#jurassic park universal studios celebration

[ontheriseblog]

What do you guys think of Jurassic Park Velocicoaster ?

My birthday is next week and I will be going to Universal and Island of adventure.

I’m so excited to go.

[jbaileyfansite]

Interview with Entertainment Tonight (2024)

Welcome to Jurassic Park, Jonathan Bailey. 

On Monday, the 36-year-old actor talked with ET from the season 3 premiere of Bridgerton in New Yorkand confirmed that he will soon be heading up Jurassic World 4, the latest installment in the beloved franchise which celebrated its 30th anniversary just last year. 

"I will be visiting Jurassic Park," Bailey shared exclusively with ET, jokingly adding, "I'm playing a dinosaur."

For the Fellow Travelers star, the new gig -- which comes from the mind of the original Jurassic Park writer David Koepp and Rogue One director Gareth Edwards -- is a full-circle moment as he shares that one of his earliest memories includes seeing the Steven Spielberg hit on the big screen when he was a kid. 

"I remember going with my family," he said. "It was the first cinema trip we all went on together. I've got three older sisters so I went when I was like 5."

As for plot details and confirmation on his cast members -- rumored to include Scarlett Johansson and The Lincoln Lawyer star Manuel Garcia-Rulfo, according to Deadline -- the actor kept tight-lipped, but shared that he is feeling ready to take up the mantle and carry on the cinematic legacy left by the previous cast.

"I am really excited," Bailey continued. "For so many of us, I know it's just like an iconic cinematic experience."

The confirmation comes just one day after he teased his involvement in the new project with a cheeky post on Instagram, complete with a photo of him on the Jurassic World water ride at Universal Studios Hollywood.

In the photo, Bailey is seen throwing up peace signs and wearing sunglasses during a visit to the theme park from over a month ago as the photo is timestamped on April 9. He also included a video of a glass of water on a table shaking, a reference to scenes from the original film.

"Hold onto your butts. 🦕," the actor wrote in the caption. 

The last film in the franchise, Jurassic World: Dominion, debuted in June 2022 and starred Chris Pratt, Bryce Dallas Howard and DeWanda Wise, as well as the original Jurassic Park crew including Laura Dern, Sam Neill and Bailey's Wicked co-star, Jeff Goldblum. Deadline reports that none of the reboot actors are expected to return for the fourth installment in the franchise. 

Bailey is having a hot year after the release of Fellow Travelers -- which scored him a Critics Choice Award for Best Supporting Actor in a Miniseries -- his casting in Netflix's Heartstopper, the forthcoming release of Bridgerton season 3 and his starring role as Fiyero in Wicked alongside Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo. 

He stayed similarly quiet on the film adaptation of the Broadway hit, which releases in theaters on Nov. 27, joking with ET that he shows anyone who asks the final cut, including his on-screen family members and friends in Bridgerton. 

"Yeah, I show everyone the whole film," he quipped. "I don't -- I haven't seen it." 

Source

[bizarrequazar]

GJ and ZZH Updates — February 5-11 (nice)

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This is part of a weekly series collecting updates from and relating to Gong Jun and Zhang Zhehan.

This post is not wholly comprehensive and is intended as an overview, links provided lead to further details. Dates are in accordance with China Standard Time, the organization is chronological. My own biases on some things are reflected here. Anything I include that is not concretely known is indicated as such, and you’re welcome to do your own research and draw your own conclusions as you see fit. Please let me know if you have any questions, comments, concerns, or additions. :)

[Glossary of names and terms] [Masterlist of my posts about the situation with Zhang Zhehan]

02-05 → Gong Jun’s studio posted a photo of him for the Lantern Festival. Caption: “The full moon is in the sky and joy is in full swing, and the Lantern Festival will show the reunion of [The Bunny Gives the Year] Boss @ Gong Jun Simon wishes everyone a happy Lantern Festival!”

→ Kangshifu posted a photo ad featuring Gong Jun.

→ Gong Jun posted a vlog from visiting Universal Studios on 01-13. Caption: “The first Vlog in 2023, just play without talking! Happy Lantern Festival everyone!” [subbed video] BGM is Happy by Pharrell Williams, Hedwig’s Theme from Harry Potter, the Jurassic Park theme song, Darlin’ (I Think About You) by Delegation, and Kung Fu Fighting by Carl Douglas.

→ The Instagram posted a video of “Zhang Zhehan” and “Xiao Yu” shopping for shoes.

02-06 → Nothing of note.

02-07 → Bluebird posted an exposé of an email sent by Aja Romano last June in response to an article published by The China Story about Zhang Zhehan, in which Romano falsely claimed that Zhang Zhehan was cancelled by the government, that CAPA is a government organization, that Zhang Zhehan has family ties to Japan, and that the general public were in support of his cancellation. Despite her claims that she found this through “research”, all of it is blatant misinformation that has by now been disproven multiple times, including by the NRTA and MCT, CAPA, and Zhang Zhehan himself. (For those who aren’t aware or don’t remember, Romano is the “journalist” who wrote the Vox article calling those of us talking about the deepfakes conspiracy theorists. They’ve also had a reputation of being a fandom shit-stirrer since the early 2000s.) Followups: [1] [2] [3]

→ Flora posted an exposé about edits made to Zhang Zhehan’s Wikipedia page since 813 by the user Oncamera. These edits have removed cited clarifications about 813 while adding and maintaining smears citing tabloids, as well as maintaining claims of the Instagram and stolen songs’ validity. Oncamera is known of and celebrated by whalers for her support of Zhang Sanjian. Followups: [1] [2] [3]

02-08 → #ZhangZhehan trended on Twitter.

→ Continuing from the previous day, whalers on Twitter defended Aja Romano and Oncamera, refusing to respond when questioned about why they’re supporting people who have actively contributed to slander against Zhang Zhehan.

→ BAZAAR’s director posted an unused photo from Gong Jun’s recent shoot with them.

→ New airport photos of “Zhang Zhehan” were spread, originating from Lao Ahyi who is now under the username 一串字母kk. Fan Observations: The photos show “Zhang Zhehan” alone at the terminal exit (one photo has a single person near him) despite air travel in the last month averaging at roughly 660 people at the Shanghai Pudong airport per hour, not including staff. 

02-09 → #ZhangZhehan continued to trend on Twitter.

→ Gong Jun posted a commercial for Hogan. This was reposted by both Hogan and his studio. Hogan also posted four new photo ads of Gong Jun.  (1129 kadian for all of these, they were speedy.) The first of these photos was used as a Weibo app opening screen and as Hogan’s Weibo header. Fan Observation: The first line of Gong Jun’s caption, “Modern reboot, retro revival.”, seems to be his own addition rather than a set part of the ad campaign. “Retro” (复古) here is written the same as in the title for Zhang Zhehan’s cancelled drama Retro Detective. There have recently been rumors of this drama doing reshoots—QuelleVous checked and the NRTA’s Beijing branch has not given any permits to do so, the original permit expired in November; the original casting company has no affiliations with such a project. In other words, if reshoots ARE happening, it is not on the original set and the associated persons are sketchy, ie. these rumors are likely (possibly elaborate) fabrication.

