Disneyland truly has something for everyone these days – from toddlers just discovering Mickey Mouse to adults who are deep into Star Wars fandom – there is something for everyone to enjoy. However, to get the most appreciation out of your next visit, I suggest that you and your family watch the following movies to fully realize the magic.
Alice in Wonderland – Two classic Fantasyland attractions are devoted to this underrated animated gem, plus you can often meet Alice and the Mad Hatter (maybe even others if you’re lucky!) throughout the area. There are also several architecture elements themed to this movie as well – a White Rabbit cottage door, deck of cards decor in the restrooms and the Cheshire Cat statue are all fun details to look for.
Sleeping Beauty – Without a doubt the most iconic landmark in all of Disneyland is the castle. And it’s Aurora’s castle, after all! Some people don’t know, but you can actually go inside the castle and experience a charming Sleeping Beauty story walkthrough with beautiful visuals and immersive special effects. The entrance for the castle walkthrough is inside Fantasyland, next to the walkway to Frontierland.
Snow White – There is a recently reimagined dark ride dedicated to Snow White’s story, but it’s also an important piece of Disney history as well as cinematic history. The first full length animated feature ever produced, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs marks the beginning of Walt Disney Animation as we know it today. Snow White is often greeting guests in Fantasyland, and over in DCA you can visit Carthay Circle lounge and restaurant, which is a replica of the theatre Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs premiered at in 1937 (and is also full of amazing Snow White artifacts and Disney memorabilia).
Peter Pan – I’ll be honest here… Peter Pan’s Flight is one of the greatest attractions in Fantasyland (which is why the wait for it is always very long), but I find the movie pretty problematic. It’s visually gorgeous and the music is great, but yikes there are some issues here. So you know what? Maybe you can skip this film and just enjoy the ride!
Dumbo – When you think of quintessential Disney rides, the flying Dumbos are likely at the top of mind. Equally charming though is the Casey Jr. Circus Train that takes you on a scenic ride through the back end of Fantasyland while playing the sweet song from the Dumbo soundtrack.
Star Wars (Original Trilogy & The Force Awakens) – Galaxy’s Edge/Batuu/Star Wars Land is a feat of Imagineering achievement. The details and story are mind blowing on their own, but seeing these films gives you a sense of familiarity that will really enhance your experience.
Pirates of the Caribbean: Curse of the Black Pearl – Pirates of the Caribbean is a spectacular dark ride and also the last attraction that Walt personally worked on. The story of the ride was reimagined to incorporate characters from the recent Pirates franchise after these movies became a smash hit. The first installment is a fun one for the family, and definitely captures the spirit you can find in New Orleans Square.
The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh – Critter Country is one of the most underrated areas of Disneyland, and all throughout the land you will find sweet nods to Pooh & friends. The dark ride mimics scenes from this movie, and the characters are often out doing meet and greets. Also Pooh Corner is a bakery and gift shop that is not to be missed.
And there you have it! There are of course lots of other films in the Disney canon that are worthwhile and referenced throughout the parks. But for an in depth sense of knowledge and enjoyment for your visit, this is a pretty comprehensive list for the whole family. Enjoy and let me know if you have any favorite movies to watch in preparation for your trips to the parks!
