Disney has introduced that its worst theme park on the planet, presently within the midst of a large makeover and enlargement, might be renamed and enter anew period. This publish shares the total announcement by Imagineering and Disneyland Paris, together with new idea artwork for the reimagined park, in addition to our commentary in regards to the title change and way forward for the new-look park previously generally known as WDSP.
Disneyland Paris introduced that after transporting generations of visitors into the magic of movie-making, the second park at Disneyland Paris is coming into a brand new period marked by a recent inventive imaginative and prescient, brand-new experiences, an unprecedented enlargement, and introduction of an all-new visible id. To have a good time this new chapter, Walt Disney Studios Park (WDSP) might be renamed Disney Journey World.
The renaming of WDSP to Disney Journey World will happen when World of Frozen opens, possible in 2025. Even past that, your entire Disneyland Paris resort will proceed to raise its choices within the coming years. This follows the addition of Avengers Campus and different stuff, and can coincide with additional transformations to the again half of what’s presently generally known as the Walt Disney Studios Park.
Every anniversary brings its share of surprises, and 2024 isn’t any totally different. On April 12, Disneyland Paris lifted the curtain on an bold future for the resort. The Disneyland Paris govt and inventive groups took the stage to share details about leisure that may debut within the coming months, the following section of the continuing transformation of Disney Motels, and ongoing reimagining of Disney Village.
The resort has seen a lot of initiatives dropped at life to reinvigorate the visitor expertise and make Disneyland Paris a repeat go to and multi-day vacation spot. One of many high priorities of this 2 billion euro transformation plan is a complete makeover of Walt Disney Studios Park.
This title change to Disney Journey World is occurring whereas persevering with to develop the park with new themed areas that may be part of Marvel Avengers Campus, which welcomed its very first recruits again in 2022, in addition to Worlds of Pixar. On the finish of all of it, the soon-to-be-renamed park could have roughly doubled its footprint and develop into an all-day park worthy of the Disney title.
When it opened in 2002, the unique thought driving the creation of the second park was to present visitors a behind- the-scenes look into the making of flicks, animated function movies and tv reveals. The park idea has since developed creatively to supply extra immersive worlds, and in 2007 it launched into an thrilling enlargement journey with the launch of a number of large-scale initiatives just like the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, Toy Story Playland, and Ratatouille: The Journey.
From the current opening of Worlds of Pixar and Marvel Avengers Campus to the creation of a Frozen-inspired land, the park continues to welcome beloved franchises, permitting visitors to step into their favourite tales in a uniquely Disney approach. And the enjoyable is simply starting, as immersive worlds impressed by the most well-liked Disney films of all time develop into the cornerstone of the park’s transformation.
“Right now, we’re altering the story of Walt Disney Studios Park, evolving from ‘the way it’s executed’ soundstages to celebratory theaters and adventures that come to life in immersive worlds. These totally realized journey worlds will develop into the main focus of the park’s new id and seem as realms that visitors uncover as they navigate deeper throughout the park and are invited to take part in adventures impressed by our most beloved tales,” defined Tom Fitzgerald, Walt Disney Imagineering Chief Storytelling Govt and Senior Artistic Govt for Disneyland Paris.
“Embracing a metamorphosis that entails the overhaul of greater than 90% of Walt Disney Studios Park since its debut in 2002, we’re unveiling a recent inventive imaginative and prescient that has utterly redefined our second gate. Visitors will embark on a journey that blends the magic and emotion of our beloved franchises with explorations into faithfully recreated new worlds. This vital evolution impressed us to rename the Park, heralding a vibrant new chapter for Disneyland Paris,” added Natacha Rafalski, Présidente of Disneyland Paris.
“The brand new title will formally take impact coinciding with the grand opening of our subsequent themed land, World of Frozen, marking a harmonious begin to this thrilling new period. With our dedication to pushing the boundaries of immersion and innovation, we’re crafting breathtaking new experiences and spectacular moments at Disney Journey World hat will resonate greater than ever with our visitors. It’s set to supply distinctive adventures in immersive worlds, serving as an ideal complement to Disneyland Park.”
