dylanreich Posted March 9, 2014 Share Posted March 9, 2014 The games are now open! Awesome! Honestly, I feel like it took a really long time for something that shouldn't have taken that long (sound like another SoCal park? lol). Maybe I'm exaggerating though. I'll use this as an excuse to go back though, since I haven't visited since last July. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Someotherguyuser Posted March 9, 2014 Share Posted March 9, 2014 The games are now open! Awesome! Honestly, I feel like it took a really long time for something that shouldn't have taken that long (sound like another SoCal park? lol). Maybe I'm exaggerating though. I'll use this as an excuse to go back though, since I haven't visited since last July. Really? I thought those games went up fast personally. Maybe they had to train the employees after they were done building the stands. But yeah, I'm loving how SSFL looks. Something like this will be great for USH. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
dylanreich Posted March 9, 2014 Share Posted March 9, 2014 ^I suppose it felt long to me because I recall seeing Jew's pictures from last month already showing tons of progress on the games, making me think they were almost done at the time. It looks like it actually hasn't been that long at all. I know they'll probably take my money at the basketball game... Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jew Posted March 9, 2014 Share Posted March 9, 2014 Two months is pretty good timing for building new structures, getting the custom games installed (they're standard games but custom fabricated for Simpsons themeing---NOT just the old games recycled), getting all the infrastructure in place, and getting all the permits/approvals... Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Top Thrill Dragster Posted March 15, 2014 Share Posted March 15, 2014 Some photos of construction around the park. The official name for the flat ride. Silly Swirly Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jew Posted March 16, 2014 Share Posted March 16, 2014 I'll just add one more photo since you covered everything else! I swung by the park on my way to work, but you Covered everything! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
cfc Posted March 16, 2014 Share Posted March 16, 2014 I didn't realize that they were devoting so much real estate to Despicable Me. Reminds of what they did for the Simpsons in Florida. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jew Posted March 16, 2014 Share Posted March 16, 2014 It takes up all of t2 and coke soak---essentially the first land for ush! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jew Posted March 16, 2014 Share Posted March 16, 2014 Everybody loves signs, right? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
COASTER FREAK 11 Posted March 17, 2014 Share Posted March 17, 2014 Who wants to bet that universal doesn't theme the building from this angle or from the tram? I like all the additions, and I do enjoy potter, but UNI has a really nasty habit of half-assing their projects in this way. This building in Florida is completely unfinished besides what the castle and rock covers on the front entrance. You can see the ride building from all over IOA. I think this will be worse, cause the building will be totally visible from so many areas of the park, tram route and even the parks front entrance! I hope they plant some trees and paint the building to at least try and make it blend, but based off their track record, I highly doubt it. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
wrs28330 Posted March 21, 2014 Share Posted March 21, 2014 This morning, Universal Studios Hollywood invited Theme Park Review to preview their newest attraction: Despicable Me Minion Mayhem. This attraction is almost identical to its predecessor in Orlando, with the addition of a second theater here in LA! We will get right to the pictures of this new attraction, and then take a short lap around the park. We would like to extend a very heartfelt “Thank you!” to Trana and Gayle of USH Public Relations for inviting us to be amongst the first guests to experience this wonderful addition ahead of the official ride opening! The attraction facade transitions nicely when you arrive via Baker Street. The final touches are still being put on the exterior of the attraction, as they approach the attractions official grand opening on April 10th. Little gems such as practical doorbells on the facade help bring the area to life. “We dare you! Ring the doorbell! Bwah-ha-ha!!!!!” Park Guests may be surprised when they happen upon the “Technical Rehearsal” taking place from now until April 10th. As with any soft-opening…what the sign says. Friendly employees are ready to welcome first time riders. They have a lot to take pride in with this attraction! The queue is well done, with plenty of goodies to keep riders entertained before heading into the show building. Plenty of queue space ready for the summer crowds. Missile speakers! Possibly my favorite detail of the attraction! Minion propaganda is just so darn adorable, isn’t it?! Overhead monitors in the queue have a ton of great content to keep the guests entertained. Don’t forget your 3-D glasses! “The last pair of glasses from each rack is the lucky one!” Upon entering the entry hallway of Gru’s mansion, you are grouped into one of eight rows. The employees use tablets to ensure they group the guests as efficiently as possible. Lion, Dog, Cat, Rat. Before entering the anti-chamber of the main lab, the Minions come on screen to welcome us. Fun fact: The Minions listen to 102.7 KIIS FM! In the anti-chamber we see Gru and the girls for the first time. Wait… Where are all the people disappearing to, and where did all the Minions come from? Wait a second….. “Ba-na-na-aaaaa!!” Once you enter the main lab, the real adventure begins. Groups of 8 riders get into small vehicles similar to the ride vehicles on The Simpson’s Ride. Filming is not allowed inside the main lab. When the ride is done, guests move to the party room, where they can dance with super-imposed Minions. Guests were loving this fun dance party on their way out of the attraction. There is of course plenty of Minion merchandise. Super Silly Fun Land, is not quite ready for guests yet, but will include both dry and wet play areas for younger guests, as well as a dumbo-style flat ride called Silly Swirly. Gru’s Lab Café sits near the exit of the gift shop, and is already open for business. Elsewhere in the park, the Transformers have added a second Meet & Greet location. You can now meet them in the Universal Plaza as well as near the attraction entrance at the lower lot. The new games area is proving to be popular with guests. They fill out the Simpsons Plaza quite well. And now a few shots of Potter Land as we make our way to the studio tour. Typical Hogwarts building materials. It was a (somewhat) clear day over the Hollywood area. These Minions are everywhere! Hey Robb, did you hear?!?! I rode the tram tour a few days after the passing of actor Paul Walker from The Fast and the Furious franchise several months ago. The tour guide mentioned the passing of the actor, as we casually drove by the Tokyo Drift set. Today, there was no mention of the actor, and we once again drove past the set. Not sure if it is still “too soon”, or an unrelated reason. The Jaws set is drained for maintenance. “Hi, I’m Sheriff Woody! Howdy, howdy, howdy!” Norman Bates is still alive and well! By noon, the wait time for Despicable Me Minion Mayhem grew to 55 minutes! This is going to be a very popular new attraction for USH! Congratulation to the park on this hit! “Ba dam haw ta mu tah!” In English: "Be sure to see us when we officially open on April 10th! Banana!" Thank you again to Universal Studios Hollywood for hosting us today! We look forward to seeing you again at the Yellow Carpet Premier on April 10th! IT’S SO FLUFFY!!!!!!!!! Gru and the girls take turns meeting guests near the attraction entrance. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
cfc Posted March 21, 2014 Share Posted March 21, 2014 Looks like Universal Hollywood did a great job incorporating the Despicable Me universe into the park (much like Florida did with the Simpsons). Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
GO MUFC!!! Posted March 21, 2014 Share Posted March 21, 2014 Great report!Do you know if there is going to be a single rider line? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jew Posted March 21, 2014 Share Posted March 21, 2014 (edited) ^As of now, there is no single rider line. Lion, Dog, Cat, Rat. Elissa will be very disappointed to know you forgot the cheese! Edited March 21, 2014 by Jew Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
wrs28330 Posted March 21, 2014 Share Posted March 21, 2014 ^As of now, there is no single rider line. Lion, Dog, Cat, Rat. Elissa will be very disappointed to know you forgot the cheese! The mouse has cheese in its mouth?!?!?!?!?!?! I wish I had a crazy lens now! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jew Posted March 21, 2014 Share Posted March 21, 2014 ^Yup. They did a great job bringing Gru's living room to life. When you watch the movie, you'll recognize everything in the living room! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
