All Disney Theme Park Ride based Movies Ranked

  Back when I was a little kid growing up in San Diego California, we had several options for places to visit for vacation, and Disneyland naturally was a favorite of ours to visit. Aside from the general entertainment of their attractions, I always loved how their rides seemed to take a life all their own, with their own original characters and stories to tell. 

As a kid, it always sparked the idea that many of their rides could be expanded in other forms of media … maybe even movies. Well … Disney studio seemed to have the same thought as many of their rides and attractions have received movie adaptions over the years. There are currently thirteen different movies based on their theme park attractions, and I thought it would be fun to rank each on my own personal scale, from my absolute favorite, to my least favorite ... you got your tickets, let’s ride the rides.     

 

#1 “Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl” (2003) 

Probably not an unpopular opinion, but the first “Pirates of the Caribbean” is my absolute favorite of the Disney theme park ride inspired movies. While it wasn’t the first movie to be adapted from a Disney Theme Park ride, it is unmistakably the film that made a trend of it. For me, the film has absolutely held-up over the years as a consistently re-watchable piece of entertainment, and it’s still one of my favorites of adventure cinema. Truthfully, the first film is all I really needed to get my fix of high-sailing adventures at sea with this fantastic cast of memorable characters. 

Rather than being confined to the lore of the ride, the film created its own memorable characters and creative backstories. The performances are larger than life, the music riveting, the battles exciting, the effects eye-popping, and it stands as a great reminder for Hollywood to take ambitious risks when coming up with new ideas. If you feel that “Pirates of the Caribbean” lost its flair due to an overabundance of sequels, I’d still encourage you to look back at the first, as it still holds-up as a refreshing escape from what Hollywood traditionally produces.

 

#2 “Haunted Mansion” (2023) 

I’ve loved the Disney-Land "Haunted Mansion" ride my whole life, it’s probably my favorite, and by extent, I’ve always enjoyed the expanded universe of the rides setting. As such, I’m always open for a new movie or special based around the attraction. While this latest version was no “Pirates of the Caribbean”, I felt it put in the extra effort to be a good movie, balancing it’s fun, goofy and spooky nature with mature themes of facing loss, grief, and a lead performance that was honestly better than this film deserved. 

In general, there are better spooky family films, but this one still did its job, and made for a decent adaption of my favorite theme-park attraction. Needless to say, all the creatively fun haunts were there, the cast was great, and it may not be on the same high-bar of the attraction … but this was still a fun ride in its own right, and worth riding again when Halloween comes around.

 

#3 “Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest” (2006) 

The first and best of the “Pirates of the Caribbean” sequels. While I would have been content with the first movie by itself, I’m certainly glad I have “Dead Man’s Chest” to look back on. This is the one that best captured the spirit of the first, all while expanding the mythology of the setting, and delivering some of the best action ... including the best sword fight of the whole series. 

While hindered by a cliff-hanger ending, and set-up for more sequels, this film has its strong points, with Davey Jones being the best villain, another rousing score, fine action, effects that still impress today, and it had the courage to go outside the comfort zone of family friendly material. Seriously, you’ll probably never see a Disney movie this dark and violent released these days. It’s not a perfect sequel, but a good one all the same.

 

#4 “Tower of Terror” (1997)

Here it is, the very first movie to be based on a Disney theme-park ride, and it’s still one of my favorites of the line-up. That’s not to say it’s any kind of masterpiece, but it’s certainly better than it had any right to be, and despite being a TV production, I still feel it’s a stronger effort then the majority of their theme park adaptions. It’s also refreshingly subtle in its approach, relying on mood and a charming personality over big spectacles. In general, the spooky themed, made for TV Disney movies of the early days had a distinct appeal … and even a little edge … that I just feel is missing from what they produce now days. 

“Tower of Terror” has its dark elements, even subtle creepy touches, but it’s still appealing for a whole family to sit-down and watch together. If you’re a genera fan of these family friendly Halloween films, that retain just enough of a dark tone, then be sure to give this one a watch. It won’t knock your socks off, but you might just find it a welcome little experience to go with the season.  

 

#5 “Tomorrowland” (2015) 

Of all the Disney theme-park adapted films, this one probably feels the most like experiencing a ride … right down to "Disneyland" being a setting in the film … with “Small World” making a surprise appearance. This is a special case in which a film has a branded IP, but it comes off feeling like something original, and with its own special voice. 