→ Kangshifu posted a photo ad featuring Gong Jun. Fan Observation: The illustration includes a girl in an orange sweater and a bucket hat, a man with a buzzcut, a baseball cap, glasses, and a sweater with a star, and a man in green with hair similar to Gong Jun’s. The caption is about friendship. [x]

→ The brand’s VIP fashion show that was originally scheduled for 2022-11-23 (the one that required a purchase of 20k RMB and a submission of personal identification information) was announced to be rescheduled to 02-14, now also stipulating that electronic devices with recording functions cannot be brought inside the venue, and forbidding “forms of support” such as banners and light signs both inside and out. Additional information:   -  Some resellers refused to sell tickets, not wanting to damage their reputations due to not knowing if a fake Zhang Zhehan would show up (or not even a fake).  -  Some resellers who DID choose to sell them stipulated to potential buyers that they could not confirm if this was “the Zhang Zhehan who was in a CP with Gong Jun.” Prices also seem to have significantly lowered, with one reseller offering them for 3000 RMB.  -  The above suggests that members of the general public (ie. those not following the scam) can still tell that the whole situation is fishy and have doubts about if Zhang Zhehan is really involved.   -  I haven’t seen it myself, but there’s apparently a chatlog with the police regarding the event. It’s possible that an excuse is being sought to cancel it.   -  Chinese CPFs seem pretty much unfazed by this whole thing, this is old hat by now. [ibid.]

→ Hogan tweeted the earlier commercial and new photo ads [1] [2].

→ Gong Jun posted the Hogan photos to his Instagram. Caption: “The new look is beautiful”

02-10 → Hello Saturday’s Weibo posted three douyins [1] [2] [3] featuring Gong Jun and his Rising with the Wind co-star Zhong Chuxi for the episode that would air the following day. 

02-11 → Hello Saturday’s Weibo posted a still from the episode.

→ Gong Jun’s studio posted thirteen photos of Gong Jun from the day of Hello Saturday’s filming (2022-12-28). Caption: “Looking far away in the mist, there is a deep and long silence. Today at 19:30, boss @ Gong Jun Simon’s character Xu Si, a surprise investor, is online! #冯俊你好Saturday# We’ll see you soon 😎”

→ Hello Saturday’s Weibo posted a teaser of the episode.

→ Hogan posted a behind the scenes video (flashing lights cw) and photos (1129 kadian for both) from their new ad campaign with Gong Jun. They also later tweeted four of the photos.

→ Wonderland magazine posted pictures of the AI persona Jifeng; four of these use unreleased photos from their 2022-11-28 photoshoot with him, two of which are solo shots. (1129 kadian) They also posted a video of Jifeng with a couple seconds’ footage of Gong Jun. [Here] are just the solo photos and [here] is a cut of just Gong Jun’s shots in the video, for fellow Jifeng dislikers. Fan Observation: The video includes jellyfish for a brief moment, as well as broken mirror imagery.

→ Kangshifu posted a photo ad featuring Gong Jun.

→  Another promotional douyin for the Hello Saturday episode was posted.

→ The Instagram posted a selfie of “Zhang Zhehan” and pictures of guitar chords and Kele.

→ The Hello Saturday episode aired. [Full episode (no subs)] [GJ cut] [written summary with clips] Addition 02-18: In behind the scenes footage released of the episode, Gong Jun’s Rising with the Wind costar Zhong Chuxi asked him for advice about a knee injury she sustained while filming the drama. His first response was to ask if she had hemarthrosis, a symptom that Zhang Zhehan has had with his knee.

→ Gong Jun’s studio posted nine photos of him from the episode. Caption: “Xu Si's debut, have fun! Boss @ Gong Jun Simon reminds everyone that investment needs to be cautious!”

Additional Reading: → Flora’s daily fan news → Starting at the end of last month, whalers started buying billboards in Malaysia, Thailand, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Canada advertising the Deep Blue album. The images for these appear to have been directly supplied by those releasing the songs. [photos of one] → Works for the LLD Bang are still being revealed!

<<< previous week || all posts || following week >>>

This post was last edited 2023-02-18.

[jjflooringorlando]

Unleash Your Imagination: Why Universal Studios Orlando is a Must-Visit Destination

Have you ever dreamed of stepping into the fantastical worlds of your favorite movies and TV shows? At Universal Studios Orlando, those dreams become reality. This world-renowned theme park brings the magic of Hollywood to life, immersing visitors in the glamour, excitement, and creativity of the entertainment industry. Whether you're a movie buff, thrill-seeker, or simply looking for an unforgettable family vacation, Universal Studios offers something for everyone.

Thrilling Rides and Attractions for All Ages

One of the biggest draws of Universal Studios is its incredible selection of rides and attractions based on beloved films and TV series. Soar through the air with Harry Potter on the "Flight of the Hippogriff" roller coaster. Join the MIB as an agent trainee on the interactive "Men in Black: Alien Attack." Plummet 85 feet on the "Jurassic World VelociCoaster" as you're chased by velociraptors. And of course, no visit is complete without experiencing "Despicable Me Minion Mayhem," a hilarious 3D adventure alongside Gru and his mischievous Minions.

These are just a few examples of the exhilarating attractions that await you. With rides and experiences spanning a wide range of intensity levels and themes, Universal Studios ensures that there's something to delight visitors of all ages and interests. Whether you're a hardcore adrenaline junkie or prefer more mild thrills, you'll find plenty to keep you entertained.

Immersive Themed Lands Transport You to Another World

Beyond individual rides, one of the most impressive aspects of Universal Studios is how it crafts entire immersive lands that make you feel like you've stepped into the world of a movie. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is a prime example. This expansive area is meticulously designed down to the finest details to recreate the magic of the beloved book and film series.

Stroll the cobblestone streets of Hogsmeade village, where you can shop for wands at Ollivanders, sip Butterbeer at the Three Broomsticks tavern, and mail letters from the Owl Post. The towering replica of Hogwarts Castle looms over it all, housing the groundbreaking "Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey" attraction that takes you soaring through iconic scenes. It's an enchanting experience that will delight Potterheads and muggles alike.

Other immersive lands include the comic strip inspired city of Toon Lagoon, the vibrant Universal Music Plaza celebrating music legends, and the Simpsons' hometown of Springfield. Each transports you to a different world and is packed with details that will impress even the most avid fans.

Spectacular Live Entertainment and Character Encounters

In addition to rides, Universal Studios puts on an array of spectacular live shows and entertainment throughout the day and night. Watch death-defying stunts at the "Bourne Stuntacular." Sing and dance along at the "Shrek 4D" film with special effects. Marvel at the talented performers in the "Blues Brothers Show." And don't miss the nightly Universal Orlando's Cinematic Celebration, a stunning multimedia experience with thundering music, dazzling lights, water fountains and pyrotechnics that brings the movies to life.

Meeting your favorite characters is another highlight. Snap a selfie with Optimus Prime, get a hug from SpongeBob, or watch the Minions goof off. Seeing these icons in-person is a surreal experience that instantly transports you to your childhood. Both kids and kids-at-heart will be starstruck by these larger-than-life figures.

