Hollywood Studios

American Idol Experience Review at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

by josh on May 3, 2010

American Idol Experience

Opened: February 14, 2009

Location: Echo Lake

Extra Magic Hours: No

FASTPASS: No

Type: Live theater show

Similar To: A condensed version of the American Idol television show

Requirements: None

Scary Factor: Zero, unless you find yourself on stage singing, in which case I imagine it would be terrifying.

When To Go: The last show is the finale and the best show as far as talent and excitement are concerned.  Otherwise, attend whenever it is convenient.  Shows are currently scheduled at 12pm, 1pm, 2pm, 4:30pm, 5:30pm, and the finale is at 6:30pm.

Expect to Wait: You should be able to get a good seat if you arrive about 20 minutes prior to show time during most days.  Earlier shows are much less popular than the finale, which is usually packed.  When it isn’t raining or Peak or Holiday season you can usually walk into the theater right before it starts and get a seat, but that is never guaranteed.

Length: 25 minutes

What to Expect: The American Idol Experience is similar to the American Idol television show.  The stage is huge and everything about the lighting and atmosphere is just like it looks on television.  As an audience member, you will sit in the theater and watch as three contestants sing their song followed by judge critiques.  At the conclusion of the show, you’ll have the opportunity to vote for your favorite contestant and that contestant will proceed to the finale at the end of the day.  The final show crowns the winner, who will receive a front-of-the-line type ticket to audition for the next American Idol regional audition without having to wait in the line.

How to be Selected for the Show: In order to be chosen as a contestant, you will need to audition for the show.  Please read Disney’s 15-page FAQ for all of the details if you’re interested at  http://wdw1.wdpromedia.com/media/wdw_nextgen/Site/WDWContent/Media/InternetMediaType/Attraction/AmericanIdolMiniSite/pdf/AI_FAQs.pdf

In short, the audition area is near the entrance to the usually-closed Sounds Dangerous.  Be sure to get there as early in the morning as possible.  If you think you’ll make a strong contestant and you really want to be a part of the show then I would head here immediately after the Studios opens.  First, you’ll sing any song you want a cappella to a show representative that will decide if you move on to the second audition.  If you are selected for the second audition then you choose several songs from a list that’s available here.  You will be given an IPOD with the various songs that are available, along with their arrangements.  Be aware that many of the arrangements are not the same as the originals you’ll hear on the radio or original record.  You will then be led into a room with other potential contestants where you have the opportunity to practice and listen to the various songs.  The second audition is in front of the show’s “producer” who will select the contestants that will compete in front of the audience throughout the day.

If chosen for a show, you will receive a brief lesson with a vocal instructor, get your hair and makeup refreshed, and have an opportunity to practice in the empty theater prior to the show.

Rating: 8/10

Commentary: The American Idol Experience is housed in one of the more comfortable, air-conditioned theaters at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.  This makes it an excellent destination in the afternoon heat to relax and take a break.  The show is fun to watch most of the time, but the talent of the singers isn’t always amazing.  Like in the original American Idol, one of the judges is particularly “honest,” which sometimes equates to some cringing negative comments.  Be sure to “boo” that judge liberally throughout the show.  I would recommend attending the final show of the day, which will feature the six or seven best singers from the previous shows.  All in all, this is a fun attraction for any fan of the show and most guests enjoy it, even those who don’t necessarily love American Idol.

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Beauty and the Beast Live on Stage Disney Hollywood Studios Review

by josh on May 3, 2010

Beauty and the Beast Live On Stage

Opened: November 22, 1991

Location: Sunset Boulevard

Extra Magic Hours: No

FASTPASS: No

Type: Live Broadway-style theater show

Similar To: A smaller-scale Festival of the Lion King

Requirements: None

Scary Factor: Zero

What to Expect: Beauty and the Beast Live on Stage is a Broadway-style musical featuring characters, music, and scenes from Beauty and the Beast.  The show follows the same story as Beauty and the Beast, only it’s condensed into the 25-minute show time and features six of the most popular songs.  The sets are elaborate, the costumes are first-rate, and the acting is excellent as well.  Anyone who enjoys musicals or enjoyed any of Disney’s other theater shows will certainly love this one as well.  It’s one of the better live attractions in Disney World.

