Almost a year ago, Disneyland’s Haunted Mansion closed its doors to undergo a major renovation of its queue area. The new queue would feature an expanded layout with significantly more intricate details. Alongside this addition, a brand-new store was set to open at the ride’s exit. As guests observed the progress made by Disney crews, the attraction finally reopened this summer.
However, due to the timing coinciding with the start of the Halloween season, the attraction reopened as Haunted Mansion Holiday.
Related: Disney May Finally Give Haunted Mansion the “We Wants The Redhead” Treatment—Here’s When
Although the ride was back in operation, the new shop was still a work in progress. Disney teams continued their efforts, and on December 23, Madame Leota’s Somewhere Beyond shop officially opened its doors.
Regrettably, what was intended to be an exciting reveal drew criticism from fans, who quickly pointed out that some of the shop’s decorations appeared to be sourced from Amazon and Redbubble, suggesting shortcuts were taken in the setup.
The complaints centered on the appearance of Madame Leota’s Shop Disneyland, suggesting that it seemed more akin to a garden shed than a themed retail experience.
Concept vs Reality ……..should have seen this one coming.
Concept vs Reality ……..should have seen this one coming. https://t.co/HxU8hsEpx6 pic.twitter.com/0VaoGY53Pw
— Original Orange Bird (@ogorangebird) December 24, 2024
The exterior and interior design choices have drawn significant scrutiny. Some commentators noted that the building could have simply been purchased online, calling into question Disney’s efforts to create a unique atmosphere that aligns with the Haunted Mansion’s lore.
However, it is important to note that the new shop was not a prefab garden shed, it was built from the ground up as guests watched and waited.
Use of AI Art Sparks Outrage
Another major point of contention arises from the use of AI-generated art within Madame Leota’s Somewhere Beyond. Fans quickly identified artworks that appear to have been sourced from Redbubble, notably a print titled “The Ghostly Bride.”
Observers pointed out the awkwardness that often characterizes AI-generated images, which lack the meticulous craftsmanship expected in a Disney-themed environment.
This is distressing/puzzling because just about every Imagineer I know can draw/paint a better portrait of a ghost probably in less time than it took to buy, ship and frame this heap of hackness.
This is distressing/puzzling because just about every Imagineer I know can draw/paint a better portrait of a ghost probably in less time than it took to buy, ship and frame this heap of hackness. https://t.co/GzwF9shVLZ
— Todd Martens (@Toddmartens) December 25, 2024
Related: 13 Creepy Facts and Secrets About The Haunted Mansion
The inclusion of AI-generated images has prompted heated discussions among the Disney community, with many questioning the integrity and authenticity of the artistic choices made by Disney. The prevailing sentiment suggests that, given the company’s vast resources and talented Imagineers, there should be an expectation for original artwork rather than generic options sourced from online marketplaces.
I can excuse using mass produced ornamentation for queue props, but using generic, AI generated art in a shop that’s supposedly integrated into the Haunted Mansion’s story is abhorrent. Who let this happen?? No care at all for the attraction’s lore or history.
I can excuse using mass produced ornamentation for queue props, but using generic, AI generated art in a shop that’s supposedly integrated into the Haunted Mansion’s story is abhorrent. Who let this happen?? No care at all for the attraction’s lore or history. https://t.co/8rbpBd2rL6
— Mouskegamer (now on BlueSky 🦋) (@Mouskegamer) December 24, 2024
Related: Grim Grinning Ghosts! The Haunted Mansion, Disneyland vs Disney World
Accusations of Cost-Cutting Measures
The broader context of these criticisms relates to accusations of cost-cutting measures implemented by Disney. The use of mass-produced products from platforms like Amazon has raised concerns about the quality and craftsmanship of the merchandise displayed in Madame Leota’s new shop in New Orleans Square.
Specifically, customers noted that decorations and props included in the shop appeared to be available for a fraction of the price on commercial websites.
I wonder who’s Prime account they used to get free shipping?
I wonder who’s Prime account they used to get free shipping? https://t.co/u2fiV6t62B pic.twitter.com/W0lE4945ZE
— Original Orange Bird (@ogorangebird) December 24, 2024
This perception of cutting corners reflects an ongoing challenge for Disney as it navigates the complexities of managing costs while maintaining guest satisfaction. The backlash against the new Haunted Mansion store is part of a larger trend among fans who feel that Disney is not meeting the high standards traditionally expected of its attractions and merchandise.
Community Reactions and Discussions
Criticism has flooded discussions, with users sharing images of identical products found on Amazon alongside their concerns about the overall quality of Madame Leota’s Somewhere Beyond shop’s decor. Previously supportive fans have since retracted their praise after discovering what they perceive as gaps in creativity and originality.
Btw I take back everything I said. Except for Leota’s portrait and a few original theming elements inside, this shop has no redeeming factors🫤. The outside is a copy of a pre-designed barn, the inside is full of mass produced props and WDI is proudly displaying AI art. A mess!
Btw I take back everything I said. Except for Leota’s portrait and a few original theming elements inside, this shop has no redeeming factors🫤. The outside is a copy of a pre-designed barn, the inside is full of mass produced props and WDI is proudly displaying AI art. A mess! https://t.co/JUrDxUt7sW pic.twitter.com/6idPAas1D1
— Themountainking (@Themountainkin1) December 24, 2024
The dialogue surrounding this topic reflects a deeper yearning for authenticity and innovation from Disney. Many fans have called for a return to the core values that have defined the Disney experience—emphasizing original artistry and unique storytelling elements that reflect the company’s legacy.
The debut of Madame Leota’s Somewhere Beyond has highlighted significant concerns regarding design choices, the use of AI art, and cost-management strategies at Disney. The response from the community underscores their desire for a creative approach that honors Disney’s storied past while enhancing future developments.
As fans continue to voice their opinions, Disney may face increasing pressure to reassess its strategies and elevate the quality of its offerings within the parks.
Do you think Disney has gone too far in attempting to save money? Should Imagineers create or procure unique pieces of art, or is it fine for them to purchase mass-produced products from places like Amazon? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
