Should Oz Be Disney’s Next Theme Park Ride?

18 Mar

1st. article in our 5 week series on Disney

Disney’s Oz The Great and Powerful came in #1 at the box office for a second week in a row. So far its earned 282 mill worldwide.[1] Should Oz be the next theme park ride for Disney?

Walt Disney was the first to imagine people experiencing their favorite Disney films through theme parks.  According to Seeing Stars.com it states

“Many people tend to think of Universal Studios Hollywood as a Hollywood-themed “movie park,” and Disneyland as a more generic theme park. But the truth is that Disneyland was letting people “ride the movies” long before Universal got into the act. It was, in reality, the first theme park built around the motion picture experience.”[2]

Here are some classic Disney films that became rides at Disneyland.

1937-Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, is represented by the ride “Snow White’s Scary Adventures” as well as the Snow White Grotto.

1941- Dumbo inspired two rides Dumbo the Flying Elephant and the Casey Jr. Circus Train are based upon scenes from Dumbo.

1951-Alice in Wonderland-1951- Inspired two rides: Alice in Wonderland and The Mad Tea Party teacups.

These are just a few examples of films that have inspired theme park rides. Can you imagine Oz The Great & Powerful being the next theme park ride or theatrical production at Disneyland or Epcot? If you could design the Oz theme park ride? What would your Oz theme park ride feature? Here is the trailer below to help you out.

Also see: Top 10 Disney Characters of the Last Decade!

99 Responses to “Should Oz Be Disney’s Next Theme Park Ride?”

  1. Comic Relief March 18, 2013 at 12:49 PM #

    Great article OB,

    As a child, I probably would have thought a ride that had a lot of this…

    and some of this (minus the witch)…

    …would be a lot of fun.

    Of course if there was any biting, I would probably change my mind.

    • Comic Relief March 18, 2013 at 12:52 PM #

      i’ll be honest, I could get into this as an adult too.

    • Open Book March 18, 2013 at 4:14 PM #

      Yes! U must have the flying monkeys. Hahaha! So u would have your Oz ride be all flying monkeys and witches? That sounds really cool. I would definitely go on that ride.

      • Comic Relief March 18, 2013 at 5:30 PM #

        Seriously one bite from one of monkey’s and monkey homicide would be the only thing on my mind. All fun time would immediately end.

        • Open Book March 18, 2013 at 5:37 PM #

          LOL!!

  2. Comic Relief March 18, 2013 at 12:50 PM #

    A summer vacation that includes a trip to Disneyland is beginning to sound like a really good idea.

    • Open Book March 18, 2013 at 4:14 PM #

      Ditto!

  3. Open Book March 18, 2013 at 4:21 PM #

    I think my Oz ride would be Dorothy’s House caught in a tornado.

    • Comic Relief March 18, 2013 at 4:53 PM #

      Absolutely, I’d ride on that too!

      • ozzie20 March 19, 2013 at 7:42 PM #

        I’m sure there used to be a Tornado ride at Universal. It was based on the movie of the same name and was good if I remember correctly. But that is going back 13+ years ago so I could be mistaken, lol!

        • ozzie20 March 19, 2013 at 9:01 PM #

          Hang on, it might of been called Twister…? It was the one where they were trying to get little balls into the tornado for some scientific reason.

  4. Comic Relief March 18, 2013 at 4:54 PM #

    Since the house is in a twister, I’m assuming centrifugal force would be big part of the ride. Tell me would it be like this?

    • Open Book March 18, 2013 at 5:04 PM #

      I like this one the best. What would really be cool if you had to hold on to the bars while your body is lifted mid air. Now that’s a ride.

      • Comic Relief March 18, 2013 at 5:51 PM #

        I’m not sure but I think the floor drops out.

  5. Comic Relief March 18, 2013 at 4:54 PM #

    Or this?

    • Open Book March 18, 2013 at 5:01 PM #

      No. Not this one. This is weak.

      • Open Book March 18, 2013 at 5:12 PM #

        Perhaps if it was dark with wind and thunder it could work.

        • Comic Relief March 18, 2013 at 5:32 PM #

          HaHAHAHaHa…

          ….and your a little crazy too.

          • Open Book March 18, 2013 at 5:50 PM #

            Yes!

  6. Comic Relief March 18, 2013 at 4:55 PM #

    Or maybe this?

    • Open Book March 18, 2013 at 5:10 PM #

      Not bad.

      • ozzie20 March 19, 2013 at 8:10 PM #

        Those 3 spinning rides… I’d throw up! The motion sickness is strong in me, lol!

