10/27/08 - Monday in the Parks - News, Photos and Tips
Today's main focus is new attractions, some that just opened, and some just announced for the Southern California area, let's get to it.
High School Musical 3: Right Here!, Right Now! street show at DCA
Friday had the premiere of the third version of the travelling performance stage at DCA.
While it is the same basic stage, the script and all the music has changed, even though it does still offer some interactive moments for children, and in this version, even a few adults.
The timing of the attraction matches up with the movie premiere of HSM3, which ended up winning the weekend box office race, with about $42 million in tickets sold.
Same basic schedule as the first 2 shows, it comes out 3 times a day, and then performs twice per outing, once in the Sunshine Plaza area near the main entrance, and then at Golden State Park.
One hint, the Golden State Park performances tend to have a lot less folks watching, and it is easier to get a good viewing point to watch the show.
Pixie Hollow has started offering "soft openings"
While the official opening of the new Pixie Hollow Meet and Greet area at Disneyland is scheduled for Tuesday, October 28th to match up with the DVD release of the new Tinker Bell movie, Disney did get the area ready for guests on Saturday morning.
First off, it is very helpful for folks to know the definition of the term "Tinker", it comes from Great Britain, and is someone who mends pots and pans.
tinker - Definition at Your Dictionary
It is why you will find a Tea Pot in Pixie Hollow, and what "type" of fairy Tinker Bell is in the movie.
While the larger former Triton Gardens area remains intact, there are quite a few changes to the area, starting with a new longer queue area, as compared to the former Ariel's Grotto area, and of course a lot of changes in the smaller area that used to host Ariel's moving Clam Shell.
The queue area is designed to set the mood, then "shrink" you down to fairy size, so you can meet Tinker and some of the other fairies. Also notice the sound effects, at the beginning of the queue, you hear the well known chimes that Tinker Bell sounds like to humans in Peter Pan, but once you get close to the actual hollow, you will enter what Denny Newell, Senior Show Director, the CM in charge of the project calls the "Monsanto Tunnel", the sounds will change to laughter, then human voices, as you will be able to understand "fairy language". It also explains why Tinker Bell can actually talk to you.
The Main area is designed quite well, where you first meet 2 of the Nature Fairies from the movie, and then after making a turn (to make sure kids (of all ages) don't see the second area too early), Tinker Bell in her Tea Pot.
And of course, at the exit, there is a new Merchandise area. (The former Ariel's queue).
One big warning, the queue was moving very slowly on Saturday. With the main queue area about 75% full, it was averaging about 90 minutes to meet Tinker Bell. While it was just the first day of operation, I don't see the wait times getting better anytime soon.
The regular hours will be around 10 to 5 PM daily (and will remain open during parades, but without Tinker Bell to prevent a "double" appearance), of course, check the Times Guide for exact hours on the exact day. One tip, get to the area prior to opening, and wait for it to open to hopefully shorten your wait.
Six Flags Magic Mountain announces a new Wooden Roller Coaster for 2009
A new 2,850 feet long Wooden Coaster with on board sound will be built in the former area that Psyclone was in, is scheduled to open in Spring of 2009. Here is the Press Release.
SIX FLAGS MAGIC MOUNTAIN TO ADD 16TH COASTER TO ITS WORLD RENOWNED COLLECTION
TERMINATOR®: THE COASTER To Debut in 2009
Valencia, CA, October 22, 2008 /PRNewswire/ — Six Flags Magic Mountain announced today the addition in 2009 of a new wooden roller coaster to its world renowned coaster collection. Developed by the same team that produced the new X2 experience, TERMINATOR®: THE COASTER will combine innovative thrill ride technology with the signature science fiction punch of the Terminator brand. The debut is scheduled to coincide with the release of the McG directed film Terminator Salvation™ next year, and will introduce fans to an entirely new universe inspired by the film's post apocalyptic setting.
"Our mission at Six Flags Magic Mountain is to provide entertainment that appeals to a wide range of tastes and this specially designed wooden coaster will be a proven winner among guests of all ages," said Jay Thomas, Six Flags Magic Mountain's Park President. "Designed around the theme of the successful Terminator movie brand, this ride will draw thrill seekers from around the world."
Derek Anderson and Victor Kubicek, co-CEO's of The Halcyon Company, credit Six Flags with taking the ride to the next level in adventure. "The combination of the universe created by the film and the setting of this ride will provide fans with an adventure that keeps the spirit of the story," said Kubicek and Anderson jointly.
The $10 million coaster, engineered exclusively for the Valencia theme park by Great Coasters International Inc. (GCII), TERMINATOR®: THE COASTER will feature a loading station "fly-thru," a state-of-the-art sight and sound package, and unique queue line and on-board entertainment elements. The GCII-designed Millennium Flyer coaster trains will zip through five belly-flopping hills and six high speed banked turns over 2,850 feet of track to create a ride that delivers the acrobatic thrills of a modern roller coaster while retaining the nostalgic look and feel of a classic "woodie."
