Description And Comments

In response to pop music star Michael Jackson’s death in 2009, Disney brought back Jackson’s 3-D space-themed rock music video, Captain EO, for a limited engagement in its theme parks. Captain EO originally ran in Disneyland 1986–1997. There’s no telling how long it’ll last on its second run, but showings have been sparsely attended during our recent visits, so it’s possible that Disney may posthumously pull the plug on the King of Pop at any point. The film has an exceptionally loud soundtrack and a propensity to frighten small children.

Captain EO is sort of the ultimate music video. Starring Jackson and directed by Francis Coppola, this 3-D space fantasy is more than a film; it’s a happening. Action on the screen is augmented by in-theater lighting and hydraulic moving seats that enforce involuntary audience participation, though the original laser and fog effects have sadly not returned. There’s not much of a story, but there’s plenty of music and dancing performed by some of the most unlikely creatures ever to shake a tail feather. If nothing else, Captain EO reminds us that music videos once contained more than young urbanites dancing in clubs or five ill-dressed, unshaven guys whining onstage. Unfortunately, the 70-millimeter film looks fuzzy and faded compared to modern projection methods, and the aggressive bouncing with every bass beat grows bothersome.

Touring Tips

Shows usually begin on the hour and continue about every 20 minutes throughout the day. Since the first opening month, very few shows have been completely full. Even during busier times, you should be able to get into the next show with issue.

The sound level is earsplitting, frightening some young children. Many adults report that the loud soundtrack is distracting, even uncomfortable. Avoid seats in the first several rows; if you sit too close to the screen, the 3-D images don’t focus properly. If the bouncing floor bothers you, ask for a stationary seat in the last row.

Special Comments

An absolute hoot! Adults should not be put off by the sci-fi theme or rock music. The loud, intense show with tactile effects frightens some young children.

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