Episode #197: Hollywood Studios Attractions: Under, Over, or Properly Rated

Disney's Hollywood Studios has evolved significantly over the years, and as park veterans with multiple visits under our belts, we've developed strong opinions about which attractions deserve their reputation and which ones might be flying under the radar. In our latest podcast episode, we tackled the challenging task of categorizing each Hollywood Studios attraction as under, over, or properly rated.

One of the most interesting revelations from our discussion was how dramatically our opinions have changed over time. Attractions that once seemed revolutionary now feel dated, while others have grown on us with repeated visits. Take Mickey and Minnie's Runaway Railway, for example. Initially, we weren't particularly impressed, but it's become one of those rides that genuinely improves with each experience. The trackless ride system and impressive technology create an immersive experience that justifies its typically 45-minute wait time.

Galaxy's Edge presents some fascinating contradictions. Rise of the Resistance unanimously earns its "properly rated" designation as a technological marvel that impresses even non-Star Wars fans. The hangar bay scene alone, with rows of stormtroopers standing at attention, creates one of those magical Disney moments that stop you in your tracks every single time. However, Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run received our "overrated" verdict despite its impressive theming. The experience varies dramatically based on your assigned position – pilots have all the fun while engineers and gunners are left with repetitive button-pushing that quickly becomes tedious.

Some of our most controversial takes might surprise frequent visitors. The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, despite its legendary status and incredible theming, received mixed reviews. We appreciated the storytelling and atmospheric queue but felt the actual drop sequence lacks the thrilling intensity found in Guardians of the Galaxy: Mission Breakout at Disney California Adventure. Meanwhile, Slinky Dog Dash consistently commands hour-long waits but struck us as overrated for the actual experience delivered.

The true hidden gems of Hollywood Studios might be the shows rather than the rides. Beauty and the Beast Live on Stage delivers a surprisingly high-quality Broadway-style production that many guests overlook. Even more surprising is For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration, which both of us agreed is severely underrated. The royal historians who narrate the show elevate it far beyond a simple sing-along, incorporating humor that works on multiple levels for both children and adults.

Perhaps the most criminally underrated attraction is Walt Disney Presents, a walk-through exhibit showcasing Walt's life through rare artifacts, models, and a documentary film. This meaningful experience provides context for everything else in the parks and should be required viewing for first-time visitors. It houses treasures like Walt's schoolhouse desk from Marceline and the massive multi-plane camera that revolutionized animation depth in classics like Sleeping Beauty.

As Hollywood Studios continues to evolve with new additions like The Little Mermaid: A Musical Adventure and Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After (both opening May 27th, 2025), the park's identity becomes increasingly focused on immersive storytelling. Some experiences will inevitably rise in our estimation while others may fall, but that's the beauty of returning to Disney parks year after year – the opportunity to reassess, discover new details, and form fresh opinions about these evolving entertainment experiences.