Tag: los angels

“The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash!” opens at Universal Studios Hollywood on March 27, bringing an astounding 64 animated figures to this all-new tech-savvy ride!

On By TimothyIn Universal Studios HollywoodLeave a comment

Universal City, CA, February 20, 2020 – “The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash!” opens at Universal Studios Hollywood on March 27, bringing an astounding 64 animated figures to this all-new tech-savvy ride based on Illumination’s blockbuster The Secret Life of Pets films, which answer the question, “What are your pets really doing when you’re not at home?”
The entertaining new ride features original voice talent from The Secret Life of Pets films who will unleash their animal instincts to reprise their roles for this exciting theme park attraction. The talent and their alter egos include Patton Oswalt as Max, Kevin Hart as Snowball, Eric Stonestreet as Duke, Jenny Slate as Gidget, Tiffany Haddish as Daisy, Lake Bell as Chloe, Dana Carvey as Pops, Chris Renaud as Norman, Hannibal Buress as Buddy, Bobby Moynihan as Mel, and Jessica DiCicco as Princess.
“The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash!” is a heartfelt experience that transforms guests into stray puppies as they journey to become loved and adopted. After all, adoption day is the ultimate rite of passage for every domesticated animal and, as such, the perfect theme of this engaging new ride as these beloved puppies find their forever homes.
Combining 64 technologically-advanced animated figures, “The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash!” invites guests to meet some of their favorite characters from the movies, who themselves have transformed into dimensional beings. From blinking eyes to eye and eyebrow movements, from head tilts to head nods, from moving mouths to smiles, from ear curls to lip curls, from full torso twists to physically walking, the depth of mobility and function programmed within each of these loveable characters creates an experience unlike any other theme park ride.
With the addition of hyper-realistic media and projection mapping, this impressive new ride is designed to fully immerse guests in a dynamic New York City landscape. Seated within ride vehicles that resemble cardboard boxes—reminiscent of where Katie first finds her beloved Max as a puppy—guests will travel along a track towards the Pet Adoption event and the ultimate happy ending: forever homes.
The ride will feature state-of-the-art optical enhanced gesture-tracking technology, which helps to identify each guest as a unique stray puppy for the duration of the ride. With an option to be transformed into one of 15 stray puppies, guests will enjoy a unique experience each time they ride “The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash!”
Virtual Line technology is another component of the experience, designed to help guests maximize their leisure time at the theme park. Guests can access Virtual Line via the official Universal Studios Hollywood app, available for free in the App Store and on Google Play or they can visit the Virtual Line kiosk located in the New York City subway station, situated adjacent to the ride. Both provide guests with options to experience the ride based on the next available times and will be available to guests within the theme park as needed.
Virtual Line complements the ride’s non-traditional queue which invites guests to explore the area at their leisure and freely roam the ride’s corridors—reminiscent of Katie’s NYC apartment building—explore dachshund Buddy’s apartment, Snowball owner Molly’s living room as well as Max and Duke’s apartment, until they reach the ride’s boarding station.
“The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash!” will be located on Pets Place, previously referred to as Baker Street, and adjacent to the popular “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem” and “Super Silly Fun Land” attractions. With the installation of store front facades, Pets Place will capture the charm of a busy New York City street, including an iconic NYC subway station, which serves as the in-park location for the Virtual Line.
With so much to see and do at Universal Studios Hollywood, an Annual Pass invites guests to experience the theme park’s thrill and adventure over and over again. Visit http://www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com for more details and to save up to $60 on an Annual Pass when purchased online. Offer valid through April 23, 2020. Restrictions apply.
More information is available at http://www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com. Like Universal Studios Hollywood on Facebook and follow @UniStudios on Instagram and Twitter.

About Universal Studios Hollywood
Universal Studios Hollywood includes a full-day, movie-based theme park and Studio Tour. As a leading global entertainment destination, Universal Studios Hollywood delivers highly themed immersive lands that translate to real-life interpretations of iconic movie and television shows. Attractions include “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™” which features a bustling Hogsmeade village and such critically-acclaimed rides as “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey” and “Flight of the Hippogriff™”, the new mega attraction “Jurassic World—The Ride,” and the soon to open all-new ride, “The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash!” Other immersive lands include “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem” and “Super Silly Fun Land” as well as “Springfield,” hometown of America’s favorite TV family, located adjacent to the award-winning “The Simpsons Ride™” and DreamWorks Theatre featuring “Kung Fu Panda Adventure.” The world-renowned Studio Tour is Universal Studios Hollywood’s signature attraction, inviting guests behind-the-scenes of the world’s biggest and busiest movie and television production studio where they can also experience such thrill rides as “Fast & Furious—Supercharged” and “King Kong 360 3D.” The adjacent Universal CityWalk entertainment, shopping and dining complex also includes the all-new multi-million dollar, redesigned Universal CityWalk Cinema, featuring deluxe recliner seating in screening room quality theatres.

About Illumination
Illumination, founded by Academy Award® nominee Chris Meledandri in 2007, is one of the entertainment industry’s leading producers of event-animated films. The company’s releases include three of the top-eight animated films of all time, and its iconic, beloved franchises—infused with memorable and distinct characters, global appeal and cultural relevance—have grossed more than $6.6 billion worldwide.