Fuel Up at Themed Dining Experiences

When it's time to refuel, Universal Studios offers a wide array of imaginative dining options. Many of the restaurants are attractions in themselves, with stunning themed decor and menus inspired by movies and TV shows.

Feast on Krusty Burgers and Lard Lad donuts in Springfield USA. Dine in a classic car at Richter's Burger Co. in Marvel Superhero Island. Enjoy a sweet treat at Seuss Landing's Hop on Pop Ice Cream Shop. And don't miss the chance to eat at Mythos Restaurant, consistently voted best theme park restaurant, which features spectacular carved rock formations and waterfalls.

With over 50 places to eat, ranging from quick and casual to full-service, sit-down restaurants, you certainly won't go hungry. The only trouble is choosing which of the many delicious and creative options to try!

Create Unforgettable Memories at Universal Studios Orlando

At its core, a visit to Universal Studios Orlando is about making memories that will last a lifetime. It's a chance to bond with loved ones while experiencing the wonder and excitement of your favorite movies and TV shows brought to life. To scream with glee on pulse-pounding rides. To smile ear-to-ear while meeting your heroes. To be awestruck by the creativity and magic of movie-making.

As John Williams, the Academy Award-winning composer of classic film scores like Star Wars, E.T., Harry Potter, and Jurassic Park said, "I think music has the ability to inspire and transport us. A great movie does that." At Universal Studios, you don't just watch that movie magic - you live it. You're transported to a world where anything is possible.

So what are you waiting for? It's time to unleash your imagination and experience the thrills, laughter, and unforgettable memories that await you at Universal Studios Orlando. Whether you're a long-time local or first-time visitor to Orlando, this world-class theme park is a destination you don't want to miss. Start planning your visit today at universalorlando.com and get ready for an adventure you'll never forget. See you at the movies!

[supermacaroniandsqueezeblr]

One of the highlights of visiting Universal Studios on Wednesday was getting to visit the new Jurassic Park Tribute Store celebrating the movie’s 30th anniversary! I loved the theming and displays, especially in the first room where you can see a bit of the behind the scenes work they did to bring the creature special effects to life! 🦕🌿🦖🦴☄️

[dausy]

Happy New Year! I wanted to do like a comprehensive "stuff I did in 2023" but I have a terrible memory and goodreads says I only read 4 books which is completely incorrect so I don't know what I've read.

I have oddly enough done a quite a bit of things this year.

I've been here in Texas now for a year and at my current job for a year. I can tell you my spanish has improved tremendously without having any sort of scale or way to gauge to it. Still absolutely not fluent, just better than I was before we moved here. I've found my absolute favorite local coffee shop that is not a starbucks. It has great food and great coffee. I've been to many other local cafes in other states and their coffee always tasted like dirtwater and starbucks or mcdonalds has always been better (sad right?). We discovered Chilaquiles, which I have never heard of before until we moved here. Honestly we havent been to that many mexican restaurants and primarily focused on brunch spots. I also havent been out to eat since my husband left on his overseas rotation.

now that its the new year this is a new one that I've learned. Rosca de Reyes. I have never heard of it before. I've seen and had king cake around mardi gras time (which is nasty). But never Rosca de Reyes. So thats new to me.

We took several trips this year. We started our year off at Knotts Berry Farm and Downtown Disney. We visited my husbands side of the family a lot because now we're so close (8 hour drive and all). So we saw them for Easter. My SIL had her 21st birthday so we visited Las Vegas. This was right before they opened that giant globe and I did not see it..in the distance..its turned-off-ness. I completely missed it and never saw it. They were starting to gate everything off too for the car racing thing they were doing. She got to jump out of an airplane and I was not down to watching that. Cant do it. Makes me want to vomit. But she survived and said it was the greatest experience ever.

We then went back to the Los Angeles area around June/July to visit the beach and the Mario land in Universal Studios. I'd never been to US in California before only Florida. So that was an interesting experience too. I think mario was cool but unless it grows more, its not really worth it. The jurassic park ride for sure was more superior than the one in Orlando and the park tour was interesting surprisingly.

ran into a few celebrities on accident. Visited Little Tokyo which was a highlight to me.

and ofcourse I drove to my in-laws for thanksgiving and then went back just a couple weeks ago for Disneyland and another day at knotts.

I know I missed out on a lot of local experiences just because I didn't want to go on my own. I know there were a few bands in town I would have wanted to see but yeah..by myself no. We did go see a youtuber/comedian at the local theater and that was really neat. Their theater here is nice.

goodreads is screwed up and is telling me I read 4 books but thats inaccurate. If I could manually I did around 21 but I've returned quite a few books so I'm not sure the grand total.

I think the best book I read all year was Godkiller by Hannah Kaner. I enjoyed that a lot. I think a sequel comes out in march and I plan to read it too.

Hurricane Wars was a lot of stupid fun, not because I think it was well written, but because I get a kick out of fandom fanartists/fanfic authors doing something professional. I'm like "you go girl" and I don't even know these people. I didn't particularly think the original reylo fanfic was great. But I appreciate the success a fandom can bring people.

The worst book was IronFlame but I appreciate the hype. I like fandoms. I like the enthusiasm of fandoms and how much fun they make things. I want to join in on the fun too. I did not enjoy Fourth Wing. I thought it was terribly written. If it was a fanfic I would have hit the backbutton so fast on it (and thats how I judge my books, on the "back-button" scale). But they made the hype for IronFlame look so fun. It was even worse than Fourth Wing. I don't understand what others were reading but I can't judge because I bought it due to FOMO. I do not plan to read the third book.

Little surprise success too. I stuffed my kindle and discovered AG Caggiano and read the first book of Villains and Virtues and I really liked it. I have such a hard reading not-fanfic. The writing styles for fanfic and original books are just so different and I have a hard time getting into original novels but I really enjoy these silly characters. Never heard of this book series or author before. But I finished the first book within a couple days and I'm half thru the second. Its like a silly disney movie. Bit more pg13 but I enjoyed it.

I did have some fails. I made it through half of HarryPotter 2 and Im about 50 pages from finishing Court of Thornes and Roses by SJM in SPANISH. My goal was to finish these books in SPANISH. I honestly got a little distracted by a Tangled spanish fanfic. But reading in Spanish is very humbling and difficult. I have to be able to clear my mind to get through it. Some days I can zoom through a page, other days I don't understand a single word. So I didn't quite finish anything.

Trying to think of games I finished this year. I finished God of War Ragnarok at the beginning of the year. I mean, good game but the wow factor kinda stuck with the first remake. Nothing really stood out to me that I ever need to play it ever again.

I upgraded my switchlite to a switch OLED which almost killed me because there was nothing wrong with my switchlite but I wanted to play TOTK on the big tv. TOTK was fine too but I found myself getting bored of it. Again, I think the major wow factor was with the first one, BOTW. In TOTK, it felt like I was clearing the same map all over again but then they added the underground and sky which then just made my map-clearing OCD give intense anxiety re completionism. I have to stop and flip every rock over and I was getting tired.

I also played Harvestella which I did not enjoy. I played Octopath Traveler 1 which was not bad, I heard 2 was great and I plan to play it eventually. I also played Xenoblade 1 which was not bad either. I'm playing Xenoblade 2 now and I'm struggling a bit to get enthused about it. Everybody says X3 is amazing but I felt bad for skipping 2 to get to 3. So I'm going to suck it up.

