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Disney’s “Aggressive” New Retheme of Theme Park Land Faces Backlash

Disney has introduced a new overlay at one of its theme parks, and the reaction from fans has been swift.

The update affects World Premiere at Disney Adventure World, a land that only opened in 2025 as part of the park’s wider transformation.

Concept art of World Premiere Plaza at Disneyland Paris
Credit: Disney

Now, less than a year later, it has been temporarily reworked to promote an upcoming film release.

The overlay is themed to The Devil Wears Prada 2 (2026), the long-awaited sequel to the 2006 movie starring Anne Hathaway, Meryl Streep, Emily Blunt, and Stanley Tucci, which arrives in theaters on May 1.

Disney Transforms Park Entrance for Film Promotion

World Premiere — the main entry point for guests — has been updated with themed awnings, billboards, and a red carpet installation featuring the film’s logo.

The space, originally designed to evoke the “glitz and glamour of a Hollywood movie premiere,” now leans fully into that concept with a direct tie-in to the upcoming release.

It’s not even been a year since World Premiere opened, yet it’s already been given a The Devil Wears Prada 2 overlay! 👠 #DisneyAdventureWorld

Maybe this was the plan all along, but I’m disappointed that this beautiful space is being used to push and sell the latest film. 💰👎

 

The decision is notable given how recently the land debuted. World Premiere replaced Disney Studio 1, which had long been criticized for its lack of immersion and outdated theming.

Today, the area includes The Hollywood Gardens Restaurant, a quick-service location serving American dishes, as well as a snack stand called Searchlight.

Fans Question “Aggressive” Marketing Tactic

The update has divided fans, particularly given its prominent placement at the park’s entrance.

“I know it’s only temporary (from today until 31 May) but it just seems a bit aggressive to me,” said @CafeFantasia on X, formerly known as Twitter. “I mean, you’ve bought your ticket and immediately upon entering the park you find yourself inside a big advert.”

“I think its also a bit weird to have such a entrance in a themed park wich is expensive turned into a comercial,” wrote @KristofDesmet7.

👠 World Premiere x Devil Wears Prada 2 at Disney Adventure World

 

Others, however, see the overlay as a natural extension of the land’s theme.

“It is the concept of world premiere. The restaurant is a catering there for a Hollywood movie premiere so it makes total sense. Personally I love the idea. Would be great with themed offerings,” wrote @_BEN_D_.

“That’s exactly the very concept of this building, celebrating Disney’s great labels through glamorous premieres. We’re right on theme. Disneyland Paris brings this place to life rather than letting it stay frozen like it was with Disney Studio 1 for years,” added @DisneyphileLIVE.

Two guests walk through The Hollywood Garden Restaurant at Disney Adventure World
Credit: Disney

The Devil Wears Prada overlay is temporary and will run from April 23 through May 31.

The change arrives as Disney Adventure World continues to roll out new additions, including World of Frozen, Raiponce Tangled Spin, and Adventure Bay, which hosts the nighttime spectacular Disney Cascade of Lights. The new additions debuted on March 29, when the park officially adopted its new moniker.

In the coming years, Disney will add a land inspired by The Lion King (1994), complete with a Splash Mountain-esque water attraction. Fans have theorized that an Avatar land is also in the works.

What do you think of World Premiere’s new overlay?

Chloe James

Chloë is a theme park addict and self-proclaimed novelty hunter. She's obsessed with all things Star Wars, loves roller coasters (but hates Pixar Pal-A-Round), and lives for Disney's next Muppets project.

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