Disney’s upcoming “Haunted Mansion” film is hoping to be revived take on the beloved ride. The 2003 “Haunted Mansion” starring Eddie Murphy initially flopped, but has seen a bit of a cult resurgence on Disney+. Director Justin Simien, a former Disney World Choir singer and employee, wants to remain as faithful to the ride as possible. Down to its ghosts and plot.
One thing both films will include, of course, is Madame Leota. Jamie Lee Curtis will play the iconic character. A great selection given the actress’s horror movie roots. True to the crystal ball within the ride, Curtis is resplendent is pale blue, with swathes of curly hair that seem to disappear into the ether of the crystal ball within. According to Simien, her story within this film is entirely new, and she will play a pivotal role in helping the characters navigate the haunted New Orleans abode.
Why Go CG When Practical Works Best?
On top of the effects to bring Leota to life, Simien is dead-set on making the effects in the film as practical as what’s employed in the ride. It makes sense, and it makes us love him quite a bit. The tricks used in the mansion are simple, but effective, so being able to achieve those same effects on a film set isn’t outside the realm of possibility. “There’s a practicality to the tricks on the ride that I felt was important. When I took the job I said, ‘I don’t want to make CGI soup. We have to build the house.’ Even if we’re not doing an effect practically, we have to make it look like we did,” Simien said, alluding to the charm and grounding that practical effects provide.
Simien’s dedication to make this film as close to the ride’s gravitas as he can is refreshing. The Haunted Mansion ride already comes with its own story to explore. And we appreciate him using those bones to create something refreshing and yet nostalgic and familiar. “When I got the job, the first thing we did was we extensively toured [the ride]” Simien explained. And the director has wanted to get details right down to the finest details, such as the Mansion’s iconic architecture, and even angles familiar to ride guests. Given that, we’re actually pretty excited for this one.
“Haunted Mansion” will hit theaters July 28th.