The Terminator franchise is a highly-successful series of science fiction films centered around battles between Skynet's artificially intelligent machine network and John Connor's Tech-Com forces and the rest of the human race. Since the debut of the first film in 1984, starring Arnold Schwarzenegger and written and directed by Academy Award winner James Cameron, the Terminator films have grossed over one billion dollars worldwide. Terminator Salvation™ is the upcoming fourth installment to the series and is scheduled for a spring 2009 theatrical release. The Halcyon Company owns all rights to the entire Terminator franchise. As producers, Kubicek and Anderson recently wrapped production on the film, starring Christian Bale, Sam Worthington, Moon Bloodgood, Bryce Dallas Howard and Helena Bonham Carter.
TERMINATOR®: THE COASTER will be located in the northwest corner of the park, next to Déjà Vu and is slated for a spring 2009 opening. With the addition of TERMINATOR®: THE COASTER, Six Flags Magic Mountain will be home to 16 world class coasters.
Six Flags Magic Mountain continues its commitment to provide better entertainment, better service and better value to all of its guests. Beginning November 1, 2008 thrill seekers can buy the best value-priced entertainment package Six Flags has ever offered. For the price of single day general admission, just $59.99, guests can purchase a 2009 Play Pass and enjoy unlimited visits to America's top thrill park until the end of the 2009 season. A Six Flags Play Pass is also good for unlimited free concerts and all special events. Additionally, the Six Flags Play Pass can be used at all Six Flags theme parks across the country and comes with a Bonus Book with value-added Six Flags offers including FREE friend admissions, a FREE Hurricane Harbor admission ticket and discounts on food and merchandise. Play Passes can be purchased online at sixflags.com, over the phone, by mail or at the park.
Six Flags Magic Mountain is located at 26101 Magic Mountain Parkway in Valencia, a short drive north of Los Angeles off Interstate 5 at the Magic Mountain Parkway exit. Magic Mountain is open weekends and school holidays. For additional information, current operating days and hours, and to purchase a ticket, visit us on the internet at sixflags.com or call (661) 255-4111. Save time and buy your tickets online for just $29.99 at sixflags.com.
And while we are talking about SFMM, here is a good article talking about the general improvements to the park in the last year including quotes by Jay Thomas, park president.
Magic Mountain is not for sale
Believe it or not, Thomas recently challenged employees with the "insurmountable task" of cleaning up the park's fallen leaves.
Leaves encourage trash, according to Thomas, and since the "no leaves" policy went into effect, Thomas is seeing more park visitors pick up their own trash.
Thomas and park officials are seeing these changes have a very direct and visible impact.
"We have worked diligently to make sure we are improving the park experience," Thomas said. "Guest compliments for the 2008 year to date have already exceeded 2005, 2006, and 2007's compliments combined."
Universal Studios Hollywood to get a new Transformers based attraction in 2011
'Transformers' to be Developed as Theme Park Mega-Attraction at Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Studios Singapore
UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif., Oct. 20 /PRNewswire/ -- "Transformers," the electrifying blockbuster celebrated for its multi-generational appeal, inventive storyline, spectacular action sequences and special effects, will now be developed as a new theme park mega-attraction in a partnership between Universal Parks & Resorts, Hasbro, Inc. and DreamWorks Pictures.
The attraction will fuse 3D-HD media, mega special effects and stunning robotics with a ride system that will transform perceptions of theme park experiences. The rides are scheduled to make their debuts in early 2011, first at Universal Studios Singapore and then at Universal Studios Hollywood. In "Transformers," Earth's humans are caught in the middle of an intergalactic war between the friendly Autobots and the evil Decepticons, which are able to change into a variety of objects, including cars, trucks, planes and other technological creations.
Tom Williams, Chairman and CEO, Universal Parks & Resorts, said: "'Transformers' will be a jewel in our collection of world-class rides based on great movies. We're thrilled to be collaborating with Hasbro, DreamWorks, director Michael Bay and the film's executive producer, Steven Spielberg, who has been responsible for so many of our signature rides and attractions." Steven Spielberg serves as creative consultant to Universal Parks & Resorts and has worked closely with the company in the creation of some of the world's most innovative theme park attractions. Those attractions include Jurassic Park-the Ride, a featured attraction at UP&R parks in Orlando, Hollywood and Japan, the E.T. Adventure at Universal Orlando and Universal Studios Japan, and the "War of the Worlds" sets at Universal Studios Hollywood.
Larry Kurzweil, President and Chief Operating Officer, Universal Studios Hollywood, said "'Transformers' represents a perfect match for our theme park: an exhilarating blockbuster with a great story, clever humor, non-stop action and flawless special effects. It has all the elements necessary to become one of the world's most exciting theme park rides and a centerpiece attraction at Universal Studios Hollywood, The Entertainment Capital of L.A."