        • Open Book March 19, 2013 at 8:15 PM #

          Hahaha! Yes, I get motion sickness too. But believe it or not these rides I don’t get sick. What if it was dark with wind and thunder?

          • ozzie20 March 19, 2013 at 8:46 PM #

            Hmmm… That’s a maybe!

  7. Open Book March 18, 2013 at 5:16 PM #

    Apparently there is a Oz Theme park in the works. Check this out.

    http://www.oz-central.com/niagara02.htm

    • Open Book March 18, 2013 at 5:19 PM #

      http://www.romanticasheville.com/land_of_oz.htm

    • Comic Relief March 18, 2013 at 5:34 PM #

      Oh well, “great minds…

      • Open Book March 18, 2013 at 5:35 PM #

        Hmm! Its pretty weak. Disney would do it better.

        • Comic Relief March 18, 2013 at 5:54 PM #

          It starts with everyone in costumes and eventually you get your face or belly painted. What’s not to like?

          • Open Book March 18, 2013 at 6:10 PM #

            Hmmm! I will hold my tongue on that one. No its nice for kids.

  8. Open Book March 18, 2013 at 5:22 PM #

    CR- This is for your Flying Monkey Coaster.

    • Open Book March 18, 2013 at 5:24 PM #

      THIS IS AWESOME!

      • ozzie20 March 19, 2013 at 8:15 PM #

        That lost me at 30 seconds in! My palms are sweating at the thought of a coaster like that!

        • Open Book March 19, 2013 at 8:18 PM #

          Yes, I think this coaster might be illegal. However, exactly what sent u over the edge after 30 seconds?

    • Open Book March 18, 2013 at 5:31 PM #

      Here’s another one.

      • Open Book March 18, 2013 at 5:33 PM #

        I LOVE THIS ONE TOO!

      • Comic Relief March 18, 2013 at 5:47 PM #

        I can’t believe this; are these people listening and just inventing this stuff as we speak.

        Well there’s your dark roller coaster. I’m sure they can pump in the thunder if you want it bad enough.

        I’m a little freaked out; I guess you couldn’t have known about this before we started talking about this?

        • Open Book March 18, 2013 at 5:51 PM #

          I have a list of favorite Roller Coaster sites. This is one.

          • ozzie20 March 19, 2013 at 8:17 PM #

            Now this one I like the look of! I think I could handle this one without feeling too sick or coming out in a cold sweat!

            • Open Book March 19, 2013 at 8:22 PM #

              Ahh! Now I know what kinda thrill seeker u are. Hahahaha! U are no light weight Oz! THATS FANTASTIC!

            • Open Book March 19, 2013 at 8:28 PM #

              Oz! What about this one?

              • ozzie20 March 19, 2013 at 8:52 PM #

                Mmm, I think that one might be a no. Everyone would be covered in vomit by time I’d finished!

                Generally as long as the drops aren’t too steep, I’m ok!

    • Comic Relief March 18, 2013 at 5:41 PM #

      I can’t believe this name is taken. Should I sue?

      I guess your feet hang on this one.

      I guess I’m game for everything once. Just the same I should be scared about doing this with a fanatic. Sometimes impulse control is a really good thing.

      • Open Book March 18, 2013 at 5:46 PM #

        That’s the Spirit CR!

  9. parisienne March 18, 2013 at 8:37 PM #

    They could do something like the Amazing Spiderman ride at Universal mixing 3-D with live effects.

    • Open Book March 18, 2013 at 9:54 PM #

      Hey! This is cool and kid friendly too. I like the drops toward the end. Have u been on this ride before?

      • parisienne March 18, 2013 at 10:43 PM #

        Yes. Many times. It spins you around pretty good too. I’ve had a bruise from hitting the guard bar but its so worth it.

        • Comic Relief March 19, 2013 at 5:11 AM #

          If the bruise isn’t a deal breaker than this is twice the endorsement the advertisement offers. Now I want to do it.

          • parisienne March 19, 2013 at 4:58 PM #

            Its a great ride! Then after that ride you have to go on The Hulk! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nFpPYJ41lfw

            • Comic Relief March 19, 2013 at 5:35 PM #

              That looks really scary leaving the tunnel, (uh-oh sounds like I’m listening to another thrill seeking freak). But I agree that looks like a lot of fun.

            • Open Book March 19, 2013 at 6:55 PM #

              I like the drop at the beginning. That is cool too.

              Paris-I agree with CR u are sounding like a fanatic. Hahaha! I LOVE IT!!!! I think you’ve been holding out on me. Now I know u better watch out. LOL!!!

