The print is the same, and though the inn theater effects are slightly altered, it’s just like sitting in the theater 20 years ago. Amazingly, it’s nice to know that a Lucas-produced film has not been modernized with new special effects and alternate scenes.
If you have never seen the film and don’t know the story, Michael Jackson is Captain EO, who with his rag tag band of alien creatures travels across the galaxy to find and alien queen and deliver a gift. This gift is in the form of a song that will change the world, from a dark, gloomy, evil world to one that sings and dances in a 80’s version Munchkinland.
But how long will this attraction last? The film attraction originally played throughout the 80’s and 90’s during the pinnacle of Jackson’s career. But, as with most attractions, the time comes for an update. No other film-based attraction has had such a following as this. However, the excitement for this film may have already diminished. Tuesday’s opening crowd saw a Tomorrowland packed to capacity. The Thursday morning crowd was very light. I was able to get into the first show of the day with only a 2/3 full audience.
I doubt HISTA will return after this run. Disneyphiles have been asking for “Mickey’s Philharmagic” to come to Disneyland, along with “The Laugh Floor”. Personally, I would love to see Philharmagic play in this space.
Captain EO has returned, but his stay may not be that long. After he succeeds in his mission of increasing attendance through the peak of the summer season, I expect to see him leave and the theater to be remodeled to hold one of the two above attractions.
Philharmagic wouldn't fit in the Magic Eye theater. It is far too small for the 180 degree screens. Laugh floor would probably fit though. Unfortunately, neither is a thematic fit for Tomorrowland, and if there is one thing Tomorrowland needs it is more rides about the future and fewer attempts to just fit a ride from some other park in there.
Its important in 3D movie and Michael Jackson history.
Either way, I'd say keep the show for at least the rest of the year as I think it's a waste to make that Captain EO Tribute sign for just a few months.
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