Transformers Ride at Universal Studios
I was so pumped when I read that headline!!! Given that I live in Orlando and I am a huge Transformers fan, I cannot really put into words how I felt about the idea of a Transformers ride minutes from my house. I can also not put into words the DISAPPOINTMENT I experienced to find out that the ride was ONLY going to be built in Singapore and Hollywood.
Universal Studios Hollywood and Singapore will be launching an attraction based on Michael Bay’s Transformers. 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 planned for an early 2011 debut.
No word yet on whether the storyline of the ride will tie in with Transformers, its sequel Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen, or a possible third Transformers film. All that is known at this time is that the ride will “place humans in the middle of a war between the Autobots and Decepticons.”
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.”
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.”
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.
Joe Curley, spokesman for Universal Parks & Resorts, said there are no immediate plans for a Transformers ride in Orlando, where the company is currently developing a new music-themed roller coaster and a whole area themed for the popular Harry Potter books and movies. “At Universal Orlando we are excited to open Hollywood Rip, Ride, Rockit at Universal Studios in 2009 and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Islands of Adventure in 2010,” Curly said.
Regardless of my disappointment, there is definitely a road trip, or at least some kind of trip, to be had in order to experience this ride. It would have been nicer to have had the ability to go on it any time I wanted, but alas, it seems that - at least at the present moment - it is not meant to be.
