Special effects

Image: CBS

Arguably the most impressive of the Tower of Terror special effects is its use of Rod Serling, given that he passed away nearly 20 years before the attraction opened. For all Disney’s wizardry, however, they have not yet been able to bring anyone back from the dead. The footage of Rod Serling that appears on the library TV was actually culled from a Season 3 episode entitled “It’s a Good Life.” A couple of his actual lines from the segment are used, while the rest of the narration, including the on-board voiceovers, is provided by voice actor Mark Silverman. He was handpicked by a team that included Serling’s widow, Carol.

Many fans believe that Disney digitally erased Serling’s trademark from the episode footage. However, it just so happens that he didn’t have a cigarette in his hand for that particular segment. It was a win-win for both Disney, which doesn’t want to promote smoking, and the fans who believe in being true to the show.

Interestingly, the rest of the ride’s stunning effects are actually advanced versions of techniques that were already in place throughout the parks. For example, the corridor scene utilizes forced perspective to make the corridor seem much longer than it actually is. It’s 10 feet high at the end next to your elevator car, but only four feet high at the other end, which is just six feet away. This technique is also used on Main Street USA to make Cinderella’s Castle appear taller.

In that same scene, the Pepper’s Ghost technique is used to create the ghostly images. This ancient illusionist’s trick is famously used to create the dancing figures in the Haunted Mansion. In essence, the figures are projected onto a mirror and then reflected off a pane of glass. Pepper’s Ghost, along with fiber optics, are used for the window morph effect and field of stars. Similar effects, along with projection technology, are used to create the Fifth Dimension scene.

Easter eggs and hidden secrets

One of the most impressive elements of the Tower of Terror is its vast array of nods to the world of the Twilight Zone, as well as the era in which it is set, the hotel industry, and, of course, its actual location at Walt Disney World. Scattered throughout the attraction, these Easter eggs are hidden in plain sight—almost imperceptible to the casual observer but fun for the fan to discover.

In the lobby, pay attention to the luggage and furnishings. Many of the items are actual antiques, while others are recreations. The luggage is made of genuine alligator skin, as this was highly fashionable during the 1930s.

Also take in all the small details that complete the illusion of a packed hotel suddenly closed in the middle of a busy evening. A mahjong set is laid out in the middle of a game. A diamond ring and a lipstick-stained glass represent an engagement celebration that was cut short.

Above the concierge desk is a AAA diamond award. While the actual number of diamonds that a hotel can earn is five, this award has 13 diamonds. Near the desk, look for the poster advertising the hotel’s Tip Top Club, featuring band leader Anthony Freemont. That was the name of the main character in the episode, “It’s a Good Life,” from which the library film was pulled.

Image: CBS

The library is packed with tributes to episodes of The Twilight Zone. Look for Henry Bemis’ broken glasses from “Time Enough at Last,” the spaceman from “The Invaders,” the “Nick of Time” Mystic Seer Machine, and the trumpet from “A Passage for Trumpet.” In addition, see if you can catch the Hidden Mickey in the film (hint: it’s being carried).

In the boiler room, try to spot the Hidden Mickey along a furnace wall. There are lots of impressive details here, but no other Easter eggs. Inside the ride vehicle, however, look for the elevator operation permit dated October 31, 1939 (the date of the spooky events). Its ID number is 10259, a nod to the first episode of The Twilight Zone, which aired on October 2, 1959. It was signed by Mr. Cadwallader, the devil who buys a hypochondriac’s soul in exchange for immortality in “Escape Clause.”

Image: CBS

When exiting the ride, take a quick peek at the displays, where you will find the ventriloquist dummy from “Caesar and Me” and the slot machine from “The Fever.” Beyond the photo desk, you’ll see doors leading to the Sunset Room, the Beverly Room, and the Fountain Room. Apparently the Sunset Room was the hotel’s restaurant, because a menu dated October 31, 1939 is hanging on the wall beside the door. The elegant eight course menu, with three options per course, is definitely in keeping with the era. It’s worth a quick look before heading into the gift shop.

Of course, the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror is overflowing with details. From beginning to end, your senses are assaulted with the sights and sounds of an incredibly immersive world. I have been riding the Tower of Terror since it opened in 1994, and I still manage to find new things on every trip. The attraction does not give up all its secrets easily. But perhaps with our collective knowledge and experiences, we can make this guide even more complete. What have you noticed that I left out? Are you aware of additional Hidden Mickeys, episode references, or other secrets? Share your thoughts with us in the comments!

You can find more hidden secrets of the Tower of Terror in this detailed list!