The most recent experiences delivered throughout the park already mirror this new inventive imaginative and prescient of Disney Journey World. Among the many additions coming quickly, World of Frozen goes to take visitors on a journey to the dominion of Arendelle with its colourful facades and memorable North Mountain which might be steadily coming into view.
The Frozen land might be effectively situated on the sting of Journey Bay, a 70,000 cubic meter physique of water surrounded by picturesque banks and a promenade on the coronary heart of the park enlargement, serving as a gateway to the brand new themed universes that may encompass it. Greater than a scenic icon, Journey Bay will function a novel leisure stage with a 360-degree viewing space. It is going to be fitted with the newest applied sciences to supply thrilling water-based leisure, full with fountains, music, lights and particular results which might be certain to thrill visitors.
That’s only the start! A brand-new themed land, the idea and design of that are presently being finalized by Imagineers, will additional improve the attraction of this reimagined park within the years to come back. Extra particulars might be shared sooner or later. (It’s protected to imagine it will occupy the plot adjoining to World of Frozen that was initially for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.)
Starting this month, the transformation work at WDSP will prolong to the doorway space to immerse visitors within the brand-new story as quickly as they step into Disney Journey World. After passing via the turnstiles, visitors might be transported right into a vibrant, up to date open-air film studio earlier than changing into particular visitors of a glamorous movie premiere within the coronary heart of Hollywood on a starry evening.
To carry this all-new immersive expertise to life, the inside décor of the “soundstage” – which presently depicts a filming scene on Hollywood Boulevard – might be changed with crafted décor that pays homage to historic film theaters in Hollywood and the leisure trade as a complete. The brand new entrance constructing, renamed World Premiere, will reopen in Spring 2025.
As soon as exterior the constructing, visitors will arrive within the coronary heart of World Premiere Plaza, an space that brings collectively theaters, presently celebrating Disney Animation and Pixar tales, in a classy Artwork Déco-inspired setting. The Walt Disney Imagineering Paris groups are already at work to show the park’s former central sq. right into a dynamic and heat setting with décor impressed by the well-known facades of Broadway and West Finish theaters. The environment might be much more vibrant and magical at evening, with shiny lights illuminating the entire expertise!
To achieve entry to the park’s immersive worlds, visitors will stroll alongside Journey Manner, a stupendous promenade surrounded by lush panorama and themed gardens. As visitors wander via this enchanting space, they are going to uncover Raiponce Tangled Spin, an all-new household attraction providing a enjoyable tackle a traditional experience, impressed by the beloved Disney Animation film Tangled. It’ll invite visitors to “take a spin” via the long-lasting floating lanterns scene that has touched the hearts of viewers of all ages.
Lastly, earlier than setting off on new adventures, visitors could have the possibility to deal with their style buds to scrumptious dishes served at The Regal View Restaurant and Lounge, a classy table-service restaurant that may provide visitors spectacular views over Journey Bay, together with an opportunity to fulfill a few of their favourite Disney Princesses.
Turning to commentary, I can already anticipate a little bit of fan backlash to this renaming. Each time there’s a title card earlier than a film that claims “Disney” as an alternative of “Walt Disney,” there’s a sure subset of followers that freak out. It doesn’t matter whether or not the movie is by a studio acquired by the corporate and arguably being at-odds with the founder’s legacy. (It undoubtedly gained’t be as vocal given the substance, however I wouldn’t be shocked if somebody says that in regards to the opening of Deadpool & Wolverine, of all issues.)
Level being, it’s a delicate topic, and I can respect the why of that, particularly as there are substantive methods through which the modern-day Disney behemoth strays from Walt’s legacy, changing into larger and fewer recognizable than the studio he and his brother based. Disney is among the few firms with the enduring legacy of its founder, a inventive core that continues to be true to that, and a fanbase protecting of it. That’s a rarity, and it’s one thing price defending.