Illumination, which has an exclusive financing and distribution partnership with Universal Pictures, is the creator of the hugely successful world of Despicable Me, which includes Minions, the third-highest-grossing animated film of all time and the most profitable film in Universal’s history, as well as the Academy Award®- nominated Despicable Me 2 and Despicable Me 3, which made more than $1 billion at the global box office.

Illumination recently launched two original properties that captivated audiences worldwide: The Secret Life of Pets, which achieved the best opening for an original movie, animated or otherwise, in U.S. history, and the global smash, Sing. And in 2018, Illumination’s Dr. Seuss’s The Grinch had the biggest opening weekend of any Christmas-themed movie in history. Illumination’s upcoming films include Minions: The Rise of Gru in July 2020 and Sing 2 in Summer 2021.

The Horrors of Blumhouse” Returns to Universal Studios’ “Halloween Horror Nights” Bringing New Chapters of Frightening Films to Life from Leading Producer of Horror Jason Blum’s Blockbuster Movies

On By TimothyIn Halloween, Haunted Attractions, Universal Halloween Horror NightsLeave a comment

Blumhouse’s Truth or Dare and Unfriended Featured at Universal Studios Hollywood

The First Purge and Happy Death Day Featured at Universal Orlando Resort

 


 Universal City, CA, Orlando, FL, August 20, 2018 – “The Horrors of Blumhouse” makes an encore performance at this year’s Halloween Horror Nights, bringing leading producer of horror Jason Blum’s blockbusters to life in all-new mazes atUniversal Studios Hollywood and Universal Orlando Resort, beginning Friday, September 14.

Partnering with the creative minds at Blumhouse Productions (Get Out, Insidious, Split), Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Orlando Resort will unleash a series of Blum’s most terrifying films at the nation’s most intense and immersive Halloween events.

At Universal Studios Hollywood, “The Horrors of Blumhouse: Chapter Two” maze takes guests on a terrifying journey that begins at the entrance to a dilapidated movie theatre, where a compilation of horror films play out in real life. InBlumhouse’s Truth or Dare, guests will succumb to an ancient curse that has been unleashed by a group of unsuspecting college students….forcing them to play a game where the stakes are life and death. In Unfriended, guests become pawns to a supernatural entity that has invaded a chat room. Drawing inspiration from Blumhouse Productions’ infamous opening title sequence, the final feature will lure guests into a creepy old house to answer desperate cries of help…only to discover that they have actually entered a paranormal world where real-life nightmares threaten to trap them forever in misery.

At Universal Orlando Resort, “The Horrors of Blumhouse” maze will bring guests face-to-face with the most gruesome scenes from the déjà vu thriller Happy Death Day, as well as from The First Purge, the newly-released prequel to The Purge series. In Happy Death Day, guests will be transported to the film’s college town, where they will be forced to relive the last day of a student’s life over and over again…until she breaks the murderous cycle. Then, in The First Purge, guests will run for their lives as menacing citizens from the film hunt them as part of the first barbaric government experiment where all crime is declared legal for 12 hours.

Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights is the ultimate Halloween event. For more than 25 years, guests from around the world have visited Halloween Horror Nights to become victims inside their own horror film. Multiple movie-quality mazes based on iconic horror television shows, films and original stories come to life season after season. And, the streets of each park’s event are transformed into highly-themed scare zones where menacing scare-actors lunge from every darkened corner.

For more information about Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Orlando Resort, visitwww.HalloweenHorrorNights.com. Additional details about the events will be revealed soon. All tickets and vacation packages are now on sale.

 

About Universal Studios Hollywood: 

Universal Studios Hollywood is The Entertainment Capital of L.A. and includes a full-day, movie-based theme park and Studio Tour. As a leading global entertainment destination, Universal Studios Hollywood delivers highly themed immersive lands that translate to real-life interpretations of iconic movie and television shows. Recent additions include “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™” which features a bustling Hogsmeade village and such critically-acclaimed rides as “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey” and “Flight of the Hippogriff™”.  Other immersive lands include “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem” and “Super Silly Fun Land” as well as “Springfield,” hometown of America’s favorite TV family, located adjacent to the award-winning “The Simpsons Ride™” and the “The Walking Dead” daytime attraction and the all-new DreamWorks Theatre featuring “Kung Fu Panda: The Emperor’s Quest.”  The world-renowned Studio Tour is Universal Studios Hollywood’s signature attraction, inviting guests behind-the-scenes of the world’s biggest and busiest movie and television production studio where they can also experience such authentic thrill rides as “Fast & Furious—Supercharged.”  The adjacent Universal CityWalkentertainment, shopping and dining complex also includes the all-new multi-million dollar, redesigned Universal CityWalk Cinema, featuring deluxe recliner seating in screening room quality theatres, and the “5 Towers” state-of-the-art outdoor concert stage.

Updates on “Halloween Horror Nights” at Universal Studios Hollywood are available online at Hollywood.HalloweenHorrorNights.com and on Facebook at: “Halloween Horror Nights – Hollywood,” on Instagram at @HorrorNights and Twitter at @HorrorNights as Creative Director John Murdy reveals a running chronicle of exclusive information. Watch videos on Halloween Horror Nights YouTube and join the conversation using #UniversalHHN.

