It began with a frenzied cast members and media debut, now it’s out in the public. Hollywood Studios’ iconic amphitheater evening show is back but different.
Walt Disney World isn’t too shabby when it comes to nighttime spectaculars. At least it wasn’t before the 50th Anniversary replacements swept in and took out much better shows. Disney Enchanted isn’t even close to Happily Ever After. Frankly, it’s not even close to Wishes from years ago. Don’t get me started on Harmonious.
I’ve never really cared all that much for Disney World’s version of Fantasmic. Disneyland has the better version and I don’t really love it either. To me the whole thing feels bloated. I also am weirded out when people lose their minds over a cartoon mouse defeating bad guys in a battle of “good versus evil”. It’s such a strange thing to experience. When it’s combined with an audience that reacts like they’re at a religious gathering, there’s not enough soap in the world to wash off the pixie dust. I can’t help but agree with a fellow writer’s thoughts here:
It's strong evidence that Disney can charge so much and act so poorly because a percentage of their customers have brand loyalty that reaches religious fervor. https://t.co/ans2RQ888S
— wdwpro (@wdwpro1) November 4, 2022
All of that said, I don’t mean to be too negative. Fantasmic isn’t worthy of some of the crazy reactions and coverage it’s getting at the moment. Not all of it is authentic either — much of it is in an effort to gain “access”. But the new version of Fantasmic debuted at Walt Disney World does seem to be a bit of an improvement over what they had before. Is it earth-shattering? No, of course not. But it’s slightly improved in a way that also helps Disney get away from material they might deem “problematic” in their current world view. It’s easier to accept silly alterations based on political correctness when the result still is a quality upgrade. Jungle Cruise redux this is not.
But don’t take it just from me. Check out WDW 4K’s video down below and see what you think. And, if you’re so inclined, let us know in the comments below what you think about Mickey’s first appearance in his iconic red shorts. I’m not inclined, but you might be!
For all the latest news that should be fun, keep reading That Park Place. As always, drop a comment down below and let us know your thoughts!
