'Captain EO' at 40: Michael Jackson's wild sci-fi movie that you could only watch at Disney theme parks
Remember when the King of Pop joined forces with Coppola, Lucas and Disney for an inspiring 3D space musical?
Forty years ago, on September 12, 1986, Michael Jackson debuted his 17-minute long 3D sci-fi fantasy film, Captain EO. This unique attraction was only available at Walt Disney World's EPCOT Center in Florida or Disneyland's Magic Eye Theater in Tomorrowland. Jackson collaborated with George Lucas, Francis Ford Coppola, and Disney's Imagineering team to create this one-of-a-kind cinematic experience.
The film featured impressive special effects, catchy songs, dynamic dance numbers, and a star-studded cast including Academy Award-winning actress Anjelica Huston as the Supreme Leader. The story revolves around Captain EO, played by Jackson, leading a group of misfits on a mission to deliver a mysterious gift to a tyrannical ruler on a dark planet.
Along the way, they encounter oddball companions and face off against the Queen's cruel Whip Warriors. The film's message of hope and unity resonated with audiences, making it a beloved attraction for decades. Despite its closure in 1997, Captain EO has been re-released in various Disney parks and even made a surprise return on YouTube after Jackson's passing in 2009.
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