps get in the way. Fans of the old Muppet Show should recognize most of the characters, but then there’s Waldo, a new 3-D character who wreaks havoc during the production.

  There are plenty of surprises along the way. We won’t spoil it for you, but this is one show that ends with a bang!

• 08Nis

  The Magic of Disney Animation

  Disney's Hollywood Studios No Comments

  Mushu, the mischievous dragon from Mulan, takes center stage in this tour.

  

  The tour begins in a cozy theater where a Disney Animator brings Mushu to the screen. While the animators are often a bit awkward in their role as host, Mushu makes it fun. It’s a cute and infomative presentation that all ages can enjoy.

  Once this brief introduction to the animation process is over, you’ll go into the next section where there’s a selection of interactive displays that you’re welcome to “play” with.

  You can became the voice of a Disney character by either singing or acting your part.

  There’s another display where you’re quizzed to find out which Disney character you’re most like.

  If you’re feeling artistic, you can “paint” your choice of a Disney character. For the ultimate animation experience, you can sit in on a class hosted by a Disney Animator and learn how to draw a character.

  When you’re ready to leave, you’ll pass through a display area which highlights different Disney achievements in Animation and you’ll go right into a retail store featuring cels and collectibles.

• 06Nis

  Lights, Motors, Action! Extreme Stunt Show

  Disney's Hollywood Studios No Comments

  Lights, Motors, Action! Extreme Stunt Show

  “Lights, Motors, Action! Extreme Stunt Show” was introduced during the “Happiest Celebration on Earth.”

  

  This fast paced action adventure uses specially designed cars, jet skis and motorcycles in a high speed pursuit. Some vehicles are designed to drive in reverse, while one splits in half. You’ll know which car is the “hero” and which is the “villain” by color coding.

  The 177,000 square foot, 5000 seat stadium which is home to the “Lights, Motors, Action! Extreme Stunt Show” is one of the largest venues in WDW. Set in a Mediterranean village, a “spy thriller” is filmed live with explosions, jumps, spins and death defying stunts.

  

  Guests first pass through the garage (atelier). There are six large windows where you can watch the technicians’ fine tune the customized vehicles used in this attraction.

  Filmmaking secrets are revealed as you learn how Hollywood creates the memorable chase scenes that leave you on the edge of your seat.

  

  Segments of this energetic attraction are taped and shown on oversized screens, highlighting how the different camera angles enhance the special effects.

  The cast of professional drivers, stunt managers, production crew, director and assistant director will invite a select few audience members to participate in the fun.

  The “Lights, Motors, Action! Extreme Stunt Show” is based on the popular “Stunt Show Spectacular” enjoyed by visitors to Disneyland Paris.

  

• 06Nis

  Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular

  Disney's Hollywood Studios No Comments

  Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular

  The Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular is a “must see” for fans of “Raiders of the Lost Ark.” Stunt Coordinator, Glenn Randall, of the Indiana Jones movies, directs this extravaganza.

  Exciting scenes from “Raiders of the Lost Ark” are re-enacted. The talented stuntmen/women are joined by audience volunteers. (If you want to participate, be very, very enthusiastic and you just might get picked..)

  Fights, fires, chases and explosions are the norm in this fast paced show. (If you sit towards the front, you’ll feel the heat of the flames.) The Cairo marketplace scene includes some great acrobatics.

  This 30 minute “Spectacular” opened in August of ’89 and still attracts crowds, so much so that it’s a Fastpass attraction.

  This show is wheelchair accessible. For Guests who are hearing impaired, assistive listening devices are available from Guest Services.

  

  

  

  

  

  

• 06Nis

  Honey, I Shrunk the Kids

  Disney's Hollywood Studios No Comments

  Honey, I Shrunk the Kids

  Movie Set Adventure

  Honey I Shrunk the Kids Movie Set Adventure While not an actual attraction, kids can make their own fun in this 11,000 square foot play area based on the “Honey I Shrunk the Kids” movie.

  Surrounded by 30 foot tall blades of grass, oversized mushrooms, 40 foot tall bumblebees and a huge 52 foot leaking garden hose, children can explore the root maze tunnels, sit on a giant ant and slide down larger than life film strips, flower petals and tree stumps.

  There’s a huge “spider web” for climbing and gynormous breakfast cereal O’s. This is a great place for kids to let off steam and just run around for awhile. Be warned, it’s easy to lose sight of the little guys. Cast Members are stationed at entrances and exits, to ensure that children leaving the area are accompanied by their parents. This area is wheelchair accessible.

  

  

  

• 01Nis

  The Great Movie Ride

  Disney's Hollywood Studios 1 Comment

  

  

  

  The Great Movie Ride

  If you’re a movie buff, then you won’t want to miss seeing some old favorites in the Great Movie Ride. This attraction is housed in a full-scale replica of Hollywood’s legendary Graumann’s Chinese Theater. Outside the theater you’ll find hand, foot (and paw) cement prints of popular Disney stars and characters.

