Honey, I Shrunk the Audience! (1998–2010)

Honey, I Shrunk the Audience! was a 3D film attraction at Disneyland’s Magic Eye Theater in Tomorrowland, running from May 22, 1998, to May 9, 2010. A sequel to Honey, I Shrunk the Kids, it starred Rick Moranis as Wayne Szalinski, Marcia Strassman as Diane, Eric Idle as Dr. Nigel Channing, and Robert Oliveri as Nick. The 23-minute film, directed by Randal Kleiser, depicted guests “shrunk” during a chaotic science demonstration, using 3D effects and in-theater mechanics. It closed in 2010 to revive Captain EO.

Below are 10 fun facts about Honey, I Shrunk the Audience! (1998–2010) at Disneyland:

1. Immersive 3D Illusion: Using 70mm projection and polarized 3D glasses, the film made objects like a giant snake and a holographic lion appear to burst into the audience, enhancing the shrinking effect.
2. In-Theater Effects: Hydraulic seats shook during “shrinking” scenes, while air blasts and water sprays simulated a giant sneeze and scurrying mice, syncing with the on-screen chaos.
3. Star-Studded Cast: Rick Moranis reprised his role as Wayne Szalinski, joined by Marcia Strassman, Robert Oliveri, and Eric Idle as the pompous Dr. Nigel Channing, host of the Imagination Institute.
4. Plot Integration: Set at an awards ceremony for Wayne’s shrinking machine, the film humorously depicted guests accidentally shrunk to insect size, navigating dangers like a vacuum cleaner.
5. Kodak Sponsorship: Eastman Kodak sponsored the attraction, tying its photography brand to the film’s theme of scientific innovation, continuing its support from Captain EO.
6. Physical Set Pieces: The theater featured a massive microscope prop and a “shrink ray” device on stage, which “activated” during the film to make audiences feel part of the experiment.
7. Disney Park Synergy: The film debuted simultaneously at Disneyland and Epcot in 1998, later appearing at Tokyo Disneyland and Disneyland Paris, unifying Disney’s 3D attractions.
8. Frequent Showtimes: With a 500-seat capacity, the film ran every 25–30 minutes to accommodate Tomorrowland crowds, drawing visitors near Space Mountain’s entrance.
9. Humorous Script: Written by Bill Prady, the film blended slapstick comedy with family dynamics, including gags like Wayne’s son Nick accidentally enlarging a python.
10. Closure for Revival: The attraction closed on May 9, 2010, to make way for Captain EO Tribute after Michael Jackson’s 2009 death, reflecting Disney’s shift to capitalize on renewed interest.