The real winner this year for me has been Disney Dreamlight Valley. It was officially released in December but Ive been playing the "beta" for well over a year now. I got pretty heavy into it with some of the large updates this year. I have more hours in it than TOTK. With all its issues and peoples complaints, its a perfect game for me. Its disney. I got simba and rapunzel. I can decorate my island in disney. I can casually play while audiobooking. Its relaxing.

What else did we do this year? hosted 4th of July. Hosted a buddy to stay at our house for a bit while he was here on assignment.

I hired a dog walker by myself. Had a dental procedure I had been dreaming about but the anxiety of asking about it was scary and it was fine.

I went outdoor rock climbing for the first time ever and never need to do that again. I did go to 2 different indoor rock gyms. Got embarrassed at both places and havent gone back. I have fallen off the wagon really badly with going to the gym here. I just can't find a place where I feel comfortable.

I also got really invested in my backyard landscaping because this place sucks for my dog.

I think some of my stomach issues have improved tremendously this year. Stomachs still not great but I havent felt the urge to go to the doctor about it due to the anxiety which is an improvement.

Seen a bunch of movies this year too. Dungeons and Dragons, Mario, Oppenheimer, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles....Wish sucked really bad...I still havent seen barbie or the new hunger games and I really wanted to.

mainly I focused on youtube videos. I got sent some cool stuff by companies. I feel like I didnt draw quite as much but youtube kept me really busy. I've learned a lot about video editing and public speaking though neither are my strengths. I do enjoy the art community on youtube as a whole. Its a lot less stressful than the rest of art social media in a different way. Portfolio social medias or places like twitter theres an urge to create constantly. Youtube I can merely talk about art and it counts as something creative. So it kind of takes a load off. Also, ofcourse with art companies sending out merch, theres a decent reward system too. I talk about art, don't need to necessarily complete anything and then get free stuff. So, so far, for me, its been worth it. Especially given my tiny following. You don't need 1mil followers to obtain a reward. So to me, its a pleasant experience. I do worry about my account growing bigger and me not being able to maintain it. Its easier to accept rude comments when its just your art. When its you on the screen, its a bit more personal.

otherwise, I have no plans for 2024 other than the same stuff. I would like to make a vegetable garden but I wont because by the end of this year we will be planning another move. The end of 2024 is going to be a massive life change and stressful doozy. My husband will be retiring and we don't know what we want to be or where we want to live when we grow up. I'm telling myself it'll be socially acceptable to quit my job in about 6 months to prep for this life change but thats not really true. We need all the money we can get lmao.

[britesparc]

Weekend Top Ten #652

Top Ten Orlando Theme Park Rides, circa 1994

When I kid, pretty much the most exotic place I could think of was America. This was because I lived in boring old Middlesbrough, where nothing ever happened and no major motions pictures were set. Meanwhile, America? Everything from Gremlins to E.T. to The Racoons took place over there. I'm not saying that I thought if I ever went to New York I’d bump into Peter Venkman; but I’m also not not saying that. Even when a film was set in space, half the cast had American accents. It seemed to be the place to be.

So you can imagine how excited I was when I finally got to go to Orlando, Florida, when I was about twelve years old, and visit both Disney World and Universal Studios. Short of being personally invited by Steven Spielberg to tour the sets and locations of Jurassic Park, this was as close as I thought it possible to get to finally “being there”. And it did not disappoint.

I think if you visit these places as a child – even a kid on the cusp of their teens – and you already have a mindset that just absorbs and adores this stuff, it’s like a kind of paradise; it’s basically the island from Pinocchio minus the booze and the donkey-boys. I also think – and I can’t confirm this, just based on conversations with people and my decades-old knowledge – that maybe going in the nineties is different to going now. The parks are even bigger, the queues can get even longer, and the prices are comparatively much higher. I’ve heard Americans say that taking the family to Disneyland for a day out was an affordable holiday for the majority in the eighties and nineties; nowadays it’s something most people can probably only do once or twice a lifetime. So things are different.

My memories, though; they remain as vivid. The greatest thing for me was the sense of walking around an artfully constructed world, one which made me feel like I'd stepped inside my favourite films. This manifested in myriad ways: the queues for Star Tours or E.T. that made you feel like you were walking in those worlds; the presence of huge AT-ATs or other pieces of film architecture; the way a shop selling Disney film memorabilia was stylised to look exactly like the warehouse from Roger Rabbit, including a bag of portable holes that had spilled over. And this was before I went on any actual rides!

Anyway, I wanted to celebrate these memories, with the knowledge that it’s been thirty actual years since I was last there. Almost everything will have changed, I’m sure; I wonder if I’d feel the same going around the same place nowadays. But looking back, trying to be objective, trying also to be true to what I think I thought at the time – that's the purpose of this list. To celebrate a fantastic holiday and also reflect on the euphoria it generated in a twelve-year-old boy who was just so outrageously excited that the baby strollers were designed to look like the jeeps from Jurassic Park. Here, then, to the best of my ability, is my ranking of the best rides from Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Studios in Florida... er, thirty years ago.

Back to the Future: The Ride: a fantastic simulator ride that does a tremendous job of feeling of a piece with the movie. Filmed appearances by Christpher Lloyd and Thomas F. Wilson really sell it, making you feel part of the story; the illusion is practically seamless. The motion of the simulator and the vast screens are truly immersive, and overall it’s just a thrilling experience. Pretty much my favourite ride I've ever been on.

Star Tours: without a doubt the most impressive queue I’ve seen, and once again a ride that does a brilliant job of making everything feel natural and “in-universe”. You’re waiting to take a tour ride through the Star Wars galaxy; other ships are being worked on by droids. Even Artoo and Threepio are there, arguing as usual. It just sells the experience so well; and then the ride itself is really exciting as you jump from one Star Wars moment to the next.

Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular!: okay, not technically a ride, but still one of the most impressive shows I’ve seen – and not just at a theme park. Taking you through recreations of some of the more impressive stunts in (mostly) Raiders of the Lost Ark, we get boulder chases, exploding trucks, fight scenes and more – and, impressively, a nice examination of how they are achieved and a celebration of the stunt workers involved in delivering them.

Kongfrontation: another ride with a fantastic presence, as you queue in a recreation of the New York subway (I remember them telling us that it was sufficiently accurate that they had all the same advertisements). The ride itself – you're in a cable car that’s attacked by King Kong – is a suitably tense thrill as you sway crazily on the cables, avoiding water and flame, and get to marvel at a big monkey head.

Earthquake: The Big One: similar, I guess, to the above, as you’re in another situation where chaos and disaster is inflicted upon you – in a controlled manner, of course. The train shakes, rattles about, things explode, the ceiling caves in, and a huge flood surges towards you. Featured in the film Beverly Hills Cop 3. Also a quick shout out to the “backstage tour” ride at Disney’s “MGM Studios”, which was – for the most part – a genuine tour of the park, but which does get “stuck” in a film production and feature a mini-disaster halfway through.