When To Go: Like other theater shows, Beauty and the Beast is scheduled at certain times throughout the day.  Although the theater it covered, it’s still outside.  If it’s hot, you may want to watch when it’s cooler in the evening.  If weather isn’t a concern, then you’ll still have the best luck with either the first or last show of the day, crowd-wise.  If you show up 30 minutes prior to the scheduled start time then you should have no problem getting into any of the other shows as well.

Expect to Wait: If you want a good seat that isn’t in the sun then you’ll want to arrive about 30 minutes early.  You may be able to cut it closer for the first show or if the crowd level is low.

Length: 25 minutes

Proof is in the Pudding: Beauty and the Beast Live on Stage is the longest running stage show at any Disney Theme Park.

Rating: 9/10

Commentary: Beauty and the Beast Live on Stage would be more relaxing if the theater was indoors, but it is well-covered and shouldn’t get so hot that it’s unbearable.  At 1,500 seats, the theater is also large enough to seat most of the visitors that want to watch the show, but people are turned away from nearly every performance so you’ll want to arrive early to guarantee a good seat.  If you only have time for either Beauty and the Beast or Voyage of the Little Mermaid then I would go with whichever movie your group enjoyed more.  The performance and acting at Beauty and the Beast is better, but Voyage of the Little Mermaid is air-conditioned and has more comfortable seating.  The Little Mermaid is also a little scarier than Beauty and the Beast, so take that into consideration if you have little ones that are easily frightened.

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Fantasmic Show Review Info at Disney Hollywood Studios

by josh on May 3, 2010

Fantasmic

Opened: October 15, 1998

Location: Sunset Boulevard

Extra Magic Hours: No

FASTPASS: No

Type: Stadium show featuring theater, music, fireworks, and more

Similar To: Unique in its awesomeness

Requirements: None

What to Expect: Fantasmic takes place in a large amphitheater with a capacity of about 10,000 (7,000 seated and 3,000 standing).  The seating, on metal bleachers, is not particularly comfortable and you will need to arrive at least 60 minutes early to get a good seat on most evenings.  Other than those detractions, Fantasmic is an amazing show that features more than 50 live characters from many different Disney films, pyrotechnic explosions, lasers, fireworks, a 59-foot mountain surrounded by a moat full of 1.9 million gallons of water, and movie clips projected onto screens made entirely of water.  This is Disney’s signature evening spectacle and they pull out all the stops.

Scary Factor: Medium for young children, very low for everyone else.  Parts of Fantasmic are a bit dark and scary, especially the scene featuring Mickey’s battle with Malificent, after she turns into a 40-foot-tall fire-breathing dragon.  The show is also loud and features a number of explosions and other pyrotechnic effects, all of which may frighten those who were scared by other attractions like Honey, I Shrunk the Audience.  If your kids haven’t had any previous problems with shows then they should be fine.  You can always sit near the top and exit if necessary.

When To Go: Due to budget cuts, Fantasmic is generally only available for viewing two to three times per week, rather than every day like it has been in past years.  See available times here and click on “fireworks and parades only” for your month to check availability.  On the rare occasion there are two shows offered in the evening, go to the later showing.  It is always less crowded.  Also, be aware that since this is an outdoor show without any covering, Fantasmic does tend to get canceled in the event of rain or lightning in the area.  Disney will not announce any cancelation until right before the show is scheduled to start.  If it’s raining or appears like it might by show time, I would recommend checking on the crowd about an hour before the show is scheduled to start.  If it isn’t crowded or filling up, exit the theater and ride a nearby attraction and then return closer to show time.  There’s nothing worse than waiting 60+ minutes for Fantasmic to start, only for it to be canceled at the last minute.

Expect to Wait: You’ll want to be seated at least an hour before the show is scheduled to start.  I know it sounds excessive, but with its popularity and so few available shows, people will plan their vacation around seeing Fantasmic.  This means Hollywood Studios will be at its busiest on evenings when Fantasmic is offered.  Although there are 7,000+ seats in the amphitheater, expect shows to “sell-out” on most evenings.  Visitors may actually enter the theater about two hours before the beginning of the first scheduled show and believe it or not, there are people waiting to be let in that far in advance.