While the narrative is a little rocky, the film is loaded with imaginative ideas, stunning imagery, and some solid performances, with Raffey Cassidy’s portrayal of the little Robot Girl Athena being a real stand-out. Again, it’s not a perfect film, but I find this one of the more underrated Sci-Fi offerings of the two-thousand-teens. For me, it mostly holds-up, and is well worth giving a chance.

 

#6 “The Haunted Mansion” (2003) 

I’m sure most fans would rank this one lower, if not rock bottom … but I have some fondness reserved for this one. I certainly have the childhood nostalgia for it, and for a long time, this was the only movie adaption I had of my favorite Disney theme-Park attraction. Call it a guilty pleasure, but for what it is, it’s not completely devoid of spooky charms that get me in the mood for the Halloween season. 

It also looks great, the colors are nice, and it makes for fine comfort food. Having said that, “The Haunted Mansion” theme park ride certainly deserved a better adaption than this, and it’s not one I can really recommend. It still has its special place on my ranking, but I understand why most would dismiss it.   

 

#7 “Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End” (2007) 

Third in the “Pirates” franchise, and for me, it’s the moment when this series sailed off-course. This is when the plots got needlessly complicated, the tone was more draining and darker than fun, the nasty imagery got excessive, the hummer was predictable, the characters themselves got repetitive with their gimmicks, and the fresh excitement just wasn’t there anymore. 

All that being said, this third film at least had its bright spots, including another great soundtrack, a memorable final battle, and even some atmospheric highlights. While it was a drop-down for the series, it at least wasn’t at rock bottom yet.

 

#8 “Jungle Cruise” (2021) 

I genuinely had high hopes for a Disney movie based on their famous "Jungle Cruise" attraction, and the marketing seemed to harken back to classic adventure pictures, in which escapist fun is the name of the game. Dwayne Johnson and Emilly Blunt are also both very charming leads, and the film was off to a decent start, with its own distinct personality. 

Unfortunately, at some point, the film takes on a new identity as a hand-me-down “Pirates of Caribbean”, and the novelty just kept going downhill. While not a terrible outing, and admittedly on a higher level of quality than some of the previously mentioned films, this jungle adventure sadly just didn’t float my boat. 

 

#9 “Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides” (2011) 

There are two novelties brought to this franchise thanks to this fourth outing, one of them being a very charismatic Penelope Cruz as an estranged lover for Captain Jack, and the other being attractive mermaids who are also ravage killers … which this series was long overdue for featuring. 

Everything else in the film is regretfully very one-note, and devoid of the energy and charm that initially sparked this franchise. It's a shame because Captain Jack on different adventures and meeting new characters is what I wanted for this series moving forward, but the payoff just wasn't there. For me, everything from the action to the effects, to the story, and even the characters just felt tired and been done. 

 

#10 “Mission to Mars” (2000) 

One of the earliest Disney ride adaptations, with high ambitions, and first-rate visual effects on display. Seriously, for a movie that came out in the year 2000, this film is still a marvel to look at, and even looks better than some of the other films I’ve already mentioned on this list. Sadly, effects alone don’t make for a great viewing experience. Little things like memorable characters and an engaging narrative especially matter ... which this movie sadly lacks. 

The film also takes clear inspiration from hit movies like “Apollo 13” and “2001: A Space Odyssey”, and its efforts at creating a sense of euphoric wonder are admirable, but the final execution is more derivative of those movies than inspiring. The characters are likewise interchangeable, the pacing inconsistent, and for all the films ambitious beats, it failed to stick any kind of successful landing.

 

#11 “Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales” (2017) 

Oh boy … three was already enough for a franchise that was overstaying it’s welcome … at five movies, it’s officially one pirate voyage too many. The effects look cheaper, the villains are repetitive, the performances are lifeless, the jokes are groaners, and even the spectacle is more exhausting than thrilling. 

At the very least, the film had a decent ending, with a set-piece involving the staff of Poseidon, and an ending that left me feeling somewhat satisfied. While nothing in this film flat-out ruined the series, it was just another forgettable outing with no staying power. 

 

#12 “Mr. Toad's Wild Ride” (1997) 

Originally released in the United Kingdom as “The Wind in the Willows” in 1996, Disney purchased the distribution rights when it came to the United States the following year of 97, and changed the title to match their theme park attraction. As such, this film really doesn’t belong on my list, but sense it bears the name of the ride, I might as well include it. 

While not devoid of some charm … and featuring a top-tear villain song number called “Secret of Survival” … this movie didn’t really click with me. It’s certainly a picture for acquired tastes, as I can see some viewers won over by the film’s unique personality, but for me, it was just a little too over the top, a little too odd, and never quiet lived-up to its title … or re-title in this case.    