The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror: it’s amusing to consider how, in the nineties, they were still tying all these rides in to very old properties. Tower of Terror was brand new back then; I believe we may have attended it during a soft launch before its official opening. Anyway, the spooky Twilight Zone stuff was all well and good, but the freefall drop – albeit short – was what sold it. Apparently in Florida it’s Guardians of the Galaxy-themed now; not sure how that works.

Splash Mountain: another one that was pretty new thirty years ago, this is a really fun log flume with a huge drop at the end – I think it might have been either the longest or the steepest back then. It was really well designed and exciting, but hit controversy due to being based around Song of the South. They’ve since re-themed it around The Princess and the Frog, which feels like an elegant solution.

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad: I don’t really remember Disney World or Universal being big “roller coaster parks” - it was the other attractions that took pride of place. But Thunder Mountain was great fun: an old-school wooden roller coaster, soaked in classic Western imagery, a mainstay of the park. There's something about the mix of Americana, production design, and a coaster that’s not too thrilling, that makes it feel quintessentially Disney.

E.T. Adventure: one of the rides that cast a big shadow in the UK; who wouldn’t want to ride with E.T.? Again, the whole queue is styled around scenes from the film – you wind through the forest – and there’s a nice sense of altitude as you “take off” on bikes, journeying into E.T.’s spaceship. A magical travelogue, really, full of style.

Space Mountain: this one was a proper roller coaster; but cunningly disguised! A thrilling “dark ride” that took you on all sorts of spacey twists and turns, with a stunning light show effect of planets and stars whizzing by, I didn’t realise till years later that it was an inverse coaster, flinging me upside down with gay abandon.

Just bubbling under: Jaws, which is an iconic, fantastic ride with brilliant detailing. Also some of the other shows - there was a Beetlejuice/Universal Monsters one, and another one about special effects. Great stuff.

Anyway, there you go – my fantastic, timely travelogue of theme parks in Orlando. If you’re visiting in 1994, you know exactly what to hit first. You’re welcome.

[jurassicparkpodcast]

The Jurassic Franchise is growing at the Universal Orlando Resort! New Parade + Nighttime Show!

Jurassic fans - we have TWO new experiences coming to Universal Studios Florida. Universal Mega Movie Parade and Cinesational: A Symphonic Spectacular are joining the ranks of Jurassic offerings at the Universal Orlando Resort this summer!

First up, we have a new daytime parade hitting the streets with some great properties, including our beloved T.rex! Universal Mega Movie Parade begins July 3rd, 2024.

"Your favorite characters leap off screen onto the streets for a daytime parade. Feel the roar of the T. rex, enjoy the adventure of E.T., embrace your true colors with Trolls and more. On select days."

Back in 2018, Universal Studios Japan introduced a Jurassic World section of their Universal Spectacle Night Parade. If the parade offerings coming to Orlando are anything like the one in Japan, we are in for a treat!

Next up, we have a new nighttime show coming to the lagoon at Universal Studios Florida. Cinesational: A Symphonic Spectacular will grace our ears with plenty of John Williams’ greatness on June 14th, 2024!

"Thrill to a cinematic journey with stirring soundtracks evoking the mystery and magic of Harry Potter™, the pulse-pounding thrills of Jurassic World and the gripping suspense of Jaws. On select nights."

Recently, the park had the nighttime show Universal Orlando’s Cinematic Celebration, which featured a Jurassic World segment. The nighttime show facilities closed down after Hurricane Ian, but will be brought back this summer with a brand new show. Hopefully the show will span the Jurassic World trilogy and we get to see more than just the 2015 film.

For more information check out the Universal Orlando Resort.

Written by:

Brad Jost

[vikhyatr]

Unveiling the Thrills: Adventurous Activities in Singapore

Introduction

Singapore, celebrated for its modern skyline, multicultural society, and vibrant food scene, may not be the initial destination that springs to mind when considering adventurous activities. However, beyond the bustling urban landscape lie hidden gems of exhilarating experiences waiting to be discovered. Amidst the places to visit in Singapore, there exists a wealth of heart-pounding outdoor adventures and adrenaline-fueled experiences, catering to every thrill-seeker's desires. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the adventurous top activities and places to visit that will satisfy your craving for excitement and leave you with unforgettable memories.

Sky-High Thrills

Bungee Jumping at AJ Hackett Sentosa

AJ Hackett Sentosa, situated on the picturesque Sentosa Island, offers one of Singapore's most exhilarating experiences – bungee jumping. Feel the rush as you leap from a towering platform, surrounded by stunning views of the island and the sea below. With professional instructors and top-notch safety measures, this adrenaline-packed activity promises an unforgettable thrill for daredevils.

Indoor Skydiving at iFly Singapore

Experience the sensation of freefalling without jumping out of a plane at iFly Singapore. This indoor skydiving facility utilizes a vertical wind tunnel to simulate the thrill of skydiving in a safe and controlled environment. Whether you're a seasoned skydiver or a first-timer, iFly offers an exhilarating adventure suitable for all skill levels.

Nature Escapes

TreeTop Walk at MacRitchie Reservoir

Embark on an adventure amidst lush greenery at MacRitchie Reservoir's TreeTop Walk. This scenic hike takes you through the treetops of a tropical rainforest, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Traverse suspension bridges swaying gently above the forest floor as you encounter diverse wildlife and immerse yourself in nature's tranquility.

Kayaking through Singapore's Waterways

Explore Singapore's waterways from a unique perspective by embarking on a kayaking adventure. Paddle through mangrove forests, urban canals, and scenic rivers, discovering hidden gems and picturesque landscapes along the way. Whether you're a novice or an experienced kayaker, Singapore's diverse waterways offer endless opportunities for exploration and adventure.

Thrilling Theme Parks

Universal Studios Singapore

Step into the magical world of Universal Studios Singapore and embark on thrilling rides and attractions inspired by blockbuster movies. From high-speed roller coasters to immersive 4D experiences, this world-class theme park promises adrenaline-pumping adventures for visitors of all ages. Lose yourself in the excitement of iconic movie-themed zones, from Hollywood to Jurassic Park.

Adventure Cove Waterpark

Beat the tropical heat and indulge in aquatic adventures at Adventure Cove Waterpark. Experience adrenaline-fueled slides, encounter marine life while snorkeling, or take on the exhilarating water coaster. With a variety of attractions catering to both thrill-seekers and families, Adventure Cove promises a day of fun and excitement in the heart of Sentosa Island.

Urban Adventures

Night Cycling along Marina Bay

Explore Singapore's iconic skyline and waterfront on a thrilling night cycling adventure. Pedal along Marina Bay's scenic promenade as the city comes alive with dazzling lights and vibrant energy. Marvel at architectural wonders such as the Marina Bay Sands and the Gardens by the Bay, creating unforgettable memories against the backdrop of Singapore's stunning skyline.

Virtual Reality Gaming at VRX

Immerse yourself in the world of virtual reality gaming at VRX, Singapore's premier VR arcade. Step into immersive virtual environments and engage in adrenaline-pumping multiplayer experiences, from intense shooters to exhilarating racing games. With state-of-the-art VR technology and a wide selection of games, VRX offers an unparalleled adventure for gamers and thrill-seekers alike.

