By Tyler Slater
On the morning of Saturday, August 12, members of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club and TCM Backlot came together at Disney’s Hollywood Studios to say “that’s a wrap” at The Great Movie Ride for one last time.
Before the theme park opened, more than 100 fans gathered outside Grauman’s Chinese Theatre and were greeted by Gary and Diego from Walt Disney Imagineering. Both of these Imagineers have a long history with the attraction and were able to give attendees a well-informed, behind-the-scenes walkthrough, as well as share some emotional stories of their own personal experiences working on the attraction during its early years.
Once inside, guests had the opportunity to walk the entire attraction and hear some of the stories behind its development, little-known facts, as well as stop at several iconic scenes to pose for photos. Diego even recreated the Gangster scene and used one of the guests as the tour guide!
After the walkthrough, guests experienced the attraction and were able to say one last “hooray for Hollywood.”
Fans were escorted to The Hollywood Brown Derby for a private breakfast with items inspired by scenes inside the attraction! A fan-favorite included the smoking, freeze-dried cereal, of course, based on Alien.
During the meal, Lauren, Director of Marketing for Turner Classic Movies (TCM), led a “Yellow Brick Road” champagne toast to D23, TCM, and The Great Movie Ride and then attendees were able to ask questions about the attraction to our dear friends at Walt Disney Imagineering.
Before leaving for the rest of the day, all attendees received an exclusive concept sketch of the attraction sign, and our Walt Disney Imagineering guests even signed it!
