Holy cow!! You must be one talented little person to do whatever all that htps ABCDE thing that you did. I just learned how to text a year and a half ago well hey I didn't have a cell phone until a couple of years ago and slowly slowly slowly and learning more things about it. What I would love to do since I am a Disney fanatic is it those goggle things that make you feel like you're right there, wherever there may be. Right now I am a disabled senior widow with no chance in you know where of ever getting up to Disney world again although my late husband and I tried to go once every year for a while. And I'll always remember how it felt to be on the Peter Pan ride when it took off it was like you were really flying and I can imagine what the goggles would do oh and let's not forget this ride that I've been watching over the internet called soaring, OMG Dynamite I know my husband would have loved it as much as I would have. Wow wish I could hire you to show me how to do some stuff in this darn phone haha.
Agreed! Frozen ride should've been the princess section of Fantasyland in Magic Kingdom! It has no educational and cultural value that warrants an attraction in Epcot.
My god.... You tell me a ride that require THREE POVs for it! This is incredible! This is truly ingenious! I could literally go on this ride over and over again! But no..... Disney just HAD to say "@#$% you" to the Norwegians! Don't they realize that if it weren't for them that..... Oh, I don't know.... THOR wouldn't have existed! God.... This video alone wants me to go and buy Thor's Hammer! It's just that unbelievably good--no, I take it back. Let me rephrase that: It's a masterpiece because Epcot is SUPPOSED to be a place full of diverse cultures! This is without question the BEST ride I have ever seen! God bless the Norwegians and all hail Odin! Heck, if it weren't for Loki's character in the Marvel series..... Disney AND Marvel would have made the SAME mistakes over and over again with their villains. That's right, Fan-girls, cheer as loudly as you all need to, scream to the top of your lungs for this HOT and SEXY God of Mischief, for he has unleashed character complexities in ways that one can not even well imagine all the while staying unbelievably close to Norse's Mythology! And what does Disney do?! HA!!! They tear this poor culturally enriched ride down to nothing JUST to insert their (soon to be taken down eventually) "FROZEN" ride! Disney, you owe a heck of a lot of credit to Norway, and you had absolutely NO excuse to replace this classic with some temporary franchise that's made up and has NO actual cultural significance! -_- Remember folks, normally when a ride is meant to be taken seriously.....it does NOT do well; however, in this case, THIS is the exception to the rule. Why? Because it's NOT based off modernized fiction. No..... Instead, THIS ride is, without a doubt, meant to be taken as a cultural reminder that the world is full of VERY unique countries, lifestyles, and rituals. Honestly.... I wouldn't be surprised if Disney takes down "It's a Small World After All" just to replace it with yet another fictional "Boat-Ride". -_-
I hear many comments about this ride being "outdated", but in all honesty, I think they're wrong. I love this ride because it is unique, it explores the myth and culture of Norway, and it has a little thrill element to it (so all family members can enjoy it). I'll admit that there is only one element of this attraction that is outdated, and that is the film at the end. I remember when it was mandatory to sit in the theater and watch the whole thing before you could leave. As a kid, I enjoyed watching it...I remember the first time I watched it, the sudden Viking scene would make me jump! Through the years, it does now appear like a cheesy tourist promotion...HOWEVER, I'm not thrilled about it being replaced with Frozen. All they had to do was do a revamp of the film.
Dave, you mean as a child you actually had to sit through, and enjoyed, something other than a cartoon or a video game?! The nerve of your parents, LOL
I like rides that draw from real life folktales. I've always loved lore and stories and Maelstrom was a ride that made me excited to read about Norse mythology. I get why they made the change for Frozen and it proved to be successful for Disney... but I personally think they lost something special when they did away with it.
Sigh......where do I even begin? As an American, I feel that Donald Trump has not only ruined us as a nation, but I get this vibe that he's also SECRETLY trying to destroy Epcot. Why? It's because he HATES other cultures! It's "American First" and "America Only" and "@#$% you other countries and cultures". It's disgusting because I will NEVER be able to experience Danish culture like THIS ever again. Thanks Disney....you once again threw away the entire purpose of Epcot and turned this beautiful culturally enhanced masterpiece into yet another "Fantasy Land Ride"! Seriously, do you EVER listen to your audience?! No? Well, I can see why you aren't doing as well as you should.....ugh..... -_-
Just because Maelstrom is "dated" and not flashy enough for some people...doesn't mean it's a terrible ride. I grew up going on this ride with my family and my father used to do the best impression of the trolls with my brother. I loved the education I got from Epcot in the early to mid 90's. I have wonderful memories of this ride and I am going to miss it dearly. I like Frozen but it doesn't deserve a space in the Norway pavilion. They definitely had other options as to where to put it.
LadyOfTheFae Yeah- how about updating it rather than shutting down to make way for an attraction that SHOULD be in the MK! Frozen does not belong anywhere in World Showcase
LadyOfTheFae “Then of course those experiences and that history... got chewed up in the commercial machine, got jazzed up... made titillating, cartooned for the sale rack.”-Mr Glass, Unbreakable(2000) Right?
@@TheBazinga314 Exactly, b/c it has ABSOLUTELY NOTHING to do w/ actual Norway or its culture & properties -- ski jumping, the "Nobel Peace Prize", the "Scream" painting, the "Int'l Children's Art Museum", the "'94 Winter Olympics" in Lillehammer, the "Lofoten Is.", "M2M', "A-Ha", the girl singer in "AQUA", etc.
I went to Disney when I was 8. I remember a lot from my trip, but not a lot about Epcot. But I remember this ride. I remember the thundering of water and booming voices and ADVENTURE. And thrills of myths which seemed to call to me all throughout the ride. I remember genuinely losing my sense of self on this ride. I just got sucked in. I didn't really like vikings before this ride, my parents and I were just killing time. But even after all these years, I still remember it. I was reminded of it today, in college, in a Pagan, Celtic and Viking art history class Discord. And I decided to look it up. I wasn't surprised to hear it got the Frozen treatment, but I did tear up a bit. This felt very special. I'm glad it can live on in this video and in my memory.
It's a shame that Disney decided to close this classic to make way for an attraction that should be in Fantasyland. They should of just refurbished it and updated it and make the freaking Frozen ride in New Fantasyland. And not to mention, they're making a new meet and greet reserved for the Frozen characters in that vacant space between Mexico and Norway. So sad that the Norway Pavillion will now be the Arendelle Pavillion. :( :(
@@stardustgirl2904 it is, but if you really want to, one day you will. Meanwhile you can get your Disney fix here on You Tube. There are a number of people putting it out here for us.
Did you know about the part at 19:03 before this video? I think the ride unload area before the theater is my favorite part of the entire ride and pavilion.
I remember one time we took pictures off to the side of the "village" near the bench. We heard the talking and at first thought it was CM's talking in the house. It's funny thinking about it now. Every year we always stop by the area just to listen. We're also some of the few who actually stop to watch the movie. We're really going to miss this attraction. Thanks for posting this and all the other videos.
iThemePark I know one of the voices is the actor Henki Kolstad, who is so well known I'm sure most Norwegians would be able to identify him by the first syllable spoken. The woman I'm not sure about, and all my guesses have come up blank. Nor have I been able to identify the play or movie the dialogue is taken from. They mention "Minneapolis", which is far from common in Norwegian plays and movies, but even that clue hasn't helped at all. I have to say, though, I think I remember hearing them when we were there (both in 2011 and 2014), but I'm not quite sure whether I actually remember that, or if I just seem to do so because of this video :) EDIT: My daughter assures me that I *do* in fact remember this, as she made a point of pointing it out to us, as a good guide should ;)
Maelstrom. This was my favorite ride at Epcot being from my own descendants, and I almost cry every time I think my children will never get to ride this ride. It's so sad they are replacing it with frozen.
