If your summer plans include making the trek to Universal Studios Hollywood for a little harmless escapism entertainment and you aren’t at all fazed by the daily $88 ticket price, then here’s a little spot of good news for you. In addition to enjoying perennially popular attractions like their Revenge of the Mummy roller coaster and Simpsons-inspired theme ride, the park is now unveiling a dynamic new experience plucked straight from the mind of filmmaker Peter Jackson — King Kong 360 3-D, based on the not-exactly well received 2005 remake of the epic ape flick starring comedian Jack Black, Aussie beauty Naomi Watts and newly crowned action star Adrien Brody.
Fans of Universal Studios Hollywood probably recall that a previous incarnation of the Kong legend existed in the park until a fire destroyed it two years ago, but its photo-realistic 2 ½ minute $200 million replacement is apparently better than ever. Here’s what visitors can expect:
- A tram descends into a darkened cave at which time everyone is instructed to wear their 3-D glasses by none other than the famed Kiwi director himself…or at least his huge mug projected on large video monitors above.
- Further along their journey, the lush jungle sensation of Skull Island comes to life thanks to the movie magic of mammoth 40 feet high X 200 feet long curved screens.
- In addition to horse-sized spiders, velociraptors and three T. Rex mounting various assaults on the tram, the vehicle rocks and shakes via a system of plates below and visitors experience additional sensory triggers such as shots of funky scent (Kong’s stale breath), bursts of air, and catapulting jolts of liquid (meant to represent dinosaur drool) every step of the way.
An extra bonus for all the greenies out there – the behind-the-scenes components that control Kong 360 3-D’s movements, light and sensory goodies are all controlled via compressed air-conduction tubes, making for an entirely oil-free process (aside from the diesel powered trams). Film geeks might appreciate the Jackson-narrated dialogue below which details what went into making this new entertainment experience. Enjoy!
Via Daily News
