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Take a theme park and a working production studio, sprinkle in a little pixie dust for good measure, and what you get is Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Throughout the park (which includes Hollywood Boulevard, Commissary lane, Sunset Boulevard, the Streets of America, Mickey Avenue as well as Echo Lake and the Animation Courtyard), guests will find many of Disney's beloved movies and shows come to life in the form of a spectacular theatrical production or yet another amazing ride
 "American Idol" is coming to Disney - slated to debut in late 2008, this all new and exciting attraction will follow the model of the wildly popular television show of the same name. Per Disney, Hollywood Studios guests will get the chance to experience the challenge of auditioning, the rush of performing on stage in competition, or the thrill ofjudging the performances in a live interactive entertainment setting with all the glitz and glamour of the very distinctive "American Idol" set.
The experience will begin with the audition process (which is open to all eligible to register) where guests will perform “live” in front of a Disney’s Hollywood Studios producer for the chance to be cast in a theme park show. If shown to have that star quality during the screening process and after backstage preparation (working with a vocal coach, hair and make-up) it’s lights up and “show time” for the lucky guest in front of a “live” audience and a panel of judges.
Guest performers with the highest number of votes will compete in an end-of-day Grand Finale show at Walt Disney World, and the winner (of the Grand Finale) will receive a guaranteed reservation for a future regional stadium audition (which means that they won’t have to wait in the seemingly endless line to audition for the "American Idol" TV show – they’re guaranteed an audition ( but what happens at the audition is all up to judges – they’ll be on equal playing ground with everyone else who’s auditioning for a spot on the
show).
Toy Story Mania is set to make its debut in the Summer of 2008. Donning 3- D glasses, guests shrink to the size of a toy, and hop into fanciful ride vehicles that travel and twist along a colorful midway-themed route. Upon arriving at each game booth, they
will aim for animated targets using their own special on-board "toy cannon." As guests score points, they will be cheered on by favorite "Toy Story" friends like Woody, Buzz Lightyear, Hamm, Bo Peep and the Little Green Men. Hidden targets garner players extra
points and lead to different levels of play. The energy of the characters, the competition with other riders and the hilarious, unpredictable game actionmake this a unique experience that families will want to try again and again. The attraction features games that audiences of all ages and skills - from beginner to serious gamer - can enjoy. No matter how many times guests return to ride and play, they can be sure every ride-through will be different. Players pair up and sit side-by-side for a friendly competition that delivers an ever-changing variety of targets and surprises.
Sounds Dangerous-Starring Drew Carey
Rating: Fair
Description: Indoor Movie
Ages: Best for kids 8 and up
This one’s geared more to the older kids and adults as the show takes place almost completely in the pitch dark. For the majority of the show, sound is the only way you have to understand (or try to understand) just what is happening. Headphones are used to make the experience even more intense and realistic. The premise is that Drew Carey is detective, filming his undercover operation with a hidden camera, though as this all begins the camera is damaged--hence the darkness…only the sound effects remain.
You’ll follow Drew along on his adventure with your ears…not your eyes.
 Much of the experience is in complete darkness and would likely frighten young children, as may many of the incredible sound effects. Not only are they loud, but some of the sounds can be frightening as well (such as the angry buzzing bees).
Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular
Rating: Fantastic
Description: Outdoor stunt show (under the cover of a stadium)
Fast Pass
Ages: Best for kids 5 and up
This stunt show spectacular is just that . . . spectacular. Right before your eyes scenes from the Indiana Jones adventures are not only re-created but explained as well. The spectacular special effects will simply amaze you, and thanks to a bit of help from the audience, will on occasion have you in hysterics.
The pyrotechnic effects, fight scenes, and narrow escapes can be bothersome to young children who may or may not be able to differentiate this from reality. Sitting farther back in the stadium may help both to minimize the effects and provide a quick escape if necessary.
Star Tours
Rating: Fun + to Fantastic
Description: Space-travel simulator ride
Fast Pass
There is a minimum height requirement of 40” to ride.