"We are thrilled to be working with Universal Parks & Resorts and DreamWorks to create this 'Transformers' attraction because we believe it will deliver an ultimate one of a kind immersive 'Transformers' experience for our fans around the world!" said Brian Goldner, President and CEO of Hasbro, Inc.
Tan Hee Teck, Chief Executive Officer of Resorts World at Sentosa, the mega resort that is home to Universal Studios Singapore, said: "It is great that Asia will be the launch pad for the first Transformers attraction. Transformers was introduced in the United States in 1983 but traces its roots to Asia. Optimus Prime, Bumblebee and Megatron are familiar names to Asian audiences, who grew up with the robot toys and love the movie. When Transformers opens in Universal Studios Singapore in 2010, it will be the first of its kind in the world. We may see a surge of Transformers mania.
Director Michael Bay and Executive Producer Steve Spielberg presented "Transformers" in 2007. "Transformers" broke box office records on its way to gathering worldwide gross revenues of over $706 million -- the highest non-sequel gross of any movie in 2007 -- and three Academy Award nominations. The sequel, "Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen," is scheduled to be released by Paramount Pictures in the U.S. on June 26, 2009.
"Transformers" is a Paramount release of a DreamWorks Pictures, Paramount Pictures presentation, in association with Hasbro, of a di Bonaventura Pictures production. Produced by Lorenzo di Bonaventura, Tom DeSanto, Don Murphy, Ian Bryce. Executive producers, Steven Spielberg, Michael Bay, Brian Goldner, Mark Vahradian. Co-producers, Allegra Clegg, Ken Bates. Directed by Michael Bay. Screenplay, Alex Kurtzman, Roberto Orci. Story, Alex Kurtzman, Roberto Orci, John Rogers. Starring Shia LaBeouf, Tyrese Gibson, Josh Dumael, Anthony Anderson, Megan Fox, Rachael Taylor, John Turturro and John Voight.
About Universal Studios Hollywood: Universal Studios Hollywood (Universal Studios Hollywood. Los Angeles, California.), The Entertainment Capital of L.A., includes a full-day, movie-based theme park and Studio Tour; the CityWalk entertainment, shopping and dining complex; the Universal CityWalk Cinemas; and the Gibson Amphitheatre concert and special event venue. Universal CityWalk features over 60 entertainment-themed restaurants, nightclubs, shops and dynamic entertainment options. Universal CityWalk Cinemas, offering the best movie-going experience in Los Angeles, features 19 screens including one of Southern California's largest IMAX(R) venues and newly renovated stadium- style seating. The theme park features such groundbreaking attractions as "The Simpsons Ride(TM)" "Revenge of the Mummy(TM) -- The Ride," "Shrek 4-D(TM)," "Jurassic Park(R) -- The Ride," the world-renowned Studio Tour, which takes guests behind-the-scenes of landmark TV and movie locations.
Universal Studios Hollywood is a unit of Universal Parks & Resorts, a division of NBC Universal. Universal Parks & Resorts feature some of the world's most popular entertainment destinations. Each year, millions of guests visit Universal's theme parks in Florida, California and Japan to experience thrilling, world-famous attractions that match interactive ground-breaking technology with the world's most recognized characters in movies and pop culture. New parks are under construction for Dubai and Singapore.
NBC Universal is one of the world's leading media and entertainment companies in the development, production, and marketing of entertainment, news, and information to a global audience. Formed in May 2004 through the combining of NBC and Vivendi Universal Entertainment, NBC Universal owns and operates a valuable portfolio of news and entertainment networks, a premier motion picture company, significant television production operations, a leading television stations group, and world-renowned theme parks. NBC Universal is 80% owned by General Electric and 20% owned by Vivendi.
About Resorts World at Sentosa: Slated to be one of the word's most exciting family destinations, Resorts World at Sentosa is a collection of resorts and attractions with a plethora of fun-filled offerings for the entire family. Taking pride of place on Singapore's resort island of Sentosa and spanning 49 hectares this S$6 billion mega-resort will be home to Southeast Asia's first and only Universal Studios theme park, the world's largest oceanarium and the region's first integrated destination spa.
The resort also boasts some 1,800 rooms, spread across its six hotels of varying themes, with full conference and meeting amenities. Topping the list are Maxims Residences, Hotel Michael and Singapore's very own Hard Rock Hotel.
Beyond resorts and attractions, world-class entertainment such as the Crane Dance -- a spectacular multi-media moving art with cleverly choreographed animatronic cranes, set out at the waterfront -- will also be presented to the public. A 1,700-seat theatre will feature a magical dreamlike extravaganza with water, light and visual effects, alongside retail and dining options at the Festive Walk with roving acts and street performances at the Bull Ring. Indeed, come 2010, Resorts World at Sentosa looks set to welcome 15 million visitors. It will be a place that Singapore can proudly call its own.
