Disney is taking a bold new approach to limit guest filming at its theme parks, a move that comes as fans continue to voice concerns over cell phones and large cameras detracting from the immersive experience. With rising complaints about influencers trying to be the first to share ride-through videos, Disney has opted to try a new strategy that could potentially shift how filming is approached within its parks.
Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort have already implemented some filming restrictions on select attractions. For example, the use of selfie sticks and certain external camera equipment is prohibited, and specific rides like Roger Rabbit’s Car Toon Spin at Disneyland Park do not allow filming for safety reasons. However, the discussion has shifted as Disney takes another step forward with its latest move to curb personal filming.
Last year, Walt Disney World Resort made headlines when it released a full P.O.V. video of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure just ahead of the attraction’s grand opening at Magic Kingdom Park. This surprise release was met with positive responses, especially from fans who appreciated Disney’s proactive approach in eliminating the need for influencers to film and share their own ride-through videos. It seemed like a strategy to minimize disruption for other guests.
Now, Disney is continuing this strategy with two new P.O.V. releases from Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland Resort. According to ComicBook.com, the videos will be available on Disney+ starting May 4, 2025, to coincide with Star Wars Day.
One of the new videos will be a nighttime walk-through of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, filmed after Disneyland Park’s regular operating hours. Disney’s official description for the video reads: “Celebrate 70 years of imagination and unforgettable storytelling at Disneyland Park by journeying through Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. This immersive P.O.V. experience invites you to explore Batuu after hours, where droids work diligently, heroes emerge, and the First Order looms around almost every corner.”
The second video will be a P.O.V. ride-through of Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, one of the most popular attractions at both Disneyland Park and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The attraction is known for often having to shut down when guests drop personal items like phones or cameras onto the ride path. Disney+ describes its P.O.V. as follows:
“Celebrate 70 years of Disneyland imagination with a cinematic ride-along through Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance. This P.O.V. journey shows how seven decades of innovation can bring science fiction to life! Your mission begins on Batuu and quickly escalates into a daring escape from the clutches of the First Order. Do you have what it takes to rise with the Resistance?”
While Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort have not explicitly linked the release of these P.O.V. videos to their desire to curb filming, many Disney Parks fans hope the official releases will lessen the need for influencers to film their own P.O.V. videos. By offering an official version, Disney has given fans a professionally produced ride-through video to enjoy without having to worry about guests disrupting the experience for others.
Should Disney release more official ride P.O.V.s to prevent guests from filming on attractions? Share your opinion with Disney Fanatic in the comments!
I think it’s a great idea! This way people can just experience the moment!!