Ages: Best for kids 6 and up
While one of the older simulator rides around, it is still a favorite and not just with Star Wars fans either. The queue area is one of the best in all of Disney (though there’s a few that come to mind that are unbeatable in that department). It takes you through an Ewok village, into an elaborate and detailed hangar, past several droids, and then onto the transport area, where you’ll board your starspeeder bound for Endor. From there your adventure through space begins, and it’s impressive to say the least--it even includes one of the more famous scenes from the original Star Wars movie, but you’ll have to experience it for yourself.
The starspeeder simulates high-speed space travel, and those susceptible to motion sickness would do well to look away from the screen. This is actually one of the few simulator rides where looking away and focusing on a stationary object is not only possible but relatively easy to do. The screen in front of you resembles the front window of your spacecraft as opposed to practically engulfing you as many of the other simulators do. Also, its 40-passenger capacity creates more of a small-theater atmosphere than that of an actual ship.
As A Note: To the left of the Star Tours entrance stands a small stage erected especially for the all-new interactive Jedi Training Academy. Similar to Captain Jack’s Pirate Tutorial at the Magic Kindgom, the Jedi Training Academy allows a select number of future Jedi a chance to train alongside a Master. The force is strong as they learn to duel with light sabers and have an out-of-this-world good time.
Jim Henson’s Muppet Vision 3-D
Rating: Fun + to Fantastic
Description: 3-D movie
Ages: Best for kids 3 and up
The Muppets, including Kermit, Miss Piggy, along with many more familiar favorites, all come to life in this 3-D adventure. Set in a huge theater, this very funny and entertaining movie will have you laughing the entire time.
The 3-D effects may bother some younger kids (and even a few older ones that I know) so keep the 3-D glasses elsewhere if this is the case. There are also a few multisensory effects, though all are quite innocent; while they may make you jump, they are far from frightening. This one is definitely geared for the younger set.
Honey, I Shrunk the Kids Movie Set Adventure
Rating: Fun for kids
Description: Play area
Ages: Best for kids 4 to 7
Everything is gigantic--from the 30-foot-tall blades of grass to the ant the size of a pony and the 3-story-tall mushroom caps--and everything there is made to climb around, on, and through. This is an especially necessary attraction for kids who need to expend some of their excess energy.
The area is often full of small children, so keeping track of yours will require
that Mom or Dad follow rather close behind.
The Disney's Hollywood Studios Backlot Tour
Rating: Fun+
Description: Slow-moving ride
Ages: Appropriate for all ages
The shuttle takes passengers through the studios’ backlots, where many popular movies and shows have been filmed. The costumes, the scenic shop and a few surprises at Catastrophe Canyon are all in store. After passing by movie posters and hanging monitors, running videos of special effects and stunts, the queue comes to halt…but not without good reason. A short special effects show, featuring (at the moment) a PT Naval ship (set in the water), entertains the crowds with explosions and other watery effects before heading onward through the warehouse of movie props (and though it’s simply a continuation of the queue, the shelves are stacked from floor to ceiling with movie memorabilia and props of every shape and size). Then finally it’s on to the tour (which all in all takes around 45 minutes). Older kids and adults are far more likely to find this attraction interesting; younger kids (under 6) will likely find it boring (though if they’retired, this may work to your advantage).
The special-effects simulations during part of the tour may be frightening for younger children. Although they don’t last very long, they may be a bit too intense for children who don’t understand that it is only a simulation. Also, in the prop room (where the queue winds around before boarding the trams for the tour) monitors hang from theceiling, all showing previews of upcoming movies …not all of which are appropriate for younger kids to watch (while there is of course no offensive content, some of the previews are a bit scary).
Lights, Motors, Action! Extreme Stunt Show
Rating: Fantastic
Description: Outdoor stunt show (with covered stadium seating)
Ages: Best for kids 5 and up, but appropriate for all ages
The newest attraction at the park features high-speed thrills as motorcycles, cars, and an array of other vehicles perform some rather impressive stunts. The premise is that an action adventure spy thriller is being filmed in a Mediterranean village setting and, much like in the Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular, the action is explained along the way --with plenty of stunt secrets revealed along the way ( though I’ll leave it up to Disney to reveal the secrets in the show). It suffices to say however that this one really lives up to its name.
