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All things Universal Studios Hollywood
- Thread starter Darkbeer1
- Start date
D.Silentu
Well-Known Member
Musing on your list I have a few agreements and some questions. I really feel the notion that Universal is missing a haunted attraction, especially since random mazes used to fill that role for the park. I would nominate Classic Monsters or Ghostbusters over Luigi's Mansion, mainly because Mario already has a significant presence. They ought to be careful overrepresenting Intellectual Properties since they have finite space to expand.
I'm curious, since you expressed an interest in Oz, would any form of Wicked be palatable? Personally, I think there are environments in the film worthy of duplication. However, I'm not sure how any related attraction would avoid the simulator trap and I don't want that for Universal. Finally, the wild card: rumors have swirled for years that Universal has kept an eye on Lord Of The Rings. In spite of my feelings about that trilogy I'm on the fence about such an addition. What about you?
mickEblu
Well-Known Member
Definitely agree. Classic Monsters / Ghostbusters then a very large gap and then Luigi’s. Although the former two would serve a different purpose.
Nah. And if we really start considering space constraints, the Original Oz would be near or at the bottom of my list as well.
There are some cool possibilities with LOTR. Whether they can be executed properly I’m not sure. When I think LOTR I think the land needs to feel expansive. So off the bat, not sure they can devote 15 + acres to a LOTR land. For me a LOTR land should be set in the Shire and have that be the starting point for the adventure. Or perhaps down a path that leads to a dark forest and then have that be the jumping point. The Elves city would be really cool too but probably pretty tough to execute.
Last edited:
Professortango1
Well-Known Member
Ghostbusters with a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles ride in a new New York themed area would make my day. I know there is a NYC area currently, but I doubt that could support any attractions unless they were to remove Kung Fu Panda, and even that isn't a ton of space.
mickEblu
Well-Known Member
It would work well next to the new Brick FatF building too. Just turn everything from Fast n the Furious to Simpsons into a NY themed area. They should have called it New York drift. Doesn’t have the same ring to it though haha.
D.Silentu
Well-Known Member
In that case I would bid Panda a hearty farewell.
Damn that would be chill...maybe they could bring that idea to superhero island in IoA....
AJFireman
Well-Known Member
Today it was announced that LA28 Olympics Squash will be played at the Universal Studios Lot. I don't know enough about Squash or visit Universal enough to envision where it might take place.
www.worldsquash.org
Universal Studios Lot Confirmed as Squash Venue for the Olympic Games Los Angeles 2028 (LA28).
World Squash, US Squash and the Professional Squash Association (PSA) are delighted to announce that the Universal Studios Lot in Los Angeles, CA, has been designated as squash’s venue for the Olym…
www.worldsquash.org
Phroobar
Well-Known Member
Today it was announced that LA28 Olympics Squash will be played at the Universal Studios Lot. I don't know enough about Squash or visit Universal enough to envision where it might take place.
Universal Studios Lot Confirmed as Squash Venue for the Olympic Games Los Angeles 2028 (LA28).
World Squash, US Squash and the Professional Squash Association (PSA) are delighted to announce that the Universal Studios Lot in Los Angeles, CA, has been designated as squash’s venue for the Olym…
Handball with rackets. In a sound stage somewhere.
Professortango1
Well-Known Member
It will be replaced with a Challengers-inspired show scene. Its going to feel like they are really playing tennis around us. And then the fully immersive menage a trois sequence at the ride's start using the latest in screen technology.
Rich T
Well-Known Member
Californian-In-Florida Reviews Epic Universe: Part One — The Rides
Disclaimer/Honorable Mention for Stardust Racers. I haven’t ridden this one yet (It’s very intense and I’m old
). As a non-rider, I call it the most spectacular and fun-to-watch coaster I’ve ever seen. If you can handle its intensity, this could be among your favorites.
With that in mind… Here’s my ranking of the rest of Epic’s rather amazing line-up.
#1 - Monsters Unchained. It’s a close call between this and Ministry; both could easily be considered Best Theme Park Ride Ever—but I prefer the greater use of practical effects, sets, and incredible up-close animatronics on Monsters. I also find the looser plot line (Run!) makes it more instantly re-rideable. Even when you know by heart where the scares are and what’s coming next, every scene is so spectacular, the animatronics are so incredible (and they are well-lit, and you get a good up-close look at each of them) and the motions of the vehicle are so much fun that the excitement remains intact on each ride-through.
