The story you’ll find in the Gran Fiesta Tour
Here’s just a quick update on the new ride at the World Showcase, focusing on the story it’s based around. For those who have not been on the new Gran Fiesta Tour Starring the Three Caballeros, the new ride at Epcot’s Mexico pavilion, I would just like to warn you that the following quote contains many spoilers. Disney World has issued a press release which includes their detailed description of the ride…
It’s an excursion by tour boat through vibrant, eye-filling sights accompanied by lively music. The people, culture, history and arts of Mexico are showcased, and guests catch a glimpse of some of Mexico’s most famous cities, resorts and beaches, including locations such as Mexico City, Chichen Itza and Acapulco.
The “Gran Fiesta Tour” combines new live-action film shot on location in Mexico with an overlay of hand-drawn animation of the Three Caballeros. The custom animation is inspired by the original 1944 classic film and uses the same color palettes, stylistic design and graphic elements.
As the story goes, the caballeros have reunited for a grand performance in Mexico City. But along the way, Donald Duck disappears to take in the sights of the country, leaving José and Panchito to search for their missing friend. Their journey is a festive and colorful celebration of the beauty and culture of Mexico that is fun for guests of all ages.
Reuniting with their wandering amigo, the friends end their adventure with a grand fiesta celebration at sunset in Mexico City. Guests arrive at the new concert bandstand in Mexico City just in time to see — and hear — the much-anticipated Three Caballeros reunion concert.
Most of the reviews I have been reading are positive. It seems the update was well done, injecting the characters while not destroying the rides intent. The trend at Imagineering certainly is towards film based attractions and liver performances, and away from huge audio-animatronics based rides. But that criticism really does not apply to this attraction, as it was film based to begin with. I too would have liked to see something more than just a layover, but I’ll take anything better than what was there.