rosscoe Posted March 21, 2014 Share Posted March 21, 2014 Is this a ride ( as in a ride on tracks ) or a movie based show? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
goldenstate5 Posted March 21, 2014 Share Posted March 21, 2014 Is this a ride ( as in a ride on tracks ) or a movie based show? It's movie-based. The main room is filled with simulator pods. It's basically a version of The Simpsons Ride that's tamer and directed towards more younger guests. (though ironically it has the same exact height restriction as not only Simpsons, but Transformers as well) Did USF retain the stationary, height-friendly seats from Hannah-Barbera and Neutron? If so, why weren't they installed here? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
rosscoe Posted March 21, 2014 Share Posted March 21, 2014 Is this a ride ( as in a ride on tracks ) or a movie based show? It's movie-based. The main room is filled with simulator pods. It's basically a version of The Simpsons Ride that's tamer and directed towards more younger guests. (though ironically it has the same exact height restriction as not only Simpsons, but Transformers as well) Did USF retain the stationary, height-friendly seats from Hannah-Barbera and Neutron? If so, why weren't they installed here? Thanks for the info Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
wrs28330 Posted March 21, 2014 Share Posted March 21, 2014 Here is a portion of the official Press Release: Minions Bring Mischief and Mayhem to Universal Studios Hollywood in Immersive 3D Ultra-HD Digital Animation Adventure, “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem,” Debuting Spring 2014 Inspired by Universal Pictures and Illumination Entertainment’s Worldwide Blockbuster Franchise, State-of-the-Art New Ride to Include Expansive “Super Silly Fun Land,” Imaginative and Interactive Experience Attraction Overview: Universal Studios Hollywood's new adventure, “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem,” will bring outrageous and heartfelt fun to The Entertainment Capital of L.A. when scores of Minions descend upon the theme park in spring 2014. Guests are invited to embrace their inner Minion as they become immersed in all-new story from the world of “Despicable Me.” Join the Adventure with Gru, His Girls and the Minions: Helmed by (former?) super-villain Gru, with assistance from the slightly forgetful Dr. Nefario, “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem” will captivate fans when it recruits guests and transforms them into beloved, gibberish-speaking Minions. Universal Studios Hollywood will also bring to life the first film’s memorable seaside carnival with the introduction of “Super Silly Fun Land,” an all-new, over-the-top outdoor family play zone inspired by the lively experience shared by Gru and his three adorable girls: Margo, Edith and Agnes. A highlight of “Super Silly Fun Land” will include the “Super Silly Space Killer” arcade game, where Agnes “won” her lovable stuffed unicorn (“It’s so fluffy!”). Together, “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem” and “Super Silly Fun Land” will represent a distinct, immersive environment within the theme park, reimagined to fully engage guests in the world of Gru and his Minions joining Universal Studios Hollywood’s dynamic roster of award-winning themed attractions. Walk-about characters, including Gru, Margo, Edith and Agnes, countless mischievous yellow Minions and Kevin, an evil, crazy-haired purple Minion, will also stroll around to interact and pose with guests. A Team of Visionary Creative Geniuses: The “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem” adventure and “Super Silly Fun Land” will come to life at Universal Studios Hollywood through a dynamic collaboration of Universal Pictures, Illumination Entertainment and the inspired minds at Universal Creative – the Universal Parks & Resorts division responsible for conceptualization and implementation of a slate of award-winning rides and attractions across the company’s theme parks. In July 2015, Universal Pictures will release a “Minions,” a spin-off of the enormously successful “Despicable Me” franchise. For the first time, the Minions will star in their own film, one that features a voice cast led by Oscar® winner Sandra Bullock and Jon Hamm. A Look Inside “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem” and “Super Silly Fun Land” The Cast: Original “Despicable Me” Franchise Voice Talent: The original voice talent from the “Despicable Me” films have reprised their familiar