About Universal Orlando Resort:

Universal Orlando Resort is a unique vacation destination that is part of the NBCUniversal Comcast family. For more than 25 years, Universal Orlando has been creating epic vacations for the entire family – incredible experiences that place guests in the heart of powerful stories and adventures.

Universal Orlando’s three theme parks, Universal Studios Florida, Universal’s Islands of Adventure and Universal’s Volcano Bay, are home to some of the world’s most exciting and innovative theme park experiences – including The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley. Universal Orlando’s on-site hotels are destinations unto themselves and include Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, the Hard Rock Hotel, Loews Royal Pacific Resort, Loews Sapphire Falls Resort, Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort, and coming this August, Universal’s Aventura Hotel. Its entertainment complex, Universal CityWalk, offers immersive dining and entertainment for every member of the family.

Universal Orlando Resort continues to unveil all-new guest experiences, including powerful attractions, incredible dining opportunities and dramatically-themed hotels. Now open is Fast & Furious – Supercharged, where guests can join the Fast family and step into the blockbusterFast & Furious films at Universal Studios Florida. And at Universal CityWalk, Voodoo Doughnut is now serving more than 50 types of delightfully weird and sinfully delicious doughnuts.

Follow us on our blog, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

 

About Blumhouse Productions

Blumhouse Productions, founded by two-time Academy Award®-nominated and two-time Emmy and Peabody Award-winning producer Jason Blum, is a multi-media company known for pioneering a new model of studio filmmaking: producing high-quality, micro-budget films. Blumhouse’s  critically-acclaimed blockbusters Get Out from Jordan Peele and Split from M. Night Shyamalan, grossed more than $500 million worldwide off combined budgets of less than $15 million. In addition, Blumhouse is the producer of the highly profitable The Purge, Insidious,Sinister and Paranormal Activity franchises, which together have grossed more than $2 billion worldwide. Blumhouse’s films also include the Academy Award®-nominated Whiplash, as well as The Gift, Unfriended and The Visit. In 2017, Blum launched an independent TV studio with investment from ITV Studios. Current projects include Sharp Objects, a mini-series for HBO starring Amy Adams, based on Gillian Flynn’s bestselling novel of the same name, and a mini-series for Showtime based on journalist Gabriel Sherman’s reporting on former FOX News chief Roger Ailes.

Universal CityWalk Hosts a Free Concert Featuring Rising Stars from its Renowned Street Performers Program for One Night Only at the “5 Towers” Stage on Friday The 13th of July ;)

On By TimothyIn Universal Studios HollywoodLeave a comment

Universal CityWalk’s prolific Street Performers program will feature today’s brightest up-and-coming stars in a free concert performance at the “5 Towers” outdoor concert venue. Hailing from across the globe, an array of eclectic artists will take to the stage to perform original and cover songs as well as collaborated sets in front of an enthusiastic, standing-room-only CityWalk audience.

 

With its innovative platform for emerging artists, Universal CityWalk’s renowned Street Performers program has emerged as a beacon for aspiring talent who migrate to Los Angeles in the hopes of finding fame and fortune.

 

Today’s diverse roster of performers runs the gamut from singer-songwriter to Latin jazz, folk pop, steel drums, pop viola, country, blues and R&B soul, and will include the following.

 

Featured artists:

 

Brother Yusef (Bakersfield, CA)

Cass Miller (Pittsburgh, PA)

Daniel Morris (Pine Bluff, AK)

Drea Rose (Salinas, CA)

Beautiful Fragile (Chicago, IL)

Jackii Kennedy (Key Largo, FL)

John Russel (Savannah, GA)

Katie Ferrara (Los Angeles, CA)

Nico Franc (Portsmouth, RI)

 Ricky England (Seattle, WA)

Riot Child (Stockholm, Sweden)

Sajama (Santiago, Chile)

Sarah Lightman (Highstown, NJ)

Shani Rose (Los Angeles, CA)

Shashaty (Miami, FL)

Steegs (Grand Bend, Ontario)

Streetlight Cadence (Honolulu, HI)

Zen Thomas (Fort Lee, NJ)

 

For more information on Universal CityWalk, visit www.CityWalkHollywood.com. Regular updates can be found on Universal Studios Hollywood’s Twitter @UniStudios, Facebook-Universal Studios Hollywood and Instagram @UniStudios.

 

WHEN:           Friday, July 13 at 7:00pm

 

WHERE:         “5 Towers” concert stage at Universal CityWalk

100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608

 

Universal Studios Hollywood Celebrates the Opening of DreamWorks Theatre Featuring “Kung Fu Panda: The Emperor’s Quest,” Kicking the All-New Attraction into High Gear with a Spectacular Kung Fu Martial Arts Display, Dragon Warrior Parade and Fireworks Finale

On By TimothyIn Universal Studios HollywoodLeave a comment

New Technologically-Advanced, Immersive Attraction

Officially Opens on Friday, June 15, 2018

A spectacular Kung Fu Martial Arts display, dragon warrior parade and fireworks finale set the stage for the grand opening of Universal Studios Hollywood’sall-new attraction, DreamWorks Theatre featuring “Kung Fu Panda: The Emperor’s Quest.”

