What is Your Opinion of the Splash Mountain Ride at Disneyland?

The Splash Mountain ride at Disneyland is indeed a masterpiece of engineering and storytelling, a creative achievement of Disney Imagineering's finest, including the legendary Tony Baxter. Despite its brilliance, it has faced some controversy over the years, particularly due to its connection to the 1946 film Song of the South. In this article, we will explore both the brilliance of Splash Mountain and the reasons why it has sparked some debate.

The Brilliance of Splash Mountain

When first conceptualized, the idea of a ride based on the story of Br'er Rabbit was a bold and prescient venture. Linked to the imaginative mind of George L. Barnett, the Song of the South film depicted the adventures of a cheerful yet mischievous rabbit in the South. The film, while beloved by many, has been criticized for its depiction of African-American characters, leading to its eventual removal from public distribution by Disney. Tony Baxter and his team, however, saw potential in the character of Br'er Rabbit and turned it into a compelling narrative for Splish Splash the Splash Ranger, the young hero who competes with Br'er Fox and Br'er Rabbit.

The ride is a sheer masterpiece of design, combining breathtaking visuals, immersive soundscapes, and a thrilling physical journey. Guests embark on a daring journey through the dense woods of the Deep South, plunging into icy cold waterfalls and navigating treacherous terrain. The use of dark, cavernous tunnels, rushes of cold water, and cascading waterfalls creates a truly immersive experience. The storytelling, though criticized by some, is masterfully crafted to engage the audience without overtly exploiting the troubled past of the film.

The Controversy Surrounding Splash Mountain

One of the most compelling aspects of Splash Mountain is also the source of its most significant controversy: its link to Song of the South. The film itself, while rich in its portrayal of Southern culture, has faced intense criticism due to its racial themes. The image of Song of the South being removed from public release is deeply ingrained in popular cultural memory, making any tie to such a film contentious.

The question remains: should a ride that so beautifully captures the spirit of a beloved character from Song of the South be tainted by its connection to the problematic film? While Splish Splash the Splash Ranger does not heavily rely on the film's most controversial scenes, the ride's history with Song of the South continues to provoke debate.

Future of Splash Mountain

Given the current social and cultural climate, the future of Splash Mountain is unclear. Some have called for a complete overhaul of the ride to remove its connections to Song of the South. Others argue that the ride, a testament to Disney's creativity, must be preserved in its original form. While changes or re-theming might seem like the logical course, doing so would mean erasing a significant piece of Disney history and legacy.

The ride, for many, has become a symbol of Disney's ability to take a controversial and problematic film and transform it into something new, innovative, and memorable. The evolution of Splash Mountain is a testament to Disney's enduring commitment to pushing the boundaries of storytelling and entertainment.

Conclusion

Ultimately, Splash Mountain remains a remarkable achievement in Disney's legacy. While its connection to the racially-charged Song of the South continues to spark debate, its technical and narrative brilliance cannot be denied. The ride represents a unique and compelling blend of adventure and storytelling that continues to enchant visitors, making it a quintessential Disney experience that deserves our admiration and respect.