For anyone worried about the horror/scare level—don’t be. It’s all about excitement, thrills and spectacle. Imagine if, on Haunted Mansion, the ghosts were aggressively trying to kill you, but the Ghost Host was on your side and trying to help you as you fled; it’s like that. It’s like next-gen HM—grander scale, more top-tier incredible animatronics, more high-tech effects and wilder vehicle motion.
And, as someone who fights motion sickness on Forbidden Journey, I experienced none of that nausea on Monsters. I’ve ridden it seven times so far and I can’t wait to do it again. It’s fantastic.
#2 - Battle For The Ministry. As you might have heard, this ride features the most jaw-droppingly spectacular queue on Earth. And…the actual attraction lives up to it!
Imagine a combination of Tower of Terror, Horizons, Rise of the Resistance, Flight of Passage but better and more comfortable, Gringott’s, American Adventure if it was a thrill ride, and all combined with the masterful, precise visual mind-games of Bourne Stuntacular. That’s Battle for the Ministry. It is a wonderful, thrilling, breathtaking experience.
This was my first-time reaction to the ride: “Screens? Really? I was hoping— WHOA!!! WOW!!! HOLY— (delight, joy and amazement) WOOOO! OH MY GOSH! YEAH!!!! (Applauding at end).
The sheer spectacle and scale of this experience is off-the-charts. YouTube videos don’t do it justice; in person, this attraction convincingly thrusts you into the middle of action scenes that are so huge in scale, and with such a powerful sense of depth and height—all without 3D glasses—that it’s absolutely mesmerizing. You have never experienced anything like this. As so many have said, the combination of animatronics and projections is so seamless that it’s very hard to tell what’s “real” from what’s an illusion.
Ok, Universal. That’s the most amazing, effective use of screens in theme park history, and you included plenty of great animatronics and practical sets. A+. Wow. Please let that be the screen-based ride era’s grand finale.
#3 - Hiccup’s Wing Gliders. This is exactly the coaster Universal Orlando Resort has needed in its roster; a lengthy, thrilling, beautifully-themed family coaster that’s not quite as intense as Hagrid’s. I’d been hoping this would be Florida’s equivalent to Dollywood’s wonderful Big Bear Mountain, and it certainly fills that role.
This is the park’s sleeper hit. It gets the same reaction I witnessed with Big Bear: Families and coaster enthusiasts alike saying, “I LOVED that!” as they exit. It hits a perfect sweet spot. The twisty layout, which takes you all over Berk, is clever, full of surprises, and delightfully “swoopy.” The animatronics and onboard audio provide a lighthearted storyline that captures the spirit of the franchise, and there are multiple recorded dialogue possibilities, so it can be different from one trip to the next. The iconic HTTYD flying music, of course, is fantastic. I love this ride! Pure joy.
#4 - Mariokart. I realize it helps that I knew what to expect going in, and that I’m a huge fan of the Mariokart games… but I had a blast! Even on my second go where I didn’t get the headset on quite right and the AR goggles were painfully pressing the bridge of my nose throughout!!!
The ride captures the nonstop chaos of the games brilliantly. And firing the turtle shells is great fun. I just relax, don’t worry about my score, and enjoy five minutes of surreal chaos, colorful sets and great music!
#5 - Curse of the Werewolf. I’m ranking this higher than others might, because werewolves are my favorite monsters, and the werewolf theme is beautifully done here so… bias!!! This is an extremely fun, punchy spinning coaster in a wonderful woodsy setting. The mid-course swing launch is hilarious, as every swing takes you back through the werewolf-inhabited barn—and the werewolf in there is properly scary. It’s a short ride, but nicely intense and very enjoyable. It’s a hoot!
#6 - Mine Cart Madness. I had trouble choosing a favorite between this and Werewolf. I love the theming, effects, and the layout more on this, but the deciding factor is… well…
OUCH. I rode it three times… because it’s awesome…but…This coaster is JOLTY. Now, this of course fits the theme of a runaway mine cart jumping over gaps, but—as Monsters University’s Don Carlton would say—“CHEESE AND CRACKERS! SON OF A MUSTACHE!” Personally, I’d compare it to MK Space Mtn. in the back seat—and maybe a tad more extreme than that. Be warned; there is “jolting action”. But I loved it.