I had a similar reaction. I had such a strong reaction to this ride, even though I had never previously been interested in vikings. It's very sad to me I won't get to show it to the little adventurers after me.
@@ithemeparkOFFICIAL Totally!!! For ex., I'll never forget when I actually rode this ride together w/ SAMANTHA BROWN herself -- Xmas Night, '12 - 7:45 PM
The ride was named in honor of the "Lofoten Is.", just off Norway's northern coast, which are home to some of the LARGEST, & MOST DANGEROUS maelstroms on Earth. In fact, a lot of people aren't aware of this, but the famous author, Edgar Allan Poe, even wrote a short story about 1 of them: "A Descent Into The Maelstrom", which is about the maelstrom called the "Moskstraumen".
Thank you for uploading such a clear POV video of this ride. I remember it fondly before it was changed to Frozen and was sadden by the change of ride. Thank you again!
Isaac, I agree. (I can't reply directly to you due to your Google + settings) This is a low capacity ride that doesn't look to have much space for a longer queue even if the theater section is used. Earlier this year when Anna and Elsa were doing Meet-and-Greets in Norway the line would stretch to the Mexico pavilion and it was really too crowded there and made even passing through Norway unpleasant due to the crowds. As big and popular as Frozen has been I really think they should make a big investment with a new state of the art E-ticket attraction at another park.
This was my absolute favorite ride and DisneyWorld and I was so crushed when they closed it. Thank you so much for making this so I can have little nostalgia trips and remember it!
Love this ride :) My mothers originally from Bergen Norway so this was pretty cool.. In my basement we have a wooden troll and I remember as a kid always laughing when friends came over and were startled by it XD
Yep, it was such a beautiful mural and even had a wonderfully hidden Mickey on the Viking ship with one of the Vikings wearing mouse ears. I particularly loved the Troll
man i am having so many flashbacks to the one time i rode this when i was like 8 and it's just so cool to see this video to remind me on how awesome it was. shame i'll never get a chance to ride it again
Going on Maelstrom in the winter was great fun. Because it was cold and felt like you were in Norway, then we used to come out of the ride at night and get a cup of hot coco then go back on again one last time . Good times. My fav ride
LEAVE MAELSTROM ALONE! If Disney want FROZEN as a new attraction, put it in Hollywood studios where American Idol used to be. Hollywood Studios needs some upgrades. Maelstrom depicts the history and landscape of Norway.
From what I heard, they're already moving the Frozen sing-along to where American Idol used to be, because the theater where it is right now usually houses a Holiday show in the winter.
They should have kept it for people to learn about Norway. But instead they replaced it with a Frozen ride that has no meaning to it. I rode on the frozen ride and it just a "TOUR A ARENDALLE" and "LOOK ITS ELSA"! Just, Disney, bring back the rides that have a meaning to it.
i'd say this has a little more to offer toward norwegian culture than the junk frozen ride that took its place. Isn't that what epcot is about, no? childhood memory ruined for money
This ride was replaced for political reasons. Some powerful groups (think the ADL, AIPAC, B’nai B’rith) have a lot of animosity towards “fiery tempered” (think Vikings, romans, etc) Europeans for historical reasons. Hence why it was replaced by “Frozen” (the clue is in the title)
@@reidoo Frozen is very clearly propaganda. There are various not so subtle themes running throughout the movie. Hans apparently only seeks to marry Anna so he can rule Arendell for himself. Hans’ villainy and attempt to take power and rule Arendell as a tyrant is supposed to be analogous to the Nazis, burning of the Jewish temple, gentile persecution, etc etc. This theme is further explored in Frozen 2 when Anna and Elsa destroy the dam which is separating the two tribes. The metaphor here is that borders are bad and keeping Europeans and other groups separate was a ploy to hoard power for themselves. Elsa freezes a salamander (an elemental fire symbol) which is again a reference to Europeans “fiery” nature which must be subdued to create peace and harmony. Its apparently loosely based on Hans Christian Anderson’s book the “Snow Queen” - you wouldn’t think it by reading the synopsis. Anderson was apparently spurned by a woman (whom the eponymous snow queen is referencing) who turned down Anderson’s advances and later married a Hebrew man which is what motivated him to write the story which the eponymous snow queen is referencing. It comes as no surprise therefore that the villain in Disney’s movie is called “Hans”. It’s also a giant middle finger to Walt Disney who said he took his inspiration from Hans Christian Anderson. Even Jordan Peterson (not a fan personally) has commented about Frozen being propaganda There has been a widely publicized political and ideological struggle for the control and ownership of Disney since the early 90s (check out books like Disney war)
Thank you for filming such a comprehensive ride-through experience! I know I'm not going to be the only one re-watching this video once October 5th rolls around.
This ride was replaced for political reasons. Some powerful groups (think the ADL, AIPAC, B’nai B’rith) have a lot of animosity towards “fiery tempered” (think Vikings, romans, etc) Europeans for historical reasons. Hence why it was replaced by “Frozen” (the clue is in the title)
I know.. Oh gad I can already hearing the masses of screaming children in the line of the new ride :( I always noticed more children/families in MK or HWS and more older people/couples with out kids at Epcot(maybe cause of the alcohol?) but now with frozen in the park omffg Epcot is going be probably just as packed as MK.. You are right Epcot will never be the same ever again :'(
+Baby Jesus When I go to Disney later this year , I'm probably going to be the only teenager excited about seeing Norway pavilion. Norway is my favorite country and I love the culture, but Frozen has taken it over and I hate that . It'll be packed with kids once I go since the Frozen ride will be open .
As a Tolkien, Norse/Celtic mythology, and high fantasy fanboy I thought this dark ride was awesome!!! They NEED to bring this back eventually in some way.
Back when Epcot had more culture than Disney movie themed rides. Frozen, Nemo, Guardians, Three Caballeros, Ratatouille, Beauty & Beast sing-a-long, and soon to be Moana. (Mary Poppins TBD)
When I went to Epcot for the first time in 2014, I was going to ride this ride, but they closed it already to build the new Frozen attraction. I don't mind that there will be a new ride and all, but wouldn't make more sense if the ride was somewhere in Magic Kingdom instead? Just saying.
Brinadette Smith, actually it was the second in Disney World, behind Magic Kingdom, and 4th or 5th(something like that) in the world. I believe it’s now been overtaken by Animal Kingdom, which received a boost due to Pandora. But anyway, it’s one of the most popular.
Thank you for this. I love how you got good shots of so many of the little details that most people wouldn't bother lingering on, like every bit of the load queue mural. If somebody some day decides to do a Malestrom: Resurrected, I'm sure this video will make an excellent reference.
6:36 - 8:16 This is my favorite, and *most-memorable* moment of the ride. (Most specifically, the “Oil Rig” part. Cause I genuinely felt like I was actually on a rowboat near an oil rig, as a young child 😅) So freaking nostalgic, from when I first experienced it. Hated the *drop,* though 😂
Has Frozen Ever After been there 4 years now! What? Insane how time flies. I do wish there was some part of this still showing Norway. I just watch the 4k Norway tour instead and see the stunning country!
