another choice: Illuminations or Fantasmic?

[brooks13]

I know I'm putting out alot of questions like this but this may be an only time trip with limited days.

If you could only see one which would you see and why - Illuminations or Fantasmic?

Thanks!

 

[brooks13]

Hi, i just read on another thread that you could possibly see Illuminations from outside of Epcot...the boardwalk area?

Would like any info on this as well please.

Thank you.

 

[AKASnowWhite]

I think I'd choose Fantasmic. It's an amazing production.......I can't even think of the words to begin to describe how awesome it is! I just love the good vs. evil theme, all of the characters involved....the water *projection* screen....very cool.

As far as *viewing* is concerned, the stadium-style seating at MGM allows everyone a fairly decent view (I'm sure some would disagree... ), unless of course you are stuck WAY off in the corner somewhere...at Epcot, there are LOADS of places where you can see the lake, and sort-of see what's going on, but if you don't get a PRIME seat, you miss a lot, IMO.

 

[PammyK]

No contest for me...IllumiNations hands down. I love the Reflections of Earth score and the choreography between the music and the water, video and fire effects.

However, if you have kids, they may like Fantasmic better due to the characters.

Both are really excellent shows so I don't think you can go wrong either way.

 

[Granny]

No contest for me either.....Fantasmic hands down!! It is just such a wonderful production, and to me brings much more of the Disney "magic".

But as PammyK said....you cannot go wrong with either choice. Both are fabulous shows!

 

[jctwizzer]

to answer your second question...you can see the air part of Illuminations from the bridge to Boardwalk, but you miss the parts at lake level--for all intents, etc. you miss half the show.

 

[LSU Tigerfan]

Personally, I think the answer to your question depends on a couple of things:

Are you a big fan of Disney's animated movies? Have you seen most of them, including newer movies like Pochahontas? If so, you're likely to enjoy Fantasmic more than someone who can't place what they're seeing into context.

What interests you more, story or spectacle? If you tend to watch movies with lots of special effects, go for Illuminations.

Personally, though I know there are plenty of exceptions, I think more children would probably prefer Fantasmic, while more adults would prefer Illuminations.

 

[AKASnowWhite]

Originally posted by LSU Tigerfan
Are you a big fan of Disney's animated movies? Have you seen most of them, including newer movies like Pochahontas? If so, you're likely to enjoy Fantasmic more than someone who can't place what they're seeing into context.

Very good point!

 

[raidermatt]

Both are excellent shows.

To me Fantasmic is more what one would expect from Disney...lots of characters and Disney music. It can be a bit scary for very young children, but an excellent show.

Illuminations is more creative, both visually and musically. The setting in World Showcase adds to the overall feel. It really can make you feel that despite our differences, we are all in this together.

LSU is probably right that the majority of the children would probably prefer Fantasmic, while more adults would prefer Illuminations, but certainly that's not true for everyone.

Again, I think they are both excellent, but if I had to pick one, it'd be Illuminations.

 

[brooks13]

Thanks for all the replies,

I do have a dd, 3 1/2 yrs old, that will be there with DH and me. After reading the replies, I think she would enjoy Fantasmic more. Though I've read that it may be scary to some younger children I think my dd is not as frightened by the scary shows and characters as much as she is by loud noises.

With my parents coming in on our last day, maybe just DH and I can catch Illuminations.

Thanks everyone!

 

[jaysue]

This thread will help as well - I have DS 3 1/2 with me!!!

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=353581

Thanks
Jason

 

[lenshanem]

I vote for Fantasmic. I love IllumiNations, but I think you really have to get a good spot to really enjoy it totally. With Fantasmic you will be seating while you are waiting and will have a good view regardless.

 

[jimmytammy]

I love Illuminations, in fact seen it 4 times to the 1 time we saw Fantasmic. With small children you wont go wrong with Fantasmic but will add this. Do the dinner and show package, why? Because you will be guaranteed a seat and be able to keep doing things while everyone else is waiting in line for a couple hours to get a seat. If Italian hits the spot try Mama Melroses, its good and not overly expensive like some of the other restaurants on the dinner package. Enjoy the show, and do try to see Illuminations if time allows, you wont be dissapointed!

 

[tammie33]

Is there any way you could do both?

With your child, I would recommend Fantasmic (more characters, etc.). It is also my favorite. Just be sure to remind her that good always wins and Mickey will win in the end.

Depending on the times of the shows, you may be able to do both in one evening. If Fantasmic is at 7 and Illuminations is at 9 you could leave MGM after Fantasmic and take a boat to Epcot. (Yes I'm being comando style). You probably won't have the best view for Illuminations but it is an incredible show and worth seeing as well if you can squeeze it in.