It appears as if there is someone that really isn’t too happy about all the attention that is coming Norway’s direction due to Disney’s “Frozen,” and oddly enough…it’s Norway.
A report out of the Daily Finance states that the country of Norway is none-too-pleased with Walt Disney World about it’s Norway Pavilion in Epcot’s World Showcase. You know, the location that was filled with Norwegian history then transformed into Arendelle and now is back to Norwegian history.
Well, that’s what appears to be the problem.
Rumors have persisted for months that a “Frozen”-themed attraction would soon be replacing Maelstrom in Norway. Those discussions really heated up in mid-June once all the construction started. It’s even rumored that it could come about as soon as this fall.
Maelstrom is the boat attraction that takes you through the history and culture of Norway. You see trolls, Vikings, polar bears, oil rigs, and learn more about the vast culture of the country.
If it were to be replaced by a “Frozen”-themed attraction, then the focus would be on a fictitious country known as Arendelle.
Can you see why Norway is rather upset by this?
Yes, “Frozen” was inspired by Norway and its Scandinavian way of life, but the country of Arendelle is not real. That is why Norway would be more inclined to showcase its own culture and heritage rather than that of a place that doesn’t exist.
According to a report from TV 2 Nyhetskanalen (it’s all in Norwegian, by the way), Norway is reluctant to continue funding the pavilion at Epcot. They have especially strong feelings if Maelstrom ends up closing and being replaced by a “Frozen” ride.
Claims from the report state that Disney has discussed Norway paying around $9 million to update the pavilion at Epcot and have it focused primarily on the country rather than “Frozen.” This has not been confirmed by Disney in any way though.
There is also no confirmation to a “Frozen” attraction replacing Maelstrom, but many signs are pointing in that direction.
It’s going to be interesting to see how the relationship between Norway and Disney continues on from this point.
While I think anything Frozen would benefit foot traffic at Epcot, the Maelstrom space seems a bit small and constricting to do Frozen any justice. Perhaps a different location with a more elaborate experience would be for the best.
‘Refuse paying more’? They haven’t payed a single dime to the Norway pavillion in years.
Oh Norway…. Let it go let it go and allow us frozen lovers the chance to see arindale (while I get why they would be upset… Maybe they could use this as a tourist thing to make money for themselves!
Just let it go
No! Just no! Arendelle does not exist and Frozen can go to hell. I used to work in the Norwat pavilion and now it’s all ruined. Do you have any idea how expensive it is to go to Norway? Fans of frozen can’t afford that shit.
So I wonder how Norway feels about Malestrom closing now? Have there been any updates since Disney confirmed the “Frozen” attraction?