 

#13 “The Country Bears” (2002) 

Even back when I was a little kid obsessed with Disneyland, “The Country Bear Jamboree” was never a favorite of mine, and frequently skipped over during visits. As such, a movie based on the attraction was already going to be low-hanging fruit. That being said, I will give this movie some credit, including consistent use of practical puppets and animatronics during an age of CGI. 

Also, an unhinged Christopher Walken as the villain is always welcome, and even some decent jokes help provide some enjoyment. Still, “The Country Bears” is unmistakably my least favorite of all the Disney movies based on their theme park attractions, and the one I just wouldn’t recommend getting tickets for. Between all the high-marks, and low marks of these theme-park-based movies ... I'm still open to whatever may come next ... some may have been better left as rides, while others have proven worthwhile movies all their own. I'll always have fondness for ThemeParks ... by extent, their rides ... and there's always a novelty of sorts in seeing one brought to life on the big screen.  

Thanks for reading my countdown … and continue to enjoy the movies you Love!  

My Top 10 Movies to Watch on the 4th of July

Among the many activities and traditions that come with my favorite holidays, I always have my favorite movies that I love returning to for special occasions. When it comes to my annual Independence Day celebration, I have my own little selection of titles that I love to cherry pick for viewing before the fireworks. They don’t have to be the most inspirational, or even the most directly related to the holiday itself … but there is something about them, wither in tone or imagery, that just feels right for the occasion. Agree or disagree, these are my personal top 10 favorite movies I love to watch as part of the 4^th of July celebration.   

 

#10 “Miracle” (2004) 

The year is 1980, the heated days of the Cold War, with conflicts tense between America and the Soviet Union, and one Hockey coach named Herb Brooks is determined to give the USA something special during the pressing time … beat the un-defeated Soviet Hockey team at the US College Olympics. While the narrative is predictable and even cliched, “Miracle” delivers on the execution, and fills me with both a winning sense of pride and enthusiasm. 

The cast is solid all-around, as they carry the film with a sense of passion, and it's hard not to get wrapped-up in their stories, even if a touch predictable. Watching this aggressively narrow-sighted coach gradually connect and bond with his team is at the heart of the film, and along with its patriotic imagery, it’s one of those simple offerings that compliments any good 4^th of July viewing experience.    

 

#9 “McLintock!” (1963) 

John Wayne is one of the great all-American icons, and a Western staring the patriotic titan is always a good choice for the holiday event. His 1963 Western comedy “McLintock!” focuses on him as an aged rancher, trying to preserve his land from outside forces, while also contending with his divorced wife played by Maureen O’Hara, who wants custody of their daughter. Despite all that, it’s one of his most laid-back and light-hearted outings. 

What puts this film on my list is the third-act set during a 4^th of July celebration, in which all the film’s most memorable action and hummer takes place, including an amusing chase sequence between our two leads. While John Wayne has admittedly had better Westerns then this, I always felt “McLintock!” had the most personality visual appeal to go along with the patriotic summer event.

 

#8 “Live Free or Die Hard” 

If the original 1988 “Die Hard” was your idea of Christmas … then you got to be there for Independence Day as well. Going from the confines of a tall building, to traversing across the USA (including Washington D.C.) on the 4^th of July weekend, John McClane is back to deal with a new band of enemies … cyber-terrorists. It’s a straightforward action romp, and it’s all around a solid piece of summer entertainment. 

It’s cool to see McClane out of his element, the tension is high, and just like the original film, it’s a thrilling little adventure to add some flavor to the holiday experience.    

 

#7 “Patton” (1970) 

From the iconic opening speech, with the massive American Flag backdrop, this film sets the stage for one of the great theatrical American biopics, to go along with the red-white-and-blue holiday. When it comes to War movies in general, the 1970 classic “Patton” has always been a personal favorite … with one of my all-time favorite character performances leading the charge. George C. Scott’s commanding performance is what cares this great war epic, and it’s as definitive as any portrayal in the history of American biopics. 

Throw in quotable lines, memorable imagery, thrilling tank battles, and an iconic music track provided by the late great Jerry Goldsmith, and it’s all around one of my favorite Oscar Winning Pictures.

 

#6 “Independence Day” (1996) 

Well … this countdown just wouldn’t feel complete without the movie barring the most direct and obvious title to tie-in with the holiday. Good old “Independence Day”, it’s a straightforward alien-invasion movie, as well as a 90’s staple for summer popcorn entertainment. The films efforts to give its premise an all-American feel is admittedly kind of silly, but still very appealing, and even the presidents admittedly corny speech is still a rousing moment that always gets me ready to celebrate the fourth. 

