High Hopes For Dismaland Trailer: Can Disney’s Grotesque Sister Remove Seaside Town’s ‘Jaded’ Image?

While many are intrigued by the newly-released Dismaland trailer, stakeholders of Weston-super-Mare are hoping that Disneyland’s “dark version” will revive tourism in the seaside town. Graffiti artist Banksy specifically chose the venue, which used to be a former waterpark, because he loved it as a kid.

In the recent years, Weston-super-Mare has witnessed a decline in its visitors. Younger residents are opting to relocate to bigger cities because of the town’s “jaded” image. Nonetheless, local council members believe that Dismaland can help revive the town’s entertainment scene.

Rachel Lewis, the council’s regeneration manager, expressed her excitement to CNBC.

“The whole (concept) of Dismaland is amazing, in terms of helping us capitalize on all those (regeneration) ambitions and bringing the whole thing to force. The profile and themes are brilliant in terms of connecting the creative and arts-based interest in the town, and painting the town in a different light that it was seen before.”

The Dismaland trailer features some of the disturbing attractions that can be found inside the twisted park. The highlight appears to be a dilapidated version of Sleeping Beauty’s castle. A distorted Little Mermaid statue can also be found surrounded by murky waters. The site of Cinderella’s carriage crash should not be missed as well.

Apart from Banksy, artists hailing from various countries like Spain, Syria, and the U.S. contributed to the large-scale exhibit.

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The two-minute Dismaland trailer quickly gives viewers the idea that the place isn’t someone’s typical amusement park. All the attractions aim to give a satirical jab at Disney’s icons. Even Dismaland’s brochure didn’t attempt to conceal its sarcasm.

“Are you looking for an alternative to the soulless sugar-coated banality of the average family day out? Or just somewhere cheaper. Then this is the place for you — a chaotic new world where you can escape from mindless escapism. Instead of a burger stall, we have a museum. In place of a gift shop we have a library, well, we have a gift shop as well.”

As per the brochure, Dismaland will not permit Disney’s legal representatives to enter the park.

“This event contains adult themes, distressing imagery, extended use of strobe lighting, smoke effects and swearing. The following items are strictly prohibited: knives, spraycans, illegal drugs, and lawyers from the Walt Disney corporation.”

The bemusement park may be visited until September 27. Tickets are on sale for £3 (less than $5).

[Image via Matthew Horwood / Getty Images]