When Disneyland, Walt Disney World and other Disney locations were opened, their creator, Walt Disney, promised his fans that the theme parks would never be completed. Five decades after his death, Walt’s promise has been carried on through Imagineers, employees and loyal Disney-goers.
A new “Frozen” attraction, inspired by Disney’s blockbuster animated film released in 2014, is currently under development. This new ride will be located within the Norway pavilion in Walt Disney World’s EPCOT World Showcase. Set to open in 2016, this attraction will follow the storyline of the movie “Frozen,” including original characters and songs from the film.
Despite the worldwide love for the franchise, there has been an obvious growth of controversy due to the physical placement of the ride. Many Disney fans were extremely upset when the news of the older Maelstrom ride was to be removed to make room for “Frozen,” while others were excited by the announcement, arguing that the expulsion of the ride was long overdue and the pavilion needed a “modern touch.”
This topic has caused a divide amongst “Frozen” fans, young and old. Many state that the removal of a classic, cultural ride is an insult to the Norwegian representation in the park and that losing Maelstrom takes away the ability for guests to immerse themselves in their country’s culture and history.
“‘Frozen’ doesn’t represent the culture of Norway,” strings sophomore major, Mackenzie Afoon said. “Epcot is supposed to represent the different cultures of the world, and ‘Frozen’ is a fictional story.”
With only three rides inhabiting EPCOT’s World Showcase, the other two located in the Mexico and Italy pavilions, Maelstrom was a unique experience that allowed riders to view Norway’s customs in an interactive and fun way through riding a slow moving boat through various scenes, while still being educated.
Others argue that the placement of the “Frozen” attraction will be extremely beneficial for EPCOT.
The Maelstrom ride was 24 years old at the time of its closing and was rarely updated, unlike many other attractions in the parks. It did not generate a large amount of guests and was often underplayed.
By adding the “Frozen” ride, Disney hopes that more guests will be drawn to the Norway pavilion and the EPCOT World Showcase.
The franchise has been a huge money-maker for the Disney Company. With over 60% of the Pavilion’s store dedicated to “Frozen” merchandise, it has definitely shown its mark within the EPCOT Park.
By implementing the ‘Frozen’ footprint more and more, Disney Cast Members hope that an extra amount of revenue will be brought into the parks due to the placement of the ride.
There is a question among fans as to why the attraction was not placed within the New Fantasyland section of the Magic Kingdom Park, which seems to be more fitting due to the fictional plotline of the story.
Regardless, the hype of “Frozen” as a franchise will continue due to the recent release of Disney’s short animated film “Frozen Fever,” and the announcement of a sequel to the movie.
EPCOT is not the only Disney Park undergoing changes. Magic Kingdom is still profiting from its recent release of New Fantasyland, while Hollywood Studios has taken down the trademark Sorcerer’s Hat and Animal Kingdom is currently undergoing construction for a new expansion of the park modeled after the movie “Avatar.”
Thus poses the question, should those divided continue to have an all-out Disney war, or just “Let It Go?”