Haunted Mansion
Welcome foolish mortals, since the spooky season is upon us, at least over here in the US, we at Pario found it fitting to start it off with a hauntingly fun review of Disney’s latest live-action ride adaptation film, The Haunted Mansion.
Twenty years after Disney first adapted the beloved ride, which can be found in Disney Parks around the world, we see this new amped-up film version focusing more on characters from the ride, while still maintaining a great story that anyone could relate with.
With a stacked cast in line, I was personally excited to see this new take on a film based on my favourite attraction. Rosario Dawson, Chase W. Dillon, LaKeith Stanfield, & Owen Wilson taking on the lead roles made for an interesting bunch that worked great on screen. With supporting roles being portrayed by Danny DeVito & Tiffany Haddish, this was a fun ride from start to finish.
As a mom just trying to do the best for her & her son Travis (Dillon), Rosario Dawson’s character, Gabbie, lands a great deal on a mansion in the middle of the bayou of New Orleans. For those unfamiliar with the ride, Disneyland’s version takes place inside New Orleans Square, so I was happy to see it staying true to its original roots. After spending a night in the mansion & realising that it’s bustling with those from “regions beyond”. From there Gabbie enlists the help of former astro physicist, Ben Matthias (Stanfield), to help rid her of the pesky spirits invading her new home. Father Kent (Wilson) is a conman who finds himself in unknown territory after trying to scheme Gabbie out of some money. Add in psychic medium Harriet (Haddish) & college professor Bruce Davis (DeVito) & we have a whole set of unsuspecting people dealing with a paranormal predicament.
This movie was fun for the whole family, & with a run time of a little over 2 hours, I don’t recall a dull moment for me or my daughter. The only potentially negative thing that some viewers might find, is the story of the main villain, Alistar Crump (Jared Leto). More commonly referred to as the “Hatbox Ghost” his origin is explained pretty well but prior to this film, this character was only known to hardcore Disney fans, & those who have visited Disneyland in California. Rumour has it, that they are working on introducing the “Hatbox Ghost” to Florida’s version after the success of this movie.
Rounding out this review I need to give a bunch of appreciation to Jamie Lee Curtis who portrayed Madame Leota. Though only mentioned briefly, this character is the staple of the group, guiding them through the paranormal phenomenon they experience throughout the film, much like the character in the attraction.
Like the Jungle Crusie film, I found that this movie did the ride & audience justice by providing us with all-around fun & little easter eggs that anyone who’s been on the attraction could pick up on. All in all, I’d give this movie a solid 4 bone-chilling stars!
Pario Magazine stands in solidarity & support of the WGA & SAG-AFTRA in their fight for better working conditions.
Our publication has always been focused on the creative brilliance of these individuals rather than on the business of film/tv. As such we will continue to highlight their creative talents during this time so that their contributions to our entertainment are not overlooked.
Support Pario Magazine
Become A Publisher
$10 / Month
- Name Added To Publisher List
- Physical Print Issue
- Early Access
-