About Hasbro: Hasbro, Inc. (NYSE:HAS) is a worldwide leader in children's and family leisure time products and services with a rich portfolio of brands and entertainment properties that provides some of the highest quality and most recognizable play and recreational experiences in the world. As a brand-driven, consumer-focused global company, Hasbro brings to market a range of toys, games and licensed products, from traditional to high-tech and digital, under such powerful brand names as TRANSFORMERS, PLAYSKOOL, TONKA, MILTON BRADLEY, PARKER BROTHERS, TIGER, CRANIUM and WIZARDS OF THE COAST. Come see how we inspire play through our brands at Hasbro Toys, Games and Electronic Toys. (C) 2008 Hasbro, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
TRANSFORMERS and all related characters are trademarks of Hasbro. (C) 2008 Hasbro. Film Clips and Stills from TRANSFORMERS (C) DreamWorks LLC and Paramount Pictures. Universal Parks & Resorts, Universal Studios Hollywood, Universal Studios Singapore, the Universal globe logo and all Universal indicia (TM) & (C) Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved.
And some interesting comments by Michael Bay, the Director of the 2007 Transformers movie. (Family friendly note: the article does contain once slightly edited swear word).
Michael Bay Doesn’t Approve of Transformers Theme Park Ride | /Film
“They had me in a press release saying I supported it - but Universal has a long way to go in my mind. I don’t support it - I’m not involved and not sure the story of the ride works, and I know Optimus is not going to just show up to be directed by some new people that have never worked with him. "
A couple of interesting Orange County Register articles.
The first is an interview with the original Ambassador for Disneyland, Julie Riehm.
INTERVIEW: The original Disney Ambassador (Part II) - Around Disney - OCRegister.com
The second deals with Anaheim politics, and the upcoming Council-member races.
News: Anaheim mayor doesn't like councilwoman's aid to union | galloway, pringle, disney, four, bring - OCRegister.com
This is important not just to Anaheim, where Galloway is running for re-election, but to Orange County in general because Galloway holds the potential swing vote in various expansion plans Disney and Anaheim resort-area developers are likely to bring forward in the next four years.
Selected Photos from Darkbeer.Smugmug.com
While the walls are still up, the tarps have been removed from the building
The walls and tarps have been removed from Burger Madness at DCA, but the windows have solid black coverings.
A few pet sightings at Old Towne Orange from Sunday
This is Star, a rare Granite Burmese. A true snake in the grass.
And if you are interested, here is a chance to help distribute $1 million to 5 worthy charities.
Conservation International
Doctors without Borders
National Geographic Society
The Nature Conservancy
Save the Children
All you need to do is go to this link, and vote for the one charity you prefer.
TripAdvisor Causes
Well, that should do it for this week, hope everyone has a great, and safe, Halloween.
High School Musical 3: Right Here!, Right Now! street show at DCA
Friday had the premiere of the third version of the travelling performance stage at DCA.
While it is the same basic stage, the script and all the music has changed, even though it does still offer some interactive moments for children, and in this version, even a few adults.
The timing of the attraction matches up with the movie premiere of HSM3, which ended up winning the weekend box office race, with about $42 million in tickets sold.
Same basic schedule as the first 2 shows, it comes out 3 times a day, and then performs twice per outing, once in the Sunshine Plaza area near the main entrance, and then at Golden State Park.
One hint, the Golden State Park performances tend to have a lot less folks watching, and it is easier to get a good viewing point to watch the show.
Pixie Hollow has started offering "soft openings"
While the official opening of the new Pixie Hollow Meet and Greet area at Disneyland is scheduled for Tuesday, October 28th to match up with the DVD release of the new Tinker Bell movie, Disney did get the area ready for guests on Saturday morning.
First off, it is very helpful for folks to know the definition of the term "Tinker", it comes from Great Britain, and is someone who mends pots and pans.
tinker - Definition at Your Dictionary
It is why you will find a Tea Pot in Pixie Hollow, and what "type" of fairy Tinker Bell is in the movie.
While the larger former Triton Gardens area remains intact, there are quite a few changes to the area, starting with a new longer queue area, as compared to the former Ariel's Grotto area, and of course a lot of changes in the smaller area that used to host Ariel's moving Clam Shell.
The queue area is designed to set the mood, then "shrink" you down to fairy size, so you can meet Tinker and some of the other fairies. Also notice the sound effects, at the beginning of the queue, you hear the well known chimes that Tinker Bell sounds like to humans in Peter Pan, but once you get close to the actual hollow, you will enter what Denny Newell, Senior Show Director, the CM in charge of the project calls the "Monsanto Tunnel", the sounds will change to laughter, then human voices, as you will be able to understand "fairy language". It also explains why Tinker Bell can actually talk to you.