Fantasmic Package: If waiting more than an hour in the amphitheater doesn’t sound pleasant or you plan to dine at a sit-down restaurant anyway, then you may want to consider the Fantasmic Dining Package.  The Fantasmic Package includes a meal at Mama Melrose ($35 for adults and $13 for kids ages 3-9 and includes appetizer, entrée, and dessert), Hollywood & Vine ($33 for adults and $17 for kids ages 3-9 and includes the regular buffet meal), or the Hollywood Brown Derby ($50 for adults and $13 for kids ages 3-9 and includes a limited selection of appetizers, entrées, and desserts) and one ticket per person to the reserved seating area for Fantasmic.  If you’re on the Disney Dining Plan then you may also use one table service credit for either Mama Melrose or Hollywood & Vine or two table service credits for the Hollywood Brown Derby.  Reserved seats are located in the two sections on the far right of the amphitheater and are only accessible from a special entrance near the Beauty and the Beast show.  Even with the reserved ticket, you still need to arrive 30-45 minutes early for a good seat in the section closer to the center of the stage.  The good news is that you’re guaranteed to have a seat, even if it’s in the far corner of the theater.  To book the Fantasmic package, you must call 1-407-WDW-DINE to make reservations and put your credit card on file to be charged a penalty if you don’t show up.  The cost of a “no-show” is $10 per person, but you won’t be charged if you call ahead to cancel at least 48 hours before your scheduled reservation.  If you arrive at the theater and there are better seats available in the non-reserved section then you can always leave the reserved section and take the better seats.  The biggest downside to the Fantasmic Package is that the reserved seating areas are not the best seats in the theater.

Length:25 minutes

Rating: 10/10

Commentary: Fantasmic is not to be missed.  Many visitors are unaware that the show isn’t available every night and will miss it because they don’t realize it until it’s too late.  It also means visitors will have to arrive even earlier to get a seat because there are so few shows and such high demand.  This is truly unfortunate and just one example of why planning in advance is so important.  If you’re planning to eat at any of the three restaurants where the Fantasmic Package is offered, I would strongly recommend booking that package.  It will guarantee a seat and minimize the wait time a bit.  Just be aware you’ll still have to arrive no later than 30 minutes prior to show time.  Do your best to see Fantasmic because it’s one of few attractions that really “make” a Disney vacation.  You’ll be talking about this one for a long time to come.

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Great Movie Ride Review Info at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

by josh on May 3, 2010

Great Movie Ride

Opened: May 1, 1989

Location: Hollywood Boulevard

Extra Magic Hours: Evening

FASTPASS: No

Type: Dark ride

Similar To: Living With the Land, Ellen’s Energy Adventure

Requirements: None

What to Expect: The Great Movie Ride is housed inside of a full-size replica of the famous Grauman’s Chinese Theater.  The preshow area features a winding queue with movie memorabilia and then another large room with a giant movie screen that plays short clips from popular (old) movies.  If the line fills this room, you’ll probably see the same clips several times.  Once you move through that queue area, you’ll be placed in another line where you’ll wait to board a 70 person slow-moving boat similar to the ones at Ellen’s Energy Adventure.  A live narrator will board the boat with you and help move the story along as you travel through famous movie scenes that Disney has recreated with the help of animatronic characters.  Movies represented include   Alien, Casablanca, Fantasia, Mary Poppins, Raiders of the Lost Ark, The Public Enemy, and the Wizard of Oz. There are two possible storylines featured in the Great Movie Ride, but the scenes are the same for both.  The gangster story is slightly better than the cowboy theme, but both rely heavily on the enthusiasm and skill of the actors.