Conclusion

From bungee jumping off towering heights to kayaking through scenic waterways, Singapore offers a diverse range of adventurous activities that cater to every thrill-seeker's appetite. Whether you prefer soaring through the sky, immersing yourself in nature, or exploring urban landscapes, Singapore's vibrant and dynamic attractions promise an adrenaline-packed experience like no other. So, embrace the thrill and embark on an adventure-filled journey in the Lion City.

[jcmarchi]

Every Big Announcement From The Game Awards 2023

New Post has been published on https://thedigitalinsider.com/every-big-announcement-from-the-game-awards-2023/

Every Big Announcement From The Game Awards 2023

The Game Awards 2023 was full of announcements big and small, so if you’re having trouble keeping track of them all, we’ve gathered up all our stories here in one place. You can also check out the full list of award winners here. Let us know which announcement excited you most in the comments!

Brothers: A Tale Of Two Sons Unreal Engine 5 Remake Revealed

Pony Island 2 Is The Next Game From The Creator Of Inscryption

Dead Cells Developer Motion Twin’s Next Game, Windblown, Revealed

Metaphor: ReFantazio Gets Fall 2024 Release Window In New Trailer

Harmonium The Musical Is A Sign Language Music Adventure

Usual June Is The Latest From Finji

Big Walk

Exodus Is A New Game Starring Matthew McConaughey

God of War Ragnarök Gets A Free Expansion Called Valhalla Next Week

Get A Look At Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II’s Visceral Combat In New Gameplay Trailer

Check Out Big Walk,The Next Game From The Devs Of Untitled Goose Game

Ori Team Moon Studios Reveals Action RPG, No Rest For The Wicked

Ikumi Nakamura Reveals Her Studio’s First Title, Kemuri

The Casting Of Frank Stone Is Supermassive’s Single-Player Horror Game Set In The Dead By Daylight Universe

Sega Is Remaking Some Of Its Best Games

No Rest for the Wicked

Team Ninja’s Rise Of The Ronin Gets March Release Date In New Gameplay Trailer

Dragon Ball Sparking! Zero Is The Next Budokai Tenkaichi Game

After 15 Years, Visions Of Mana Revives The Series

Hideo Kojima Is Making A New Game Called OD With Jordan Peele

Black Myth: Wukong Gets August Release Date In New Gameplay Trailer

Get Another Look At Banishers: Ghosts of New Eden In New Cinematic Trailer

Jurassic Park: Survival Is A Stunning First-Person Adventure Set Right After The First Film

Jurassic Park: Survival

Here’s The Suicide Squad: Kill The Justice League Trailer From The Game Awards

The First Berserker: Khazan Is A Single-Player Action RPG Set In The DNF Universe

Don’t Nod Reveals Mysterious Adventure Game Lost Records: Bloom & Rage

Hoyoverse’s Zenless Zone Zero Gets 2024 Release Year In New Gameplay Trailer

Marvel’s Blade Is Coming From The Makers Of Deathloop And Dishonored

Last Sentinel Is A New Triple-A Game From Former Rockstar Devs

GTFO Makers Announces New Co-op Heist Title, Den Of Wolves

Marvel’s Blade

Hello Games Celebrates 10 Years Of No Man’s Sky With New Trailer

Hello Games Announces Light No Fire, A Massive Multiplayer Exploration-Based Fantasy Game

Multiplayer Tactical Shooter Exoborne Wants Players To Extract Loot While Fighting In Tornados

The First Descendant Gets A Full Release Next Summer

The Finals, Embark Studio’s Free-To-Play Shooter, Is Out Right Now

Monster Hunter: Wilds Revealed At The Game Awards

Monster Hunter: Wilds

Tales of Kenzera: Zau Is A Magical Metroidvania Inspired By Bantu Myth

Final Fantasy XVI Is Getting Two DLCs And One Of Them Is Available Now

Narrative Adventure Game As Dusk Falls Heads To PlayStation In March

Battle Mechs In Battle Royale Or Alongside Friends In Mecha Break

Alan Wake 2: ‘The Final Draft’ Update Includes New Game Plus And New Ending, Out Next Week

The Outlast Trials Goes 1.0 And Comes To Consoles In March

Baldur’s Gate 3 Is Now Available On Xbox Series X/S

[universalinfo]

Unlocking the Magic: The Best Theme Parks for Your Family Vacation in California

Ah, California. With its sun-soaked beaches, majestic forests, and bustling cities, it's no wonder this state is a dream destination for many. But what if we told you that besides all its natural and urban wonders, to have a family vacation in California is also home to some of the most entertaining theme parks in the world? 

Today, we've handpicked 5 theme parks in the Golden State that promise nothing but laughter, adventure, and unforgettable memories. Buckle up, because it's going to be a wild ride. Are you ready?

1. Disneyland and California Adventure: Where Magic Meets Imagination

Ah, Disneyland. Stepping into this park is like entering a storybook. With every corner you turn, a new story unfolds. 

Ever dreamt of being a prince or princess? Sleeping Beauty's Castle will transport you straight into a fairy tale. For those in search of a pirate's life, brace yourselves as you sail through the Pirates of the Caribbean. The aroma of popcorn, the twinkling lights, and the sheer joy on everyone's faces make every moment here magical.

Next door, California Adventure celebrates the beauty and spirit of the Golden State. Ever wanted to feel the thrill of flying? Soarin' Over California will let you glide over the state's iconic landscapes. And Radiator Springs? It’s not just a pit stop in the Cars movie, but a lively town where you can race alongside Lightning McQueen. From morning to night, there's never a dull moment at these twin parks.

2. Universal Studios Hollywood: Your Cinema Dreams, Now a Reality

The red carpet is rolled out, and the clapperboard is set. Welcome to Universal Studios, where every day is a movie premiere. As you enter, you're greeted by the sights and sounds of Hollywood's golden era. But this isn't just a walk down memory lane; it's an adventure waiting to unfold.

Feel the chills of the Jurassic era as a T-Rex roars inches away from you in Jurassic World. Or maybe stroll down Diagon Alley, pick up a wand, and sip on a butterbeer? The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is every Potterhead's dream come true. 

And the Studio Tour? It’s not just a ride; it's a behind-the-scenes glimpse into where the magic of cinema is crafted. With every attraction, you're not just watching a story: you're living it.

3. LEGOLAND California Resort: Brick by Brick, An Adventure Awaits

Imagine a world where those tiny LEGO bricks come alive. That's LEGOLAND for you. Every structure, from towering castles to bustling cityscapes, is a testament to imagination. As you wander around, it's hard not to be in awe of what can be created from these tiny blocks.

Miniland USA is a delightful miniaturized version of iconic American cities, all built from millions of LEGO bricks. For the knights and princesses, the Dragon Coaster in the Castle Hill section offers a fun ride with just the right amount of thrill. And on a hot Californian day, what's better than the LEGOLAND Water Park? Slide, splash, and play to your heart's content.

But LEGOLAND isn't just about looking and riding; it's about building too. With numerous play areas and build stations, kids (and adults) can let their imagination run wild, crafting their own LEGO masterpieces. It's not just a park; it's a canvas for creativity.