The issue right here is that completely none of that was within the Walt Disney Studios Park within the first place. The truth is, I’d argue the precise reverse–that this was maybe the worst instance of ‘Walt-washing’ that the corporate has ever engaged in. The which means of that time period I simply coined must be pretty apparent, however in case not, it’s utilizing Walt as a handy PR defend or company mascot when it so fits the corporate to additional its personal contemporaneous greatest pursuits.
I’ve mentioned this earlier than, most notably when it’s come to Walt Disney statues or quotes to justify enterprise selections. Have you ever ever stopped to consider when these quotes are employed? It’s by no means to help a terrific change about which followers are going to be excited. There was no “Walt would’ve needed this” in relation to Radiator Springs Racers, Mystic Manor, or Fantasy Springs. All of these are nice on the deserves, so that they’re allowed to face on the deserves. It’s the controversial modifications that arguably are usually not progress that invoke Walt, sarcastically, within the title of progress.
Very same thought with the Walt Disney Studios Park. I by no means skilled the opening day model of this Parisian park, having first visited in 2012, however even after including Crush’s Coaster after which the Ratatouille darkish experience, it was nonetheless the worst Disney theme park on the planet by a large margin–the place it has stood ever since in our Disney Parks Power Rankings, that are up to date 1-2 instances per yr. The truth is, approach again in 2013, we questioned whether or not the Walt Disney Studios Park was deserving of the “Disney” title, arguing that it didn’t even have the defining traits to be known as a “theme” park.
Level being, the unique title alternative had nothing to do with the park being one thing deserving of Walt’s title. On the contrary, that call was in all probability made to paper over its many shortcomings and provide a little bit of fan service as a result of what else we’re they going to do to present that unhappy place any attraction?!
To its credit score, the Walt Disney Studios Park has made great strides since then. The present transformation of the park that’ll be accomplished within the subsequent couple of years will additional that. To be trustworthy, I’m barely disillusioned that the entrance entrance isn’t going to be razed and changed, however what they’re doing remains to be a large leap ahead in the appropriate route. Disney is investing extra now on the transformation into the soon-to-be Disney Journey World than they spent on the opening day Walt Disney Studios Park.
And actually, the most important concern with the park has at all times been mirrored within the title: studios. A excessive focus of generic trying soundstages isn’t design alternative, and one which by no means even made sense. We’ve lengthy argued that the Walt Disney Studios Park must drop the pretense that it’s in some way a “studio.”
The soundstage thought is neat in concept because it places a roof over visitors’ heads to shelter them from the weather, however execution is horrible, and it’s solely a good suggestion in concept. (Arcades, against this, are a good suggestion actually.) Apart from simply trying low-cost and cheesy, it instantly raises the curtain and takes visitors backstage, reasonably than setting a stage and introducing visitors to the park in an awe-inspiring method.
There’s no wienie drawing them additional into the park, it’s only a low-cost pass-through a mall meals courtroom with some slap-shod “within the films” decorations thrown in for good measure. Right here’s hoping all of that improves with this transformation. Deeper into the park, this sea of soundstages feels chilly and impersonal–oh, and low-cost. Very very low-cost. Which is sensible, as a result of the Walt Disney Studios Park was constructed on a budget.
Whereas these opening act sound levels will stay, a minimum of Disney Journey World is getting a ton of placemaking. Journey Bay is a robust addition, particularly provided that our largest criticism in regards to the Walt Disney Studios Park felt like that it might’ve been constructed on a Walmart parking zone–it wasn’t only a sea of sound levels earlier than, but in addition, concrete. Higher landscaping and placemaking, with water options and plush gardens, might be as transformative for this park as added points of interest. It’ll be a spot visitors need to be, as an alternative of a spot the place you get out and in as shortly as attainable.