DREAMWORKS THEATER

The festivities also featured an all-star lineup of DreamWorks Animation favorite characters, including Kung Fu Panda’sMastersPo and Tigress; Madagascar’s Alex the Lion, the Penguins—Skipper, Rico, Kowalski and Private, and King Julien;Trolls’ Poppy and Branch; and Shrek’s Puss ‘n Boots, Shrek and Fiona.

The arrival of “Kung Fu Panda: The Emperor’s Quest” marks the first attraction to open at The Entertainment Capital of L.A. since Universal’s recent acquisition of DreamWorks Animation.

DREAMWORKS THEATER

“As our portfolio expands, we are thrilled to bring exciting new entertainment options to our guests,” said Karen Irwin, President and COO, Universal Studios Hollywood. “Kung Fu Panda: The Emperor’s Quest’ is a fun, spirited story and the ideal attraction to kick start Universal Studios Hollywood’s collaboration with DreamWorks Animation.”

Inspired by the global blockbuster movie franchise, Kung Fu Panda, the attraction takes guests on a thrilling journey that fuses captivating storytelling with state-of-the art visual effects for a highly engaging experience.

DREAMWORKS THEATER

Created and produced by DreamWorks Animation and Universal Creative, “Kung Fu Panda: The Emperor’s Quest” recounts a plot-filled story whereby on the morning of The Emperor’s Great Feast of Heroes, dragon warrior Po embarks on a wild and perilous mission to deliver the rare and precious Liquid of Limitless Power to the Palace, while enlisting guests to join him on the exciting adventure replete with raging rapids, river pirates, awesome magic and Kung Fu.

DWT KFP Press Event at USH (7)_preview

With cutting-edge technology at the forefront of the multi-sensory attraction, “Kung Fu Panda:  The Emperor’s Quest” introduces the first-ever integration of interior projection mapping designed to engulf guests in 180 degrees of immersive adventure.  Developed by the innovative team at Universal Creative, this never-before-adapted technique depicts a series of immersive and visually dynamic scenic designs that will transform within the interior space and enhance the story. With detailing that is so precise, it will be near impossible to realize the projected imagery is a mere illusion.

DWT KFP Press Event at USH (8)_preview

Coupled with seven Christie 4K Boxer Cinema Projectors and 360 degree surround sound audio, sweeping physical effects from water to wind will empower guests to feel more like participants than spectators in the adrenaline-spiked adventure.

DREAMWORKS THEATER

Featuring an original score by composer Germaine Franco, the storyline begins as guests enter the pre-show area of the theatre where they meet an array of DreamWorks characters who kick-off the attraction’s narrative.  From there, guests enter the main theatre, complete with new ultra-plush, fully articulated seats that pivot and swivel in tandem with the 180-degree action.

DREAMWORKS THEATER

The newly constructed building that houses the DreamWorks Theatre is inspired by Mission revival architecture and harkens back to the Golden Age of Hollywood’s Art Deco period of the 1920s, including a box office ticket seller booth, reminiscent of the time period and staffed by a three-dimensional usher asleep on the job.

Kung Fu Panda_Entrance 2_preview

As guests navigate past the ticket booth, through the flourishing outdoor garden and into the theatre queue, they will encounter a series of 36 movie posters that pay homage to DreamWorks Animation films. Within the lobby, a selection of over 20 award statuettes will be on display, representing a sampling of the Golden Globe, Emmy, People’s Choice, Critic’s Choice, National Board of Review and Annie awards DreamWorks Animation has amassed from 2008 to 2015. A collection of original sculpted maquettes of the “Kung Fu Panda: The Emperor’s Quest” characters will also be on display along with artifacts embodying magical powers that Po brought back from the Spirit Realm.

Kung Fu Panda_Exterior 11_preview

This summer, guests are also invited to spend time with Po and Tigress as part of a special character meet and greet located within the park’s Universal Plaza.  A replica of Mr. Ping’s Noodle Shop, as featured in Kung Fu Panda, will also set up within the venue inviting gueststo enjoy his authentic Asian fare and a selection of hot and cold Asian beverages.

Kung Fu Panda_Show 6_preview

More information is available at www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com. Like Universal Studios Hollywood on Facebookand follow @UniStudios on Instagramand Twitter.

Universal Studios Hollywoodis The Entertainment Capital of L.A. and includes a full-day, movie-based theme park and Studio Tour. As a leading global entertainment destination, Universal Studios Hollywood delivers highly themed immersive lands that translate to real-life interpretations of iconic movie and television shows. Recent additions include “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™” which features a bustling Hogsmeade village and such critically-acclaimed rides as “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey” and “Flight of the Hippogriff™”.  Other immersive lands include “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem” and “Super Silly Fun Land” as well as “Springfield,” hometown of America’s favorite TV family, located adjacent to the award-winning “The Simpsons Ride™” “The Walking Dead” daytime attraction and the DreamWorks Theatre featuring “Kung Fu Panda: The Emperor’s Quest.” The world-renowned Studio Tour is Universal Studios Hollywood’s signature attraction, inviting guests behind-the-scenes of the world’s biggest and busiest movie and television production studio where they can also experience such authentic thrill rides as “Fast & Furious—Supercharged.”  The adjacent Universal CityWalkentertainment, shopping and dining complex also includes the all-new multi-million dollar, redesigned Universal CityWalk Cinema, featuring deluxe recliner seating in screening room quality theatres, and the “5 Towers” state-of-the-art outdoor concert stage.