4. SeaWorld San Diego: An Ode to the Oceans and Their Inhabitants

Dive into a world where the mysteries of the deep blue come alive! SeaWorld San Diego isn't just another theme park; it's a celebration of our planet's magnificent marine life. From the get-go, the park immerses you in a rhythmic dance of colors and sounds that mirror the very essence of the sea.

Ever wondered how it feels to be close to a majestic killer whale, its black and white forms cutting through the water with grace? The Orca Encounter show not only showcases these beautiful creatures but also educates visitors about their habits and the challenges they face. For a lighter, more playful interaction, don't miss Clyde & Seamore's Sea Lion and Otter show, where laughs are guaranteed. For more details visit us at https://www.dreamswishestravel.com/.

But it's not all shows and spectacles. The Manta roller coaster allows you to soar like a manta ray, feeling the rush of the ocean breeze. And the Journey to Atlantis? A perfect blend of a roller coaster and a water ride, ensuring exhilarating splashes and delightful giggles.

5. Six Flags Magic Mountain: Where Thrills Meet the Sky

Hold onto your hats, because Six Flags Magic Mountain promises a ride that will make your heart race! As you approach the park, the silhouettes of towering roller coasters reaching for the sky are a testament to the adrenaline-packed day that awaits.

For those brave enough, the X2, with its rotating seats and face-first drops, is not just a rollercoaster; it's an experience that defies gravity. Tatsu, on the other hand, makes you feel like a bird, as you fly over the park with your face down and nothing but the sky above. If you're in for something slightly milder yet equally fun, the classic wooden coaster, Apocalypse, offers a nostalgic ride back in time.

But Six Flags isn't just about the big thrillers. Families can bond over rides like the Road Runner Express or the Magic Flyer, which offer a gentler but equally captivating experience. And for those scorching Californian days? The Tidal Wave water ride ensures a refreshing splashdown that will leave you drenched and laughing.

Dreams and Wishes Travel: Crafting Your Ideal Theme Park Vacation

While all these theme parks promise an exciting family vacation in California, planning such a trip can be daunting. That's where we, at Dreams and Wishes Travel, come in. We aren't just another travel agency; we're your fairy godmothers of vacations.

Our seasoned team understands the ins and outs of these parks, and with our holistic approach, we make sure your family gets the best out of every moment. Whether it's reserving the perfect hotel, ensuring you have those much-coveted dinner reservations or even getting you fast-passes to bypass those lengthy queues, we've got you covered.

Why? Because at Dreams and Wishes Travel, we believe in turning dream vacations into reality, ensuring every trip becomes a cherished memory.

In Conclusion

California is truly a land of dreams. Its theme parks offer a mix of adventure, magic, and unparalleled fun, ensuring that your family vacation in California remains etched in your hearts forever.

And remember, if the thought of planning overwhelms you, we at Dreams and Wishes Travel are always here, eager to craft your perfect getaway. So pack your bags, gather your loved ones, and let's embark on a journey filled with joy, laughter, and a touch of magic. After all, isn't that what family vacations are all about?

Learn More:

Vacation in California

[ricmlm]

On June 11, 1993, the film that launched it all, Jurassic Park, opened in theaters nationwide, and launched a new era of filmmaking featuring unforgettable characters and dinosaurs who won our hearts from the opening song and scene. The original film earned over $1 billion at the box office, and prompted five Universal Pictures franchise blockbusters, including 2022’s Jurassic World Dominion, which quickly crossed the $1 billion mark. As Jeff Goldblum’s character, Dr. Ian Malcolm, says in the original film, “Life finds a way”. Just three years later, Jurassic Park first opened at Universal Studios Florida and since then is now featured in theme parks in Orlando, Hollywood, Osaka, and Beijing.

With global theme park attractions, popular merchandise items for fans of all ages, the DreamWorks animated series Jurassic World Camp Cretaceous and more, the beloved franchise has made a dino-sized footprint across NBCUniversal.

[At Universal Orlando Resort, fans will find exclusive Jurassic Park 30th anniversary merchandise and collectibles at the Jurassic Park Tribute Store, themed food and drink items from Thunder Falls, you also can enjoy commemorative film screenings at Universal Cinemark in CityWalk. Universal Studios Hollywood honors the landmark movie with its popular Jurassic World — The Ride. Fans will also find exclusive merchandise, themed food items, and anniversary film screenings.

For Jurassic fans, there is no shortage of ways to celebrate #JurassicJune. Invite some friends, dress up in your favorite dino-fashion, immerse yourself in an award-winning Jurassic themed attraction and when you get home, extend the celebration by streaming Jurassic Park and Jurassic World trilogies now available to rent or purchase by Universal Home Entertainment.]

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[thedaveandkimmershow]

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 14

Once again, up at 610 after hitting the snooze button once at 6. The idea's that we enjoyed yesterday, so...

Why not do it again?

We leave a little later this time, twenty minutes. Not the worst thing.

But the worst thing?

Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure was closed.

They said "delayed". But when we asked by how much? they said could be five minutes, could be five hours, so yeah.

Closed. For all intents and purposes.

We're a touch thrown by this derailing of our plan so we just sort of aimlessly stroll Hogsmeade in the area around Three Broomsticks, the restaurant. Then we check out Zonko's which is only a facade fronting half of the candy store next door that actually takes up the whole building.

Still, I took a bunch of photos out there.

Afterward, we continue into Jurassic World. Turns out only half the park is open for early entry. Basically Seuss Land through the Velocicoaster. The rest of the park opens at 9.

Now, we're not gonna do the Velocicoaster. Not this early in the morning. Not ever. Just watching people ride it makes me wanna hurl. We do, though, find a shortcut from that section of the park to the Poseidon's Fury section of the park, completely bypassing Hogsmeade.

Now, there's nothing to ride in this section of the park. What there is, Poseidon's Fury, has been closed and the whole thing's gonna be something else. No one's said what, though. I wonder if it'll be annexed by Harry Potter next door, especially since there's this massive theater rigged for live performances.

Okay. Let's talk about that for a moment. Because it's not obvious. You can actually walk by a significant former attraction because it's very de-emphasized. It's not closed off... but it sure looks like there's nothing to see when there's a massive ton to see. Especially to photograph.

Which.

I.

Did.

I even took pictures of the beautiful plant life adorning this section of the park. There are still areas cordoned as if for long lines. Which is what I followed all the way to the theater into which you can actually still walk. No Do Not Enter signs. No fences (in general).

A ton of photographs, as I said, is what I took. Which reveals another part of our adventure. Because sometimes it's about being, sometimes about people watching, sometimes about relaxing.

And sometimes it's about straight-up exploring.

😊

It's also sometimes about relentless photography. We just can't help ourselves in the midst of such obvious photo ops.

Cat nip for anyone who's got a camera.

Afterward, we're back to Hogsmeade for Frozen butterbeer.

That was on my list, by the way. Just not at 930 in the morning which this was.

What can I say?

We were there. The cart was open. So we ordered one after grilling the distributor who happened to be there just then.

Grilling the distributor?