The Main area is designed quite well, where you first meet 2 of the Nature Fairies from the movie, and then after making a turn (to make sure kids (of all ages) don't see the second area too early), Tinker Bell in her Tea Pot.
And of course, at the exit, there is a new Merchandise area. (The former Ariel's queue).
One big warning, the queue was moving very slowly on Saturday. With the main queue area about 75% full, it was averaging about 90 minutes to meet Tinker Bell. While it was just the first day of operation, I don't see the wait times getting better anytime soon.
The regular hours will be around 10 to 5 PM daily (and will remain open during parades, but without Tinker Bell to prevent a "double" appearance), of course, check the Times Guide for exact hours on the exact day. One tip, get to the area prior to opening, and wait for it to open to hopefully shorten your wait.
Six Flags Magic Mountain announces a new Wooden Roller Coaster for 2009
A new 2,850 feet long Wooden Coaster with on board sound will be built in the former area that Psyclone was in, is scheduled to open in Spring of 2009. Here is the Press Release.
Quote:
SIX FLAGS MAGIC MOUNTAIN TO ADD 16TH COASTER TO ITS WORLD RENOWNED COLLECTION
TERMINATOR®: THE COASTER To Debut in 2009
Valencia, CA, October 22, 2008 /PRNewswire/ — Six Flags Magic Mountain announced today the addition in 2009 of a new wooden roller coaster to its world renowned coaster collection. Developed by the same team that produced the new X2 experience, TERMINATOR®: THE COASTER will combine innovative thrill ride technology with the signature science fiction punch of the Terminator brand. The debut is scheduled to coincide with the release of the McG directed film Terminator Salvation™ next year, and will introduce fans to an entirely new universe inspired by the film's post apocalyptic setting.
"Our mission at Six Flags Magic Mountain is to provide entertainment that appeals to a wide range of tastes and this specially designed wooden coaster will be a proven winner among guests of all ages," said Jay Thomas, Six Flags Magic Mountain's Park President. "Designed around the theme of the successful Terminator movie brand, this ride will draw thrill seekers from around the world."
Derek Anderson and Victor Kubicek, co-CEO's of The Halcyon Company, credit Six Flags with taking the ride to the next level in adventure. "The combination of the universe created by the film and the setting of this ride will provide fans with an adventure that keeps the spirit of the story," said Kubicek and Anderson jointly.
The $10 million coaster, engineered exclusively for the Valencia theme park by Great Coasters International Inc. (GCII), TERMINATOR®: THE COASTER will feature a loading station "fly-thru," a state-of-the-art sight and sound package, and unique queue line and on-board entertainment elements. The GCII-designed Millennium Flyer coaster trains will zip through five belly-flopping hills and six high speed banked turns over 2,850 feet of track to create a ride that delivers the acrobatic thrills of a modern roller coaster while retaining the nostalgic look and feel of a classic "woodie."
The Terminator franchise is a highly-successful series of science fiction films centered around battles between Skynet's artificially intelligent machine network and John Connor's Tech-Com forces and the rest of the human race. Since the debut of the first film in 1984, starring Arnold Schwarzenegger and written and directed by Academy Award winner James Cameron, the Terminator films have grossed over one billion dollars worldwide. Terminator Salvation™ is the upcoming fourth installment to the series and is scheduled for a spring 2009 theatrical release. The Halcyon Company owns all rights to the entire Terminator franchise. As producers, Kubicek and Anderson recently wrapped production on the film, starring Christian Bale, Sam Worthington, Moon Bloodgood, Bryce Dallas Howard and Helena Bonham Carter.
TERMINATOR®: THE COASTER will be located in the northwest corner of the park, next to Déjà Vu and is slated for a spring 2009 opening. With the addition of TERMINATOR®: THE COASTER, Six Flags Magic Mountain will be home to 16 world class coasters.
Six Flags Magic Mountain continues its commitment to provide better entertainment, better service and better value to all of its guests. Beginning November 1, 2008 thrill seekers can buy the best value-priced entertainment package Six Flags has ever offered. For the price of single day general admission, just $59.99, guests can purchase a 2009 Play Pass and enjoy unlimited visits to America's top thrill park until the end of the 2009 season. A Six Flags Play Pass is also good for unlimited free concerts and all special events. Additionally, the Six Flags Play Pass can be used at all Six Flags theme parks across the country and comes with a Bonus Book with value-added Six Flags offers including FREE friend admissions, a FREE Hurricane Harbor admission ticket and discounts on food and merchandise. Play Passes can be purchased online at sixflags.com, over the phone, by mail or at the park.