The Queen Mary’s Dark Harbor Returns to the Infamously Haunted Ship September 27 Tickets to the 23 terrifying nights on-sale NOW!!!! Dark Harbor’s newest frights to be unveiled July 29!

On By TimothyIn Queen Mary's Dark HarborLeave a comment

The Queen Mary’s Dark Harbor, Southern California’s most terrifyingly authentic haunt, will once again rise from the deep, dripping with history of the infamously haunted ship September 27 – November 2, 2018. Tickets to Dark Harbor are available for purchase now at QueenMary.com.

Gruesome and bloodcurdling spirits will descend upon the legendary Queen Mary in Long Beach for the most anticipated, terrifying twenty-three nights of the year. Dark Harbor’s resident spirits: Ringmaster, Captain, Samuel the Savage, Graceful Gale, Half-Hatch Henry, Iron Master, Scary Mary, Voodoo Priestess, and Chef, will raise hundreds of tortured souls and spirits to haunt the grounds of Dark Harbor nightly for an unforgettable, bone-chillingly immersive experience.

The creators and producers behind Queen Mary’s Dark Harbor will reveal the newest frightful features for the upcoming season at Midsummer Scream haunt con on July 29 at the Long Beach Convention Center. Celebrate Halloween in July with Dark Harbor’s panel and get a sneak-peak of some of the terrifying new tricks that are being conjured up for the 2018 season of Dark Harbor.

Named one of the top 10 most haunted places on Earth by Time Magazine, The Queen Mary’s Dark Harbor offers the most authentically frightening experience available. Bringing the true haunted tales of The Queen Mary to life, the annual event begins September 27 and continues to scare those who dare through November 2, 2018. Tickets to the 2018 Dark Harbor season are available today, June 13, 2018. General admission ticket prices start at just $20 online, with Fast Fright, Evil Express, VIP, Ultimate Scream, and lodging packages available. To celebrate the upcoming season, Dark Harbor is offering a special 48-hour sale with tickets 50% off when purchased June 13 – June 15 for select season dates (9/27, 9/30, 10/4, 10/7, 10/11, 10/14). For more information or to purchase tickets online, visit www.queenmary.com/dark-harbor.

Blue, the Velociraptor from Universal Pictures and Amblin Entertainment’s Jurassic World Franchise, Debuts at Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Orlando Resort as Part of the “Raptor Encounter” Experience

On By TimothyIn Universal Studios HollywoodLeave a comment

Guests Are Invited to Come Face-to-Face with the Fan Favorite Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom Arrives in Theatres on June 22, 2018.

Blue at Raptor Encounter - Universal Studios

Blue, one of the most popular dinosaurs from Universal Pictures and Amblin Entertainment’s blockbuster Jurassic World franchise, is now part of Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Orlando Resort’s exciting “Raptor Encounter” experiences inviting guests to brave the dangerous predator in daring face-to-face standoffs.

The imposing life-like creature is Owen’s beloved Velociraptor from Jurassic World and Jurassic World:  Fallen Kingdom and was brought to life for the “Raptor Encounter” employing the exact computer-generated model and images used to create her for the big screen.

Blue is a welcome new addition to the “Raptor Encounter,” allowing guests to come face-to-face with the clever carnivore. Velociraptors are intelligent and formidable hunters, and theme-park guests are advised to approach them with caution.

With their intimidating eye contact and ear-piercing screeches that reinforce predatory dominance, each Raptor bares 56 razor-sharp, bone-crushing teeth and lunges forward with curved talons that extend up to 12 inches from their 18-inch-long feet.  Towering 12 feet in height and 15 feet—from tail to snout—the aggressive carnivores will each succumb to highly skilled handlers who adeptly guide them to within feet of guests.

 

“Countdown to Extinction of Jurassic Park—The Ride” at Universal Studios Hollywood

Universal Studios Hollywood recently announced its “Countdown to the Extinction of Jurassic Park—The Ride” campaign designed to pay homage to the thrill ride that closes on September 3 to make way for the all-new Jurassic World ride, a technologically-advanced epic adventure inspired by Universal Pictures’ blockbuster film franchise, opening in 2019.

In 1996, Universal Studios Hollywood redefined theme park thrill rides with the unprecedented introduction of “Jurassic Park—The Ride,” based on three-time Academy Award® winner Steven Spielberg’s epic film.  Hailed as a technological achievement of triumph and wizardry, the ride featured newly debuted principles of hydraulic physics, mechanics and space-age robotics.  Working in partnership with scientists, paleontologists and aerospace engineers, Universal Creative—the team that develops Universal theme park rides—brought to life one of the most compelling rides ever created. Life-sized and lifelike animatronic dinosaurs, some towering more than five-stories high, freely roamed the earth at Universal Studios Hollywood.

Twenty-two years later—and after sending millions of guests back to the Jurassic era for menacing encounters with such predators as Stegosaurus, Parasaurolophus, Dilophosaurus, Velociraptors and the Tyrannosaurus rex, “Jurassic Park—The Ride” will become extinct in preparation for a new, next-generation experience that’s even more immersive and technologically-advanced.

