The Walt Disney World 50th Anniversary Celebration continued with the opening of Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind on May 27, 2022. This marked a significant milestone in the Epcot Transformation and introduced guests to an unforgettable Marvel adventure.
Exclusive Interview with Walt Disney Imagineering
During the opening preview, I had the opportunity to speak with members of the Walt Disney Imagineering team, including:
- Bette Lombardi, Sr. Project Coordinator
- Daniel Joseph, Special Effects and Illusion Design
- Ashley Levine, Project Controls Estimator
These talented individuals shared their thoughts on the scale, surprises, and technical innovations that make Epcot’s latest attraction a must-see experience.
The Scale and Surprises of Cosmic Rewind
Bette Lombardi emphasized the massive scale of the Cosmic Rewind pavilion. She highlighted how every element was designed to immerse guests in the Xandarian experience. The attraction’s sheer size and storytelling depth set it apart from any other Epcot offering.
Daniel Joseph revealed some of the cutting-edge illusions and effects that create the seamless storytelling moments. Tricks that make guests feel as though they’re truly traveling through space and time with the Guardians. His insights shed light on the complexity of synchronizing visual effects with the innovative ride system.
Engineering the Experience
Ashley Levine discussed the planning and coordination required to bring this ambitious project to life. From construction logistics to project management, Levine detailed how Guardians Cosmic Rewind was designed to be a key component of the Epcot transformation—providing thrills while staying true to Disney’s commitment to storytelling.
Why Guardians Cosmic Rewind Stands Out
The Guardians Cosmic Rewind experience is more than just a ride. It is a story-driven journey, featuring first-of-its-kind reverse-launch technology, making it one of the longest fully enclosed coasters in the world. From the immersive queue to the incredible visuals and soundtrack, the attraction represents a new chapter in Disney Imagineering excellence.
For more from the Opening, check out my Interview with Wyatt and a sneak peek at the Wonders of Xandar Merchandise