Six Flags Magic Mountain is located at 26101 Magic Mountain Parkway in Valencia, a short drive north of Los Angeles off Interstate 5 at the Magic Mountain Parkway exit. Magic Mountain is open weekends and school holidays. For additional information, current operating days and hours, and to purchase a ticket, visit us on the internet at sixflags.com or call (661) 255-4111. Save time and buy your tickets online for just $29.99 at sixflags.com.
Magic Mountain is not for sale
Quote:
Believe it or not, Thomas recently challenged employees with the "insurmountable task" of cleaning up the park's fallen leaves.
Leaves encourage trash, according to Thomas, and since the "no leaves" policy went into effect, Thomas is seeing more park visitors pick up their own trash.
Thomas and park officials are seeing these changes have a very direct and visible impact.
"We have worked diligently to make sure we are improving the park experience," Thomas said. "Guest compliments for the 2008 year to date have already exceeded 2005, 2006, and 2007's compliments combined."
Quote:
'Transformers' to be Developed as Theme Park Mega-Attraction at Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Studios Singapore
UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif., Oct. 20 /PRNewswire/ -- "Transformers," the electrifying blockbuster celebrated for its multi-generational appeal, inventive storyline, spectacular action sequences and special effects, will now be developed as a new theme park mega-attraction in a partnership between Universal Parks & Resorts, Hasbro, Inc. and DreamWorks Pictures.
The attraction will fuse 3D-HD media, mega special effects and stunning robotics with a ride system that will transform perceptions of theme park experiences. The rides are scheduled to make their debuts in early 2011, first at Universal Studios Singapore and then at Universal Studios Hollywood. In "Transformers," Earth's humans are caught in the middle of an intergalactic war between the friendly Autobots and the evil Decepticons, which are able to change into a variety of objects, including cars, trucks, planes and other technological creations.
Tom Williams, Chairman and CEO, Universal Parks & Resorts, said: "'Transformers' will be a jewel in our collection of world-class rides based on great movies. We're thrilled to be collaborating with Hasbro, DreamWorks, director Michael Bay and the film's executive producer, Steven Spielberg, who has been responsible for so many of our signature rides and attractions." Steven Spielberg serves as creative consultant to Universal Parks & Resorts and has worked closely with the company in the creation of some of the world's most innovative theme park attractions. Those attractions include Jurassic Park-the Ride, a featured attraction at UP&R parks in Orlando, Hollywood and Japan, the E.T. Adventure at Universal Orlando and Universal Studios Japan, and the "War of the Worlds" sets at Universal Studios Hollywood.
Larry Kurzweil, President and Chief Operating Officer, Universal Studios Hollywood, said "'Transformers' represents a perfect match for our theme park: an exhilarating blockbuster with a great story, clever humor, non-stop action and flawless special effects. It has all the elements necessary to become one of the world's most exciting theme park rides and a centerpiece attraction at Universal Studios Hollywood, The Entertainment Capital of L.A."
"We are thrilled to be working with Universal Parks & Resorts and DreamWorks to create this 'Transformers' attraction because we believe it will deliver an ultimate one of a kind immersive 'Transformers' experience for our fans around the world!" said Brian Goldner, President and CEO of Hasbro, Inc.
Tan Hee Teck, Chief Executive Officer of Resorts World at Sentosa, the mega resort that is home to Universal Studios Singapore, said: "It is great that Asia will be the launch pad for the first Transformers attraction. Transformers was introduced in the United States in 1983 but traces its roots to Asia. Optimus Prime, Bumblebee and Megatron are familiar names to Asian audiences, who grew up with the robot toys and love the movie. When Transformers opens in Universal Studios Singapore in 2010, it will be the first of its kind in the world. We may see a surge of Transformers mania.
Director Michael Bay and Executive Producer Steve Spielberg presented "Transformers" in 2007. "Transformers" broke box office records on its way to gathering worldwide gross revenues of over $706 million -- the highest non-sequel gross of any movie in 2007 -- and three Academy Award nominations. The sequel, "Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen," is scheduled to be released by Paramount Pictures in the U.S. on June 26, 2009.
"Transformers" is a Paramount release of a DreamWorks Pictures, Paramount Pictures presentation, in association with Hasbro, of a di Bonaventura Pictures production. Produced by Lorenzo di Bonaventura, Tom DeSanto, Don Murphy, Ian Bryce. Executive producers, Steven Spielberg, Michael Bay, Brian Goldner, Mark Vahradian. Co-producers, Allegra Clegg, Ken Bates. Directed by Michael Bay. Screenplay, Alex Kurtzman, Roberto Orci. Story, Alex Kurtzman, Roberto Orci, John Rogers. Starring Shia LaBeouf, Tyrese Gibson, Josh Dumael, Anthony Anderson, Megan Fox, Rachael Taylor, John Turturro and John Voight.
