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Debates over attractions at Walt Disney World Resort are nothing new. Guests, Imagineers, cast members, and Disney fanatics of all kinds have varying opinions over content, dialog, audio-animatronics, and even pre-shows.
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Credit: Disney
Former Disney Imagineer Jim Shull
Former Disney Imagineer Jim Shull recently sparked a debate over pre-shows on X (formerly Twitter). He primarily focuses on the audio-animatronic of Hondo in Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run, but the conversation went on to discuss pre-shows in general.
Credit: Disney
Regarding Hondo, who is by most considered to be the most advanced Disney audio-animatronic, Jim Shull points out that Disney fails to give the character enough backstory in the attraction’s pre-show.
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Debate Ensues
Many have pushed back on X, stating that true Star Wars fans know the character. However, some side with Shull, saying that a lack of pre-show storytelling is a constant theme in newer Walt Disney World Resort attractions. One example given is the lack of a backstory to the Shaman of Songs in the Na’vi River Journey at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
Credit: Disney
Meanwhile, some have cited that the pre-show for Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run actually provides an introduction as to who Hondo is. The problem is loud guests:
“If you were able to actually listen to what’s said when you walk in the room, and to his dialog, it’d help. Unfortunately rude and entitled guests have decided pre-shows are time for conversation.
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The debate also contains people saying Disney should have put a more recognizable character, such as Chewbacca, in Hondo’s place. Meanwhile, Star Wars fans in the comments say that if you watch Rebels or Clone Wars, you know who Hondo is.
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This brought up the debate: Should homework or complete IP knowledge be required to understand a show or ride?
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It’s an interesting point. Do you need to know who Aerosmith is to enjoy the Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster? Will you understand what’s happening on Cosmic Rewind at EPCOT if you never saw a Guardians of the Galaxy movie?
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Yes…and no. You can enjoy a ride without a pre-show at all.
Six Flags and Cedar Point build most of their attractions without considering a backstory or pre-show. But isn’t that element part of what makes a Walt Disney World (or Disneyland) ride a unique experience?
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You can check out the original post below.
Although this animated figure is impressive in its movements I have zero idea who it is or why it is important. Good storytelling requires fore knowledge of stories and characters for a ride or experience to succeed. #StarWars pic.twitter.com/fTs1XRG4t4
— Jim Shull (@JimShull) January 17, 2024