roles, further contributing to the authenticity of the experience: Steve Carell as Gru Miranda Cosgrove as Margo Dana Gaier as Edith Elsie Fisher as Agnes Pierre Coffin as the voice of the many unpredictable Minions Welcome to the Neighborhood: Your “Inner Minion” Awaits: The exterior of the “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem” ride is immediately recognizable to the millions of despicable fans worldwide, as it accurately reflects Gru’s idyllic suburban neighborhood. It’s all so lovely, except for the familiar and foreboding neighborhood eyesore: an ominous house with a dead lawn where Gru resides with his family. Looks, however, can be deceiving. Once guests enter this menacing abode – the ride’s main entry – they’ll find themselves welcomed by the ever-entrepreneurial Gru and his adorable daughters, who usher the guests into his despicable home, one that now doubles as the “Minion Recruitment and Training Center.” Even before guests enter, they can let loose and embrace their “Inner Minion,” that mischievous alter ego that lives within each of us. The playful taunting and teasing begins as guests are invited to ring the doorbells to the neighborhood homes, which are programmed to answer with a random selection of Minion greetings. As guests pass by Gru’s home, they will also encounter his iconic futuristic silver vehicle parked in his garage. Adjacent to Gru’s neighborhood sits the familiar façade of Miss Hattie’s Home for Girls, the orphanage where Margo, Edith and Agnes lived before they were adopted by Gru. Enter Gru’s Home and Discover His Secret Mission: The interior of Gru’s house replicates the many familiar rooms and corridors from the world of “Despicable Me” and is filled with the same eccentric furnishings and accessories that adorn the home he shares with his unusual family. Guests will find such recognizable props and décor as the notorious SR6 Shrink Ray, the antique Grecian urn emblazed with dancing Egyptian Minions, the ominous spiked coffin, the Rose blooming coat of armor, Gru’s family tree, Dr. Nefario’s beach-bound vacation photos, mementos from Gru’s childhood – including the macaroni rocket and space helmet – and of course, hand-drawn pictures lovingly created by Margo, Edith and Agnes. As guests fan through the living room, they’ll become reacquainted with Gru, the girls and Dr. Nefario, along with his new 3D “Minion Goggles” invention. It’s here that they will first learn about Gru’s secret mission to Minionize them as they’re being scanned on their way to the “Minionization Prep Room.” Those who don’t comply will experience first-hand the Minions’ favorite form of mischief: the Fart Gun. Gru’s Laboratory: Where State-of-the-Art 3D Ultra-HD Original Animation Comes to Life with Visceral Special Effects: “Do you have what it takes to be a Minion?” is the question posed by Gru to guests awaiting Minionization, a process that begins as soon as they enter Gru’s Laboratory for the start of the ride. With 3D “Minion Goggles” firmly positioned and with guests securely seated in the Minion “Transformation” vehicles, the journey to becoming a Minion begins. Original “Despicable Me” animation created by the visionary team at Illumination Entertainment will be projected at 4K resolution and 60 frames per second on a giant compound curved screen spanning 36 feet in height by 52 feet in width, or 1,872 square feet. The “Despicable Me” ride will feature two theatres designed to accommodate twice as many guests to double the Minionization process and accelerate the growth of Gru’s Minion army. Each theatre will be equipped with two Stereoscopic Christie 4K Projectors, which account for the brightest 4K projectors with the highest lumen available. These projectors will be outfitted with the same highly sophisticated custom lenses that were designed for NASA’s Hubble telescope and for the U.S. military. The original 3D animation will be projected in Ultra-HD, considered state-of-the-art for digital projection. To adapt to the Minionization process, guests will wear advanced 3D “Minion Goggles” that represent the latest, most sophisticated technology available. Coupled with the 3D animation, they will become further immersed in the world of Minions through a series of visceral and physical special effects that elevate the intensity of the ride. Water, wind, vibrations and simulated laser beams will affect guests as they pivot, jockey and twist within the ride vehicle as part of the Minionization process. Slip on 3D “Minion Goggles”: The latest in eyewear technology will enable guests to experience the ride’s sophisticated 3D, Ultra-HD