Mysterious futuristic epic Tomorrowland: A World Beyond arrives on our screens this May. Directed by the man behind The Incredibles, Brad Bird, it's the story of a young teenager and a former boy genius inventor who team up to discover the secrets behind the eponymous, futuristic world.
Starring George Clooney and Britt Robertson, the film promises to be a grand adventure on a sweeping scale. But did you know it's actually based on a futuristic Disney theme park attraction? First opened in 1955, Tomorrowland was described by Walt Disney himself in the following statement:
"The Tomorrowland attractions have been designed to give you an opportunity to participate in adventures that are a living blueprint of our future."
And Tomorrowland: A World Beyond isn't the only movie to have been inspired by a Disney attraction...
The Wind in the Willows (1996)
Based on: Mr Toad's Wild Ride at Disneyland
Python alumni Terry Jones' adaptation of Kenneth Grahame's timeless children's story wasn't technically based on the 1955 Disney ride. But the top brass nevertheless changed the title for the video release in order to tie it more closely into the attraction. The ride itself is based on Disney's 1908 adaptation of Grahame's novel.
Tower of Terror (1997)
Based on: The Twilight Zone's Tower of Terror
This little-remembered, made-for-TV creeper stars a young Kirsten Dunst as a young girl who accompanies her uncle on an investigation of a haunted hotel. The jumping-off point is the famous drop tower ride to be found at Disney's Hollywood Studios and also the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida.
The Country Bears (2002)
Based on: Country Bear Jamboree
The first theatrically released Disney movie to be officially based on one of their rides, this critically reviled family musical weirdly attracted the likes of Christopher Walken. The ride itself is an audio-animatronic stage show in which bears perform country music. Is it any wonder the film didn't do well?
Pirates of the Caribbean (2003 – present)
Based on: The Pirates of the Caribbean
This world-conquering blockbuster series made an A-list star of Johnny Depp, and a fifth movie is due out next year. Depp's Captain Jack Sparrow has become one of the most popular rapscallions to ever set sail on the cinematic high seas, although you won't find him in the original Disney ride. Opened in 1967, it was one of the last to have been overseen by Walt Disney himself.
The Haunted Mansion (2003)
Based on: Haunted Mansion
One of Eddie Murphy's slightly less-reviled recent movies was this family-friendly spooktacular, based on one of Disney's most popular and enduring attractions. Located at Disney theme parks around the world, the Haunted Mansion found at Disneyland Paris is significantly different to those found elsewhere.
Tomorrowland: A World Beyond is released on 22nd May.