  The ride itself takes about 20 minutes, but that’s not taking the Great Movie Ride queue into consideration. The wait usually isn’t too bad, but ask the Cast Member monitoring the line just in case you have something planned and may not have the time to do this one.

  The queue for the Great Movie Ride is one of the more entertaining lines to wait on. The theater “lobby” is pretty impressive. The first part is where you’ll see movie memorabilia such as the carousel horse from Mary Poppins and one of the three pairs of ruby slippers from the Wizard of Oz.

  The next queue section has you weaving back and forth while watching movie clips on the big screen. Pay attention since these are a glimpse at what you’ll see recreated inside.

  From here, you enter a cavernous set where “ushers” will direct you to the large trams. These are actually two sets of trams that split up early into the show. Depending on which section you’re in, your tram is hijacked by either a gangster or a Western bandit while your hapless host/hostess is left behind. Don’t worry, you’re reunited thanks to “movie magic.”

  Using film footage, special effects and Audio-animatronic figures of famous actors, guests are treated to scenes from “Casablanca”, “Tarzan”, “Mary Poppins”, “Singin’ in the Rain”, “Fantasia,” “Wizard of Oz”, “Raiders of the Lost Ark” and “Alien”.

  TIP: The Alien scene on the Great Movie Ride is quite intense and may be frightening to children.

  The finale features a sentimental film montage sure to bring a smile. Old and new clips are combined in a memorable recollection of some classic movie moments.

  The Great Movie Ride appeals to all age groups. Guests using ECVs must be able to transfer to a wheelchair.

• 01Nis

  Fantasmic

  Disney's Hollywood Studios No Comments

  Fantasmic!

  Fantasmic Overview

  Opened Oct. 15, 1998

  Show length: 26 minutes

  NOTE: Fantasmic might be too scary for little kids

  Fantasmic takes place in the Hollywood Hills Amphitheater located near “The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror” and “Beauty and the Beast-Live On Stage”. Watch Sorcerer Mickey battle Disney Villains in this sensational laser and light show.

  The amphitheater opens 90 minutes before the show begins. You can bring in outside food or purchase snacks inside. You can also book a Fantasmic Dinner Package which gives you reserved seating.

  There are long rows of metal benches that are banked for easy viewing. It’s designed after the famous Hollywood Bowl and can accommodate 1500 guests. While it’s tempting to run down to the front, the “water screens” used in a lot of the sequences often produces a light mist that could head right in your direction.

  Fantasmic originated in Disneyland. While parts of the show are similar, there are differences. (It’s rare for those who have seen both prefer the Disney World version.)

  As noted above, its rare that a performance doesn’t have a parent scrambling out with their terrified child. The Disney Villains can be pretty scary, especially when its dark and they’re larger than life. If your little guy is sensitive, think twice about going until they’re older and can understand what’s going on.

  The finale is a lot of fun. An 80 foot replica of the ship from “Steamboat Wille” features 26 Disney characters waving and singing as they go by.

  If you want to take advantage of priority seating and skip the usual long wait to get into this show, book the Fantasmic Dinner Package

  TIP: If you’re visiting during a busy time of year, there are usually two performances scheduled. Go to the second one for a less crowded experience.

  FUN FACTS:

  - The moat surrounding the show contains approximately 1.9 million gallons of water.

  - The mountain stands approximately 57.5 feet above the water.

  - The fire-breathing dragon rises 50 feet into the air and has a wing span of 50 feet.

• 01Nis

  Beauty and the Beast Stage Show

  Disney's Hollywood Studios No Comments

  Beauty and the Beast Stage Show

  Original Opening Date: November 22, 1991

  

  

  

  

  The Theater of the Stars is home to this spectacular 25 minute mini production of the hit movie, “Beauty and the Beast”. Guests are able to enjoy the top notch singing, choreography, dancing, sets and the spectacular costumes, in a canopy covered outdoor amphitheater.

  This production recreates some of the scenes from the movie. A standout number is “Be Our Guest”. The romantic finale finishes with the dramatic effect of the release of white doves.

  Music: “Beauty and the Beast” (music by Alan Menken and lyrics by Howard Ashman), are performed during the show. They are listed alphabetically by title and do not necessarily represent the order of presentation. You will hear the following songs from the Disney animated feature film: “Be Our Guest”, “Beauty and the Beast”, “Belle”, “Gaston”, “The Mob Song” and “Something There”.

  This is a popular show but don’t worry if line-ups are long, the theater holds 1500 people so once the gates open, lines will diminish quickly. For guests with hearing impairments, assistive listening devices may be used here, check at Guest Services for more details. The show is wheelchair accessible.