A word about whether or not the ride’s big “gimmick” is effective: It is. Knowing (and seeing) how it works doesn’t spoil the fun. On-ride, in person, your eyes naturally want to follow the path of the big cartoony “tracks” and I don’t care how jaded a rider might be… there are a couple of illusions that are gonna getcha and set off your instinctive inner panic button. And that’s in spite of the ride showing you—in full view right at the station launch—how it all works.
#7 - Constellation Carousel. - It’s beautiful during the day, and at night… it’s like a dream materializing before your eyes. Blew me away. The ride’s movements are very gentle and easygoing—even by carousel standards—but it’s all about the presentation. This is a dance. This is performance art. This is the BEST. CAROUSEL. EVER. There are several music tracks, and the ride is programmed so that the creatures you ride perform a different choreographed “dance” for each track, and the creatures, while following the rotations of the Teacup-style base, also spin and rise up to six feet into the air. Whimsical and stunning. Go for a night ride: You will never forget it.
#8 - Fyre Drill.The world’s best Splash battle ride. It’s a wild burst of personality and action, with fun, colorful character targets all in the appealing visual style that defines the architecture, art and signage of Berk. If you hit the wrong targets, they retaliate! Win or lose, expect a possible soaking. This one’s as much fun to watch and listen to as it is to ride.
#9 - Dragon Racer’s Rally. My first go on a Skyfly flat ride! I didn’t succeed in getting a full barrel-roll, but I did mange to hang upside down a couple of times, and I love this smooth, graceful glide up into the sky. The dueling double-ride also serves as a brilliant eye-catching kinetic sculpture for Berk’s skyline—A terrific ride choice for this land.
#10 - Yoshi’s Adventure. So cute!!!!! So relaxing!!! Is it really an “adventure” though? Well… Piranha plant, Konkdor, Thwomp and Kamek don’t provide much of a threat.. But I don’t care, because Poochi!!! And, after all, “Yoshi’s Sweet Little Scenic Omnimover” wouldn’t make a good ride name.
———-
So, there’s my take on the rides of Epic Universe; there isn’t a bad ride in the bunch, and at *least* four of these are among the best in the U.S.—possibly the world.
Next up: The shows, the food, the shops and the park experience in general. Spoiler: praise ahead.
Disclaimer/Honorable Mention for Stardust Racers. I haven’t ridden this one yet (It’s very intense and I’m old
). As a non-rider, I call it the most spectacular and fun-to-watch coaster I’ve ever seen. If you can handle its intensity, this could be among your favorites.With that in mind… Here’s my ranking of the rest of Epic’s rather amazing line-up.
#1 - Monsters Unchained. It’s a close call between this and Ministry; both could easily be considered Best Theme Park Ride Ever—but I prefer the greater use of practical effects, sets, and incredible up-close animatronics on Monsters. I also find the looser plot line (Run!) makes it more instantly re-rideable. Even when you know by heart where the scares are and what’s coming next, every scene is so spectacular, the animatronics are so incredible (and they are well-lit, and you get a good up-close look at each of them) and the motions of the vehicle are so much fun that the excitement remains intact on each ride-through.
For anyone worried about the horror/scare level—don’t be. It’s all about excitement, thrills and spectacle. Imagine if, on Haunted Mansion, the ghosts were aggressively trying to kill you, but the Ghost Host was on your side and trying to help you as you fled; it’s like that. It’s like next-gen HM—grander scale, more top-tier incredible animatronics, more high-tech effects and wilder vehicle motion.
And, as someone who fights motion sickness on Forbidden Journey, I experienced none of that nausea on Monsters. I’ve ridden it seven times so far and I can’t wait to do it again.
It’s fantastic.#2 - Battle For The Ministry. As you might have heard, this ride features the most jaw-droppingly spectacular queue on Earth. And…the actual attraction lives up to it!
Imagine a combination of Tower of Terror, Horizons, Rise of the Resistance, Flight of Passage but better and more comfortable, Gringott’s, American Adventure if it was a thrill ride, and all combined with the masterful, precise visual mind-games of Bourne Stuntacular. That’s Battle for the Ministry. It is a wonderful, thrilling, breathtaking experience.
