Ever heard the phrase "Nothing is original?" Many die-hard Disney fans find themselves conflicted as newer attractions abandon original Imagineer concepts in favor of rides inspired by films, TV shows, and other Disney-owned intellectual property. While those fears aren't invalid, one new fixture might actually be a step in the right direction.
Disney fans (present company included) can often get up on their hackles anytime a classic attraction goes under the knife. Even something as simple as implementing a new figure at the Haunted Mansion can stir the pot. But what happens when Disney decides to change an entire ride?
"it's a small world with Groot" turns heads at Tokyo Disneyland
Today, Tokyo Disneyland's variant of "it's a small world" just got a whole host of new friends coming along for the ride. Groot, Rocket, and the rest of the MCU's mightiest heroes have taken over the beloved boat ride, and things have never looked more Marvel-ous.
With only some tweaks to the layout, Tokyo's take on the original Disneyland ride commissioned by Walt himself has very few differences from its American counterparts. However, this writer can't help but think this particular overlay with Groot and all his buddies exploring Mary Blair's colorful countries would do wonders here in the States.
Guests embarking on this trip around the world with Groot, the Guardians of the Galaxy, the Avengers, and other Marvel icons will see several familiar scenes from the original ride, but with some new additions with a superhero flavor. Apart from that, nothing has truly been taken away.
Pair that with the fact that this is only a seasonal overlay for a limited time, and an idea begins to hatch. How long before we see something like this at Disneyland or the Walt Disney World Resort?
Before you go to clutch your pearls, consider the direction Disney seems to be taking with many of its parks soon. We're getting a Villains expansion, new rides inspired by Indiana Jones and Encanto, among other features starring more of the company's characters. "it's a small world with Groot" might be laying the foundation for something new.
If Disney truly wants to incorporate more IP with its classic rides, why not follow this example and make it a seasonal treat? A similar practice can also be seen with the cast of The Nightmare Before Christmas every time they come to Haunted Mansion Holiday. Why doesn't Disney take this approach?
In this writer's opinion, we might be watching a testing phase for Disney fans. The newer additions like the rides might be built to last, but could their theming be altered over time? Stranger things have happened.
"it's a small world with Groot" runs from January 15 until June 30, 2025.