The newly opened Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance sets a bold new standard for Disney attractions—an epic, multi-layered experience that pulls guests straight into the middle of a galaxy far, far away. From transport ships and interrogation rooms to daring escapes and massive battle sequences, this isn’t just a ride—it’s a full-on cinematic experience.
During the media preview of this revolutionary attraction, I had the chance to speak with Jon Georges, Creative Executive with Walt Disney Imagineering, about what went into building one of the most immersive and ambitious Disney Parks projects ever attempted.
Pushing the Boundaries of Story and Technology
“From the beginning, we knew this was going to be unlike anything we’d ever built,” Georges explained. “We didn’t want guests to watch a Star Wars story—we wanted them to live it.”
And live it, you do. The attraction blends traditional ride systems, projection mapping, audio animatronics, full-scale set pieces, and even practical effects that blur the line between fantasy and reality. With multiple ride sequences stitched together by seamless transitions, the attraction refuses to let you step out of the experience—not even for a moment.
Star Wars attraction Brings A New Era of Immersive Storytelling
Georges spoke passionately about the creative process. From working closely with Lucasfilm to ensure authenticity, to designing an attraction that functions more like a live-action Star Wars episode than a traditional queue-and-ride setup.
“You’re not just standing in line for a ride,” he said. “You’re being recruited by the Resistance. Captured by the First Order. And making a thrilling escape—all in one flowing, uninterrupted story.”
This journey overflows with surprises—from BB-8 and Rey’s holographic briefing to stormtroopers standing in formation, all the way to face-to-face encounters with Kylo Ren. Star Wars comes to life in a way fans never imagined.
For more from Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge be sure to check out the Story Behind the Story. Opening Day interviews. an interview with Doug Chiang. a special D23 Expo look at creating the Music of Galaxy’s Edge. DJ Rex in action at Oga’s Cantina. An Overview of Batuu. a look at creating galaxy’s edge with an Imagineer. merchandise. Docking Bay 7. Star Wars Comic Books. Star Wars Myths & Fables. Galaxy’s Edge Cookbook. a look behind the Galactic Starcruiser. a Galaxy Far Far Away stage show. and Star Wars Galactic Fireworks from Hollywood Studios.
