Bob Iger, chairman and CEO of The Walt Disney Company, joined Avatar filmmaker James Cameron for the dedication of Pandora – The World of Avatar, the new 12-acre land inspired by Cameron’s blockbuster motion picture Avatar.
“Working with Jim and his team was a dream come true for us, as we pushed the limits of creativity and innovation to bring the digital world of Pandora to the real world of Disney’s Animal Kingdom,” said Iger. “Now, anyone who has ever dreamed of visiting this extraordinary world can explore the astonishing landscape and ecosystem, soar on the back of a banshee and actually become part of the Avatar adventure.”
“I never thought I’d see the day when the Pandora I imagined could be made physically real,” said Cameron. “Working with Disney to bring this world to life has been an amazing experience, and the result is something I think everyone will love for generations to come. It really feels like you’re stepping into a dream.”
Pandora – The World of Avatar immerses guests into a mystical world of floating mountains, bioluminescent rainforests and breathtaking new experiences. Pandora was brought to life through a collaboration of two master storytellers, Disney and Lightstorm Entertainment, who partnered in the multi-year project. Pandora’s bioluminescent flora and special nighttime programming continue the expansion of the day-into-nighttime adventures at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, a theme park based on the intrinsic value of nature, transformation through adventure and a personal call to action.
In the last year, the park has introduced new after-dark experiences such as the majestic Rivers of Light show, sunset safaris, live entertainment street parties and vivid, animated imagery bathing the Tree of Life, the centerpiece of the adventure park.
“Walt Disney famously said that ‘it’s kind of fun to do the impossible,’” Iger said at this morning’s dedication, after pausing for a moment to take in the vast wonder of the floating mountains of the valley of Mo’ara, “and it’s a sentiment that captures the soul of our company, reflecting the optimistic spirit that really drives everything that we do.”