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An odd mistake on the official Disney website recently created an interesting discussion online. While fans still grapple with or embrace the loss of the classic Splash Mountain attraction across several Disney theme parks, this little wording mixup on the site made many laugh about the possibility of an Encanto-inspired retheme of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad.
Credit: Disney
Encanto Comes to Disney Parks
Disney has been making significant strides in incorporating its new hit Encanto (2021) into its theme parks lately. Mirabel, the film’s protagonist, now has her own meet-and-greet location at the Fairytale Gardens in the Magic Kingdom.
Furthermore, the company recently announced plans to introduce Encanto into its new South American-themed area at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, replacing DinoLand U.S.A. in the near future. Disney has also sought talent to perform as Mirabel’s sister Luisa in the parks, joining her sibling and uncle Bruno as meetable characters. The film’s popularity fuels these announcements.
Credit: Disney
A Classic Attraction
On the other hand, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, a perennial favorite at Disneyland Paris and many other Disney parks, offers an immersive Wild West experience not based on a Disney film franchise. As guests embark on a thrilling journey through canyons, caves, and abandoned mines, the ride’s intricate theming and picturesque setting have contributed to its enduring charm. Set in the Gold Rush era of the American Southwest, it has captivated generations of visitors.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Retheme
Recently, Disneyland Paris’s website temporarily and inadvertently listed its iconic Big Thunder Mountain Railroad ride as “Big Thunder Mountain Bruno.” This spawned jokes and chatter on social media that it might be the next classic attraction to receive a modern Disney movie retheme.
The GB page for Big Thunder Mountain on the official Disneyland Paris website has been renamed “Big Thunder Mountain Bruno” 😆https://t.co/8GwoLDWAKZ pic.twitter.com/ABtUbJRWDf
— DLP Report (@DLPReport) September 14, 2023
The accidental name change on the website has led to obviously satirical speculation regarding whether Big Thunder Mountain might undergo a transformation inspired by Encanto. The film’s standout song, “We Don’t Talk About Bruno,” dominated the charts, becoming a cultural phenomenon. This Big Thunder Mountain mixup links to “We Don’t Talk About Bruno,” leading fans to ponder the possibility of an Encanto-themed reimagining of the classic attraction.
Credit: Disney
Disney Updates Iconic Attraction
This wouldn’t be a stretch of the imagination. The company has shut down another iconic attraction, Splash Mountain, to retheme it into Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. This reimagining is based on Disney’s 2009 film The Princess and the Frog. Some fans have criticized the change. However, it is important to note that this decision was made to provide guests with a fresh experience not based around a film swarmed with controversial subject matter like the original inception of the ride.
Disney has made no official announcement or hints regarding plans to retheme Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. The listing error on the Disneyland Paris website appears to be an unintentional mistake, not a confirmation of impending changes to the ride’s theme.
Disney fans have strong sentiments about preserving the nostalgia and magic of classic attractions. The potential retheme of Big Thunder Mountain would undoubtedly evoke mixed reactions. The ride remains an integral part of the Disney parks experience, still allowing guests to embark on an adventure through the Wild West.
