Here Are a Few Movies Based on Rides at Disney Theme Parks, Now Available for Streaming on Disney+
The Walt Disney Company has rides inspired by movies but, few know that movies have been inspired by the rides. From The Haunted Mansion to Disney’s soon-to-be released feature film, The Jungle Cruise, here are a few movies that were inspired by rides in Disneyland and Walt Disney World.
The Pirates of the Carribean ride inspired Jack Sparrow and the fantasy franchise
Perhaps one of the most successful franchises created by Disney, Pirates of the Carribean, is actually based on the ride in Disneyland and Disney World. As one of the first attractions to open at both theme parks, this ride was later updated to reflect the characters of the movies.
That includes the eccentric and lovable Jack Sparrow, who was portrayed in the films by Johnny Depp. (Sometimes, the actor even dresses in character and surprises Disneyland guests on the ride!)
Eddie Murphy starred in a movie inspired by ‘The Haunted Mansion’
This ride has 999 happy haunts, but there’s always room for one more. For over 50 years, The Haunted Mansion has been a beloved attraction of Disneyland in Anaheim. Later, the Haunted Mansion was one of the opening day attractions in Walt Disney World of Orlando, opening during 1971.
Some of the ride’s creepy characters appeared in Disney’s feature film, The Haunted Mansion, which premiered in 2003. Featuring Eddie Murphy, this film told the story of one family who stumbles upon our beloved mansion during a real estate venture. It’s a comedic and light-hearted movie that still highlights some of the aspects of the original Disneyland ride.
A ‘Jungle Cruise’ movie, starring the Rock and Emily Blunt, is coming to theaters
Another one of Disneyland’s and Disney World’s oldest rides is the Jungle Cruise. According to The Hollywood Reporter, even the Chief creative officer at Pixar and Walt Disney Animation Studios John Lasseter was once a Skipper for this ride.
Now, Disney is making a live-action movie based on this attraction. The movie stars Emily Blunt, (previously the title character of Mary Poppins Returns) and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson (the voice of Maui from Moana.) The Jungle Cruise will premiere in theaters July 24, 2020. Some fans are already excited about this adventure — and to see the backside of water on the silver screen.
Some rides in Disney are inspired by Marvel, Disney, Star Wars, and Pixar movies
With the acquisition of Pixar, Marvel, and Lucasfilm by Disney, some rides inspired by movies appeared across the theme parks. Some of the most recently imagined rides include Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: Breakout! and Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, opening in Epcot later this year.
Disney even created sections of theme parks regarding these movies. There’s Cars Land in Disneyland, Pandora: The World of Avatar in Animal Kingdom, and Toy Story Land in Hollywood Studios. Recently, the company opened Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge in their California and Florida theme parks, complete with two new rides and interactive experiences.
Disney movies, including Toy Story, Avatar, Star Wars: The Force Awakens, and Pirates of the Carribean: The Curse of the Black Pearl, are available on their streaming service. To learn more about Disney+ and to subscribe, visit their website.