The atmosphere of this ride was memorable with the wind sound and the huge artwork on the wall, combine that with the trolls and the polar bear. Just the good ol days in every aspect and takes me back when I was 12 yo again. I have not been to Epcot in years, its sad that when we go next year this ride wont be there :(
I'm so glad I got to ride this before it closed down, I rode it for my first time in December of 2013 and it was a great ride. That's really sad that they're getting rid of it.
I am so glad I got to experience this ride before they decided a Frozen ride was better suited. Honestly that ride should have gone to Magic Kingdom, this ride here showed the Norwegian Viking culture, which went great with the Norway showcase! Oh well, that’s Disney for ya
As someone who’s obsessed with Norse Mythology and Vikings, it really upsets me that I’ll never experience this ride. Wish I knew about it decades ago.
On my way to Disney right now! :) This has been one of my favorite rides since I was very little. Instead of replacing it, I think they should've revamped it. The line was super boring and some of the ride just isn't very well done on Disney standards. Frozen was inspired by Norway but it's not the same and kinda kills the spirit of the world showcase.
I cant stand how this is gone, now that i would actually appreciate it. We found out we have norwegian roots, and i have been obsessed with norse related things for quite some time. Didnt like it when i was a kid.
That troll in the gift shop has been giving me nightmares for 30 years. I'll miss you Maelstrom. Too bad Disney made you disappear, disappear, disappear.
i went on frozen today and all i can say is it is so not the same. it was so much better as maelstrom honestly and like,, im glad they kept the store with the trolls at the end because at least we can still see one last piece of it ):
This was my favorite ride at Epcot Center, it's so sad that they took it down. I will never forget that troll popping up, I thought there were more and when the boat went down. Thank you for posting.
My family has had a lot of memories with this ride, unknown as it is for a lot of people. Really sad we bypassed it last time and sad to see it go. Also, I try not to get mad about this kind of stuff, but I'm really ticked they're replacing it with a Frozen ride of all things. Who cares if this ride is dated, it stood the test of time, as did the themes of most of Disney's rides. Frozen hasn't been out for that long and Disney seems to really be banking on it being just as big years down the line when they've already milked that Frozen cow to exhaustion.
I love Frozen and I think they did a great job with the ride - and I still can't act like I'm surprised that they took advantage of their most successful movie in like 20 years by revamping this ride. 😆 but Maelstrom will honestly and always have a place in the corner of my heart dedicated to the strange and a little frightening yet still fascinating. ❤️
I've watched this a few times and I think the queue and boarding area is now where the Olaf room on the ride is. So odd. I wonder what happened to the mural? Hope it was preserved. It was very cool.
I believe you're correct with the location. That mural was incredible and I hope it was salvaged, but I think it might have been torn out of there. Maybe someone with first hand knowledge will reply to this comment.
A sad day to learn Maelstrom is leaving, happy trails! Once this ride becomes Frozen, it's going to need a proper follow-up. I say these Disney Imagineers and the Disney studios must collaborate in creating an all-new adventure for Anna and Elsa and have it written into the upcoming ride as something just as thrilling and fun (maybe even more) as Maelstrom (i.e. hopefully not giving the same treatment as the frightening Alien Encounter turned light-hearted Stitch's Great Escape).
I love Frozen and don't think it deserves the animosity displayed here, but using it to replace a ride that brilliantly exhibits Norwegian culture goes completely against the theming of the world showcase. At most disney characters should serve as compliments to the countries and not take center stage. One of the worst creative decisions to be made in the theme parks to date.
This ride was replaced for political reasons. Some powerful groups (think the ADL, AIPAC, B’nai B’rith) have a lot of animosity towards “fiery tempered” (think Vikings, romans, etc) Europeans for historical reasons. Hence why it was replaced by “Frozen” (the clue is in the title)
This brings back so many memories, of sitting next to my family on the ride and anticipating what’s gonna happen next and omg I miss it, especially the show at the end. Disney did make a smart choice to update it, but it still makes me sad and I wish they haven’t
I miss this ride. I really wish they didn't change it for freaking frozen. XC also I never did realize that you can hear two people speaking Norwegian near the end of the film!!!!!! I missed so much!!!!! O.o
I think a lot of people are going to let their nostalgia of this ride get in the way when judging Disney's decision to put a Frozen ride here. Walt built Disneyland with the spirit of a park that was always meant to be changing, improving, and evolving. It's only fitting that the parks in Disney World follow with that spirit. Some will say that having a ride based on a Disney movie goes against the point of World Showcase, and thus Epcot. To that I will say that Disney decided to walk away from the original point of Epcot years ago when they decided to build Soarin', Test Track, and Mission: SPACE, all of which ignore the core foundations of the park. The world today isn't what it was back in the 80s. The economics of theme parks have changed and I believe the desires of the guests who visit them have as well. It's fair enough to say you don't like that, but it's the reality we live in.
I agree that Walt's premise was to make an ever evolving park, however he also was one for detail and theming and was strict on this. Placing Frozen in Norway to replace Maelstrom does not fit the theme of the World Showcase section of Epcot. By adding Mission Space, Test Track, etc. that did not go away from the initial theming of EPCOT because those rides are in the Future World section of Epcot not the World Showcase section. There are two distinct sections of the theme park, one to represent the here and now of the world (World Showcase) and the other section is to represent the world of tomorrow, either through technology or proactive ways to maintain and improve our current environment for tomorrow. They have not deviated from the original concept until this stunt with Frozen. If they wanted to have Frozen involved in the Norway Pavilion, they should have done what they did in every other world pavilion of world showcase...do Anna & Elsa meet and greets. That would allow people to have a touch of frozen in the country it is from just like you can meet Belle in France and Alice in Britain without overthrowing the entire history and theme of the pavilion. The ride should have been placed in Magic Kingdom or Hollywood Studios where they already have an established base for frozen. Now Norway will be the only pavilion in all of Epcot that does not have its history and culture shown and that is unfair to their people and culture. Such a shame and all for a film that will die out in a few years and be replaced by the next best thing and by then it will be too late for Maelstrom.
Test Track, Mission Space, and Soarin absolutely did skew from the "original" theme of Epcot. Future World was a part of the park inspired by education through entertainment. Those are cheap thrill rides that provide no education about the future. No questioning of the future. They're only similar to the theme on the completely shallow level of "it's futuristic." On top of that, the ENTIRE PARK is one giant deviation from the original plan. If we're going to keep using Walt as an anchor, the entire park is a skew from what he wanted out of the Florida Project. Beyond that, even the original deviation beyond that was again shifted when Eisner and Wells took over and axed the idea that Epcot would be a park without Disney characters. The point being, there's no reason, and no history to indicate that Disney *should* or *would* stick to one specific plan just because "that was the original theme." The parks, as they should, are always changing and evolving. World Showcase was originally going to be a series of identical modern looking pavilions sponsored by their host nation. That changed before the park was even built. Then it was going to be a series of pavilions free of Disney characters and influence. That changed in the 80s. Then it was a series of pavilions with no Disney themed rides, and now that's changing in the 2010's. Also let's drop the hyperbole. Just because the ride at Norway is getting a Frozen makeover doesn't mean the whole culture of Norway is being scrubbed from the entire pavilion. To imply that Norway will "not have it's culture on display" because one part of the pavilion is changing is implying that none of the others (save Mexico that has a ride with, hey look at that, Disney cartoons) are having their culture put on display because they simply don't have rides to begin with. Also that last line about somehow having the clairvoyance to know that the film will "die out" is a great way to highlight the true root to most of the vitriol over this decision: Frozen is popular. Tons of people love Frozen. It's a hit. When something becomes a huge success, others will tend to hate it in an act of iconoclasm. It becomes cooler to hate the popular thing, than to love it, because you feel more unique. Combine that with the idea that internet generation holds much more value in cynicism and you get the only REAL shame here.
