Fantasyland Expansion Model.
Tuesday, February 9, 2010 at 8:59PM Posted by Fritz 
CLICK TO ENLARGE
I love to look at scale models, especially ones of theme parks. I made scale models for a living for a couple years and ever since I can't pass up a chance to study a good model.
What do I think of the new Magic Kingdom Fantasyland expansion, you ask? Mixed feelings.
In a nutshell: I'd rather have 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea still in this space, no doubt about it. I am thrilled they are ripping out Mickey's Toontown Fair (a pathetic excuse for a land). I am not thrilled with the emphasis on character meet-and-greets. I do like the idea of an omni-mover Little Mermaid ride (believe it or not). I do not like the idea of a Dumbo interactive area, simply for the fact that Disney has not a great job with anything interactive since Communicore (opened in 1982) -and- it doesn't seem to fit Fantasyland well. Two Dumbos... that's pretty cool. I do like the extensive 'theming' as most people would call it. The design is pretty. The stories are separated. Anyone who reads this blog knows that character cross-overs the bain of my existence. Thank you, Imagineering/Entertainment for not making a "Princess House" or some junk like that where they all hang out together. Thank you for that.
More thoughts to come, but for now, a cool-looking scale model to look at. A couple of other (even greater) models to look at here.
What are your thoughts?
Reader Comments (7)
Are those paper trees?
Is Pixie Hollow- upper left- going to be just another playground??? We have enough over-sized object that equal a playground that doesn't do much for anyone, at least when compared to all the great stuff we go to the parks for (like rides...). Or is Pixie Hollow going to have rides?
The expansion could be worse. But it could be a lot better. One ride in the whole thing?? (Another set of Dumbos does not count). And they better not include the Dumbo interactive circus tent as an "attraction" in the guidebook. That ain't an attraction.
I agree with Fritz. I'd prefer one ride through 20K over ever piece of this expansion. Call me selfish for not giving the autograph seekers "what they want". I have no problem with character autographs, but there are plenty of appropriate places to stand and sign books. Tearing out one of the greatest (if not THE greatest) attractions in the world is not cool, especially in the name of autographs. I know that this was not the only reason to remove the subs. It's just pretty heart-breaking that this is what we've come to.
If nothing else, I think the expansion is pretty. It will add to the park in an eye pleasing way. It will beautify fantasyland which stands in need of some beautification. just look at Disneyland's Fantasyland which is cute everywhere. Magic kingdom needs something like this.
At least there are no Muppets. There are no Muppets right?
Looking at the model it looks like they did a really good job of making each character story seperate from the others. That's not an impression I got from the blueprint that was circulated. But this looks like DisneySea in terms of attention to theme. That's not to say it will be as great as TDS, but at least it appears that a priority was given to atmosphere over making each inch of real estate make money by cramming in shops, restaurants etc... It looks like one could stroll along from place to place without being bombarded by shops.
I doubt that Pixie Hollow will ever be finished. Seeing as it is the only section labeled Phase 2 and the Pixie videos did not sell as well as Disney had hoped.
I really hope that they decide to re theme the Pixie Hollow area to a Alice in Wonderland zone. That would make the most sense since they don't have the Alice In wonderland Darkride that Disneyland has and it would be a better idea since the new Alice in Wonderland movie is doing amazing at the Box office.