Ahead of this year's D23 expo, Disney Parks has unveiled a first look model at their planned Star Wars Land addition, which is set to open in 2019. The Mouse House's acquisition of Lucasfilm meant the company would be able to reap the benefits of new Star Wars and Indiana Jones movies, but they had much, much more in store. Back in 2015, Disney CEO Bob Iger first announced the theme park plans for the California and Florida locations, and anticipation has been building ever since. Construction on what is officially known as "A Galaxy of Stories" began in April 2016. Concept art of the various attractions have teased fans with what to expect, but obviously nothing can top the real deal.
With Lucasfilm bypassing San Diego Comic-Con's Hall H this year, there is going to be a massive Star Wars push at D23. The Last Jedi writer/director Rian Johnson will be on hand to discuss his upcoming film, but there are also going to be some details about Star Wars Land revealed during the convention. Saturday's Walt Disney Parks & Resort panel will likely disclose most of the new information, but those interested can get an early glimpse thanks to the unveiling of a model of the park.
Disney Parks posted a video on their YouTube channel (watch it above), offering a brief look at A Galaxy of Stories in miniature form. Set to John Williams' iconic main theme, it sets the stage for the many adventures to come when park attendees get transported into the Star Wars universe. Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Chairman Bob Chapek expressed his enthusiasm for what lies ahead:
“To say we are excited for the Star Wars-themed lands to open in 2019 is an understatement. All along, we have said this will be game-changing, and through the model we can begin to see how truly epic these immersive new worlds will be.”
The attention to detail on the model is extraordinary, highlighting a variety of buildings, spaceships, and environments. One can only imagine what the end result will look like, as Disney is unsurprisingly handling this project with a great deal of care to ensure the experience lives up to the high expectations fans have. Ever since A New Hope premiered 40 years ago, moviegoers have wanted to grab a drink at the Mos Eisley cantina or fly an X-wing, and now these dreams are about to become a reality thanks to Disney's infinite resources and careful planning. There will surely be much to do at A Galaxy of Stories, and it looks like it will be hard to check everything off the list during a single trip.
It's been said before, but this theme park is further proof that George Lucas probably undersold when Disney bought Lucasfilm for $4 billion. The first two new Star Wars films of this era crossed the $1 billion plateau at the global box office and merchandise sales have brought in a fortune. When A Galaxy of Stories finally opens, it will be a year-round revenue generating machine for Disney and may prove to be more lucrative than any single movie. Star Wars is one of the few pop culture franchises with a multi-generational fan base, making a vacation to Disney World the perfect getaway for families.
MORE: Disney Parks Details Star Wars Land Plans
Source: Disney Parks