Sure, if you're naive and don't want to pay attention to any of the details that would balloon the costs of any attraction as a tacked on addition instead of a replacement. You think they just fence off a new square of land and build on the spot and thats it? You need to run utilities. You need to build new structures. You need to deconstruct the employee areas behind the show space, anything it's connected to, and completely rebuild it around the new show space. And then, on top of all the costs associated with that, you need to consider how that new area will effect the flow of foot traffic and the options to further expand later, or else you end up with a park that's pieced together like a shanty-town. My argument doesn't collapse because it's a no-brainer to replace an aging 26 year old attraction that doesn't get traffic anymore with something new based on something that's wildly successful. The only argument in favor of keeping the Maelstrom is nostalgia, and that's an awful argument, ESPECIALLY for a company in which theme parks were founded on the idea of constantly evolving and changing.
I’ve never been on this ride or the new refurbished frozen that replaced it, but this looks so much more awesome than goddamn frozen. I like frozen and all, but I can’t understand how it’s still extremely popular even when it’s been around for five years. Maybe I’m tired of it because my younger sister sang “let it go” 24/7 around 2015 all throughout the year.
I had been to Disney as a kid many times but never to Epcot until 2011 as an adult. We went to Disney every year since then and rode the Maelstrom multiple times. I loved it. We still go almost every year. Frozen Ever After is a fantastic ride imo, but I still miss the Maelstrom. I only got to ride it for about 4 years but have alot of great memories.
I'm glad I saw this. My son is very scared of the dark and he would lose his mind on this ride. It is a no go until he is older. At the rate we are going he might be able to go on this and Haunted Mansion when he is ready for college.
The frozen ride is more entertaining for children although it can be a little trashy like @AMagicProduction said because it keeps breaking down and there’s a lot of malfunctions
Well they did use more advanced tech like with the animatronics but just cause it's advanced or sporty doesn't make it reliable. The original ride as shown had a context to it, a plot almost, with the ride's moments, (such as the three-headed troll casting you out hence the rapid backwards motion for a while and then down another waterfall), but the new one is more appealing to the eyes of children among others, and probably has more to look at even if it is all...snow.
At least I know one of the last times I rode it, I sent it off in style, chugging a Carlsburg out of the Norway stein and singing "Swords in the Wind" by Manowar as I waited in line. So "Maelstorm", as the above song says "Place my body on a ship and burn it in the sea. Let my spirit rise, Valkyries carry me. Take me to Valhalla where my brothers wait for me. Fires burning to the sky, my spirit will never die."
Outstanding video! You did an amazing job. I was horrified to discover that Disney has killed this ride! I hate when Disney does that. Such amazing rides over the years have been destroyed and many were replaced with inferior things. If Disney wants to retire rides in an effort to remain relevant, I wish they would build another park on all that land they have and call it something like "Classic Disney" and then set up the retired rides there. Man I would pay big, big money to ride again the rides I rode 10, 20, 30 years ago! That would be my favorite park. Sad it is only a "fantasyland" in my own "world of imagination".
One of the first rides I went on in Disney when I was little, and never seeing anything like it before, I closed my eyes throughout most of the ride. Looks really cool, though! Wish I kept my eyes open lol
I've upscaled and remastered this version of Maelstrom in 8K >>>>> th-cam.com/video/vBIugupJl0M/w-d-xo.html
Holy cow!! You must be one talented little person to do whatever all that htps ABCDE thing that you did. I just learned how to text a year and a half ago well hey I didn't have a cell phone until a couple of years ago and slowly slowly slowly and learning more things about it. What I would love to do since I am a Disney fanatic is it those goggle things that make you feel like you're right there, wherever there may be. Right now I am a disabled senior widow with no chance in you know where of ever getting up to Disney world again although my late husband and I tried to go once every year for a while. And I'll always remember how it felt to be on the Peter Pan ride when it took off it was like you were really flying and I can imagine what the goggles would do oh and let's not forget this ride that I've been watching over the internet called soaring, OMG Dynamite I know my husband would have loved it as much as I would have. Wow wish I could hire you to show me how to do some stuff in this darn phone haha.
Frozen Ever After may have excellent effects, but honestly, it doesn't belong in Epcot. It could have had much more potential in Fantasyland.
I agree... Not to mention that there is real potential for an awesome Norway-themed ride if they really wanted to update it...
Agreed! Frozen ride should've been the princess section of Fantasyland in Magic Kingdom! It has no educational and cultural value that warrants an attraction in Epcot.
My god....
You tell me a ride that require THREE POVs for it!
This is incredible!
This is truly ingenious!
I could literally go on this ride over and over again!
But no.....
Disney just HAD to say "@#$% you" to the Norwegians!
Don't they realize that if it weren't for them that.....
Oh, I don't know....
THOR wouldn't have existed!
God....
This video alone wants me to go and buy Thor's Hammer!
It's just that unbelievably good--no, I take it back.
Let me rephrase that:
It's a masterpiece because Epcot is SUPPOSED to be a place full of diverse cultures!
This is without question the BEST ride I have ever seen!
God bless the Norwegians and all hail Odin!
Heck, if it weren't for Loki's character in the Marvel series.....
Disney AND Marvel would have made the SAME mistakes over and over again with their villains.
That's right, Fan-girls, cheer as loudly as you all need to, scream to the top of your lungs for this HOT and SEXY God of Mischief, for he has unleashed character complexities in ways that one can not even well imagine all the while staying unbelievably close to Norse's Mythology!
And what does Disney do?!
HA!!!
They tear this poor culturally enriched ride down to nothing JUST to insert their (soon to be taken down eventually) "FROZEN" ride!
Disney, you owe a heck of a lot of credit to Norway, and you had absolutely NO excuse to replace this classic with some temporary franchise that's made up and has NO actual cultural significance! -_-
Remember folks, normally when a ride is meant to be taken seriously.....it does NOT do well; however, in this case, THIS is the exception to the rule.
Why?
Because it's NOT based off modernized fiction.
No.....
Instead, THIS ride is, without a doubt, meant to be taken as a cultural reminder that the world is full of VERY unique countries, lifestyles, and rituals.
Honestly....
I wouldn't be surprised if Disney takes down "It's a Small World After All" just to replace it with yet another fictional "Boat-Ride". -_-
But the film itself take's place in Norway.
Could’ve would’ve
May the spirit of Norway rest in peace.
Splash mountain is getting replaced
Ayo i live in norway and in norway we call it “nøkken”
Night of October 5th: "You are not the first to pass this way. Nor shall you be the last."
I AM the last.
Person106 were you the last person to go on this ride?
Person106 lol 😆 is true
@@legohead23432 No, what I meant is that's what the last guy on closing day would be thinking.
I hear many comments about this ride being "outdated", but in all honesty, I think they're wrong. I love this ride because it is unique, it explores the myth and culture of Norway, and it has a little thrill element to it (so all family members can enjoy it).