 

Universal Studios Hollywood is The Entertainment Capital of L.A. and includes a full-day, movie-based theme park and Studio Tour. As a leading global entertainment destination, Universal Studios Hollywood delivers highly themed immersive lands that translate to real-life interpretations of iconic movie and television shows. Recent additions include “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™” which features a bustling Hogsmeade village and such critically-acclaimed rides as “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey” and “Flight of the Hippogriff™”.  Other immersive lands include “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem” and “Super Silly Fun Land” as well as “Springfield,” hometown of America’s favorite TV family, located adjacent to the award-winning “The Simpsons Ride™” “The Walking Dead” daytime attraction and the DreamWorks Theatre featuring “Kung Fu Panda: The Emperor’s Quest.” The world-renowned Studio Tour is Universal Studios Hollywood’s signature attraction, inviting guests behind-the-scenes of the world’s biggest and busiest movie and television production studio where they can also experience such authentic thrill rides as “Fast & Furious—Supercharged.”  The adjacent Universal CityWalk entertainment, shopping and dining complex also includes the all-new multi-million dollar, redesigned Universal CityWalk Cinema, featuring deluxe recliner seating in screening room quality theatres, and the “5 Towers” state-of-the-art outdoor concert stage.

 

More information is available at www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com. Like Universal Studios Hollywood on Facebook and follow @UniStudios on Instagram and Twitter.

 

Universal Orlando Resort is a unique vacation destination that is part of the NBCUniversal Comcast family. For more than 25 years, Universal Orlando has been creating epic vacations for the entire family – incredible experiences that place guests in the heart of powerful stories and adventures.

 

Universal Orlando’s three theme parks, Universal Studios Florida, Universal’s Islands of Adventure and Universal’s Volcano Bay, are home to some of the world’s most exciting and innovative theme park experiences – including The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley. Universal Orlando’s on-site hotels are destinations unto themselves and include Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, the Hard Rock Hotel, Loews Royal Pacific Resort, Loews Sapphire Falls Resort, Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort, and coming this August, Universal’s Aventura Hotel. Its entertainment complex, Universal CityWalk, offers immersive dining and entertainment for every member of the family.

 

Universal Orlando Resort continues to unveil all-new guest experiences, including powerful attractions, incredible dining options and dramatically-themed hotels. Now open is Fast & Furious – Supercharged, where guests can join the Fast family and step into the blockbuster Fast & Furious films at Universal Studios Florida. And at Universal CityWalk, Voodoo Doughnut is now serving more than 50 types of delightfully weird and sinfully delicious doughnuts.

The Queen Mary’s Dark Harbor Hosts Annual Cast & Crew Auditions July 17th – August 4th! Can You Scare the Ship Out Of Them?

On By TimothyIn Queen Mary's Dark HarborLeave a comment

 

The Queen Mary hosts monster auditions and operations interviews for Dark Harbor 2018.

Dark Harbor, SoCal’s most terrifying haunt, is set to return for another frightening year, and you can audition to be a part of the bloodcurdling action! The Queen Mary’s Dark Harbor is the only Halloween attraction in Southern California that’s authentically haunted – if you aren’t afraid of things that go bump in the night, The Queen Mary wants you! Dark Harbor needs hundreds of performers to help bring the ghoulish nightmares to life this October.

  • 2018 OPEN CASTING
    • Main Cast / Back Up Cast (Chef, Scary Mary, Graceful Gale, Samuel the Savage, Half Hatch Henry, Iron Master, Maze and Street Monsters)
    • Specialty Acts (juggling, singing, magic, fire dancing, poi, acrobat, cyr wheel, silks, contortion, blockhead, etc.
    • Sliders
  • 2018 OPERATIONS TEAM
    • Assistant Stage Managers (Maze Supervisors)
    • Operation Supervisors
    • Show Ushers & Greeters
    • Sales Associates
  • 2018 BEVERAGE TEAM
    • Themed Beverage Attendants (bartenders, bar-backs, and cabana attendants)

REGISTER:
To audition for the 2018 Dark Harbor cast or operations team, register online at: http://www.queenmary.com/events/auditions/

WHEN:  
Asst. Stage Manager & Supervisor Interviews will be held:

  • Tuesday, July 17, 4:30 – 9 p.m.
  • Wednesday, July 18, 4:30  – 9 p.m.
  • Thursday, July 19, 4:30 – 9 p.m.

Operations & Beverage Team interviews will be held:

  • Tuesday, July 31, 4:30 – 9 p.m.
    • No Beverage Interviews
  • Wednesday, August 1, 4:30 – 9 p.m.
  • Thursday, August 2, 4:30 – 9 p.m.

Monster auditions will be held:

  • Friday, August 3, 6 – 10 p.m.
  • Saturday, August 4, 10 – 7 p.m.

 

WHERE:
The Queen Mary
Exhibition Hall (Ex-Hall)
1126 Queens Hwy, Long Beach, CA 90802

“The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” at Universal Studios Hollywood Continues to Spellbind Guests with Exciting Wand Magic Experiences, Wizarding Apparel and New Menu Options Plus, the Land Celebrates the Highly-Anticipated Return of “The Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts Castle” this Summer Beginning June 24!