Will Smith and the cast in general are all memorable, the effects still look great and while the film isn’t the most meaningful experience to watch for the holiday, it certainly delivers the fireworks … and sometimes, that’s good enough.    

 

#5 “Rockey 4” 

Once again, we have another Sports movie set amidst the Cold-War on my list, and still just as patriotic as ever. Visually, this film gets me in the mood for the Fourth of July, more so than any other film in the “Rocky” series, despite the ending being set on Christmas. The main selling image of the film is Rocky wrapped in the American Flag, which is also the big closing shot of the film, and it’s Apollo Creeds patriotic ego that sets the whole narrative in motion. The character was always driven by a sense of patriotic pride, but this time he goes full on propaganda with his red, white and blue, Uncle Same inspired image. 

He even opens his match with a big musical number performed by James Brown called “Living in America”. It makes for another goofy, yet very memorable highlight in the film. Whenever the Fourth of July comes around, I always want to watch this musical number, and by extent … always love watching this film for the occasion.

 

#4 “The Patriot” (2000) 

When it comes to war movies to watch on Independence Day … one set during the Revolutionary War is an obvious, yet fitting choice. While I’ve never placed Mel Gibson’s “The Patriot” among the all-time inspiring war movies, it’s still an engaging, and highly re-watchable experience, with an A-list cast, and no shortage of iconography on display. 

Gibsons valiant charge with the flag has always stuck with me as a memorable movie moment. Directed by Roland Emmerich … the same talent who directed the previously mentioned “Independence Day” with Will Smith … shows his range of talent in this picture, and suggests he could have done more outside of his disaster movie wheel-house.   

 

#3 “Captain America: The First Avenger” (2011) 

When you have a character dressed from head to toe in Red, White and Blue, and just happens to have America in his title … you’ve got an instant shoe-in for 4^th of July viewings. Good old Captain America is old-fashioned, fun and as far as decorative visuals and moods are concerned, nothing tops his first movie. Everything from its tone, to its propaganda imagery, to it’s musical selection, and stage show moments are all very comforting to go along with the Independence Day celebration. 

Honestly, I think it’s the most appropriately decorated film for the occasion, but it also offers great characters, solid action, and is just the right kind of escapist fun to compliment any Summer celebration.   

 

#2 “Glory” (1989) 

The Civil War may not be as close to Independence Day as the Revolutionary War, but regardless, the 1989 War epic “Glory” contains just about everything the holiday stands for … chivalry, patriotism, valor, unity, self-sacrifice, and above all else, respect for one’s fellow man. Everything from the cinematography, to the music, to the performances are all first-rate, with Denzel Washingtons Oscar winning performance leading the charge. While the historical accuracy can be a little dodgy in spots, the film hits the right points where it counts for a great movie, getting us to care for these soldiers before they valiantly charge into battle. 

Also, this film features a moment of a solider retrieving the American flag amidst a battle … and it puts Mel Gibsons charge from “The Patriot” to absolute shame.  Colonel Shaw: “If this man should fall, who will lift the flag and carry on?” Corporal Searles: “I Will!”.  

 

Before I reveal my number One favorite movie to watch on the 4^th of July, here are some quick Honorable Mentions …

“National Treasure”

“Sands of Iwa Jima”

“Gettysburg”

“An American Tale: Fievel Goes West”

“I Know What You Did Last Summer” 

 

#1 “The Sandlot” (1993) 

Maybe this isn’t the most significant or even patriotic movie to watch for the holiday event … but regardless, it’s still the one I’m most drawn to re-watching on Independence Day. The film is set during a time when Baseball was the definitive all-American sporting event without question, and for me, it cares over into “The Sandlot”, making it feel like an all-American classic. 

On top of that, there’s a great little scene set during a 4th of July celebration (appropriately matched with Ray Charles “America the Beautiful”), in which the kids have a night game, but are distracted by all the bright colors exploding in the night sky … that is with the exception of young Benny, who just keeps running in the background. It’s a great moment, one that defines Benny’s character as one who lives for Baseball, and for whatever reason … whenever the 4th of July comes around, I always think of this scene. From its comforting summer atmosphere, to decorative scenes (including a chase through a Founders Day celebration), and clear love for the all-American Sport … it makes “The Sandlot” feel like a perfect way to celebrate the all-American holiday

Thanks for reading my list … and continue to enjoy the movies you love!