• 01Nis

  Disney’s Hollywood Studios Backlot Tour

  Disney's Hollywood Studios No Comments

  Disney’s Hollywood Studios Backlot Tour

  Backlot Tour Opened: May 1, 1989

  Fun Fact: Originally named Backstage Studio Tour

  

  

  The Disney’s Hollywood Studios Backlot Tour combines two demonstrations of special effects. One thing to know up front, this attraction will take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour. If you don’t have that much time to commit, save it for another visit.

  The first queue has TV monitors placed throughout the area. You’ll watch a video clip that explains what goes on behind the scenes to create the special effects from some popular movies. They’ll also be looking for volunteers to participate in the first FX demonstration. (If you’re interested, try to be near the front of the line.)

  From here you head to an outdoor viewing area where you stand behind railings to see the Special Effects Water Tank. The “lucky” volunteers will get firsthand experience in re-enacting nautical battle scenes.

  Following this “damp” presentation, you walk through a prop warehouse. You may recognize a few items from familiar Disney movies, but by now you’re mostly looking for a chance to sit down, especially if it’s a hot day.

  Next step, boarding the tram. They’re covered by a canopy but otherwise open so don’t expect A/C. Still, it’s a pleasant ride and you get some great photo ops. The tram passes through production bungalows, the wardrobe department (where you can watch the costumers at work), and the scenery shop. Along the way you pass topiaries and vehicles that have been used in Disney movies.

  Finally, you reach Catastrophe Canyon. (SKIP THE REST OF THIS PARAGRAPH IF YOU WANT TO BE SURPRISED.) The tram comes to a stop. Before you know it, the ground starts shaking, the tram starts rockin’, a fuel truck crashes, sparks cause a fiery explosion and it all ends in a flash flood. PHEW! It’s amazing how much happens within the span of a minute. This is the best part of the attraction. Sit on the left if you want to be closest to the action. (You might get a little bit wet, but it’s not bad at all.)

  After a drive past the Streets of America, the ride ends and you’re let out at the American Film Institute Showcase Shop. There are costumes/props on display and movie/TV themed merchandise for sale. You may have started to notice a trend. A lot of the attractions empty out into a store. Coincidence? I think not.

  While a bit on the long side, the Disney’s Hollywood Studio Backlot Tour has something for everyone that all age groups can enjoy. While not a major attraction, it is quite busy for most of the day.

  The tour is wheelchair accessible. For deaf guests, sign language interpreters are available if you have made arrangements with the Sign Language Coordinator 2 weeks prior to your visit.

  Tags: disney movie

• 01Nis

  American Idol Attraction(OPENING IN LATE 2008)

  Disney's Hollywood Studios 1 Comment

  

  

  American Idol Attraction

  OPENING IN LATE 2008

  Kelly Clarkson wannabe’s can have their shot at fame at the new American Idol attraction coming to Disney Hollywood Studios. Guests who register will audition before a producer to be cast in a theme park show. After being prepped with hair, make-up and a vocal coach, they’ll perform in front of a panel of American Idol judges and ‘live’ audience.

  Those with the highest number of votes will compete at the end of day Grand Finale show. The winner of this daily event gets a guaranteed reservation at a future American Idol regional stadium audition without having to wait on the long lines. (That is the only advantage that the Disney Hollywood competition finalists have. They will still need to compete with the rest of the applicants.)

  The American Idol Attraction is being developed in partnership with Simon Fuller’s 19 Entertainment, the creative force behind Idol.

  NEWS STORY

  American Idol coming to Disney World

  Feb 8, 2008

  Disney’s Hollywood Studios is partnering with Simon Fuller’s 19 Entertainment and FreMantleMedia in opening the ‘American Idol’ attraction.

  Slated to debut in late 2008, this attraction will host daily auditions/competitions for park guests who register. At the end of the day, a Grand Finale performance will take place with that day’s winners participating. The ‘Idol’ chosen as the day’s best gets a spot at the front of the line at a regional Idol competition. While there’s no guarantee that they will be chosen to audition in front of Idol’s judges, they will bypass the long waits.

  When asked about Idol’s affiliation with Fox broadcasting as opposed to Disney’s ABC network, Keith Hindle, FremantleMedia’s licensing vice president stated “It is owned by us, so we can extend the brand in the off-air space in the ways that we want to. We don’t see this in any way as a NewsCorp. vs. Disney debate. That’s never been part of the discussion, and it’s not something that’s relevant to us. It’s just part of ‘American Idol.’”

  The Disney competition will be open for guests age 14 and up. Since American Idol is limited to participants in the 16 to 28 year age group, the winner of Disney’s contest can transfer their pass to a friend or family member or, in the case of those under age 16, save it for a future Idol competition. The pass cannot be sold.

  Throughout the year, actual Idol stars may be scheduled to perform at WDW and themed merchandise will be for sale. Hindle said “It’s a very collaborative process. Disney knows more about live stage productions that we ever will. We know more about our TV show that Disney ever will. Exactly how this will manifest it is something that will be mutually approved by all parties. We’re looking to Disney to see how their guests like to be entertained.”

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