On By TimothyIn Universal Studios HollywoodLeave a comment

From the moment guests enter The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™” at Universal Studios Hollywood, they are transported to Hogsmeade village, which this summer will introduce new wand magic experiences, authentic costume replicas, lunchtime menu items and the popular return of “The Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts Castle.”

 

With a gentle flick of the wrist and just the right touch, guests can cast spells throughout “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” at dazzling wand magic locations. This summer’s installation of two additional spells ups the tally to 15 thrilling wand magic experiences to practice. The Incendio fire-making spell will conjure flames of varying size based on skill level, and theAlohomora spell will unlock a series of intricate locks that may reveal the fiery breath of a creature hidden behind a secret door.

 

Three Broomsticks expands its lunchtime menu with a selection of traditional British fare, including:

 

Ploughman’s Lunch, featuring an imported selection of ham, salami, country paté, English cheese, homemade pickles and a warm scotch egg served with bread, cranberry chutney and grain mustard

Cheese Toastie with Chicken, featuring grilled English Cheddar cheese with chicken, crispy bacon, mustard and sliced tomato topped with a sunny side egg served with a fresh salad or potato wedges

Sunday Roast Sandwich served on a freshly baked baguette filled with warm prime rib, caramelized onions, English Cheddar, horseradish sauce and homemade garlic pickles served with fresh salad or potato wedges

 

Guests can channel their inner wizards at Gladrags Wizardwear with a wide array of apparel inspired by the films. The billowing house robes worn by the students of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry and accompanying house uniforms, including hand-loomed cardigans from Scotland, scarves and ties are available for purchase.  New to Gladrags Wizardwear this season is a high-end replica of Professor Severus Snape’s robe, as well as a replica of Hermonione’s dress worn at the Yule Ball as seen in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, which is now available in adult and children’s sizes.

Other wizard attire includes a replica of the cardigan worn by Neville Longbottom in the Battle of Hogwarts scene in the film series finale. Select attire is available in a variety of sizes from toddler to adult.

 

Just like the talking mirror in the Harry Potter films, Madam Malkin’s Talking Mirror makes quite a reflective entrance this summer, located in the corridor between Dervish and Banges™ and Gladrags Wizardwear. Speaking with an English accent, the Talking Mirror will entertain guests with a variety of complimentary remarks.

 

“The Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts Castle” returns for a limited time only, beginning Sunday, June 24.

The Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts Castle_WWoHP at USH 2018
“The Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts Castle” at “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” at Universal Studios Hollywood

As night falls on Hogsmeade village, “The Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts Castle” shines brightly with an awe-inspiring spectacle that showcases the four houses of Hogwarts: Gryffindor, Ravenclaw, Hufflepuff and Slytherin, and culminates with awesome beams of lights that fan into the night sky. The colorful state-of-the-art light display and special effects projection is accompanied by a special musical arrangement created by Academy® award-winning composer John Williams based on his original scores composed for the film series. The musical arrangement that emanates in a surround sound environment was conducted by prolific arranger William Ross and recorded by the London Symphony Orchestra in London.

 

Inspired by J.K. Rowling’s compelling stories and characters that were brought to life in the Warner Bros. films, “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” at Universal Studios Hollywood is a masterful recreation, faithful to the visual landscape of the fiction and films, including as its iconic focal point, Hogwarts castle.

From its snow-capped roofs and cobblestone streets to the historic British sensibilities that characterize the whimsical look and feel of the land, “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” transports guests of all ages to the very places they watched on the silver screen.

The architecturally stunning land also includes the captivating and highly acclaimed “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey” thrill ride, enhanced with 4K-HD and ride film projecting at an astounding rate of 120 frames-per-second for an even more immersive glimpse into Harry Potter’s world, as well as “Flight of the Hippogriff™,” Universal Studios Hollywood’s first outdoor family coaster.

“The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” resonates with immense detail, inviting guests to enjoy authentic food and beverages at multiple locations, including Three Broomsticks and Hog’s Head pub, as well as the Magic Neep and Butterbeer carts. A foray through the shops adds to the authenticity of the land with such retail venues as Honeydukes™, Ollivanders™, Owl Post™, Zonko’s™ Joke Shop, Wiseacre’s Wizarding Equipment, Dervish and Banges™, Gladrags Wizardwear, Filch’s Emporium™ of Confiscated Goods and the Hogsmeade™ Station.

Additional information on Universal Studios Hollywood is available at www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com. Join the conversation online using #WizardingWorldHollywood. Like Universal Studios Hollywood on Facebook and follow @UniStudios on Instagram and Twitter.

The Queen Mary’s Dark Harbor Unveils the Spirit of CHEF

On By TimothyIn Halloween, Haunted AttractionsLeave a comment

Embark on a Terrifying Journey through FEAST,

the Newest Maze Aboard the Queen Mary Venturing into Unrevealed Depths of the Ship

Are YOU Ready to be Served?

A new voracious resident spirit has risen from the depths of the Queen Mary’s Dark Harbor, Southern California’s most authentically terrifying haunt, opening September 28. Chef and his long-forgotten legend have resurfaced and will be brought to life through FEAST, the new horrific maze onboard the ship venturing into previously unrevealed areas of the Queen Mary’s Dark Harbor. Chef and his carnivorous kitchen staff have resumed their deadly duties, collecting new victims for Chef’s latest recipes. All who dare will swelter with fear as they crawl their way out of Chef’s scorching oven to reach their final destination…Are YOU ready to be served?

