Typically, Disney’s more recent attractions, such as the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train and Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind receive nothing but praise. But as of recently, The Walt Disney Company has been under fire in the past couple of years over not keeping up with its usual standards.
This has been the case with its theme parks, special events, and the cruise line. It has been reported by visiting guests in the past year that Muppet Vision 3D seats, “it’s a small world” boats, and the Walt Disney World Monorail have not been adequately maintained.
Whether this has been in the form of cleanliness or ride function, it appears Disney has been cutting back its spending.
In addition, many have reported increased ride breakdowns, failed audio-animatronics, and others not functioning as they should at the many Disney theme parks.
A viral video, posted on TikTok by @dovelybell and shared on X (formerly Twitter) by No Context Theme Parks, shows Snow White with her arm ripped off, making for a gruesome finale to one of Magic Kingdom’s most popular attractions.
The clip displays the dancing audio-animatronic figures featured at the end of the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train roller coaster.
— No Context Theme Parks (@OOCParks) November 29, 2023
The Seven Dwarfs Mine Train
The Seven Dwarfs Mine Train roller coaster at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom is one of the park’s most popular rides.
It was part of the 2012 Fantasyland expansion that also included the addition of the Be Our Guest Restaurant, Enchanted Tales with Belle, Ariels’ Grotto, and Under the Sea – Journey of the Little Mermaid.
Guests embark on a musical journey through the enchanted diamond mine from Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. The roller coaster features unique swaying mine cars in a fun, family-friendly adventure.
The coaster seamlessly integrates gentle swings with thrilling twists and audio-animatronics that bring the dwarfs to life.
Disney Quality
Many people have pointed out the quality of Disney slipping. In addition to problems with shows and attractions such as the Snow White audio-animatronic, people have also commented on cast member service.
There have been multiple accusations claiming that Disney cast members aren’t as friendly as they used to be (nor Disney Park guests). Food quality has also been criticized, and Disney’s former CFO joked about reducing portion sizes due to overweight guests.
Meanwhile, trips to Walt Disney World Resort (and Disneyland Resort) are ever-increasing. Ticket prices have increased, the ability to skip lines now comes with a fee in the form of Lightning Lanes, food prices have gone up, hotel prices have increased, and parking fees have also jumped.
All of this being said, it’s unclear whether the revenue from these price increases will be invested back into the theme park. Disney has a recent trend of using income from the theme parks (specifically Walt Disney World) to subsidize other parts of the industry.
Related: Video: ‘Small World’ Animatronic Spotted Missing Head
For example, the losses at the box office such as with Strange World (2022), The Marvels (2023), and Wish (2023).
Time will tell…but hopefully, Disney will do the right thing and invest back into the company’s crown jewel: Walt Disney World.