animation. After extensive research, Dr. Nefario will unveil his ingenious invention: 3D “Minion Goggles” that have been developed to be functional and comfortable. With blinders built into the frames, the 3D glasses are designed to center guests’ field of vision to produce infinitely sharper and clearer images that are far superior to traditional movie-going 3D glasses. In fact, according to Gru, the “Minion Goggles” are so advanced and resilient that they have the ability to last five times longer than any person wearing them, as he demonstrates through a series of comic interactions with Minions on screen. Climb Aboard the Minion Transformation Ride Vehicles: As Gru builds his army of Minions, guests enter his laboratory and climb aboard 24 “Transformation” ride vehicles each equipped to hold 8 guests situated across the two theatre venues. The vehicles will be synchronized to move in tandem with the 3D imagery, sending them soaring, twisting, pivoting and rolling aboard a state-of-the-art hydraulics ride base. “Super Silly Fun Land”: Where Minions and People Interact “Super Silly Fun Land,” an all-new elaborate play zone unique to Universal Studios Hollywood, will debut adjacent to “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem.” The colorfully themed, interactive Minion-inspired outdoor venue will be a literal interpretation of the seaside carnival from “Despicable Me,” designed to entertain guests of all ages with its more than 80 different water-play features. A nearby dry zone will invite guests to climb, jump and slide, while a Minion-themed ride, “Silly Swirly Fun Ride,” will soar and spin guests around for a 360-degree view of “Super Silly Fun Land” aboard a fleet of uniquely styled ride vehicles. A highlight of “Super Silly Fun Land” will include the memorable “Super Silly Space Killer” arcade game, where Agnes “won” her lovable stuffed unicorn (“It’s so fluffy!”). Visiting guests will have a chance to try and beat the odds as they vie to win Minion game prizes and their own stuffed unicorn. With the addition of the expansive “Super Silly Fun Land” area to the “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem” ride, this attraction promises a unique immersive experience that will fully engulf each and every guest who enters. A “Super Silly Fun Land” prerequisite will task all guests to embrace their “Inner Minion” – the mischievous alter ego that lives within each of us – before they let loose within the area. Once set free, they can enjoy all the activities with the same carefree mischief of a Minion. “Super Silly Stuff” – Minion Merchandise and Much More! From movies to merchandise, Minion mania is all the rage. “Super Silly Stuff” – the ride’s dedicated retail store – is the ultimate headquarters to find all-things Minion. Pastel blues, pinks, greens and yellows will be the prevailing colors weaved throughout the fanciful store, themed to replicate a giant carnival. The store will sell an array of plush Minions, fluffy unicorns, apparel in all sizes, loungewear, plush slippers, toys, stationery and more, including quirky and fun items such as the infamous Fart Gun, Minion goggles and a remote-control Minion that moves about on command. Additionally, giant, curious yellow and purple Minions will also roam about the “Super Silly Stuff” store to pose with guests against a green-screen backdrop that inserts visitors into memorable scenes with their favorite Minions. Minion Munchies – 3 Delicious Dining Delights “Gru’s Lab Café” “Gru’s Lab Café,” located adjacent to the “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem” ride, will offer visitors a delectable selection of mouthwatering Minion meals. A sampling of such scrumptious fare for Minions of all ages, prepared fresh by Universal Studios Hollywood’s Executive Chef, will include: Gru’s Backyard BBQ Rotisserie Chicken Italian Meatball Sandwich with Asiago Cheese Gru’s Grilled Cheese with BBQ Pulled Pork El Macho’s Nachos Dr. Nefario’s Lab Salad Minion’s Kid’s Meal: Choice of mini-grilled cheese or chicken tenders with fruit wedges, cookies and beverage Delicious Desserts: Homemade Colorful Cupcakes Caramel Fudge Brownies with Minion Marshmallow Topper Freshly Made Waffles with Bananas and Whipped Cream Irresistible Banana Fritters with Caramel & Nutella Fresh Banana Fruit Cups (one of the Minions’ favorite foods!) “Despicable Delights” Snack Stand: For a quick treat, guests can stop at the “Despicable Delights” Snack Stand to sample such indulgences as: Despicable Me Dippin Dots Minion Cotton Candy Frozen Minion Treats Chocolate Minion-Colored Dipped Bananas “Bake My Day” Cupcakes Where and When It Opens: “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem” and the adjacent “Super Silly Fun Land” will open at Universal Studios Hollywood as an all new featured attraction and immersive environment at The Entertainment Capital of L.A. in Spring 2014. 