Why Disney Chose to Create Splash Mountain

Splash Mountain, a beloved flume ride at Disneyland, boasts a rich history and a delightful storyline that captivates visitors of all ages. Since its opening in 1989, this thrilling ride has been a staple of Disneyland's attractions. But did you know that Splash Mountain's origins trace back to 1985, when the idea to create a flume ride with a strong theme was conceived? The creators at Disney wanted to incorporate elements that would resonate with their brand and storytelling, making the ride both entertaining and thematically consistent with their parks.

Theme and Character Inspirations

The inspiration for Splash Mountain came from the ground-breaking animated film "Song of the South," released in 1946. While the live-action scenes from this film have been deemed culturally inappropriate in later years, the animated portions featuring characters like Brer Rabbit have endured as a beloved part of Disney's legacy. The creators at Disney envisioned a ride that celebrated these characters while incorporating a new theme and storyline. This decision to use elements from "Song of the South" was a significant choice for Disney, as it allowed them to pay homage to their rich history while also aligning with modern sensibilities.

A Unique Blend of Tradition and Innovation

What sets Splash Mountain apart is not only its incorporation of recognizable Disney characters but also its innovative approach to storytelling. The ride's narrative is inspired by the folk tale "Uncle Remus," which tells the adventures of Brer Rabbit and his friends. By weaving this classic story into a thrilling water slide adventure, Disney created a unique blend of tradition and innovation. Visitors aboard the ride navigate through a variety of settings, including a swamp, a plantation, and a final showdown with a frightening bear. Each section of the ride is packed with engaging transformations, sound effects, and visuals that perfectly match the story's narrative arc.

Adapting to Changing Times: The 2014 Refurbishment

Considering that Splash Mountain is now over 30 years old, the ride requires a significant refurbishment to keep it fresh and engaging for current and future generations. In 2014, Disney faced another challenge: the political correctness and cultural sensitivities that have evolved over the decades. Amid widespread criticism of the original "Song of the South" for its racial stereotypes, Disney decided to focus on a new theme. They chose characters from "The Princess and the Frog," their first black princess film, to rework the ride, ensuring a more inclusive and current appeal.

This decision to rework the ride was not just a nod to political correctness but also a strategic move. By aligning the ride with a newer and more diverse character, Disney successfully tapped into contemporary themes and values, attracting a wider and more diverse audience. This has resulted in a ride that is both entertaining for current visitors and reflective of Disney's commitment to inclusivity and storytelling.

A Wet and Thrilling Experience

No discussion of Splash Mountain would be complete without mentioning the ride's signature feature: the water. As riders make their way through the dense swamp and up the plantation, they are frequently drenched, adding to the thrill of the experience. Whether it's spray from navigating narrow paths or water pools at key moments in the narrative, the ride ensures that visitors get thoroughly soaked. This aspect of the ride has been a major contributor to its enduring popularity, as guests look forward to the fun and splashing during their visit.

Overall, Splash Mountain stands as a testament to Disney's ability to blend tradition, innovation, and modern sensibilities. From its initial conception in 1985 to the refurbishment in 2014, the ride has evolved while maintaining its core appeal. The themes and characters may have changed, but the heart of the ride remains the same: a thrilling, immersive, and wet adventure that continues to enchant visitors for generations to come.