For the first time in Dark Harbor history, FEAST will be the 4th maze onboard the legendary vessel. FEAST tells the tale of Chef, a legendary spirit of the historic R.M.S. Queen Mary. As the tale goes, During WWII when the Queen Mary was in service as a troop transport ship, an enlisted military man serving in the ship’s kitchen quickly moved up the ranks to become a highly-decorated Chef.

Unbeknownst to the soldiers traveling aboard, Chef had a dark side. Quietly he would sedate soldiers in the middle of the night to prepare them as ingredients for his latest dishes. Eventually caught, the Chef was thrown into one of his own ovens and cooked alive.

Loyal to their leader Chef’s dutiful kitchen staff sacrificed their lives to become his evil henchmen, burning themselves in the same oven. The spirits of Chef and his evil crew went into hiding aboard the ship for many years. Now, these long-time stowaways have resurfaced to resume their deadly duties of collecting and preparing victims for Chef’s latest concoctions.

FEAST and Chef will make their horrific debut as Dark Harbor returns to the Queen Mary on September 28. Southern California’s most haunted Halloween event will welcome MORE monsters, MORE nights, and MORE mazes than ever before. Offering the most authentically frightening experience available, Dark Harbor tells the truly haunted, historic tales of the Queen Mary. The infamous spirits of Chef, Iron Master, Captain, Samuel the Savage, Graceful Gale, Half-Hatch Henry, Scary Mary, Voodoo Priestess, Ringmaster, plus hundreds of their bloodcurdling henchmen await to tempt your fate.

Live your nightmares aboard the Queen Mary with returning mazes Soulmate and B340. Mazes Circus, Intrepid, Deadrise, and Lullaby also return newly intensified, darker than imaginable, and evermore twisted. With 7 mazes and 13 bars, fire shows, aerialists, sliders, Michael Jackson’s Neverland Ranch’s Sinister Swings, monster DJs, Voodoo House Bar & Tasting Room, R.I.P. Lounge, and much more, Dark Harbor is a freakishly fun time.

The annual haunt opens its gates on September 28 and continues to scare those who dare on select nights through November 1. General admission ticket prices start at just $20 online, with Fast Fright, VIP Passes, Creepy Cabanas and lodging packages available. For more information or to purchase tickets online, visit http://www.queenmary.com/dark-harbor.

 

Chilling Haunts, Exhibits and Attractions Promise to Thrill Fans at ScareLA 2017!

On By TimothyIn Cons, Halloween, Haunted AttractionsLeave a comment

Delivering on its commitment to offer bigger and better scares, ScareLA, the first Halloween convention of its kind will count with a substantial array of curated and unique exhibits showcasing scary goods and services at the Los Angeles Convention Center on August 5-6. Exhibits will include returning favorites Funeral Classics, Characters Unlimited, Reign of Terror, terrifying escape rooms, music and family-friendly activities and an all-new exhibit from Starburns Industries.

Monsters can look forward to:
Funeral classics will be displaying a Jack Pierce/James Whale Frankenstein Prop head at their booth.
Characters Unlimited will be featuring their specialized and affordable designs for life-sized talking characters.
Reign of Terror will have a frightening photo op for all attendees.
60out Escape Rooms, Cross Roads Escape Games, and PuzzleMazement will offer terrifying escape rooms that will test the cleverness and agility of all monsters!
The best in Halloween music, including LA Fear, Nox Arcana – William Piotrowski and The Rhythm Coffin-Monster Rock n’ Roll.
Family-friendly exhibitors including, Broken Oar Productions, featuring “Monster Elementary”, an all-ages comedy adventure graphic novel series created by Nicholas Doan and Caanan Grall.
With many more monstrous exhibits and attractions to raise the Halloween spirit!

For the first time ever at ScareLA, production company, Starburn Industries (“HarmonQuest”, “Great Minds with Dan Harmon”, “Community”) will feature a dedicated booth where they will create a thrilling exhibit that will incorporate the cutting-edge technology that has elevated them to industry leaders, including stop motion and 2G/CG animation.

Tickets for the convention are still available for purchase, but all monsters must act now before quantities die out!

For more information, visit http://www.scarela.com.

 

# # #
About ScareLA:
ScareLA is the world’s first summer Halloween convention. Situated in the entertainment capital of the world, the event celebrates the American scare season traditions and the diverse cultural heritage of the Greater Los Angeles region. Featuring hundreds of specialty vendors, education programming, world-class industry presentations, ScareLA draws thousands of professionals, fans and families from the U.S. and abroad to celebrate Halloween early every summer. ScareLA is one of the fastest growing independent fan conventions in the U.S. addressing a $10 billion Halloween industry worldwide.

Useful Links:
Official Hashtag: #ScareLA
ScareLA Website: http://www.scarela.com
ScareLA’s Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/ScareLAcon/
ScareLA’s Twitter Account: https://twitter.com/scarelosangeles
ScareLA’s Instagram Account: https://www.instagram.com/scarelosangeles
ScareLA’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/scarelosangeles