In other Star Wars news, there has been mixed reaction from fans to the news from its D23 fan event in Anaheim, California, this weekend that Jurassic World’s Colin Trevorrow will direct the final film in the new trilogy, now titled only Star Wars: Episode IX.
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Iger didn’t lay out an exact timetable for the parks, but separate Star Wars attractions will begin appearing in Disney’s existing parks later this year, around the time of the release of Star Wars: The Force Awakens.
In addition to that battle experience, visitors will be able to drive “one of the most recognisable ships in the galaxy”, the Millennium Falcon, on a secret mission, he said.
One adventure also promises to put guests “in the middle of a climactic battle between the First Order and the Resistance”.
Iger also shared concept images of the Star Wars-themed lands, giving fans a glimpse at what is to come for Disney parks. “I couldn’t be happier”, Ford said to the room of 7,500 fans. Colin Trevorrow of Jurassic World fame will be taking the helm of the sequel, succeeding J.J. Abrams.
Principal photography for Star Wars: Rogue One is already underway, ahead of its planned December, 2016 release. The company, which now has a Star Wars-themed Star Tours ride within its parks, did not comment. “We’re bringing Star Wars to life in a big way…”
Florida’s Hollywood Studios is also getting an update, with a new 11-acre Toy Story Land which promises to transport guests into the adventurous outdoors of Andy’s backyard. During the panel at which the expansions were announced, it was hinted that the attractions will be filled with creatures going about their own business, wandering around for guests to encounter.
A date for the opening of the brand new points of interest was not given, and Disney didn’t touch upon the price of the expansions. Is that a tease for his character as a new Jedi in the film?
“Rivers of Light” – Expected to open next spring, “Rivers of Light” will be an innovative show unlike anything ever seen in Disney Parks, combining live music, floating lanterns, water screens and swirling animal imagery.
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A sixth resort, Shanghai Disney Resort, is now under construction in Pudong New District, Shanghai.