              • ozzie20 March 19, 2013 at 8:27 PM #

                No, no, no, no, no, no, no etc!

                • Open Book March 19, 2013 at 8:30 PM #

                  This is HILARIOUS!!! I can’t stop laughing. Hahaha!

                • Open Book March 19, 2013 at 8:36 PM #

                  I can’t stop watching this stupid thing. Hahaha! This can’t be real? LOL!!

                  • ozzie20 March 19, 2013 at 8:53 PM #

                    I’m pretty sure it’s real! 🙂

                • Open Book March 19, 2013 at 8:42 PM #

                  Oz! U know what helps me with motion sickness on rides? Chewing Gum. Of course u chew it before and after u go on the ride. Not during or else u might loose a tongue. However, it allows me to go on rides multiple times without getting sick. Oh! Yeah it helps not to eat before as well.

                  • ozzie20 March 19, 2013 at 8:56 PM #

                    I haven’t heard that one before. I’ll have to try it out! I could of used it when I went on the Harry Potter coaster. My inner ear was messed up after that ride! I felt I was walking at 45 degree angle, lol!

        • Open Book March 19, 2013 at 6:47 PM #

          Bruises? Hmm! Sounds like my kinda ride. Hahaha! No, seriously I get motion sickness if a ride is too smooth and slow. For example “Its A Small World” makes me nauseous. And I like flying in 737 Jets instead of 747 commercial airplanes for the same reason. What I’m saying the rougher and faster the ride the less likely I will get sick. I hope that made sense. LOL!

  10. Open Book March 19, 2013 at 6:56 PM #

    Hi Everyone,

    Welcome to our discussion tonight.

  11. Open Book March 19, 2013 at 7:16 PM #

    Everyone-

    What are the must haves that u think the Oz ride would require?

    For example:

    The Yellow Brick Road
    The Flying Monkeys

    • littlebells March 19, 2013 at 7:28 PM #

      Hi everyone! I have a swim and gymnastics meet happening inside me at the moment, so I may be in and out due to finding comfortable sitting issues. 🙂

      I have loved all the comments so far! Some great rides I would love to try out!

      I think Oz would make a great attraction. I think it should have a kid friendly one and then one a bit more adult-ish. But see Disney doesn’t do adult rides like Magic Mountain. Hmmm, I will have to think about this some more.

      Has anyone seen the film? If so what did you think. Honestly, I got turned off by James Franco and his acting. I know it’s a hit, but I’m not a fan.

      • Open Book March 19, 2013 at 7:35 PM #

        Hi LB!

        Nice to see u. No! I haven’t seen the film yet. We are going to see it tomorrow. Don’t apologize I’m also not thrilled by what I’ve seen in trailers of JF. Why do u think he looks so plastic?

        • littlebells March 19, 2013 at 7:41 PM #

          I think it’s because he really isn’t THAT great an actor. It’s James Franco playing James Franco. Honestly, I think he is only good in roles where he is super high. Also, and this may sound weird, the way he speaks doesn’t sound like it fits that “era”. Maybe it’s the script writing, but he sounds like a California dude in the trailers.

          • littlebells March 19, 2013 at 7:42 PM #

            ps. I hope I am wrong and that you are pleasantly surprised by his acting…

            • Open Book March 19, 2013 at 7:55 PM #

              Well I like the story and Rachel Weisz. She always adds substance. I’m hoping it will compensate for JF.

          • Open Book March 19, 2013 at 7:46 PM #

            No its a valid complaint. He really does do a lousy job of that.

          • Open Book March 19, 2013 at 8:03 PM #

            Let me also add. After seeing JF’s body of work u start to see a pattern. He is playing himself. There is no transformation really going on. “Rise of the Planet of The Apes” was horrible. Did u see him in this film? If so what did u think?

            • ozzie20 March 19, 2013 at 8:32 PM #

              Hi LB! *hugs*

              James Franco playing James Franco, LOL! I want to see it because of Rachel, Mila and Michelle.

            • littlebells March 19, 2013 at 8:35 PM #

              Blaaaaaahhhhh. That’s my only comment. 🙂

  12. Open Book March 19, 2013 at 7:18 PM #

    I think Oz definitely should have an Emerald City. Something like this.

    • parisienne March 19, 2013 at 7:23 PM #

      they might wanna make sure toto doesn’t fall off the road. 🙂

      • Open Book March 19, 2013 at 7:30 PM #

        I know poor toto. He really gets tossed around in this film. What’s funny is looking at the low tech. effects.

  13. parisienne March 19, 2013 at 7:21 PM #

    hi!

