Disney is known for turning animated tales into unforgettable theme park experiences, but sometimes, the magic flows in reverse. Over the years, several Disney rides and attractions have inspired full-length feature films. While some became blockbuster franchises, others quietly disappeared into Disney+ libraries and theme park gift shops.
Here’s a look at six movies inspired by Disney Parks attractions, ranked from the most successful to the lesser known.
1. Pirates of the Caribbean (2003–2017)
Based on: Pirates of the Caribbean attraction (Disneyland, Magic Kingdom, etc.)
When Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl premiered in 2003, many were skeptical. A movie based on a slow-moving boat ride? Turns out, it was a box office gold mine. Anchored by Johnny Depp’s now-iconic performance as Captain Jack Sparrow, the film launched a five-movie franchise that grossed over $4.5 billion worldwide.
The ride itself has since been updated with characters from the films, blurring the line between attraction and cinematic universe.
2. Jungle Cruise (2021)
Based on: Jungle Cruise (Adventureland in multiple parks)
Dwayne Johnson and Emily Blunt steered this film adaptation into box office success (despite its pandemic-era release). Drawing inspiration from both the original pun-heavy boat tour and adventure serials like Indiana Jones, Jungle Cruise blended action, fantasy, and dad jokes into an entertaining ride.
It wasn’t quite Pirates-level success, but Disney has already confirmed a sequel is in the works—proving that Jungle Cruise has a course charted for more adventures ahead.
3. Haunted Mansion (2003, 2023, and Muppets version)
Based on: The Haunted Mansion (Multiple parks)
The Haunted Mansion has haunted fans since 1969, and Disney has tried more than once to bring the ghostly fun to the big screen:
- The Haunted Mansion (2003), starring Eddie Murphy, leaned into campy family comedy and did moderately well, but never launched a franchise.
- Muppets Haunted Mansion (2021), a Disney+ Halloween special, delivered delightful ghostly gags in signature Muppet fashion.
- Haunted Mansion (2023), a darker, more atmospheric take starring LaKeith Stanfield, Rosario Dawson, and Owen Wilson, earned better critical reception but underperformed at the box office.
Despite the ups and downs, the Haunted Mansion remains one of Disney’s most beloved on-screen and in-ride properties.
4. Tomorrowland (2015)
Based on: Tomorrowland (land in Disney Parks, not a specific ride)
Tomorrowland had all the ingredients of a hit: visionary director Brad Bird, George Clooney, and a mysterious, futuristic premise. But despite its ambitious visuals and big ideas, the film struggled to connect with audiences, grossing under $210 million globally against a hefty budget.
While not a financial success, it remains a visually striking, thought-provoking entry in Disney’s attempt to turn its parks into story incubators.
5. The Country Bears (2002)
Based on: Country Bear Jamboree (Magic Kingdom, Tokyo Disneyland)
Yes, this happened.
Loosely inspired by the animatronic bear band that performs country tunes in Frontierland, The Country Bears was a musical road trip movie featuring giant talking bears, celebrity cameos, and a surprising amount of heart.
Unfortunately, it flopped at the box office and is largely forgotten. It’s weird, it’s niche, and it’s very early-2000s Disney.
6. Tower of Terror (1997)
Based on: The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror (Disney’s Hollywood Studios)
This made-for-TV movie, starring a young Kirsten Dunst and Steve Guttenberg, was the first film ever based on a Disney attraction. It’s a spooky-fun mystery centered around the elevator drop ride and even incorporates the fictional 1939 backstory created for the attraction.
Here’s a fun fact: for years, DVDs of this movie were sold at the Tower of Terror gift shop. Though not widely known, it holds a special place in Disney history. A reboot starring Scarlett Johansson was announced several years ago, with the last notable updates emerging in 2023, but since then, news has gone quiet.
A Cinematic Ride Through Disney History
While not every attraction-inspired movie has hit blockbuster status, each one offers a fascinating glimpse into how Disney reimagines its parks for the big screen. From supernatural thrillers to swashbuckling epics, these films reflect the creativity, nostalgia, and spirit of adventure that define the Disney experience in theaters and parks.
Whether beloved classics or hidden gems, they continue to remind us that every great ride can tell a great story.