This was my first-time reaction to the ride: “Screens? Really? I was hoping— WHOA!!! WOW!!! HOLY— (delight, joy and amazement) WOOOO! OH MY GOSH! YEAH!!!! (Applauding at end).
The sheer spectacle and scale of this experience is off-the-charts. YouTube videos don’t do it justice; in person, this attraction convincingly thrusts you into the middle of action scenes that are so huge in scale, and with such a powerful sense of depth and height—all without 3D glasses—that it’s absolutely mesmerizing. You have never experienced anything like this. As so many have said, the combination of animatronics and projections is so seamless that it’s very hard to tell what’s “real” from what’s an illusion.
Ok, Universal. That’s the most amazing, effective use of screens in theme park history, and you included plenty of great animatronics and practical sets. A+. Wow. Please let that be the screen-based ride era’s grand finale.
#3 - Hiccup’s Wing Gliders. This is exactly the coaster Universal Orlando Resort has needed in its roster; a lengthy, thrilling, beautifully-themed family coaster that’s not quite as intense as Hagrid’s. I’d been hoping this would be Florida’s equivalent to Dollywood’s wonderful Big Bear Mountain, and it certainly fills that role.
This is the park’s sleeper hit. It gets the same reaction I witnessed with Big Bear: Families and coaster enthusiasts alike saying, “I LOVED that!” as they exit. It hits a perfect sweet spot. The twisty layout, which takes you all over Berk, is clever, full of surprises, and delightfully “swoopy.” The animatronics and onboard audio provide a lighthearted storyline that captures the spirit of the franchise, and there are multiple recorded dialogue possibilities, so it can be different from one trip to the next. The iconic HTTYD flying music, of course, is fantastic. I love this ride! Pure joy.
#4 - Mariokart. I realize it helps that I knew what to expect going in, and that I’m a huge fan of the Mariokart games… but I had a blast! Even on my second go where I didn’t get the headset on quite right and the AR goggles were painfully pressing the bridge of my nose throughout!!!
The ride captures the nonstop chaos of the games brilliantly. And firing the turtle shells is great fun. I just relax, don’t worry about my score, and enjoy five minutes of surreal chaos, colorful sets and great music!
#5 - Curse of the Werewolf. I’m ranking this higher than others might, because werewolves are my favorite monsters, and the werewolf theme is beautifully done here so… bias!!! This is an extremely fun, punchy spinning coaster in a wonderful woodsy setting. The mid-course swing launch is hilarious, as every swing takes you back through the werewolf-inhabited barn—and the werewolf in there is properly scary.
It’s a short ride, but nicely intense and very enjoyable. It’s a hoot!#6 - Mine Cart Madness. I had trouble choosing a favorite between this and Werewolf. I love the theming, effects, and the layout more on this, but the deciding factor is… well…
OUCH. I rode it three times… because it’s awesome…but…This coaster is JOLTY. Now, this of course fits the theme of a runaway mine cart jumping over gaps, but—as Monsters University’s Don Carlton would say—“CHEESE AND CRACKERS! SON OF A MUSTACHE!” Personally, I’d compare it to MK Space Mtn. in the back seat—and maybe a tad more extreme than that. Be warned; there is “jolting action”.
But I loved it.A word about whether or not the ride’s big “gimmick” is effective: It is. Knowing (and seeing) how it works doesn’t spoil the fun. On-ride, in person, your eyes naturally want to follow the path of the big cartoony “tracks” and I don’t care how jaded a rider might be… there are a couple of illusions that are gonna getcha and set off your instinctive inner panic button.
And that’s in spite of the ride showing you—in full view right at the station launch—how it all works.#7 - Constellation Carousel. - It’s beautiful during the day, and at night… it’s like a dream materializing before your eyes. Blew me away. The ride’s movements are very gentle and easygoing—even by carousel standards—but it’s all about the presentation. This is a dance. This is performance art. This is the BEST. CAROUSEL. EVER. There are several music tracks, and the ride is programmed so that the creatures you ride perform a different choreographed “dance” for each track, and the creatures, while following the rotations of the Teacup-style base, also spin and rise up to six feet into the air. Whimsical and stunning. Go for a night ride: You will never forget it.
