Built
to compete with Universal Studios, Disney/MGM is a wondrous place where the movies come to
life. MGM opened in May of 1989 to lots of fanfare and has never looked back. The
park was so immediately popular that backstage areas had to be opened to handle the
overflow of the crowds. Attractions were then built into these areas and the park's
expansion was underway.
The
dedication plaque for MGM Studios reads "we welcome you to a Hollywood that never
was - and always will be". Disney captures the imagination put into the movies
by giving you a new perspective on some of the most popular movies of all time.
The problem is that many of the references will be lost if
you haven't seen the movies. However, there are enough attractions based
kids' favorites and animated Disney films to keep everybody happy.
You'll get the best look at Disney
animation in the Magic of Disney attraction where you get to see the
actual animators at work. Most of the animation for the recent Disney movie Tarzan
was drawn here, with visitors getting a sneak peek at the work in progress.
Thrill seekers will love the Twilight Zone Tower of
Terror, its a trip into the beyond that has two 13-story free falls! Others will
like the Star Tours motion simulator ride. It's still one of the best
rides of it's kind.
One of the new attractions in MGM is the fantasmic!
water and light show. This spectacular attraction conducted at the park's
closing features images projected upon walls of water. Don't miss it.
(start to find seating at least 30 min. before showtime.)
Other notable
attractions are the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular and Jim
Henson's Muppet-vision 4-D.
DISNEY MGM STUDIOS