That’s at all times been the most important concern with the Walt Disney Studios Park–that it has no sense of place or themed design to talk of…and is instantly subsequent door to what’s arguably the #1 or #2 park for themed design on the planet, after solely Tokyo DisneySea. It’s undoubtedly the best-designed citadel park, and it’s thus fairly jarring to go from that exemplar of themed design to Walt Disney Studios Park.
I knew Walt Disney Studios Park was dangerous earlier than stepping into for the primary time, however after visiting Disneyland Paris, I used to be shocked by simply how dangerous it was. Disneyland Paris units such a excessive bar, and the second gate falls woefully wanting that. Or of something, actually. It’s someplace between Six Flags and Common high quality by way of placemaking and cohesive themed design. However I digress–it is a publish in regards to the new title, not the various points with WDSP.
As for the title, Disney Journey World is ok. Nothing particular but in addition not as dangerous because it might’ve been. It’s actually higher than Disney XL Park or Disney Storyverse Park, two names that had been supposedly into account for a relaunch of Disney’s Hollywood Studios again across the time Toy Story Land and Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge had been beneath building.
Whereas it might’ve been amusing for the brand new park to be named Disney France Journey and for DHS to be renamed Disney Florida Journey for continuity with Disney California Journey—or maybe Disney’s Journey in France since solely one of many lands is themed to France—I can perceive not going that route. DCA’s theme versus its title is a bit jumbled, even when these are all studios parks.
One title I truly would’ve preferred is Disney’s CineMagique Journey (or Worlds). I want I might take credit score for this, but it surely’s a reputation that has floated round for years–which means it was one Disney thought-about. I point out that as a result of I don’t know how one can debate between Disney Journey World and Disney’s CineMagique Journey…and not select the later. It’s so clearly the higher title, with rather more character. It will be a nod to the previous of WDSP, and actually rolls off the tongue.
Disney Journey World is completely advantageous. A bit on the generic and bland aspect, however nonetheless okay. I’m a bit sympathetic to going this route, as Disneyland Paris is in comparatively distinctive place–welcoming visitors from throughout Europe and attempting to tightrope language limitations whereas juggling English and French, alongside a dozen-plus different languages. Maybe it was decided that Disney Journey World was comparatively common, whereas different choices would’ve been robust to translate.
I do assume it’ll be complicated to have a number of choices with “journey” and “world” within the title, and need Disney would department out a bit extra with its naming conference. However all the present “adventures” and “worlds” haven’t confirmed problematic or complicated to visitors but, so I assume it will in all probability be advantageous.
Amongst different issues, Disney Journey World presents a break from the previous and sheds the “studio” idea, which was its weakest hyperlink. I want it had a bit extra character and distinctiveness, however maybe followers will develop to like Disney Journey World. It’s completely attainable that it’ll simply take a while to get used to—whereas additionally experiencing the vibe of the brand new park. I’m simply glad they’re transferring on from WDSP. Like Genie, that title has develop into without end tainted, sadly.
For the fundamentals of planning a go to to Disneyland Paris, take a look at our Disneyland Paris Trip Planning Guide. Discover the most effective place to remain in Disneyland Paris Hotel Reviews. Try 101 Disneyland Paris Tips for some (101, to be actual) of our greatest random ideas for doing DLP like a professional. See Disney Park Tickets Tips & Tricks for methods to avoid wasting on tickets. For the place to eat, take a look at our Disneyland Restaurant Reviews. For distinctive concepts of issues that’ll enhance your journey, take a look at What to Pack for Disney. Lastly, for recommendation past Disney, take a look at our Ultimate Travel Guide to Paris, France.
Your Ideas
What do you consider the title Disney Journey World? Good, dangerous or detached to it? Would you’ve most well-liked retaining “Walt Disney” within the title, or is it time to make a clear break from the previous? No matter whether or not you’ve been or simply seen images, what do you consider the Walt Disney Studios Park in Paris? Do you agree or disagree with our evaluation? Any questions? Listening to your suggestions—even if you disagree with us—is each fascinating to us and useful to different readers, so please share your ideas under within the feedback!
