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With all the modern technology filmmakers use to bring old films into the present realm of filmmaking, it got me thinking that Captain EO would be the perfect attraction to undergo the digital treatment. Not only could the print be restored and turned into HD, but the effects could be replaced by computer-generated effects.
Looking at the current footage, it's very dated since it relies on stop-motion, models and optical effects. A computer-generated version of the film would blow the old version away. The 80's fashion kind of dates the film, but I really think an improved set of effects, along with 4D theater effects popular nowadays would really bring that film into the present, and allow Disney to keep it for another 5-10 years at least.
The film's foundation is solid, but those animated cartoon effects and jerky stop-motion and models just makes it look a little too old to be in Tomorrowland. Don't get me wrong, I'm REALLY looking forward to seeing it again, but I just feel that a digital refresh of it would increase it's longevity by many times. It would also "wow" audiences for the first time in decades. The current version is simply for nostalgia only.
I would LOVE it if Captain EO could stand on its own feet again as a solid attraction instead of a nod to nostalgia. It would be much cheaper than a complete theater rebuild for a new show, and could be done with today's technology. I just don't want to see it fade away when all it needs is a fresh coat of paint, as it were. It was such a powerful film when it was released, it can still have a powerful effect on audiences today if it is only given a 21st-century chance. Michael Jackson is now as timeless as The Beatles or Elvis Presley, and his message is just as clear. I wouldn't care if Captain EO stayed in Tomorrowland until the park's 100th anniversary as long as they kept the *effects* updated.
Looking at the current footage, it's very dated since it relies on stop-motion, models and optical effects. A computer-generated version of the film would blow the old version away. The 80's fashion kind of dates the film, but I really think an improved set of effects, along with 4D theater effects popular nowadays would really bring that film into the present, and allow Disney to keep it for another 5-10 years at least.
The film's foundation is solid, but those animated cartoon effects and jerky stop-motion and models just makes it look a little too old to be in Tomorrowland. Don't get me wrong, I'm REALLY looking forward to seeing it again, but I just feel that a digital refresh of it would increase it's longevity by many times. It would also "wow" audiences for the first time in decades. The current version is simply for nostalgia only.
I would LOVE it if Captain EO could stand on its own feet again as a solid attraction instead of a nod to nostalgia. It would be much cheaper than a complete theater rebuild for a new show, and could be done with today's technology. I just don't want to see it fade away when all it needs is a fresh coat of paint, as it were. It was such a powerful film when it was released, it can still have a powerful effect on audiences today if it is only given a 21st-century chance. Michael Jackson is now as timeless as The Beatles or Elvis Presley, and his message is just as clear. I wouldn't care if Captain EO stayed in Tomorrowland until the park's 100th anniversary as long as they kept the *effects* updated.
I don't think I'd want it updated. But then again, I know what time period it came from... although I'm sure that the people who don't know would be able to figure it out on their own pretty easily. I'd rather have the money go to a new attraction. 
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