While the show may take place out in the full sun, the stadium is covered to protect you
from the elements.
The high-speed stunts, pyrotechnic effects, and extremely loud noises may very well frighten younger kids, so the farther back you sit, the better off you’ll be if you need to escape quickly.
 Journey into Narnia: Prince Caspian is coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios in the summer of 2008 – Journey into Narnia (currently undergoing a transformation from the Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe) will soon offer guests the chance to experience behind-the-scenes footage, original concept art, storyboards, props and costumes from the latest installment of “The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian.” They’ll be able to explore Aslan’s stone table chamber set recreated directly from the original molds, see blueprints used for the motion picture, and meet Prince Caspian himself.
Walt Disney: One Man’s Dream
Rating: Fair for adults, forget it for kids
Description: Multisensory museum of sorts
Ages: Appropriate for any age
Through a short film as well as a display of some rather rare, historic Disney artifacts, guests can catch a glimpse into the life of Walt Disney himself as well as what lies ahead for the future. While adults may appreciate this one, kids may be looking to find an attraction with a bit more action.
Voyage of the Little Mermaid
Rating: Fantastic
Description: Indoor show
Fast Pass
Ages: Best for kids 3 to 7, but appropriate for all ages.
If you have young children, this is a must. The characters from the Disney classic The Little Mermaid come to life through a multisensory experience. A mix of video, music, and live action, all combined with some rather spectacular special effects, make for a fabulous family-friendly production. Ursula, of course, is a bit frightening, but not to the point that I would warn anyone off. The music and scenery is absolutely captivating.
The Magic of Disney Animation
Rating: Fair+ to fun
Description: Walk Through Attraction with Interactive activities
Ages: Best for kids 6 and up though appropriate for all ages
For guests who want a look into how Disney creates its famous animated characters, this is the place. Not only will you get a glimpse into the animation process, but you also can personally try your hand at creating your own characters (which you can take home of course). A meet and greet with some of the hottest characters (currently the stars of Chicken Little, though the characters have changed a few time already) make daily appearances-a relatively new addition to the attraction.
Playhouse Disney-Live on Stage
Rating: Fun +
Description: Show
Ages: Best for kids 3 to 6, but appropriate for kids of any age.
Another of the must-sees if you have younger kids. Geared for the preschool set, this show has characters from favorites from Disney family favorites like, The Little Einstiens, Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, and Handy Manny among others.
The singing and dancing, with streamers falling and bubbles floating, all combine to create a fun-filled atmosphere for even the littlest of kids.
The Great Movie Ride
Rating: Fair +
Description: Slow-moving indoor track ride
Ages: Best for adults and movie buffs, but appropriate for kids 6 and up.
A full-scale reproduction of Hollywood’s Chinese Theater is a most appropriate exterior for the attraction that celebrates so many of Hollywood’s famous films. For true movie buffs (or those just in need of a few minutes off your feet), the Great Movie Ride will transport riders through an incredible array of some of the more famous movie scenes of all times and all quite realistically re-created. The Wizard of Oz, Casablanca, Alien, Raiders of the Lost Ark, and Singin’ in the Rain are just a very small sampling of what awaits.
A very brief gunfight erupts, and riders are caught up in the midst of the action (which occurs in the first few minutes of the ride). Some younger children may find the realistic scenes (for instance, those from Alien) a bit frightening, though overall the experience is tame, relaxing, and entertaining.
Beauty and the Beast-Live on Stage
Rating: Fantastic
Description: Stage show
Ages: Best for kids 4 to 8, but appropriate for any age.
Pretty much a compact version of the animated classic, this tale comes to life with spectacular scenery, colorful costumes, and a montage of music. Those who love the story, are fans of the movie, or simply enjoy seeing Disney at its best will appreciate this production.