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Jew Posted March 21, 2014 Share Posted March 21, 2014 Is this a ride ( as in a ride on tracks ) or a movie based show? It's movie-based. The main room is filled with simulator pods. It's basically a version of The Simpsons Ride that's tamer and directed towards more younger guests. (though ironically it has the same exact height restriction as not only Simpsons, but Transformers as well) Did USF retain the stationary, height-friendly seats from Hannah-Barbera and Neutron? If so, why weren't they installed here? It has the same height requirement because it is still the same ride system. Also, there is no stationary seating because it is very obvious when you ride that there is not enough space in the theaters for them. The benches would be so close to the screen the show would be terrible. Personally, I'd rather have double the capacity than stationary seating---especially with Super Silly Fun Land right next door for small children. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Someotherguyuser Posted March 23, 2014 Share Posted March 23, 2014 Me and my little sister just got back from Universal to ride DM:MM. I have to say, I REALLY liked it! Even though I've already been on the one in Florida, I actually enjoyed going on this again more than I thought I would. Even though it's another simulator ride, the motion is very smooth and it doesn't feel too rough. There was just a certain charm that the ride had that made it feel superior than the Simpsons. It's probably the high level of theming, more heartfelt humor, and the smooth motions. This will definitely be a big hit for Universal for years to come. They have a big winner on their hands here. It goes without saying that the ride is the same as Florida's but it does have some enhancements. There's wind effects, water effects recycled from T2 (The mist), and better film projection (It looked better than Transformers). Also, I LOVE THE THEMING! Yeah, the blank queue bothered me a little bit, but the awesome facade, the quality pre-show rooms and the AMAZING-looking Super Silly Funland made me forget that; besides, it never really bothered me too much in the first place. It would've been nice to have an all-out queue though. I didn't get to try the DM food. Maybe next time. I did get the cupcake and I thought it was alright. They were out of the bananas when I tried to get one. I'm looking forward to seeing SSFL when it's all complete. It's not even finished yet and I already think it looks amazing. Great job Universal! You did very good on putting this in and I'm glad to see your work pay off! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Top Thrill Dragster Posted March 23, 2014 Share Posted March 23, 2014 I rode it 3 times today, really liked it. Its just too bad that the height requirement is 40 inches as I feel this is a tamer version of Simpsons. I really hope Universal figures out some way to bring stationary benches to Hollywood like they have in Orlando. My biggest complaint about the ride is the un themed queue. You walk up to a very impressive facade of Grus house, enter a very detailed foyer and then **BAM** thrown into a generic sky blue switch backs that have just as much detail and charm of a Cedar Fair queue. Universal you are better than this. The only thing that can make me forget the un themed queue is if they end up using that space for HHN. Overall solid addition and Super Silly Fun Land looks great! And for those wondering how Minion Mayhem fits into the old T2 building: Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jew Posted March 23, 2014 Share Posted March 23, 2014 John Murdy already said on twitter there will not be an HHN maze in the queue. The grill cheese with pulled pork is delicious. As are the waffles. The chicken is an entire half chicken, so you can probably feed two people with that plate! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
dylanreich Posted March 23, 2014 Share Posted March 23, 2014 Looks like fun! I definitely see this being a big hit for Universal. I'm not sure if I'm in the majority on this or not and it's very early, but I think this could end up being their most popular attraction (studio tour aside) until Potter arrives. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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