About Universal Studios Hollywood: Universal Studios Hollywood (Universal Studios Hollywood. Los Angeles, California.), The Entertainment Capital of L.A., includes a full-day, movie-based theme park and Studio Tour; the CityWalk entertainment, shopping and dining complex; the Universal CityWalk Cinemas; and the Gibson Amphitheatre concert and special event venue. Universal CityWalk features over 60 entertainment-themed restaurants, nightclubs, shops and dynamic entertainment options. Universal CityWalk Cinemas, offering the best movie-going experience in Los Angeles, features 19 screens including one of Southern California's largest IMAX(R) venues and newly renovated stadium- style seating. The theme park features such groundbreaking attractions as "The Simpsons Ride(TM)" "Revenge of the Mummy(TM) -- The Ride," "Shrek 4-D(TM)," "Jurassic Park(R) -- The Ride," the world-renowned Studio Tour, which takes guests behind-the-scenes of landmark TV and movie locations.
Universal Studios Hollywood is a unit of Universal Parks & Resorts, a division of NBC Universal. Universal Parks & Resorts feature some of the world's most popular entertainment destinations. Each year, millions of guests visit Universal's theme parks in Florida, California and Japan to experience thrilling, world-famous attractions that match interactive ground-breaking technology with the world's most recognized characters in movies and pop culture. New parks are under construction for Dubai and Singapore.
NBC Universal is one of the world's leading media and entertainment companies in the development, production, and marketing of entertainment, news, and information to a global audience. Formed in May 2004 through the combining of NBC and Vivendi Universal Entertainment, NBC Universal owns and operates a valuable portfolio of news and entertainment networks, a premier motion picture company, significant television production operations, a leading television stations group, and world-renowned theme parks. NBC Universal is 80% owned by General Electric and 20% owned by Vivendi.
About Resorts World at Sentosa: Slated to be one of the word's most exciting family destinations, Resorts World at Sentosa is a collection of resorts and attractions with a plethora of fun-filled offerings for the entire family. Taking pride of place on Singapore's resort island of Sentosa and spanning 49 hectares this S$6 billion mega-resort will be home to Southeast Asia's first and only Universal Studios theme park, the world's largest oceanarium and the region's first integrated destination spa.
The resort also boasts some 1,800 rooms, spread across its six hotels of varying themes, with full conference and meeting amenities. Topping the list are Maxims Residences, Hotel Michael and Singapore's very own Hard Rock Hotel.
Beyond resorts and attractions, world-class entertainment such as the Crane Dance -- a spectacular multi-media moving art with cleverly choreographed animatronic cranes, set out at the waterfront -- will also be presented to the public. A 1,700-seat theatre will feature a magical dreamlike extravaganza with water, light and visual effects, alongside retail and dining options at the Festive Walk with roving acts and street performances at the Bull Ring. Indeed, come 2010, Resorts World at Sentosa looks set to welcome 15 million visitors. It will be a place that Singapore can proudly call its own.
About Hasbro: Hasbro, Inc. (NYSE:HAS) is a worldwide leader in children's and family leisure time products and services with a rich portfolio of brands and entertainment properties that provides some of the highest quality and most recognizable play and recreational experiences in the world. As a brand-driven, consumer-focused global company, Hasbro brings to market a range of toys, games and licensed products, from traditional to high-tech and digital, under such powerful brand names as TRANSFORMERS, PLAYSKOOL, TONKA, MILTON BRADLEY, PARKER BROTHERS, TIGER, CRANIUM and WIZARDS OF THE COAST. Come see how we inspire play through our brands at Hasbro Toys, Games and Electronic Toys. (C) 2008 Hasbro, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
TRANSFORMERS and all related characters are trademarks of Hasbro. (C) 2008 Hasbro. Film Clips and Stills from TRANSFORMERS (C) DreamWorks LLC and Paramount Pictures. Universal Parks & Resorts, Universal Studios Hollywood, Universal Studios Singapore, the Universal globe logo and all Universal indicia (TM) & (C) Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved.
Michael Bay Doesn’t Approve of Transformers Theme Park Ride | /Film
Quote:
“They had me in a press release saying I supported it - but Universal has a long way to go in my mind. I don’t support it - I’m not involved and not sure the story of the ride works, and I know Optimus is not going to just show up to be directed by some new people that have never worked with him. "
The first is an interview with the original Ambassador for Disneyland, Julie Riehm.
INTERVIEW: The original Disney Ambassador (Part II) - Around Disney - OCRegister.com
The second deals with Anaheim politics, and the upcoming Council-member races.
News: Anaheim mayor doesn't like councilwoman's aid to union | galloway, pringle, disney, four, bring - OCRegister.com
Quote:
This is important not just to Anaheim, where Galloway is running for re-election, but to Orange County in general because Galloway holds the potential swing vote in various expansion plans Disney and Anaheim resort-area developers are likely to bring forward in the next four years.