One of the scenes is a bit scary as it takes place in the darkened forest filled with wolves, bats, and streaks of flashing lightning, all of which may frighten (though only temporarily) younger children.
Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster starring Aerosmith
Rating: Fantastic
Description: High-speed indoor roller coaster
Fast Pass
There’s a minimum height requirement of 48” to ride.
Ages: Best for kids 8 and up as well as adults
There are only a few rides at Disney-MGM, and this one’s a doozy. This high-speed coaster takes riders on an experience like no other around--winding through the darkness, twisting and turning to the pulsating tunes resounding from the 120 onboard speakers that blast the rock ‘ n ’roll sounds of Aerosmith. Coaster fans and Aerosmith fans alike will find this a thrilling experience.
The ride takes place in almost complete darkness, making the many twists, turns, and inversions (there are 3 in total) that much more thrilling. Add to it the sheer volume at which the music is played (keeping in mind that each “stretch limo” features its own speakers, in addition to the sound system throughout the building) and the experience may be overwhelming for younger fans or those not quite prepared for such a thrilling ride.
The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror
Rating: Fantastic
Description: High-speed, free-falling thrill ride
Fast Pass
There is a minimum height requirement of 40” to ride.
Ages: Best for kids 8 and up as well as adults.
By far one of the most unique and most impressively themed rides in all of Walt Disney World, the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror will have you thinking twice about entering your hotel elevator--or any elevator, for that matter. It’s set in a decrepit and haunted Hollywood Hotel back in the 1920s. The rooms and hallways are filled with actual antique hotel furnishings from that era, and the ghostly apparitions and blasts of bonechilling air add authenticity to the experience. After a brief film hosted by none other than Rod Serling (the creator of the original Twilight Zone), guests find themselves thrown into complete darkness, albeit momentarily, before being lead to the hotel’s dilapidated freight elevator, from where, after being seated, they eerily glide through a handful of mysterious passageways, with ghostly manifestations of former guests appearing and disappearing before them. Suddenly the elevator ascends with great force to the 13th floor, where, without warning, showers of sparks fly and the elevator cables suddenly sever, causing guests to plummet downward. Almost as abruptly, the elevator car rises again, but this time the doors open, allowing for a rather scary view to 13 stories below. An unpredictable number of drops follow as the sequence is now completely random, and only the ride knows what will happen next.
This is by far one of the more intense rides in all of Walt Disney World. Those who have a fear of the dark, are claustrophobic, or have a fear of heights should definitely avoid the tower. It is definitely not a ride for young children. Luckily there is an escape available just before you board the elevator for those who decide at the last minute that they’re not quite ready for the experience (I have to mention that the way they allow you to exit is really rather ironic…but I’m not revealing any secrets here).
Fantasmic!
Rating: Fantastic
Description: Nighttime fireworks and water animation spectacular
Ages: Best for kids 5 and up, but appropriate for any age
Dancing waters, colorful pyrotechnics, and Mickey Mouse (not to mention an array of other characters) take center stage at this spectacular production. Sorcerer Mickey conducts the musical montage with a good-versus-evil theme, good of course winning out in the end, as animated fountains, shooting stars, balls of fire, and tons of other amazing special effects against the nighttime sky dazzle the audience.
Some of the special effects, not to mention a few of the battles between good and evil, may be bothersome (especially as the production takes place after dark) to younger children.
Parades and Shows
Each of the Disney theme parks features its own spectacular parade, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios is no exception. Block Party Bash, an all new interactive dance party parade along the streets has guests singing and dancing to the sound of retro-style tunes that resound throughout the streets as high-flying acrobats will dazzle and amaze those watching from the street far below - and fan-favorites from Disney-Pixar flicks like Finding Nemo, Toy Story 2, Monster's Inc., The Incredibles, and A Bug's Life (among
others) will be joining in all the interactive fun. Disney’s High School Musical 2; School’s Out, while a substantially smaller production, has everyone catching Wildcat fever.
Guests are invited to sing and dance along as the traveling stage makes its way down Hollywood Boulevard at select times throughout the day.
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