It has been a busy week around these parts with Destination D, Pirates Screening, Star Tours, and many other events occurring throughout the wonderful world of Disney. I thought I would try and play catch up by giving you my thoughts on recent events.
Pirates:
I went to a screening of Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides earlier this week. Now you know I have not been a fan of the past two films, and this film decides to try and correct the franchises course. There has been much made of the smaller budget, and to be frank, you can tell. Little of the film actually takes place at sea and there are no ship battles. But in this case, smaller may be better. The plot was more understandable and the emotional core of the story was not lost in needless spectacle. While I would not go so far as to say this film is “great”, I would encourage those turned off by the last two installments to give it a chance. While there are references to the previous films in the franchise, no prior Pirates knowledge is needed. The only major disappointment was the tag at the end of the film. If you have already seen Thor, and feel the need for a summer movie, give Pirates 4 a chance.
Star Tours:
The only thing worse than building a bad attraction is when Disney turns a good one in to a bad one. (insert favorite example here J ) I am happy to say they did not screw-up Star Tours. The attraction walks the fine-line of being familiar yet distinctly different. The things that need to be there are there (C-3PO in the queue, do-do-do-do-do, and a Rex reference), while it seems fresh and vibrant. This is not simply popping a new tape in to the VCR; this is a new experience. The queue is new, the story is new, and the experience is new. While I will miss Rex, this is a great example of Disney updating something the right way. Next stop: Tiki Room J
Destination D:
D23 held an event to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Walt Disney World Resort at the Contemporary last weekend. I had an amazing time. While I tend to be the kind of Disney fan that puts more of his attention looking forward rather than looking back, it was great to take a trip down memory lane. Doobie did a great job writing up the highlight of the event, which was the finale concert. The best part of attending a Disney fan event is the communal feeling. Where else can you join others in discussing the Orange Bird or Communicore. This sense of community was highlighted when Dreamfinder came out. Throughout the Fantasia ballroom you knew everyone had the same emotions and expressed it in their own personal way. Thank you to the D23 for putting on such a spectacular event. See you at the Expo