Disney's SXSW Panel Unveils World-Building Future

The excitement at SXSW's The Future of World-building at Disney Panel was palpable as Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D'Amaro and Disney Entertainment Co-Chairman Alan Bergman unveiled a thrilling array of upcoming attractions and experiences at Disney Parks. From new missions with beloved characters to innovative ride technologies, the future looks bright and full of adventure for Disney enthusiasts.

The Mandalorian and Grogu Will Join Smuggler's Run in a New Mission at the Launch of The Mandalorian & Grogu Film

Fans of the galaxy far, far away have much to look forward to, as The Mandalorian and Grogu are set to embark on a new mission within Millennium Falcon: Smuggler's Run at both Walt Disney World and Disneyland. This exciting addition will coincide with the release of The Mandalorian & Grogu film on May 22, 2026. Jon Favreau, along with Imagineers Leslie Evans and Asa Kalama, offered a sneak peek into this new narrative, showcasing concept art that includes iconic locations like Tatooine, Bespin's Cloud City, and the wreckage of the second Death Star above Endor.

Favreau emphasized that this experience won't merely retell the film's story but will immerse guests in an off-camera adventure, enhancing the authenticity with scenes captured directly from the movie set. Additionally, the beloved BDX droids, familiar to Disneyland visitors, will expand their presence to Walt Disney World, Tokyo Disneyland, and Disneyland Paris, with a new variant featuring an Anzellan named Otto.

The Mandalorian and Grogu Mission Concept Art for Millennium Falcon: Smuggler's Run

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Here's a Sneak Peak at the Load Area and Lift Off of the New Monsters, Inc. Attraction at Disney World

Disney World's Hollywood Studios is set to welcome Monsters, Inc. Land, featuring a groundbreaking themed roller coaster. This will be Disney's first-ever suspended coaster with a vertical lift, promising a thrilling journey through Monsters, Inc.'s door vault. A first look at the load area sets the stage for what promises to be an exhilarating experience.

Pixar and Imagineering Reveal a New Type of Ride Vehicle Had to Be Made for Magic Kingdom's Upcoming Cars Attraction

Magic Kingdom's new Cars-themed land will introduce a ride vehicle designed to evoke emotional responses from guests. Pixar's Chief Creative Officer Pete Docter and Imagineer Michael Hundgen explained that the development involved testing in the Arizona desert and collaborating with a motocross company to simulate the thrill of a rally race through the mountains. These vehicles, equipped with sensors and customizations, aim to convey a unique feeling during the ride, each with its own personality, name, and number.

Robert Downey Jr. Stops by Disney's SXSW Panel to Help Share More About the New Avengers Campus Attractions

Avengers Campus at Disneyland is gearing up for two new attractions, including Avengers Infinity Defense, where guests will battle King Thanos across multiple worlds. The highlight, however, was the reveal of Stark Flight Lab, where Robert Downey Jr. reprised his role as Tony Stark. This attraction will immerse guests in Tony's workshop, featuring "gyro-kinetic pods" and a giant robot arm inspired by DUM-E, offering high-speed maneuvers reminiscent of Iron Man and other Avengers.

Bruce Vaughn, Chief Creative Officer for Walt Disney Imagineering, noted that this attraction uniquely showcases technology as part of the story, using motion capture and dancers to bring the robotic elements to life. The integration of tech and narrative promises an unparalleled experience at Avengers Campus.