    • Open Book March 19, 2013 at 7:24 PM #

      Hi! How are u?

      • parisienne March 19, 2013 at 7:26 PM #

        I’m good how are you?

        • Open Book March 19, 2013 at 7:37 PM #

          Good!

  14. Open Book March 19, 2013 at 7:24 PM #

    I love these crows. They are so cool!

  15. parisienne March 19, 2013 at 7:24 PM #

    I’ve seen Oz the great and powerful has anyone else?

    • Open Book March 19, 2013 at 7:27 PM #

      No! CR and I are going to see it tomorrow. How is it?

      • parisienne March 19, 2013 at 7:36 PM #

        Its wonderful! I’m sorry but I have to run. I’ll comment later.

        • Open Book March 19, 2013 at 7:41 PM #

          No problem. TC!

  16. ozzie20 March 19, 2013 at 7:37 PM #

    Hi everyone!

    Cool article OB! I’d have to size up the ride before I went on it. It has to be not too boring but not too scary either! Very few fall into this, lol! I will admit I am a chicken when it comes to rides! That said, I probably would go on an Oz ride.

    • Open Book March 19, 2013 at 7:40 PM #

      Hi Oz!

      Look at that. U have an entire ride named after u? How cool are u? Hahahaha!

      So what would be on your Oz The Great & Powerful ride? Also have u seen the film yet?

      • ozzie20 March 19, 2013 at 8:06 PM #

        Oh the power I could have! Mwahahahaha! 🙂

        Mine I think would be like the Haunted Mansion but more souped up! Maybe more of a roller coaster than a track like ride. But for visual effects I’d say Haunted Mansion like.

        It’s better in person than in video!

        I haven’t seen the movie yet. I may see it next week if my schedule allows it.

        • Open Book March 19, 2013 at 8:12 PM #

          Hahahaha! Oz u are crazy.

          Ahhh! Now I could go on a souped up Oz Haunted Mansion ride? Would it have drops? Please give details?

          • ozzie20 March 19, 2013 at 8:42 PM #

            Faster and definately drops! 🙂

            • Open Book March 19, 2013 at 8:47 PM #

              AWESOME! I’m sold. I’m lining up now.

              U know this is the time I start making my roller coaster summer plans. I’m recruiting u and Paris. So get ready. U have been warned.

              LB u are on this list too but I will give u time given your current delicate state. Hahaha!

              • ozzie20 March 19, 2013 at 8:58 PM #

                Woo hoo! I’ll start stocking up on vomit bags, LOL!

                • Open Book March 19, 2013 at 9:07 PM #

                  LOL!! Great! CR will be thrilled. Honestly, I’m not that fanatical. CR is embellishing a bit.

  17. littlebells March 19, 2013 at 7:44 PM #

    Ok, back to the ride. I think it would be cool to have a ride where you are suspended horizontally at some point like a flying monkey. I love your tornado ideas and think it should definitely incorporate the yellow brick road. Maybe have the road being the path where people line up for the ride.

    • Open Book March 19, 2013 at 7:50 PM #

      Oooooo! I like the yellow brick road line. AWESOME! Yes, and suspended upside down with a 21 story drop.

      • littlebells March 19, 2013 at 8:03 PM #

        Oh my gosh! I think I would puke all over everyone if that happened! 🙂

        OB, other than speed, what is it about your favorite roller coasters that gets your engine revving? Twists? Drops? loops?

        • Open Book March 19, 2013 at 8:08 PM #

          ITS THE DROPS! Definitely the drops. Multiple drops is the best. Did u see the Flying Monkey Rollercoaster it has 11 drops. THAT IS AWESOME!!! However, I love, love the slow creaking of the wooden coasters as u go up before u get dropped. What do u like?

        • Open Book March 19, 2013 at 8:54 PM #

          LB- I puked on my sister on my first RC ride. Then turned around and went again. I think that’s why I like Woodies because it was my first RC.

  18. Open Book March 19, 2013 at 9:10 PM #

    Everyone-

    I have to go for the night. Thank u for joining me. This was a guilty pleasure that I thank u for tolerating. I will check back tomorrow.

    Goodnight!

    • Open Book March 19, 2013 at 9:19 PM #

      Before I go. I will leave u with this. Its kinda long but well worth the watch. Which one is your favorite? Which one do u think is the wildest?

      • Open Book March 19, 2013 at 9:19 PM #

    • ozzie20 March 19, 2013 at 9:20 PM #

      I’ll be off too. I’ve had alot of fun! Bye everyone! 🙂

      • Open Book March 19, 2013 at 9:21 PM #

        Goodnight!

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