Scary Factor: Medium.  The following contains possible spoilers: There are a few movie clips in the preshow and animatronic scenes during the ride that may be upsetting to youngsters.  This includes a creepy scene from the movie Alien.  Although the bark is worse than the bite, there is an alien that lowers its head from the ceiling and the lighting and props are on the scary side as well.  It’s not particularly scary, but kids may be anxious about what will be shown.  The Raiders of the Lost Ark scene also includes a floor covered in snakes and skeleton props.  The gun fight between the villains and your live host may also startle kids who have trouble remembering none of it is “real.”   The problem kids may run into is that the vehicles carrying the riders move slowly and the scenes surround the boats, so kids can’t look away – only close their eyes if they get scared.

When To Go: Because The Great Movie Ride is located right at the end of the “main drag,” it’s busiest in the late morning when the majority of guests are arriving and immediately after the afternoon parade when the area is swamped again.  I would recommend visiting after 5pm, long after the parade crowd has dissipated.  Riding Toy Story Mania, Rock ‘N’ Roller Coaster, and Tower of Terror early in the morning is more important than hitting the Great Movie Ride early because of the ride’s long duration and the fact that the line won’t be as long in the afternoon as the headlining rides.

Expect to Wait: After 5pm, the line shouldn’t exceed 20 minutes unless it’s Peak or Holiday season.  Expect waits to peak in the 30-40 minute range.  The later into the evening you ride, the shorter the line should be.

Length:25 minutes

This Ride is the Reason the Hollywood Studios Exists: The Great Movie Ride was originally planned to be the centerpiece for a new Pavilion at Epcot.  Instead, newly appointed CEO Michael Eisner thought the attraction was strong enough to plan an entire new theme park around it. 

Rating: 6/10

Commentary: While we all may be able to appreciate the “classicness” of a Disney attraction, this is another ride that has remained the same for more than 20 years.  Although the live acting adds a bit of excitement and uniqueness to each visit, the story usually comes across as a bit forced and contrived.  It’s still a pleasant, relaxing, air-conditioned attraction, but it’s not nearly as fun as it would be with updated scenes and movies.  For example, there’s a scene from Tarzan, the Ape Man, which is regarded as one of the worst movies of all time.  Does it really belong in a Disney theme park in the 21st century?  On the other hand, The Public Enemy is an excellent gangster film, but how many people under the age of 75 have even seen it?  There’s certainly nothing wrong with featuring the classics, but a serious refurbishment and a change in the narration would go on a long way to making this a better attraction.  As it stands, The Great Movie Ride is a must-do for anyone interested in experiencing one of the most classic Disney attractions, but it’s unlikely to impress anyone who only cares about the latest and greatest technology.

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Honey I Shrunk the Kids Movie Set Adventure Disney Hollywood Studios

by josh on May 3, 2010

Honey I Shrunk the Kids Movie Set Adventure

Opened: December 17, 1990

Location: Streets of America

Extra Magic Hours: No

FASTPASS: No

Type: Playground for kids

Similar To: The Boneyard at Animal Kingdom

Requirements: Kids must be age four or older

What to Expect: Honey I Shrunk the Kids Movie Set Adventure is a playground area that’s geared towards kids between the ages of 4-9.  The play surface is soft, so even kids that fall or bump into things shouldn’t be hurt.  Like Honey I Shrunk the Audience at Epcot, the theme of the playground is that you’ve been shrunk by Wayne Szalinski’s shrinking machine.  Naturally, you’ll run into a 52-foot long water hose, 40-foot tall bumblebees, 30-foot tall blades of grass, and a bunch of slides and other objects to play on.

Scary Factor: Low for the kids.  With all of the oversized grass and other objects, it may be difficult for you to keep track of your little ones.  There are a lot of hiding spots which also makes it difficult to round them up when you’re ready to leave.  You may want to place an adult at both the entrance and the exit to make sure no kids wander out the door.  You’ll probably see at least one parent frantically searching for their child because it’s so easy to lose them.

When To Go: It might be difficult to get your youngsters away from this playground, so I’m not sure I would even tell them this place exists unless you’re sure to get the rest of your itinerary done or are planning the vacation around your children’s happiness.  In addition, the Movie Set has a capacity of just 250 people, including adults, kids, and everyone else, which is not nearly enough space to meet demand.  There is no time limit to how long people can stay either, so it is impossible to tell how long the wait will be.  There is also nowhere to sit and it gets extremely hot in the afternoon.  For all of these reasons, I would head here first thing after it opens (usually 10am) or late at night when it’s likely to be cooler and less crowded.

