UniversalParksBlog News for August 4th, 2024
Universal Studios announced more details about Halloween Horror Nights, which is just one month away from now!
For some reason, I think you’ll care more about Universal’s other big announcement this week, though.
Friends, you’re gonna like the latest UniversalParksBlog News update. We’ve got details on the next Wizarding World!
Vive la France
Photo: Universal
Two years ago, UniversalParksBlog revealed plans for a Ministry of Magic-based attraction at Universal Epic Universe.
We actually discussed it twice, even as the most recent Fantastic Beasts film bombed in theaters.
NY Times
I’m happy to report that even though the movie franchise disappointed, Universal remains confident in the Harry Potter brand.
Then again, it helps that everyone in management knows that they have an E-ticket ride waiting to happen here.
You can see some of what’s in store in this release video timed to Harry Potter’s birthday:
Previously, Universal had planned the new Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Epic Universe as a Fantastic Beasts area.
Photo: Screen Rant
Obviously, the struggles of that franchise greatly altered plans, but some ideas were too good to drop entirely.
So, as the video indicates, Universal is “bringing to life Wizarding Paris from the Fantastic Beast film.”
Photo: Science Fiction
Then, they’re adding the “British Ministry of Magic from the Harry Potter films.”
In short, Universal Epic Universe is going to Europe! And that’s not even the best part. The story will involve time travel.
Yes, the attraction we’d discussed two years ago is coming to fruition, and it sounds spectacular.
Guests will start at the Ministry of Magic but then travel back in time to the era of Fantastic Beasts, with visuals appropriate for each.
Folks, this might be Universal’s most ambitious ride to date, and it’s a surefire blockbuster due to the premise.
You’ll watch an escape during the trial of Dolores Umbridge. One of the most dangerous witches alive could get away if you don’t stop her!
Welcome to Place Cachée
Photo: Universal
Part of the attraction occurs at Place Cachée, the wizarding capital of France.
The recreation of this space has proven a massive endeavor for Universal.
Photo: Universal
As one executive states, “the shortest building here is taller than the biggest building at Diagon Alley.”
The official site describes the experience like this:
Photo: Universal
“From the glitz and glamour of 1920s Paris to the quintessential Britishness of the 1990s British Ministry of Magic, fans will get to experience significant locations from the Fantastic Beasts and Harry Potter films, rich in authenticity.”
According to the site, the immersion is so comprehensive that “you can even listen to conversations from French witches and wizards as you walk through the streets!”
Credit: Universal
One of the highlights will be a visit to Le Cirque Arcanus, as seen in Fantastic Beast: The Crimes of Grindelwald. It’s this place:
I’m here for the dragon fireworks show if Universal takes that approach.
Something the park has confirmed is a new show hosted by Ringmaster Skender and his assistant Gwenlyn.
You may remember Skender from the movie. Now, we’ll track his adventures after stealing Newt Scamander’s suitcase.
Photo: Universal
The recurring theme at the third Wizarding World in Orlando is immersion, with interactive elements like this.
When you enter Universal Epic Universe, you should forget that the outside world exists as you explore Paris, London, Berk, and the Dark Universe.
Death Eater
We’ll have loads more about the French/English Wizarding World as Epic Universe’s opening date approaches.
What I’ll say now is that the plans for this themed land surpass anything we’ve ever witnessed at Universal Orlando Resort.
Image: Universal
Remarkably, I could say the same thing about How to Train Your Dragon — Isle of Berk and Dark Universe.
So, you’re going to love Universal Epic Universe.
Universal Miscellany
Universal
Let’s start with the Halloween Horror Nights stories.
As Kristin Sabol discussed, we’ve learned more about the event, including details regarding the final House.
Halloween Horror Nights
Universal Monsters: Eternal Bloodlines is coming soon, and it sure sounds like the Classic Monsters House for 2024.
The story here is that “Saskia Van Helsing and the Bride of Frankenstein go up against Dracula’s daughter and her monstrous mavens She-Wolf and Anck-su-namun.”
Credit:: Universal
So, yeah, we’ve got a gang war among supervillains, and I’m here for it. My money’s on The Mummy, but those Van Helsings are tough.
Universal also revealed some more Scare Zones, both of which sound delightful.
Universal
At Universal Studios Hollywood, guests will explore Murder of Crowz, which is a hilariously titled offering.
Anyway, you venture into a crow’s nest for some reason, but it doesn’t go well for you.
Credit: Universal
So, the question becomes whether you’ll escape before they peck your face off. You should probably run through this Scare Zone.
The other new Scare Zone is called Chainsaw Punkz. The letter Z is in at Universal this year.
Image: Universal
Anyway, whoever is naming these things deserves a raise, as the titles are simple, to the point, and paint a picture.
Sure enough, chainsaw-wielding punks chase you everywhere you go. I’ve played this game. It’s called Resident Evil. And I love it.
These are what Scare Zones should be. They’re simple, to the point, and thrilling in the moment.
I am curious how they’ll handle the crow imagery, though.
Image: Universal Studios
Speaking of Universal Studios Hollywood, please remember that the 60th anniversary events are only available for a limited time.
These offerings end a week from today, August 11th. So, please enjoy them while you can!
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Feature Photo: Universal
