OF MICE & REN
JULIE DELAHAYE has a blast in a Walt Disney World revitalised by fresh Star Wars and Marvel magic
HURTLING through space backwards while Earth, Wind & Fire’s September blasts out in the background is not a situation I ever thought I’d find myself in.
Yet that’s exactly where I ended up when I took on Walt Disney World’s highly anticipated new coaster Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind in Epcot – and it was out of this world.
The new ride in Florida, which opened to the public this month, has everything thrillseekers could want, from spins and dips to speeds of around 40mph, not to mention that it’s Disney’s first reverse launch coaster.
Volume 3 of the blockbuster Marvel franchise is not out until next May but Disney Imagineers (the creative team that brings the magic to life) were on the film set, so you can expect special appearances from Star Lord, Gamora, Groot and Co on this new slice of galaxy-saving excitement. And while rides can sometimes verge on terrifying, Cosmic Rewind is just pure fun. I rode it five times.
Hits from the 70s and 80s like Disco Inferno, Conga, Everybody Wants to Rule the World, I Ran and September – my personal favourite – make up the soundtrack.
The queue and pre-show offer up just as much enjoyment, especially if, like me, you’re a fan of the films. There are plenty of cool artefacts and nods to the Guardians, with the whole atmosphere fully immersing you into the world of Xandar.
Just before the show you’ll head to the Phase Chamber, where you’ll be greeted by Nova-prime Irani Rael – aka Glenn Close – before being teleported from Orlando to a Nova Corps Starcharter that’s orbiting Earth. Things quickly become chaotic and, before you know it, you’re boarding the coaster and setting off into battle to help the Guardians.
Without spoiling the fun, there’s one particular moment that had the whole audience gasping, and you end up wondering just how the Disney Imagineers pull off some of the effects so seamlessly.
Guardians ride isn’t the only new exciting addition for holidaystarved Brits going to Disney’s four theme parks and two water parks after a couple of years of pandemic restrictions.
Star Wars fans only had two months to explore the new Galaxy’s Edge land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios before Covid firmly put a halt to those plans. It offers up a fully immersive experience for Jedis-in-the-making.
Rey, Chewbacca and Stormtroopers can be found roaming planet Batuu and embarking on missions with visitors. Oga’s Cantina is also open for a themed cocktail or two, and you could even build your own droids and lightsabers.
However, the biggest highlights have to be the two main attractions – Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run, and the Rise of the Resistthe
ance. The first gives you a chance to step on board Han Solo’s iconic ship and take on the role of pilot, engineer or gunner (meaning every ride can be a different experience), while the second takes you on an incredibly immersive experience as you try to escape a First Order ship... and Kylo Ren.
For those looking for a slightly calmer attraction, Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway is in stark contrast, but just as much fun.
The adorable ride takes you on a day out with Mickey, Minnie and Goofy with a few hiccups along the way.
The attraction offers up that glorious whimsical and wholesome feeling that runs throughout Walt Disney World – and even more so this year as the resort celebrates its 50th anniversary.
Mickey Mouse and friends have donned some special 50th outfits with an “Earidescent” shimmer, you can go in search of the Fab 50 golden statues of beloved characters throughout the parks. And there is, of course, heaps of special merchandise.
Four of the resort’s landmarks – Cinderella Castle, Spaceship Earth, Tower of Terror and the Tree of Life – also transform into Beacons of Light at night-time, instantly shifting the feel of the parks to something extra special as the sun goes down.
Every park is completely different. Disney’s Hollywood Studios is where you’ll find a few of the major thrill rides such as Rock’n’rollercoaster or Tower of Terror. Animal Kingdom has a laidback feel with plenty of safaris, themed attractions and fun shows, and Epcot became an unexpected favourite with its world theme and delicious snacks (the avocado margarita is a must-try in the Mexico pavilion!). However, to really satisfy that Disney magic craving, Magic Kingdom has to be on your bucket list.
Walking up to the Cinderella Castle, you can’t help but feel you’re in a fairy tale, while classic rides such as Peter Pan’s Flight and It’s A Small World generate waves of nostalgia.
Make time for the parades, and in the evening, the new night-time show Enchantment projected on the castle had many people choked up.
The music, the lights, fireworks and the nods to beloved films from Moana to Beauty and the Beast – it’s difficult not to get a little bit caught up in the emotions of actually being in the Most Magical Place on Earth.