Expect to Wait: It’s hard to say because there’s no time limit.  Many visitors will also get in line expecting the attraction to be the 3D show at Epcot or something else entirely, which adds to congestion as well.  Expect to wait about 20 minutes unless visiting at the beginning or the end of the day, but it’s impossible to give an accurate generalization.

Length: Spend as much time as you can stand

Rating: 4/10

Commentary: Considering it’s difficult to get most kids away from the Playland at the local McDonald’s, imagine how hard it’s going to be to get them away from a Disney themed playground.  Unless you have limited things to do at the Hollywood Studios or have plenty of extra time, you might want to do your best to shy away from Honey I Shrunk the Kids Movie Set Adventure.  It can suck up a lot of precious time and doesn’t offer much to do for anyone over the age of ten.  On its own, it’s an excellent playground for kids and they’re sure to have a good time.  It’s just unfortunate that it gets so hot, there’s such a limited capacity, and there’s so much else to see and do at the Hollywood Studios.

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Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular Show Review Disney Hollywood Studios

by josh on May 3, 2010

Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular

Opened: August 25, 1989

Location: Echo Lake

Extra Magic Hours: No

FASTPASS: Yes

Type: Stadium show

Similar To: Lights, Motors, Action!

Requirements: None

What to Expect: Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular is a large-scale theater show that seats about 2,000 people on bleacher-style seating.  The actors perform a series of stunts that mirror those from the movie Raiders of the Lost Ark and the director explains how they are executed so they are safe and seem real.  You’ll see large explosions, sword fights, chases, gun battles, and a number of other exciting stunts that are sure to be crowd pleasers.  Several volunteers (over the age of 18) will be selected from the audience to perform minor roles throughout the show, so if you want to be chosen make sure you sit up near the front center and yell loudly when they ask for volunteers.

Scary Factor: Low.  While there are some thrilling moments on stage, the audience is never in any danger, real or imagined.

When To Go: The show is scheduled at certain times throughout the day.  The stage is covered better than Lights, Motors, Action, but may still get hot when the temperature is above 90 or so.  I would recommend going to the first or last show of the day if the Studios is particularly busy.  Otherwise, visit whenever you can conveniently fit it into your schedule.

Expect to Wait: During busy seasons you’ll want to be there at least 30 minutes early, unless you’re going to the first or last show or if you have a FASTPASS.  You can enter the theater about 20 minutes early and there is usually some pre-show entertainment that is moderately entertaining.  During less busy seasons you may be able to cut it closer to the scheduled start time, but you’ll still want to arrive early for the best seats.

Length: 30 minutes

Rating: 8/10

Commentary: The biggest complaint about the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular is that it’s the exact same show that debuted in 1989.  This won’t be a problem if you’ve never seen it or it’s been a while, but don’t go into it expecting to see a new or different show if you’ve recently visited.  I would recommend trying to fit this into your schedule even if you aren’t familiar with the Indiana Jones franchise.  The explosions, sword fights, and giant boulder need little introduction.  It’s particularly pleasant in the evening when it isn’t as hot out and you likely won’t have to show up 30 or more minutes early to get a seat.  Sit near the top right near the exit if you want to beat the crowd out of the theater and onto the next attraction.

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Journey into Narnia Prince Caspian Disney Hollywood Studios Review

by josh on May 3, 2010

Journey into Narnia – Prince Caspian

Opened: June 27, 2008

Location: Mickey Avenue

Extra Magic Hours: No

FASTPASS: No

Type: Exhibit

Similar To: Walt Disney: One Man’s Dream

Requirements: None

Scary Factor: Zero

What to Expect: Journey into Narnia is not so much a journey as it is a small walkthrough exhibit.  You’ll have the opportunity to meet Prince Caspian and get a quick picture, watch behind-the-scenes footage from the movie, see a mockup of Aslan’s Stone Table Chamber, watch some clips from the movie with some neat sound and lighting effects, and view some authentic movie memorabilia and storyboards.

When To Go: Check this out in the afternoon if there’s no wait.

