If you have ever been to Disneyland or Walt Disney World, then you might be familiar with the Jungle Cruise ride. It’s a classic attraction that takes visitors on a journey through the world’s most exotic rivers and jungles. But did you know that this ride is actually based on a movie?
Yes, that’s right! The Jungle Cruise ride is inspired by a movie of the same name.
This movie was released in 2021 and was directed by Jaume Collet-Serra. It stars Dwayne Johnson and Emily Blunt in lead roles.
The Plot
The Jungle Cruise movie follows the story of Dr. Lily Houghton (played by Emily Blunt), who travels to the Amazon rainforest with her brother in search of a mythical tree whose petals have healing powers. In order to navigate through the treacherous jungle, she enlists the help of Frank Wolff (played by Dwayne Johnson), a riverboat captain who takes her on his boat named La Quila.
As they journey deeper into the jungle, they encounter all kinds of obstacles and dangers, including wild animals, rival treasure hunters, and supernatural forces. Will they be able to find the tree and unlock its secrets before it’s too late?
The Inspiration
The Jungle Cruise ride was first introduced at Disneyland in 1955, and it quickly became one of the park’s most popular attractions. The ride takes visitors on a tour along four different rivers: the Nile, Congo, Amazon, and Mekong.
The inspiration for this ride came from two sources: Walt Disney’s love for nature documentaries and the classic adventure movies of Hollywood’s Golden Age. The Imagineers who designed the ride wanted to create an immersive experience that would transport guests to exotic locations around the world.
Over time, the Jungle Cruise ride has evolved into a beloved classic that has inspired countless Disney fans around the world. It has also become a pop culture icon, with references to the ride appearing in movies, TV shows, and even video games.
The Movie vs The Ride
While the Jungle Cruise movie is inspired by the ride, it takes some creative liberties with the source material. For example, the movie’s plot revolves around a mystical tree with healing powers, while the ride focuses on showcasing different animals and cultures from around the world.
However, there are still plenty of nods to the ride in the movie. For instance, Frank Wolff’s boat is named La Quila, which is Spanish for “the eagle.” This is a reference to the boat named “the African Queen” that was used in the original Jungle Cruise ride at Disneyland.
Conclusion
The Jungle Cruise ride and movie are both beloved parts of Disney’s entertainment legacy. While they may differ in some aspects, they both share a sense of adventure and wonder that has captivated audiences for decades. Whether you’re a fan of classic Hollywood movies or modern blockbusters, there’s something for everyone in this timeless tale of exploration and discovery.