I'll admit that there is only one element of this attraction that is outdated, and that is the film at the end. I remember when it was mandatory to sit in the theater and watch the whole thing before you could leave. As a kid, I enjoyed watching it...I remember the first time I watched it, the sudden Viking scene would make me jump! Through the years, it does now appear like a cheesy tourist promotion...HOWEVER, I'm not thrilled about it being replaced with Frozen. All they had to do was do a revamp of the film.
Dave, you mean as a child you actually had to sit through, and enjoyed, something other than a cartoon or a video game?! The nerve of your parents, LOL
no way it was out dated. It was short and sweet and the effects were fresh and mystical
I like rides that draw from real life folktales. I've always loved lore and stories and Maelstrom was a ride that made me excited to read about Norse mythology. I get why they made the change for Frozen and it proved to be successful for Disney... but I personally think they lost something special when they did away with it.
Dave Hilton I agree. I’m not sure I like tie ins to Disney movies at Epcot. They have little to do with the culture of their settings
Sigh......where do I even begin? As an American, I feel that Donald Trump has not only ruined us as a nation, but I get this vibe that he's also SECRETLY trying to destroy Epcot. Why? It's because he HATES other cultures! It's "American First" and "America Only" and "@#$% you other countries and cultures". It's disgusting because I will NEVER be able to experience Danish culture like THIS ever again. Thanks Disney....you once again threw away the entire purpose of Epcot and turned this beautiful culturally enhanced masterpiece into yet another "Fantasy Land Ride"! Seriously, do you EVER listen to your audience?! No? Well, I can see why you aren't doing as well as you should.....ugh..... -_-
I don't care what anyone says, this ride is awesome
Well, say goodbye because Frozen will replace it...
Aaron King it's my favorite ride ever 😎👍✌💖💗
I prefer this original. So glad we have this video!!!
Indeed
Yeah, it is. You've got a cool avatar BTW
Rest in piece malestrom.
Now it's a overrated frozen ride >:(
Ashcat :(
hope y'all have fun
Rip
1988-2014
Just because Maelstrom is "dated" and not flashy enough for some people...doesn't mean it's a terrible ride. I grew up going on this ride with my family and my father used to do the best impression of the trolls with my brother. I loved the education I got from Epcot in the early to mid 90's. I have wonderful memories of this ride and I am going to miss it dearly. I like Frozen but it doesn't deserve a space in the Norway pavilion. They definitely had other options as to where to put it.
Yeah, that Voyage of the Little Mermaid space at DHS could have been used.
Yup!!! Totally agree!
LadyOfTheFae Yeah- how about updating it rather than shutting down to make way for an attraction that SHOULD be in the MK! Frozen does not belong anywhere in World Showcase
LadyOfTheFae “Then of course those experiences and that history... got chewed up in the commercial machine, got jazzed up... made titillating, cartooned for the sale rack.”-Mr Glass, Unbreakable(2000)
Right?
@@TheBazinga314 Exactly, b/c it has ABSOLUTELY NOTHING to do w/ actual Norway or its culture & properties -- ski jumping, the "Nobel Peace Prize", the "Scream" painting, the "Int'l Children's Art Museum", the "'94 Winter Olympics" in Lillehammer, the "Lofoten Is.", "M2M', "A-Ha", the girl singer in "AQUA", etc.
I went to Disney when I was 8. I remember a lot from my trip, but not a lot about Epcot. But I remember this ride. I remember the thundering of water and booming voices and ADVENTURE. And thrills of myths which seemed to call to me all throughout the ride. I remember genuinely losing my sense of self on this ride. I just got sucked in.
I didn't really like vikings before this ride, my parents and I were just killing time. But even after all these years, I still remember it. I was reminded of it today, in college, in a Pagan, Celtic and Viking art history class Discord. And I decided to look it up. I wasn't surprised to hear it got the Frozen treatment, but I did tear up a bit.
This felt very special. I'm glad it can live on in this video and in my memory.
It's a shame that Disney decided to close this classic to make way for an attraction that should be in Fantasyland. They should of just refurbished it and updated it and make the freaking Frozen ride in New Fantasyland. And not to mention, they're making a new meet and greet reserved for the Frozen characters in that vacant space between Mexico and Norway. So sad that the Norway Pavillion will now be the Arendelle Pavillion. :( :(
yeah, and to be honest it would have made sense in ANY of the other parks
Sort of, it's more general Scandinavian than Norwegian, and the ride itself has almost nothing to do with Norway
This's how most of Epcot is becoming so far we also know France will become ratatouille
They even changed the inside of the Norwiegan church to fit more into frozen.😞
The Derptor that's horrible.
someone will actually be "the last to pass this way".
mst311 I don't know how I even got here,and I have never heard of this ride at all!😇🌷
@@stardustgirl2904 you are probably young
@@DebiSunset I've also never been to Orlando Florida! And I don't know if I will ever be able to go at all, it's pretty expensive.
@@stardustgirl2904 it is, but if you really want to, one day you will. Meanwhile you can get your Disney fix here on You Tube. There are a number of people putting it out here for us.
mst311 I was in the last boat back row but the people who tore it down were
Did you know about the part at 19:03 before this video? I think the ride unload area before the theater is my favorite part of the entire ride and pavilion.
Im never gonna get the chance to experence it it's not fair :(
I remember one time we took pictures off to the side of the "village" near the bench. We heard the talking and at first thought it was CM's talking in the house. It's funny thinking about it now. Every year we always stop by the area just to listen. We're also some of the few who actually stop to watch the movie. We're really going to miss this attraction.
Thanks for posting this and all the other videos.
iThemePark I know one of the voices is the actor Henki Kolstad, who is so well known I'm sure most Norwegians would be able to identify him by the first syllable spoken. The woman I'm not sure about, and all my guesses have come up blank. Nor have I been able to identify the play or movie the dialogue is taken from. They mention "Minneapolis", which is far from common in Norwegian plays and movies, but even that clue hasn't helped at all. I have to say, though, I think I remember hearing them when we were there (both in 2011 and 2014), but I'm not quite sure whether I actually remember that, or if I just seem to do so because of this video :)
EDIT: My daughter assures me that I *do* in fact remember this, as she made a point of pointing it out to us, as a good guide should ;)
That's awesome because I totally agree with you! Would have been cool if they had a little bar in that area, I'd totally hang out there, lol.
This video is like a knife in the heart. RIP Maelstrom.
10:31
If they change this thing to frozen, I think I know exactly what is going happen.
*Trolls pops out*
"EVERY ONES IS A BIT OF A FIXER UPPER!"
+Chao Flaka They actually had a area for frozen sadly... They are also getting ride of this ride for frozen
How do these trolls wear a hat when only three heads?
I hope the Frozen ride goes back, back over the falls!
It will , they aren't taking anything out , just converting everything into Frozen on the ride
• The Geeky Artist • That's what I meant...
It needs to DISAPPEAR DISAPPEAR DISAPPEAR!
@@cosmicrows this comment aged well
A moment of silence for those who never experienced this in real life.
May I use this footage in a video I'm making about submerged animatronics? I will give your channel full credit.
I watched it too, good video!
I watched it aswell
I miss this ride :( you have Frozen it in time for us, hopefully when it opens again, it will not leave a frost bitten taste in our memory!!
Maelstrom. This was my favorite ride at Epcot being from my own descendants, and I almost cry every time I think my children will never get to ride this ride. It's so sad they are replacing it with frozen.
I was actually looking forward to taking my daughter on this, guess not anymore😅
I had a similar reaction. I had such a strong reaction to this ride, even though I had never previously been interested in vikings. It's very sad to me I won't get to show it to the little adventurers after me.
