When Pixar Animation Studios dreams up new worlds for their movies, there’s always a little voice inside their heads (an emotion, maybe?) asking, “Could Imagineers actually create this?” If the answer is no, they keep working. But if the answer is yes… well, that’s when the magic begins! And now, one of Pixar’s most exhilarating moments is coming to life in a way fans have been dreaming about for over two decades.
During The Future of World-Building at Disney panel at SXSW, Pixar Chief Creative Officer Pete Docter and Imagineer Michael Hundgen revealed an exciting new update about the Monsters, Inc.-themed land coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios. While walking through Monstropolis will be an incredible experience, the star attraction is shaping up to be a real scream — in the best way possible!
Photo by Disney Parks Blog
Ride the Doors Like Never Before
First announced at last year’s D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event, Imagineers have been hard at work turning Monsters, Inc.’s door vault scene into an actual ride. And now, we know more about what’s in store!
This upcoming thrill ride will be Disney’s first-ever suspended coaster—meaning you’ll be soaring through the air, just like those doors in the factory. But that’s not all. The Imagineering team is adding another first to the mix: a vertical lift that hoists riders into the air before launching them into the chaotic, high-flying world of Monstropolis’ door vault.
“Imagineers have been itching to turn that moment into an attraction ever since we saw it for the first time,” Hundgen shared.
A Scream-Worthy Experience (For the Right Reasons!)
Hundgen and Docter debuted a new animatic showcasing how the ride will start. Guests will board their vehicles, be lifted vertically into the sky (just like in the movie!), and then zoom through a fast-paced, laugh-powered adventure filled with surprises.
“It’s going to be an experience that’s as memorable and fun as the film,” Hundgen added.
Even Pete Docter couldn’t contain his excitement: “I can tell you that everyone at Pixar is excited about how this is coming together. It really is like a dream come true for us.”
Ready to Ride?
While there’s no official opening date yet, construction on the Monsters, Inc. land (including this heart-pounding new coaster) is set to begin next year. So, start practicing your best monster roars and prepare to step into Monstropolis like never before.
What are you most excited about—the suspended coaster, the vertical lift, or just getting to walk the streets of Monstropolis? Let us know!
