The Turner Classic Movie channel (TCM) sponsorship of The Great Movie Ride officially got underway today at Disney's Hollywood Studios with the debut of several new updates to the ride.
The sponsorship updates include new TCM signage throughout the exterior of the Chinese Theater, new digital posters in the lobby queue area, a new pre-show, Robert Osborne commentary during the ride, a new finale montage sequence, and finally a TCM photo opportunity at the exit of the attraction.
No changes have been made to any of the physical sets, audio-animatronics, or ride vehicles.
The TCM sponsorship deal was announced back in November 2014, and also includes 'Treasures From the Disney Vault' programming block to appear on TCM, featuring such shows as 'Walt Disney’s Wonderful World of Color,' and vintage movies and cartoons.
Changes on the Outside
All of the neon signs on the exterior of the Chinese Theater now include 'Presented by TCM - Turner Classic Movies'. Following the original format, the additions are also in neon and blend in well with the originals.
Also new are the Chinese Theater window displays and posters, which also now include TCM logos.
Queue and Pre-Show Changes
One of the most significant updates is the brand new pre-show movie, which is much longer than the original, and features host Robert Osborne describing the scenes playing. The pre-show takes guests through the full range of movie genres, providing insight and background.
The lobby queue area features new digital movie posters, which constantly rotate showing a whole host of classic movies.
What's New on the Ride
Changes to the ride itself are minimal. No changes have been made to the sets or any of the audio-animatronic figures.
The main neon signage at the beginning of the ride has been updated to include 'Presented by Turner Classic Movies,' and Robert Osborne provides additional commentary during the ride via the onboard vehicle sound system. The Cast Members continue to spiel during the ride, in between the pre-recorded segments, albeit in a slightly reduced role.
The three scenes where Cast Members interact with the sets continue as before with no changes.
New Finale
The most significant update to the ride takes place at the end, with a brand new finale montage sequence. Once again hosted by Robert Osborne, the montage retains some of the old favorite clips, such as Robin William's "Good Morning Vietnam," and brings in some new sequences from more recent movies, such as Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy. Check out our video to see the new montage.
The Exit
The final update takes place at the exit of the ride, where a small photo opportunity has been built with a TCM backdrop, and hand-print cast, reminiscent of those found in front of the Chinese Theater.
It's a Wrap
Overall, the changes are minimal, and many guests who are not that familiar with the ride will probably not notice the changes. The onboard audio addition of Robert Osborne does not really add a great deal to the ride experience, but thankfully does not do away with the live spiel from the Cast Member riding along.
The updates to the lobby and pre-show are a welcome change. The changes to the final montage may not appeal to fans who took comfort in the familiarity of the previous version. For those of you who like to see change and updates, the new montage fits very well and is a nice update, both with the content and the projection quality.
If you would like to see and hear the changes before you get to experience it in person, check out our ride-through video shot today.
Let us know what you think of the changes on the forum.
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