I really loved Maelstrom. I still can't believe they removed it in order to put in garbage from "Frozen".
They should have kept it and The Great Movie Ride.
@@ithemeparkOFFICIAL Totally!!! For ex., I'll never forget when I actually rode this ride together w/ SAMANTHA BROWN herself -- Xmas Night, '12 - 7:45 PM
The ride was named in honor of the "Lofoten Is.", just off Norway's northern coast, which are home to some of the LARGEST, & MOST DANGEROUS maelstroms on Earth. In fact, a lot of people aren't aware of this, but the famous author, Edgar Allan Poe, even wrote a short story about 1 of them: "A Descent Into The Maelstrom", which is about the maelstrom called the "Moskstraumen".
BTW, in case you're wondering what a "Maelstrom" is, it's a WHIRLPOOL.
Thank you for uploading such a clear POV video of this ride. I remember it fondly before it was changed to Frozen and was sadden by the change of ride. Thank you again!
Isaac, I agree. (I can't reply directly to you due to your Google + settings) This is a low capacity ride that doesn't look to have much space for a longer queue even if the theater section is used. Earlier this year when Anna and Elsa were doing Meet-and-Greets in Norway the line would stretch to the Mexico pavilion and it was really too crowded there and made even passing through Norway unpleasant due to the crowds. As big and popular as Frozen has been I really think they should make a big investment with a new state of the art E-ticket attraction at another park.
This was my absolute favorite ride and DisneyWorld and I was so crushed when they closed it. Thank you so much for making this so I can have little nostalgia trips and remember it!
Love this ride :) My mothers originally from Bergen Norway so this was pretty cool.. In my basement we have a wooden troll and I remember as a kid always laughing when friends came over and were startled by it XD
I'm sorry to say my friend, it's been replaced by frozen 😕
+Lizzy G. I know I went there last week I was so angry
Shame that these one of a kind mural at the queue will be no more.
Yep, it was such a beautiful mural and even had a wonderfully hidden Mickey on the Viking ship with one of the Vikings wearing mouse ears. I particularly loved the Troll
I wish the frozen ride would DISAPPEAR DISAPPEAR
Luke Whitten me too
Ye
Yes
Yes!!!
I wish the whole entire idea of Frozen not just the ride but the movie itself would DISAPPEAR DISAPPEAR!!!!
man i am having so many flashbacks to the one time i rode this when i was like 8 and it's just so cool to see this video to remind me on how awesome it was. shame i'll never get a chance to ride it again
Going on Maelstrom in the winter was great fun. Because it was cold and felt like you were in Norway, then we used to come out of the ride at night and get a cup of hot coco then go back on again one last time . Good times. My fav ride
LEAVE MAELSTROM ALONE! If Disney want FROZEN as a new attraction, put it in Hollywood studios where American Idol used to be. Hollywood Studios needs some upgrades. Maelstrom depicts the history and landscape of Norway.
From what I heard, they're already moving the Frozen sing-along to where American Idol used to be, because the theater where it is right now usually houses a Holiday show in the winter.
i love looking at these comments from 3 years ago and saying LMAO THIS STUFF HAS GONE A LONG WAY
They should have kept it for people to learn about Norway. But instead they replaced it with a Frozen ride that has no meaning to it. I rode on the frozen ride and it just a "TOUR A ARENDALLE" and "LOOK ITS ELSA"! Just, Disney, bring back the rides that have a meaning to it.
i'd say this has a little more to offer toward norwegian culture than the junk frozen ride that took its place. Isn't that what epcot is about, no? childhood memory ruined for money
wrong
into the unknown
This ride was replaced for political reasons. Some powerful groups (think the ADL, AIPAC, B’nai B’rith) have a lot of animosity towards “fiery tempered” (think Vikings, romans, etc) Europeans for historical reasons. Hence why it was replaced by “Frozen” (the clue is in the title)
interesting take. Whereabouts did you ever see that sort of reason?
@@reidoo Frozen is very clearly propaganda. There are various not so subtle themes running throughout the movie. Hans apparently only seeks to marry Anna so he can rule Arendell for himself. Hans’ villainy and attempt to take power and rule Arendell as a tyrant is supposed to be analogous to the Nazis, burning of the Jewish temple, gentile persecution, etc etc. This theme is further explored in Frozen 2 when Anna and Elsa destroy the dam which is separating the two tribes. The metaphor here is that borders are bad and keeping Europeans and other groups separate was a ploy to hoard power for themselves. Elsa freezes a salamander (an elemental fire symbol) which is again a reference to Europeans “fiery” nature which must be subdued to create peace and harmony.
Its apparently loosely based on Hans Christian Anderson’s book the “Snow Queen” - you wouldn’t think it by reading the synopsis. Anderson was apparently spurned by a woman (whom the eponymous snow queen is referencing) who turned down Anderson’s advances and later married a Hebrew man which is what motivated him to write the story which the eponymous snow queen is referencing. It comes as no surprise therefore that the villain in Disney’s movie is called “Hans”. It’s also a giant middle finger to Walt Disney who said he took his inspiration from Hans Christian Anderson.
Even Jordan Peterson (not a fan personally) has commented about Frozen being propaganda
There has been a widely publicized political and ideological struggle for the control and ownership of Disney since the early 90s (check out books like Disney war)
Loved this ride. Was a nice cool relaxing break from the Hot EPCOT Sun!!!
And Disney Closed it..
i miss this ride so much
Thank you for filming such a comprehensive ride-through experience! I know I'm not going to be the only one re-watching this video once October 5th rolls around.
Your videos just make me feel like I am right at Disney. This is how I get thru my post Disney withdrawl. I can't wait to go back in 2016.
Disney killed a perfectly good ride for that vapid, inane, juvenile Frozen atrocity.
Ikr
Plus, the ride always breaks down almost everyday.
This ride was replaced for political reasons. Some powerful groups (think the ADL, AIPAC, B’nai B’rith) have a lot of animosity towards “fiery tempered” (think Vikings, romans, etc) Europeans for historical reasons. Hence why it was replaced by “Frozen” (the clue is in the title)
Long live Maelstrom!!!
Nice work, I always enjoy watching older rides like this.
Epcot is never going to be the same
I know.. Oh gad I can already hearing the masses of screaming children in the line of the new ride :( I always noticed more children/families in MK or HWS and more older people/couples with out kids at Epcot(maybe cause of the alcohol?) but now with frozen in the park omffg Epcot is going be probably just as packed as MK.. You are right Epcot will never be the same ever again :'(
+Baby Jesus
When I go to Disney later this year , I'm probably going to be the only teenager excited about seeing Norway pavilion. Norway is my favorite country and I love the culture, but Frozen has taken it over and I hate that . It'll be packed with kids once I go since the Frozen ride will be open .
Too true as of now
As a Tolkien, Norse/Celtic mythology, and high fantasy fanboy I thought this dark ride was awesome!!! They NEED to bring this back eventually in some way.
Back when Epcot had more culture than Disney movie themed rides.
Frozen, Nemo, Guardians, Three Caballeros, Ratatouille, Beauty & Beast sing-a-long, and soon to be Moana. (Mary Poppins TBD)
"This is troll country." LOL
the Maelstrom was one of my favourite Epcot rides as a child, so I was sorry to hear it had closed when I went back this time.
Nice little tribute to that ride! Good job. Believe it or not, but I'll really miss the little film montage at the end! Thanks for sharing...