Expect to Wait: There shouldn’t be much of a wait.  If it’s more than 10 minutes you’re probably better off skipping it, unless a Chronicles of Narnia exhibit is of special interest.

Length: Most visitors spend about 15 minutes

Rating: 3/10

Commentary: This isn’t so much an attraction as it is an advertisement to buy the Chronicles of Narnia Prince Caspian on DVD and Blu-ray.  If you enjoyed the books or movies, you’re walking by, and there’s no line then it may be a nice air-conditioned diversion.  Otherwise, I wouldn’t go out of my way to get here.

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Lights, Motors, Action! Extreme Stunt Show Disney Hollywood Studios

by josh on May 3, 2010

Lights, Motors, Action! Extreme Stunt Show

Opened: May 5, 2005

Location: Streets of America

Extra Magic Hours: No

FASTPASS: Yes

Type: Stadium show

Similar To: Unique in its size and scope

Requirements: None

What to Expect: Lights, Motors, Action is a stunts show spectacular featuring more than 50 crew and 40 vehicles.  You’ll see furious car chases and jet ski escapes, among other stunts that include fireballs, high-speed jumps, and 5-story falls.  All the while, the director teaches the audience about how the stunts are safely executed.  The show’s stunts are intentionally shot out of order to show the audience how movies are really filmed and then edited together in the correct order and shown on a giant screen at the end of the show.

Scary Factor: Low.  Although there are some exciting stunts, the crowd is never in any “danger,” real or perceived.

When To Go: Lights, Motors, Action is scheduled between two and five times throughout the day, depending on crowds and season.  I would recommend the last show of the day because it is usually the least crowded and cooler (weather-wise) than the shows in the afternoon or late morning.  Grab a FASTPASS when you’re in the area because you can get a FASTPASS for another attraction immediately after (you don’t have to wait for the time to come up or two hours to go by like other FASTPASS attractions). Unfortunately, the FASTPASS machines aren’t always open when crowds are low.

Expect to Wait: Depending on crowd level, you’ll probably want to head over to the stage about 20 minutes before the scheduled start time to get a good seat and avoid the rush.  The stands hold about 5,000 people and Disney schedules enough shows that everyone who wants to see it should be able to. In addition, the stage is so large that there aren’t really any bad seats.  If the Studios is packed, then you may want to check out the crowd at the second-to-last show just before it’s scheduled to start.   If you can’t get in then you’ll know you need to arrive earlier for the last show.

Length: About 35 minutes

Rating: 7/10

Commentary: While it sounds promising, Lights, Motors, Action Extreme Stunt Show is a bit of a letdown.  While the stunts are exciting, there is far too much talking and the middle of the show is particularly boring.  The uncomfortable metal stadium-style seating doesn’t help and it tends to get extremely hot during the spring and summer months because of the limited shade.  If the show is crowded, you’ll also have to climb a lot of stairs to get to the top of the stadium.  Like the Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular, this is a show you’ll likely only want to see once.  Nonetheless, I would recommend it if it isn’t too hot and you have the time.  If it was a choice between this or Indiana Jones, I would go with whichever sounds more appealing.  Although Lights, Motors, Action is far superior in its size and scope, it isn’t necessarily any more entertaining than Indiana Jones.  If you can’t decide, or they both sound fine, then I would probably go with Lights, Motors, Action unless the heat is unbearable, in which case Indiana Jones would be more comfortable.

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The Magic of Disney Animation Review Hollywood Studios

by josh on May 3, 2010

The Magic of Disney Animation

Opened: Newest iteration opened October 1, 2004

Location: Animation courtyard

Extra Magic Hours: No

FASTPASS: No

Type: Educational show and exhibit

Similar To: Unique

Requirements: None

Scary Factor: Zero.  This educational exhibit offers no thrills or frightening images.