#8 - Fyre Drill.The world’s best Splash battle ride. It’s a wild burst of personality and action, with fun, colorful character targets all in the appealing visual style that defines the architecture, art and signage of Berk. If you hit the wrong targets, they retaliate! Win or lose, expect a possible soaking. This one’s as much fun to watch and listen to as it is to ride.
#9 - Dragon Racer’s Rally. My first go on a Skyfly flat ride! I didn’t succeed in getting a full barrel-roll, but I did mange to hang upside down a couple of times, and I love this smooth, graceful glide up into the sky. The dueling double-ride also serves as a brilliant eye-catching kinetic sculpture for Berk’s skyline—A terrific ride choice for this land.
#10 - Yoshi’s Adventure. So cute!!!!! So relaxing!!! Is it really an “adventure” though? Well… Piranha plant, Konkdor, Thwomp and Kamek don’t provide much of a threat.. But I don’t care, because Poochi!!! And, after all, “Yoshi’s Sweet Little Scenic Omnimover” wouldn’t make a good ride name.
———-
So, there’s my take on the rides of Epic Universe; there isn’t a bad ride in the bunch, and at *least* four of these are among the best in the U.S.—possibly the world.
Next up: The shows, the food, the shops and the park experience in general.
Spoiler: praise ahead.
Last edited:
Rich T
Well-Known Member
It’s amazing. The vehicle-I’ve heard—is indeed similar to spiderman/transfofmers, but with some added capabilities. The scale, clarity and feeling of vast heights and depths in the big showstopper scenes are unlike anything else I’ve ever experienced on a ride.
Model3 McQueen
Well-Known Member
- In the Parks
- No
Californian-In-Florida Reviews Epic Universe: Part One — The Rides
View attachment 854336
Disclaimer/Honorable Mention for Stardust Racers. I haven’t ridden this one yet (It’s very intense and I’m old
With that in mind… Here’s my ranking of the rest of Epic’s rather amazing line-up.
#1 - Monsters Unchained. It’s a close call between this and Ministry; both could easily be considered Best Theme Park Ride Ever—but I prefer the greater use of practical effects, sets, and incredible up-close animatronics on Monsters. I also find the looser plot line (Run!) makes it more instantly re-rideable. Even when you know by heart where the scares are and what’s coming next, every scene is so spectacular, the animatronics are so incredible (and they are well-lit, and you get a good up-close look at each of them) and the motions of the vehicle are so much fun that the excitement remains intact on each ride-through.
For anyone worried about the horror/scare level—don’t be. It’s all about excitement, thrills and spectacle. Imagine if, on Haunted Mansion, the ghosts were aggressively trying to kill you, but the Ghost Host was on your side and trying to help you as you fled; it’s like that. It’s like next-gen HM—grander scale, more top-tier incredible animatronics, more high-tech effects and wilder vehicle motion.
And, as someone who fights motion sickness on Forbidden Journey, I experienced none of that nausea on Monsters. I’ve ridden it seven times so far and I can’t wait to do it again.
#2 - Battle For The Ministry. As you might have heard, this ride features the most jaw-droppingly spectacular queue on Earth. And…the actual attraction lives up to it!
Imagine a combination of Tower of Terror, Horizons, Rise of the Resistance, Flight of Passage but better and more comfortable, Gringott’s, American Adventure if it was a thrill ride, and all combined with the masterful, precise visual mind-games of Bourne Stuntacular. That’s Battle for the Ministry. It is a wonderful, thrilling, breathtaking experience.
This was my first-time reaction to the ride: “Screens? Really? I was hoping— WHOA!!! WOW!!! HOLY— (delight, joy and amazement) WOOOO! OH MY GOSH! YEAH!!!! (Applauding at end).
The sheer spectacle and scale of this experience is off-the-charts. YouTube videos don’t do it justice; in person, this attraction convincingly thrusts you into the middle of action scenes that are so huge in scale, and with such a powerful sense of depth and height—all without 3D glasses—that it’s absolutely mesmerizing. You have never experienced anything like this. As so many have said, the combination of animatronics and projections is so seamless that it’s very hard to tell what’s “real” from what’s an illusion.
Ok, Universal. That’s the most amazing, effective use of screens in theme park history, and you included plenty of great animatronics and practical sets. A+. Wow. Please let that be the screen-based ride era’s grand finale.
