Well, I think we see a lot of good and accurate information from the "insiders" here. However, the big thing to me is that you have to take the factual information and seperate it from the personal opinions of the source. Part that is that insiders tend to have a much greater understanding of the theme park industry and so they are less easily impressed and/or more critical about things. But those are opinions, not facts. I fet like I saw that a lot in the Animatronics thread, where some harp on specific details like whether the figures can be programmed or have variable movement or have a lot of articulation. Worthy points of discussion among the more nuanced observers, but for a smuck like me, I just care if they look good. And these drawf AAs impress the heck out of me and look like a lot of fun.
Some have constantly mocked this ride as a small "kiddie coaster" that is a minor addition. Factually, that might be reasonable. But subjectively, this ride looks very good to me and looks like a worthwhile addition. I don't care how long it took to build. I don't care what the original plans were (I mean, sure, I'd rather it be longer or have more shos scenes, but I'm not going to let that affect my enjoyment of the ride). Outside of the AAs being better than originally planned (apparently due to a change mid stream), I think the insiders have generally given accurate information. But I think that the general tenor of the opinions that ride that the ride would be unremarkable are off the mark to the typical theme park guest.
In the end, I think this ride will be extremely popular among guests of all ages due to a variety of factors. You have just enough thrill, show, ambiance, unique movement of the vehicles etc. to make this the kind of ride that guests of all ages can enjoy.