What to Expect: The Magic of Disney Animation no longer features a tour of a real animation studio because there is no working studio to show.  Disney closed it in 2004 and consolidated animation in Anaheim.  Instead, visitors enter the attraction and watch a faux-animator sketch Mushu the dragon from Mulan while s/he explains the animation process.  Next, a cast member shows visitors what was once the animation studio and fields a few questions.  Finally, there is an optional sit-down area where guests can sketch a Disney character with the guidance of an animator.  There are also several other exhibits to check out to help pass the time until the animator finishes with the previous group or you’re ready to head back out and face the crowd.  After the presentation, visitors exit into the gift shop area where there are usually characters to meet and greet.

When To Go: The Magic of Disney Animation may not open until 11am, so make sure to check your schedule so you don’t visit early in the morning when it’s closed.  Otherwise, I would recommend visiting in the late afternoon, when you need a break from the sun and have already completed most of the headlining rides and attractions.

Expect to Wait: Disney Animation has limited capacity both for the theater show and the instructional drawing at the end of the tour.  This attraction isn’t necessarily worth waiting more than 20 minutes for, so if the line exceeds that try again later.  If this is at the top of your list then you’ll want to make your way over soon after it opens and you shouldn’t experience much of a wait at all.

Length: The initial interaction with the animator lasts about ten minutes which is followed by another five-ten minute presentation by an additional cast member.  You will then have the opportunity to sit for an additional 15 minute lesson on animation.  Altogether, expect this attraction to take between 20-40 minutes, depending on whether you stay for the optional drawing or meet the characters afterwards.

Rating: 7/10

Commentary: The Magic of Disney animation was better when it featured a live animation studio, but the current iteration is still as interesting as it is relaxing.  I recommend visiting in the afternoon to get out of the heat.  The best part of this attraction, by far, is the optional sit-down with the animator where you’ll have the opportunity to learn a bit about how difficult it is to animate a character and draw one of your own.  I would highly recommend doing this if there’s room.  It’s also a nice, free souvenir to take home.  Overall, The Magic of Disney Animation isn’t a “must-do,” but it will provide a nice break from the ruckus of the Studios and will probably make most kids swear they’re going to grow up to become a Disney animator.

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Muppet Vision 3D Review Info at Disney Hollywood Studios

by josh on May 3, 2010

Muppet Vision 3-D

Opened: May 16, 1991

Location: Streets of America

Extra Magic Hours: Morning, Evening

FASTPASS: No

Type: 3D show

Similar To: Mickey’s Philharmagic, Honey I Shrunk the Audience

Requirements: None

What to Expect: After you move through the queue, you’ll enter a large room full of crates, Muppet memorabilia, and movie poster spoofs featuring the Muppets as the main characters.  In front of the room, a number of monitors will play a 12-minute video introducing the group to the Muppets and what is about to take place.  Once the preshow concludes, you will move into the air-conditioned theater with some of the most comfortable seats at Disney World.  The show features the 3D film as well as animatronic Muppets inside of the theater and a live version of Sweetums, the large, hairy Muppet.

Scary Factor: Low.  At times the show is loud, but there is nothing here that should scare anyone of any age.  Although Muppet Vision is “similar” to It’s Tough to be a Bug and Honey I Shrunk the Audience, it is nowhere near as intense or scary.

When To Go: I would go in the late afternoon, after you’ve completed the headlining rides and shows.  The theater and preshow area are nicely air-conditioned and Muppet Vision 3-D makes for a nice break from standing in the sun.  The theater seats 584 people and the preshow allows just as many to stand and watch for a total of more than 1,000 people engaged in the attraction at any given time.  This usually means there will only be a short wait, even during Peak times.

Expect to Wait: Waits are generally 20 minutes or less throughout the day.  You should only have to wait for the next preshow to start, which should be around ten minutes depending on when you arrive.  Try again later if the wait exceeds 30 minutes.

Length: The standing preshow video takes about 12 minutes and the theater show is 17 minutes long, for a total of about 30 minutes.

Rating: 9/10

Commentary: The only problem with Muppet Vision 3D is that the attraction is still using the same 20 year old film.  It has been upgraded to digital, but it still shows signs of its age.  In addition, younger people may not be as familiar with the Muppets as the older generation.  Nonetheless, Muppet Vision remains a fantastic attraction and one of the Hollywood Studios’ pure delights.  Everyone should do their best to see it.  Doing otherwise would be unpatriotic.

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