By Giana Haynia
The Tower of Terror has created frightening fun for people of all ages since 2004. At the 2016 San Diego Comic Con, Disney and Kevin Feige, President of Marvel Studios, announced that the Tower of Terror in Disney’s California Adventure will be closed and revamped to be a “Guardians of the Galaxy” themed attraction. The Disney World version will remain unchanged as of now.
“I like that it’s going to be new, but I’m going to miss the old ride,” Whitney Bryan, junior, said.
As villains and pumpkins invaded Disney parks, Disney reminded its audiences that this Halloween was the Tower of Terror’s last. They posted ads and broadcast everywhere to get the word out. They have used mediums such as Pandora, Youtube, social media, and Disney’s website. The event was a final salute to the iconic ride. There were musical performances, merchandise, specialty food, and beverages until Oct. 31. Throughout the holiday season, The Silver Lake Sisters, who were featured in the story upon which the ride is based, performed.
“I haven’t seen in a lot of ads so I think they could do more. Especially with Halloween and the holidays coming up soon,” Jacob Machnik, freshman, said.
Although it doesn’t close until Jan. 2, Disney has already taken down the iconic sign. Until then, Disney has made some modifications to the ride until it closes its doors for good. Now at night, people can enjoy the attraction completely in the dark.
“I think they’re doing really good! Adding characters are always a plus and making it dark could be pretty exciting! If they add more fun rides that would be cool too!” Aya Nakano, senior, said.
The official new name will be “Mission: BREAKOUT!” And it will be open in Summer 2017, just in time for “Guardians of The Galaxy: Volume 2” release on May 5. The Collector has the characters trapped in display cases and suspended above an abyss. The ride starts out with Rocket, a main character from the film, escaping and starting an adventure to free the others.
“I’m not excited about [the new ride] because the Tower of Terror is an iconic California Adventure ride that will give you thrills and chills, plus it makes your stomach drop. It is one of the only rides in the park that will frighten you,” Chasyn Royce, senior, said.