Selected Photos from Darkbeer.Smugmug.com
While the walls are still up, the tarps have been removed from the building
The walls and tarps have been removed from Burger Madness at DCA, but the windows have solid black coverings.
A few pet sightings at Old Towne Orange from Sunday
This is Star, a rare Granite Burmese. A true snake in the grass.
And if you are interested, here is a chance to help distribute $1 million to 5 worthy charities.
Conservation International
Doctors without Borders
National Geographic Society
The Nature Conservancy
Save the Children
All you need to do is go to this link, and vote for the one charity you prefer.
TripAdvisor Causes
Well, that should do it for this week, hope everyone has a great, and safe, Halloween.
Total Comments 23
Comments
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Great update!Posted 10-27-2008 at 07:52 AM by WheresMickey
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Thanks for the update. I can't start my Monday without it! Pixie Hollow meet/greet looks fun.
As always; great update!!Posted 10-27-2008 at 08:17 AM by xalesa -
Thanks for the update - great as always, but does anybody else wonder how an old-fashioned woodie coaster fits the hi-tec "Terminator" theme?Posted 10-27-2008 at 09:09 AM by PeaJay18 - Yeah that doesn't make sense to me. I liked the old Psyclone but it seemed to be a maintinance nightmare. Whenever I went to SFMM, Psyclone was closed or had a monster line. I only rode it twice but I remebered it as the first wooden coaster that I actually liked. The one at Knotts (Ghostrider or something) is pretty darn good too. Maybe the new Terminator ride will be a cheat. By that I mean maybe it will be a tubular steel ride that looks like a woodie. There is one like that at Cedar Pointe.Quote:Thanks for the update - great as always, but does anybody else wonder how an old-fashioned woodie coaster fits the hi-tec "Terminator" theme?Posted 10-27-2008 at 10:13 AM by toemblem
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It's a true woodie. Great Coasters International builds grand old woodies.Posted 10-27-2008 at 10:40 AM by BassBone -
Thanks for the update David. Too bad there isn't a way to experience the Pixie Hollow queue without waiting 90 minutes. Is the queue open when the pixies are not there?Posted 10-27-2008 at 10:53 AM by Rixter -
That's what I was wondering too Rixter. I want to see the area, but dont' really care to see Tinkerbelle. If it's open after 5 for walk-through (like the old Triton Gardens) I'd certainly walk through there.Posted 10-27-2008 at 11:31 AM by sir clinksalot -
Where was that snake?!Posted 10-27-2008 at 11:56 AM by Disney Vault -
The snake was in the "circle" on Chapman, in Old Towne Orange.Posted 10-27-2008 at 11:57 AM by Darkbeer -
fab pics!! I thought the sun wheel was goin' down? que paso?
MySpace.com - wdwdisneylandnut - 25 - Female - Erie, Illinois - www.myspace.com/wdwdancetwirlnutPosted 10-27-2008 at 12:05 PM by wdwnut4life - The Sun Wheel is closed, notice that all 24 cars have been removed. They are backstage in the Disneyland main shop for retheming.
The Main wheel does not need to be moved. I have been told that they will do some refurb work to the motors. Sometime soon you should see more work on the front face area and the queue. You can see the current queue area in my 10/25 update at Smugmug.Posted 10-27-2008 at 12:09 PM by Darkbeer - What are the doing to the Sun Wheel queue Dave? I haven't seen any pictures from the Blue Sky Cellar showing the queue.Posted 10-27-2008 at 01:57 PM by sir clinksalot
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16 Coasters? There can be too much of a good thing.Posted 10-27-2008 at 02:02 PM by HMF -
Great update!Posted 10-27-2008 at 03:52 PM by SouthHrbrBlvd -
Great update, Darkbeer.Posted 10-27-2008 at 03:59 PM by MickeyMousePal -
Thanks for the update!Posted 10-27-2008 at 04:34 PM by Squirt_101 -
First off, wonderful pictures and a fantastic update as always.
Also, I totally agree with what others had to say above regarding the Terminator coaster. When one thinks of Terminator, you instantly think high tech with a lot of steel for a whole futuristic approach. Don't get me wrong, as wooden rollercoasters are amazing and classic but that just does not fit with the theme. Weird.Posted 10-27-2008 at 08:52 PM by Disney Liz - So what is coming out at USH to make room for the new Transformers attraction?Posted 10-27-2008 at 10:06 PM by philosofy
- USH will close Backdraft and the Special Effect Stages after the summer of 2009 to allow for the changeover to the Transformer attraction.Posted 10-28-2008 at 12:24 AM by Darkbeer
- Great Update--- The Pixie Hollow is WELL worth the wait. But probably not more than once or twice. We loved it !!!
Flickr: Disney-Grandpa's PhotostreamPosted 10-28-2008 at 09:26 AM by Disney_Grandpa
Updated 10-28-2008 at 09:34 AM by Disney_Grandpa