When I went to Epcot for the first time in 2014, I was going to ride this ride, but they closed it already to build the new Frozen attraction. I don't mind that there will be a new ride and all, but wouldn't make more sense if the ride was somewhere in Magic Kingdom instead? Just saying.
+SugarCookie CranberrySauce i agre mayb in de adventure area or fantasy area i lov maelstrom!!!!
It was to up revenue to Epcot, one of Disney's least visited parks
Brinadette Smith, actually it was the second in Disney World, behind Magic Kingdom, and 4th or 5th(something like that) in the world. I believe it’s now been overtaken by Animal Kingdom, which received a boost due to Pandora. But anyway, it’s one of the most popular.
Bring back culture and adventure!
Thank you for this. I love how you got good shots of so many of the little details that most people wouldn't bother lingering on, like every bit of the load queue mural. If somebody some day decides to do a Malestrom: Resurrected, I'm sure this video will make an excellent reference.
6:36 - 8:16
This is my favorite, and *most-memorable* moment of the ride. (Most specifically, the “Oil Rig” part. Cause I genuinely felt like I was actually on a rowboat near an oil rig, as a young child 😅)
So freaking nostalgic, from when I first experienced it.
Hated the *drop,* though 😂
RIP to the 10 minute standby line. We will never see that again
This ride is so good they shouldn't replace it!!
RIP Maelstrom
Has Frozen Ever After been there 4 years now! What? Insane how time flies. I do wish there was some part of this still showing Norway. I just watch the 4k Norway tour instead and see the stunning country!
The atmosphere of this ride was memorable with the wind sound and the huge artwork on the wall, combine that with the trolls and the polar bear. Just the good ol days in every aspect and takes me back when I was 12 yo again. I have not been to Epcot in years, its sad that when we go next year this ride wont be there :(
I'm so glad I got to ride this before it closed down, I rode it for my first time in December of 2013 and it was a great ride. That's really sad that they're getting rid of it.
WOW great great video and quality. Thank you for the post of one of my fav rides and greatest childhood memories
Thank You For Bringing Back Such Great Memories Love Norway
I am so glad I got to experience this ride before they decided a Frozen ride was better suited. Honestly that ride should have gone to Magic Kingdom, this ride here showed the Norwegian Viking culture, which went great with the Norway showcase! Oh well, that’s Disney for ya
As someone who’s obsessed with Norse Mythology and Vikings, it really upsets me that I’ll never experience this ride. Wish I knew about it decades ago.
Thank you for this, I'm so glad that some have recorded these rides and shared them. It brings back so many happy memories💖🤗
This ride terrified me as a kid, but I'm sad to see it gone
Indy Film Productions its scary but it’s better and more like Norway
I'm mourning it, MAN! THANK YOU FOR BEING SO EXCELLENT AND PRESERVING THIS RIDE THE WAY YOU DID!!!!!!
On my way to Disney right now! :) This has been one of my favorite rides since I was very little. Instead of replacing it, I think they should've revamped it. The line was super boring and some of the ride just isn't very well done on Disney standards. Frozen was inspired by Norway but it's not the same and kinda kills the spirit of the world showcase.
I can't believe how small the fall part was! In my memory it was huge and terrifying! 😂 Still one of my favorites. Such a shame she's gone.
This guy's way of filming is exactly the kind of thing I do xD I like to look around! And then ride! Thanks for recording such good videos!
Went on it once back in 2010 don't really remember it, this video will certainly jog my memory. Shame it's gone, but at least I have experienced it
This was one of my favorite rides as a kid. Sad to see it’s gone. Epicott is awesome.
I cant stand how this is gone, now that i would actually appreciate it. We found out we have norwegian roots, and i have been obsessed with norse related things for quite some time. Didnt like it when i was a kid.
That troll in the gift shop has been giving me nightmares for 30 years. I'll miss you Maelstrom. Too bad Disney made you disappear, disappear, disappear.
I remember being mesmerized by this ride as a kid.
Sooooooo much better than Frozen.
Thank you. I was never able to ride as my first time to WDW was 2015. I’m glad I was able to at least see it through your lens.
Love Epcot... will miss Maelstrom... going back in March 2015.
i went on frozen today and all i can say is it is so not the same. it was so much better as maelstrom honestly and like,, im glad they kept the store with the trolls at the end because at least we can still see one last piece of it ):
This was my favorite ride at Epcot Center, it's so sad that they took it down. I will never forget that troll popping up, I thought there were more and when the boat went down. Thank you for posting.
that ride was really fun
Brings back good memories lol loved this ride X thanks for the trip down memory lane lol x
My family has had a lot of memories with this ride, unknown as it is for a lot of people. Really sad we bypassed it last time and sad to see it go. Also, I try not to get mad about this kind of stuff, but I'm really ticked they're replacing it with a Frozen ride of all things. Who cares if this ride is dated, it stood the test of time, as did the themes of most of Disney's rides. Frozen hasn't been out for that long and Disney seems to really be banking on it being just as big years down the line when they've already milked that Frozen cow to exhaustion.
I went on this two years ago and i loved it !!!
I love Frozen and I think they did a great job with the ride - and I still can't act like I'm surprised that they took advantage of their most successful movie in like 20 years by revamping this ride. 😆 but Maelstrom will honestly and always have a place in the corner of my heart dedicated to the strange and a little frightening yet still fascinating. ❤️
I've watched this a few times and I think the queue and boarding area is now where the Olaf room on the ride is. So odd. I wonder what happened to the mural? Hope it was preserved. It was very cool.
I believe you're correct with the location. That mural was incredible and I hope it was salvaged, but I think it might have been torn out of there. Maybe someone with first hand knowledge will reply to this comment.
A sad day to learn Maelstrom is leaving, happy trails! Once this ride becomes Frozen, it's going to need a proper follow-up. I say these Disney Imagineers and the Disney studios must collaborate in creating an all-new adventure for Anna and Elsa and have it written into the upcoming ride as something just as thrilling and fun (maybe even more) as Maelstrom (i.e. hopefully not giving the same treatment as the frightening Alien Encounter turned light-hearted Stitch's Great Escape).
I love Frozen and don't think it deserves the animosity displayed here, but using it to replace a ride that brilliantly exhibits Norwegian culture goes completely against the theming of the world showcase. At most disney characters should serve as compliments to the countries and not take center stage. One of the worst creative decisions to be made in the theme parks to date.
This ride was replaced for political reasons. Some powerful groups (think the ADL, AIPAC, B’nai B’rith) have a lot of animosity towards “fiery tempered” (think Vikings, romans, etc) Europeans for historical reasons. Hence why it was replaced by “Frozen” (the clue is in the title)
This brings back so many memories, of sitting next to my family on the ride and anticipating what’s gonna happen next and omg I miss it, especially the show at the end. Disney did make a smart choice to update it, but it still makes me sad and I wish they haven’t
I miss this ride. I really wish they didn't change it for freaking frozen. XC also I never did realize that you can hear two people speaking Norwegian near the end of the film!!!!!! I missed so much!!!!! O.o
I think I like this one better. I mean it was so cool and unique
I think a lot of people are going to let their nostalgia of this ride get in the way when judging Disney's decision to put a Frozen ride here. Walt built Disneyland with the spirit of a park that was always meant to be changing, improving, and evolving. It's only fitting that the parks in Disney World follow with that spirit.
Some will say that having a ride based on a Disney movie goes against the point of World Showcase, and thus Epcot. To that I will say that Disney decided to walk away from the original point of Epcot years ago when they decided to build Soarin', Test Track, and Mission: SPACE, all of which ignore the core foundations of the park.
