Disney has unveiled new theme park lands themed around Indiana Jones, Cars, and The Lion King during its D23 convention in Anaheim, California.
The company announced projects across its global theme parks and cruise lines over the coming years, centering its roadmap on reviving classic titles. The goal is to transform its theme parks through immersive experiences that revalue the entertainment giant's most celebrated films.
D23 is Disney's official fan club, and its convention in Anaheim serves as the primary venue for major announcements regarding the company's films, television projects, and theme park expansions.
Among the major additions is an Indiana Jones attraction at Disney's Animal Kingdom park in Florida. The ride will feature an animatronic model of American actor Harrison Ford, who starred in the film franchise.
Harrison Ford to star in Indiana Jones attraction
Harrison Ford appeared in a surprise video broadcast during the D23 event to reveal that his face will appear on a Disney attraction for the first time. Ford has played the legendary archaeologist character in five feature films since 1981.
The new attraction is named Indiana Jones and the Myth of the Jade Serpent. The ride will be set inside an unexplored Mayan temple.
Disney's Animal Kingdom, located at Walt Disney World Resort near Orlando, Florida, is a nature themed park focused on animal conservation and natural environments.
To mark the 20th anniversary of the animated film Cars, Disney is also expanding the universe inspired by America's iconic Route 66. The company announced two new themed attractions in Orlando.
Lion King water ride and Villains Land planned
Disneyland Paris will feature a new area dedicated to the 1994 animated movie classic The Lion King. Disney offered attendees a glimpse of the African savanna landscape being created at the resort, which will house the first water attraction based on Simba and his conflict with his uncle Scar.
Disneyland Paris, located in Marne-la-Vallee, France, opened in 1992 and is Disney's flagship theme park resort in Europe.
Disney also announced new details for Villains Land, a section focused on famous antagonists such as the Evil Queen from Snow White and Cruella de Vil. The area is currently under construction at Walt Disney World in Florida.
The main attraction in Villains Land will be a roller coaster featuring an encounter with Maleficent at the peak of her fortress. Another ride will offer a dark tour through the catacombs of the Evil Queen's palace, where the Magic Mirror will evoke visions of numerous Disney villains.
Walt Disney World Resort in Florida is Disney's largest theme park resort destination, covering thousands of acres and including four distinct theme parks.
