I don't think the pole was working when we went. At least I saw people pull it hard and it didn't do anything. Also, often that part of the line is a quick walk through so you may or may not have time to pull them properly.
I also had a question about the line. Did they recently add in that part in the movie about IJ having to go in and rescue the tour group that never came out? I saw it once this time and don't remember seeing it before. But then, we often go through that area quickly so maybe I missed it. Just curious.