The world today isn't what it was back in the 80s. The economics of theme parks have changed and I believe the desires of the guests who visit them have as well. It's fair enough to say you don't like that, but it's the reality we live in.
I know right, did people honestly think that a ride from the 80's that has never been updated would stay the same forever?
I agree that Walt's premise was to make an ever evolving park, however he also was one for detail and theming and was strict on this. Placing Frozen in Norway to replace Maelstrom does not fit the theme of the World Showcase section of Epcot. By adding Mission Space, Test Track, etc. that did not go away from the initial theming of EPCOT because those rides are in the Future World section of Epcot not the World Showcase section. There are two distinct sections of the theme park, one to represent the here and now of the world (World Showcase) and the other section is to represent the world of tomorrow, either through technology or proactive ways to maintain and improve our current environment for tomorrow. They have not deviated from the original concept until this stunt with Frozen. If they wanted to have Frozen involved in the Norway Pavilion, they should have done what they did in every other world pavilion of world showcase...do Anna & Elsa meet and greets. That would allow people to have a touch of frozen in the country it is from just like you can meet Belle in France and Alice in Britain without overthrowing the entire history and theme of the pavilion. The ride should have been placed in Magic Kingdom or Hollywood Studios where they already have an established base for frozen. Now Norway will be the only pavilion in all of Epcot that does not have its history and culture shown and that is unfair to their people and culture. Such a shame and all for a film that will die out in a few years and be replaced by the next best thing and by then it will be too late for Maelstrom.
Test Track, Mission Space, and Soarin absolutely did skew from the "original" theme of Epcot. Future World was a part of the park inspired by education through entertainment. Those are cheap thrill rides that provide no education about the future. No questioning of the future. They're only similar to the theme on the completely shallow level of "it's futuristic."
On top of that, the ENTIRE PARK is one giant deviation from the original plan. If we're going to keep using Walt as an anchor, the entire park is a skew from what he wanted out of the Florida Project.
Beyond that, even the original deviation beyond that was again shifted when Eisner and Wells took over and axed the idea that Epcot would be a park without Disney characters.
The point being, there's no reason, and no history to indicate that Disney *should* or *would* stick to one specific plan just because "that was the original theme." The parks, as they should, are always changing and evolving.
World Showcase was originally going to be a series of identical modern looking pavilions sponsored by their host nation. That changed before the park was even built.
Then it was going to be a series of pavilions free of Disney characters and influence. That changed in the 80s.
Then it was a series of pavilions with no Disney themed rides, and now that's changing in the 2010's.
Also let's drop the hyperbole. Just because the ride at Norway is getting a Frozen makeover doesn't mean the whole culture of Norway is being scrubbed from the entire pavilion.
To imply that Norway will "not have it's culture on display" because one part of the pavilion is changing is implying that none of the others (save Mexico that has a ride with, hey look at that, Disney cartoons) are having their culture put on display because they simply don't have rides to begin with.
Also that last line about somehow having the clairvoyance to know that the film will "die out" is a great way to highlight the true root to most of the vitriol over this decision:
Frozen is popular. Tons of people love Frozen. It's a hit. When something becomes a huge success, others will tend to hate it in an act of iconoclasm. It becomes cooler to hate the popular thing, than to love it, because you feel more unique.
Combine that with the idea that internet generation holds much more value in cynicism and you get the only REAL shame here.
43 square miles of land; plenty to build a Frozen attraction from scratch. Your argument collapses.
Sure, if you're naive and don't want to pay attention to any of the details that would balloon the costs of any attraction as a tacked on addition instead of a replacement.
You think they just fence off a new square of land and build on the spot and thats it? You need to run utilities. You need to build new structures. You need to deconstruct the employee areas behind the show space, anything it's connected to, and completely rebuild it around the new show space.
And then, on top of all the costs associated with that, you need to consider how that new area will effect the flow of foot traffic and the options to further expand later, or else you end up with a park that's pieced together like a shanty-town.
My argument doesn't collapse because it's a no-brainer to replace an aging 26 year old attraction that doesn't get traffic anymore with something new based on something that's wildly successful.
The only argument in favor of keeping the Maelstrom is nostalgia, and that's an awful argument, ESPECIALLY for a company in which theme parks were founded on the idea of constantly evolving and changing.
I’ve never been on this ride or the new refurbished frozen that replaced it, but this looks so much more awesome than goddamn frozen. I like frozen and all, but I can’t understand how it’s still extremely popular even when it’s been around for five years. Maybe I’m tired of it because my younger sister sang “let it go” 24/7 around 2015 all throughout the year.
What a great ride. Lives on in my memories and in videos like this. Thanks for helping to preserve it.
I had been to Disney as a kid many times but never to Epcot until 2011 as an adult. We went to Disney every year since then and rode the Maelstrom multiple times. I loved it. We still go almost every year. Frozen Ever After is a fantastic ride imo, but I still miss the Maelstrom. I only got to ride it for about 4 years but have alot of great memories.
Great Video! Will miss this ride.
I remember I used to be terrified of the Troll that said “Go back, Go back” on this ride lmao
I'm glad I saw this. My son is very scared of the dark and he would lose his mind on this ride. It is a no go until he is older. At the rate we are going he might be able to go on this and Haunted Mansion when he is ready for college.
Great Video iThemePark, now at least everybody has a good video to look back on when they wreck this country with frozen! :(
AMagicProduction ugh true 😔
AMagicProduction the frozen ride is trash
This was baller
The frozen ride is more entertaining for children although it can be a little trashy like @AMagicProduction said because it keeps breaking down and there’s a lot of malfunctions
Well they did use more advanced tech like with the animatronics but just cause it's advanced or sporty doesn't make it reliable.
The original ride as shown had a context to it, a plot almost, with the ride's moments, (such as the three-headed troll casting you out hence the rapid backwards motion for a while and then down another waterfall), but the new one is more appealing to the eyes of children among others, and probably has more to look at even if it is all...snow.
At least I know one of the last times I rode it, I sent it off in style, chugging a Carlsburg out of the Norway stein and singing "Swords in the Wind" by Manowar as I waited in line.
So "Maelstorm", as the above song says "Place my body on a ship and burn it in the sea. Let my spirit rise, Valkyries carry me. Take me to Valhalla where my brothers wait for me. Fires burning to the sky, my spirit will never die."
I went on this ride when I was 13yrs young. Amazing! And still amazing!
Outstanding video! You did an amazing job. I was horrified to discover that Disney has killed this ride! I hate when Disney does that. Such amazing rides over the years have been destroyed and many were replaced with inferior things. If Disney wants to retire rides in an effort to remain relevant, I wish they would build another park on all that land they have and call it something like "Classic Disney" and then set up the retired rides there. Man I would pay big, big money to ride again the rides I rode 10, 20, 30 years ago! That would be my favorite park. Sad it is only a "fantasyland" in my own "world of imagination".
1FatHappyBirthday whoever did this deserves to die the heart ripping way from temple of doom
dude, i loved this ride, its too damn sad that its gone!😥😥😥😥
heres cheers to a really good ride at epcot... loved this ride... gonna miss it greatly (especially since they're gonna freeze it up....)
One of the first rides I went on in Disney when I was little, and never seeing anything like it before, I closed my eyes throughout most of the ride. Looks really cool, though! Wish I kept my eyes open lol
I'm gonna miss that ride :(