When it comes to Dark Rides, the Alice in Wonderland attraction at Disneyland has typically gotten the shaft. Both in 1955 and 1983, Alice's opening date was delayed in comparison to its sister dark rides. Maybe Alice needs more primping time. Besides doing safety upgrades to the exterior, the attraction also received some upgrades to the interior attraction itself. How'd it fare? Pretty damn well! In fact, I would say that it's close to being the best Dark Ride attraction in Fantasyland. Peter Pan's ship flying over London is always a thrill for me, but this one runs a close second.
The exterior upgrades look nice and fit into the theme well.
Easier to see during the daylight:
One more safety caution sign, and awaaaaaaay we go...
This is the first time I have felt that the use of video on a Disneyland attraction works.
The other attractions that have tried to integrate video have failed for me due to technology deficiencies (especially the Finding Nemo subs).
Alice provides a practically seamless experience.
All the familiar elements from before appear to still be here, just plussed a bit thanks to the recent freshening up and the addition of the new video effects.
The video of the rabbit is amazing; it makes you feel like you are in the middle of the movie, which was Walt's original intent with the Dark Rides.
Tweedle-Dum and Tweedle-Dee still fan out for your enjoyment.
You'll have to wait until tomorrow for more new photos from this attraction!
See more Daveland vintage & current Disneyland Alice in Wonderland attraction photos at my main website.
I always thought Alice in Wonderland's delays in 1955 and 1983 were fitting for the attraction. As the white rabbit said "I'm late, I'm late, for a very important date".
ReplyDeleteNice update. Both inside and out, the attraction looks great. Can't wait to see what they do with the rest of the Fantasyland dark rides. Thanks, Dave.
So happy you got to see this, and thanks for sharing pics with us. When they re-opened Alice a few months ago I went on it 4 times in one day. I couldn't believe what a huge PLUS they made with it all. The one thing that they meant to do, but didn't work out, was the Queen's face ( the last Queen before going outside ) was supposed to be a rear-projection face like the dwarves in the new WDW mine ride. I forgot the reason why Imagineers said it didn't work out, causing them to default back to the original head.
ReplyDeleteI couldn't agree more. The upgrades very much enhance the experience and I was not as upset about the exterior changes as I could have been. I still think the section nearest the building could be done better, but at least there isn't that horrible tarp any more.
ReplyDeleteDave, this is a WONDERFUL post!!! I love it! I was hoping you would do something like this!
ReplyDeleteI finally got to see the new updates a couple of weeks ago & loved it! The video elements work really well on this ride.
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