Did you know that Tomorrowland was created by Walt Disney as a section of Disneyland way back in 1955? The story behind the movie was conceptualized when a box simply labeled “1952” was discovered by accident in the Disney Studios archive. The box contained “models, blueprints, photographs and letters related to the inception of Tomorrowland and the 1964 World’s Fair.” It was this discovery that led writer-producer Damon Lindelof to develop the movie.
Tomorrowland
Walt Disney was a futurist by all accounts. He was ahead of his time when it came to technology and believed it held the key to creating entertainment for all. In fact, for the 1964 World’s Fair, the Walt Disney Company created three rides: It’s a Small World, Carousel of Progress and Great Moments With Mr. Lincoln. These rides were revolutionary in their use of robotics and technology.
It was through the success of these rides that Walt Disney was able to raise the funds for his next project: Epcot, the Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow. Walt’s vision was that it would be a “real Tomorrowland where technology wed urban planning to create an optimal living environment.” After Walt Disney’s death, the Disney Company decided to modify the building plans and turned it into a “permanent World’s Fair” instead. Today, Epcot, still exists and is one of 5 parks at Walt Disney World.
How does the movie Tomorrowland play into all of this?
The idea that this type of futuristic city could actually exist is exactly what Walt Disney would have wanted to see.
Bound by a shared destiny, former boy-genius Frank (George Clooney), jaded by disillusionment, and Casey (Britt Robertson), a bright, optimistic teen bursting with scientific curiosity, embark on a danger-filled mission to unearth the secrets of an enigmatic place somewhere in time and space known only as “Tomorrowland.” What they must do there changes the world—and them—forever.
The opening scene introduces the audience to a young Frank as he heads to the 1964 World’s Fair with his invention. What he soon discovers is a secret, futuristic world of innovative thinkers like himself.
Tomorrowland blasts into theaters on May 22 and it rated PG so go ahead and take your whole family! I know we can’t wait to take the trip to Tomorrowland soon!