#3 - Hiccup’s Wing Gliders. This is exactly the coaster Universal Orlando Resort has needed in its roster; a lengthy, thrilling, beautifully-themed family coaster that’s not quite as intense as Hagrid’s. I’d been hoping this would be Florida’s equivalent to Dollywood’s wonderful Big Bear Mountain, and it certainly fills that role.
This is the park’s sleeper hit. It gets the same reaction I witnessed with Big Bear: Families and coaster enthusiasts alike saying, “I LOVED that!” as they exit. It hits a perfect sweet spot. The twisty layout, which takes you all over Berk, is clever, full of surprises, and delightfully “swoopy.” The animatronics and onboard audio provide a lighthearted storyline that captures the spirit of the franchise, and there are multiple recorded dialogue possibilities, so it can be different from one trip to the next. The iconic HTTYD flying music, of course, is fantastic. I love this ride! Pure joy.
#4 - Mariokart. I realize it helps that I knew what to expect going in, and that I’m a huge fan of the Mariokart games… but I had a blast! Even on my second go where I didn’t get the headset on quite right and the AR goggles were painfully pressing the bridge of my nose throughout!!!
The ride captures the nonstop chaos of the games brilliantly. And firing the turtle shells is great fun. I just relax, don’t worry about my score, and enjoy five minutes of surreal chaos, colorful sets and great music!
#5 - Curse of the Werewolf. I’m ranking this higher than others might, because werewolves are my favorite monsters, and the werewolf theme is beautifully done here so… bias!!! This is an extremely fun, punchy spinning coaster in a wonderful woodsy setting. The mid-course swing launch is hilarious, as every swing takes you back through the werewolf-inhabited barn—and the werewolf in there is properly scary.
#6 - Mine Cart Madness. I had trouble choosing a favorite between this and Werewolf. I love the theming, effects, and the layout more on this, but the deciding factor is… well…
OUCH. I rode it three times… because it’s awesome…but…This coaster is JOLTY. Now, this of course fits the theme of a runaway mine cart jumping over gaps, but—as Monsters University’s Don Carlton would say—“CHEESE AND CRACKERS! SON OF A MUSTACHE!” Personally, I’d compare it to MK Space Mtn. in the back seat—and maybe a tad more extreme than that. Be warned; there is “jolting action”.
A word about whether or not the ride’s big “gimmick” is effective: It is. Knowing (and seeing) how it works doesn’t spoil the fun. On-ride, in person, your eyes naturally want to follow the path of the big cartoony “tracks” and I don’t care how jaded a rider might be… there are a couple of illusions that are gonna getcha and set off your instinctive inner panic button.
#7 - Constellation Carousel. - It’s beautiful during the day, and at night… it’s like a dream materializing before your eyes. Blew me away. The ride’s movements are very gentle and easygoing—even by carousel standards—but it’s all about the presentation. This is a dance. This is performance art. This is the BEST. CAROUSEL. EVER. There are several music tracks, and the ride is programmed so that the creatures you ride perform a different choreographed “dance” for each track, and the creatures, while following the rotations of the Teacup-style base, also spin and rise up to six feet into the air. Whimsical and stunning. Go for a night ride: You will never forget it.
#8 - Fyre Drill.The world’s best Splash battle ride. It’s a wild burst of personality and action, with fun, colorful character targets all in the appealing visual style that defines the architecture, art and signage of Berk. If you hit the wrong targets, they retaliate! Win or lose, expect a possible soaking. This one’s as much fun to watch and listen to as it is to ride.
#9 - Dragon Racer’s Rally. My first go on a Skyfly flat ride! I didn’t succeed in getting a full barrel-roll, but I did mange to hang upside down a couple of times, and I love this smooth, graceful glide up into Sky. The dueling double-ride also serves as a brilliant eye-catching kinetic sculpture for Berk’s skyline—A terrific ride choice for this land.
#10 - Yoshi’s Adventure. So cute!!!!! So relaxing!!! Is it really an “adventure” though? Well… Piranha plant, Konkdor, Thwomp and Kamek don’t provide much of a threat.. But I don’t care, because Poochi!!! And, after all, “Yoshi’s Sweet Little Scenic Omnimover” wouldn’t make a good ride name.
———-
So, there’s my take on the rides of Epic Universe; there isn’t a bad ride in the bunch, and at *least* four of these are among the best in the U.S.—possibly the world.
Next up: The shows, the food, the shops and the park experience in general.
In your opinion, is it time for Disney to panic? Should they be worried or is Epic Universe just more of the same in the theme park industry?
Rich T
Well-Known Member
My opinion is that Epic Universe is a spectacular, beautiful, charming, state-of-the-art theme park and people are loving it… And that this could be a wake-up call for Disney to be better than they’ve been lately. I don’t think Universal is their biggest threat; I think Disney is Disney’s biggest threat.
Seriously, how could ANYONE screw up a sure-fire goldmine idea like “Star Wars Hotel” as embarrassingly as Disney did?
Universal Orlando has just become a very appealing-to-all-ages multi-day vacation destination featuring one of the best parks on the planet— and it’s a 2-Day park at that.
This is going to be very interesting (and a lot of fun for theme park fans) to watch how Disney responds to the most serious competition they’ve ever had in Florida.
Hopefully this all leads to Disney and Universal continually trying to top each other in the quantity and quality of their offerings.
I just hope Disney doesn’t learn the WRONG message from this and start ripping out MORE beloved old attractions in an effort to be “cool and contemporary.” Eeesh.
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TheDisneyParksfanC8
Well-Known Member
Here's hoping the same level of quality and care trickles down into the post EU additions to IOA and USF. USF needs to be what they need to focus on next though. EU can wait a while for new stuff.My opinion is that Epic Universe is a spectacular, beautiful, charming, state-of-the-art theme park and people are loving it… And that this could be a wake-up call for Disney to be better than they’ve been lately. I don’t think Universal is their biggest threat; I think Disney is Disney’s biggest threat.
Seriously, how could ANYONE screw up a sure-fire goldmine idea like “Star Wars Hotel” as embarrassingly as Disney did?
Universal Orlando has just became a very appealing-to-all-ages multi-day vacation destination featuring one of the best parks on the planet— and it’s a 2-Day park at that.
This is going to be very interesting (and a lot of fun for theme park fans) to watch how Disney responds to the most serious competition they’ve ever had in Florida.
Hopefully this all leads to Disney and Universal continually trying to top each other in the quantity and quality of their offerings.
I just hope Disney doesn’t learn the WRONG message from this and start ripping out MORE beloved old attractions in an effort to be “cool and contemporary.” Eeesh.
TP2000
Well-Known Member
I've been in San Diego for a few days for Easter vacation, and I can't turn on the local TV stations without seeing these commercials for "Universal Studios Fan Fest Days" (or something like that). The commercials are really cute and well done, they lean in a bit to the obvious nerdiness of it all, but without being pandering or cringey or fake. Whoever is doing Universal's marketing is doing it well.
And I mention this because I also just saw my first commercial for Disneyland's 70th and it was.... bland. They phoned it in. It had the generic, almost AI-like, fake Disneyland family that is ethnically ambiguous yet also soulless and forced. They had the obligatory wide-eyed and mouth-agape looks from all the family members as they took in the wonder of the new 70th Anniversary bunting package on the Castle. And then Mickey hugged them. Or something. At The Disneyland Resort!
This probably belongs in the Disneyland 70th thread now, but you get my point. The Universal commercial was nerdy but loveable and meaningful, and the Disneyland commercial seemed like an AI generated response to the query to UNIVAC to "Show Me A Fake Disneyland TV Commercial With Wide Eyed Children and Happy Loving Parents"
And I mention this because I also just saw my first commercial for Disneyland's 70th and it was.... bland. They phoned it in. It had the generic, almost AI-like, fake Disneyland family that is ethnically ambiguous yet also soulless and forced. They had the obligatory wide-eyed and mouth-agape looks from all the family members as they took in the wonder of the new 70th Anniversary bunting package on the Castle. And then Mickey hugged them. Or something. At The Disneyland Resort!
This probably belongs in the Disneyland 70th thread now, but you get my point. The Universal commercial was nerdy but loveable and meaningful, and the Disneyland commercial seemed like an AI generated response to the query to UNIVAC to "Show Me A Fake Disneyland TV Commercial With Wide Eyed Children and Happy Loving Parents"