Of course. Making absolute sure there's no nuts and no nut exposure during the making of this Butterbeer. Which is, ultimately, how we found ourselves on the patio behind Three Broomsticks, a little after 930 in the morning, drinking our first, delightful Butterbeer together.

By 'n by, an English couple on their way out stops by our table because they spotted our celebration pins. They congratulated us on thirty-one years and ask What's the secret? I say Nothing's ever a deal breaker and she says Friendship. Although neither of those seem much of a "secret".

With our Butterbeer finished, we walk back to Poseidon's Fury, take a right into the shortcut that takes us to Jurassic World further into Jurassic World because the entire park is now open. For us that means we can finally ride the Jurassic Park River Adventure ride.

Finally?

Yeah. When we were at Universal Studios Hollywood last, we stood in line for twenty minutes when the ride was suddenly delayed. We waited at least another half hour, probably more, on the chance it would become un-delayed fairly quickly.

But no. That never happened. The only thing that happened while we were waiting was that night descended, the wind picked up, and we got colder.

Not the best memory, really.

So we finally got to ride the Jurassic Park River Adventure ride.

After that, we continue walking up that side of the lake until we come to the Kong ride around 1030. A 4D thrill ride, it's an epic expansion of one of the back lot tours experiences at Universal Studios Hollywood.

Now we're continuing through Universal's Toon Section where I take the first picture of Kimmer holding a Minion key chain in such a way as to obscure its presence in a photograph.

Wait. What?

Yeah. We'd been sending Where's Waldo style photographs using a green, 3D printed tug boat, but last night while Kimmer took a photo of me on a surf board set along City Walk for our honorary grandkids, I lost the tug boat.

I didn't lose it, of course. It was low key hanging out on the back end of the board and I subsequently forgot about it as I stepped off the board to take my phone back from Kimmer to take a peek at what she shot.

And then we walked away.

By the time I realized my oversight later on the bus and then later when I went back... the tug boat was gone. Taken by some enterprising child or swept up by the people who keep these parks spotless.

I was really bummed about that and, as soon as we were back at the Dockside, Kimmer navigates us into the gift shop off the lobby. It's really a full-size retail store in which we sought a tug boat replacement that ended up being this little guy...

Okay.

So it's today again and we're strolling through the Toon section on our way to Starbucks where they're gonna make Kimmer an improvised iced coffee.

Kimmer's gonna have to tell you what that is. It seemed quite involved and yet somehow less expensive than if Kimmer ordered an actual iced coffee.

Really. You should ask her about it. 🤨

At this point we've completed one lap and change around the lake and we're embarking on a second.

We continue around the lake again until we're back in Hogsmeade, back at Three Broomsticks for breakfast although we're still not super stoked about their breakfast menu. We think about popping over to Diagon but become distracted by delicious kababs and hummus instead over by Poseidon's Fury that we eat in peace and relaxation.

By the time we're done it's 1130. By the time we're rollin' out of the Universal transit center it's 1145. By the time we're back in our room it's noon.

This time around we neither rush nor do we totally relax our time. We casually get ourselves ready for Volcano Bay and, by about 1...

We're there again

It's called the Kopiko Wai Winding River, by the way. It's the one thing we do, the one thing we're here for in the middle of the day which is to peacefully float—just float—for about an hour.

No joke. I highly recommend it. The river, sure. But also this idea of peacefully floating in the middle of the day. ☺️

So we leave at 215. We're back at 230. And the reason why is because this is the first of two occasions during which Kimmer needs to be in class for her doctoratal program. It's online... but still. Everyone participating can be seen and they can be heard. So she settles into class mode in our room from three to four while I process the morning's photographs and continue some reading.

By four o'clock I'm in the shower. Four fifteen we catch up with the daughter. After which we're out the door and on the elevator that turns into its own experience, its own scene during the course of our adventure.

So we catch the eleventh floor elevator with a family from Indiana: a youthful, energetic, grandmother, her daughters, and a grandson who's got a wiggly tooth that's gonna pop free any day now. Almost immediately we all get into a discussion about various ways of pulling teeth which leads right into our own story of home made caramel apples with caramel that was seriously tough on our teeth. From caramel as a means of tooth extraction, we moved on to certain breads and then to the toaster method as demonstrated in The Santa Claus 2. We also talked tooth fairy reimbursements like different price points for different kinds of teeth to which I immediately complain how I didn't get that kind of deal and that, looking back, it feels like I was legitimately underpaid by the Tooth Fairy when I was a kid. ☹️ In comparison, one of the daughters remarks how she got twenty-five cents a tooth and was happy with that because it was actual money.

The elevator's still on the move, by the way, as our conversation builds on itself. As it does, we manage to stop at most of the floors from eleven to one, each time encouraging fellow guests to get on board while we all collapse the space between ourselves to make more room. Even the grandson gets into the act although he can't see a thing being's as he's at the back of the elevator behind a crowd of adults. The doors would open and he'd just blindly call out

Come on in!

By the time the doors opened on the second floor, of course, we were definitely packed in like sardines and had to leave our fellow guests waiting for the next elevator. 😕

The family from Indiana, though... their plan was to do the final hour of Volcano Bay which would close in just over an hour at six, then hop over to Islands of Adventure to close that park out by eight. The grandma definitely pitched us hard to experience some of the more thrilling water activities. At least something more than floating peacefully in circles which really is our jam.

After the floating, then, we drop our water park gear at the hotel, chang our clothes, and make our way back to City Walk. Our plan, actually, is something that was triggered by a scrolling ad Kimmer's seen earlier in the day along the front of The Hard Rock. It made reference to a password tucked into an Instagram post that could be used for savings on the bar menu only available to those with the password. Top of our evening's To Do list, then, is to hit the Cadillac Bar at the Hard Rock with the secret password 'Lil Boo. Unfortunately, the bar's crazy busy. Could hardly hear each other speak. Could barely hear our own thoughts. And everyone behind the bar's doing amazing juggling acts with their time and responsibilities. The whole thing's less special than we had in mind so we bail on our plan, heading over to the Islands entrance to join everyone coming over from Studios because it's just closed while Islands still has a coupla hours on the clock.

We'd not yet visited the Toon section of the park, the one with the wet rides, so we navigate our way through the crowds there first.

Now, in Universal's defense, the sign does say You're gonna get soaked! and we did observed families with soaked clothes wringing out their clothes after the ride.

The ride?

Yes. That would be Popeye & Bluto's Bilge-Rat Barges.

They make sure.

You get soaked.

And yeah. Even though we read the sign, even though we saw people after the ride who were, indeed, soaked as advertised, I thought, like with a lot of these rides, we might just get lucky to avoid the worst of the soaking. I was so firm in that belief that I declined to pull out the ponchos I'd actually brought with us. I said No, let's not use 'em. Let's just roll with it.

So roll with it we did and we.

Got.

Soaked.

They actually make sure of that, by the way. The ride's designed to do that, even to the point of arming other park guests from above to essentially shoot riders with super soakers.

Talk about insult to injury.

They go the extra mile to soak you. First dumping buckets of water right on your head. Then those random waves crashing over the sides because these are, after all, white water rapids. We received a random hosing on the hill up toward the end of the ride. And, as I said, the super soakers. In our case, we were additionally soaked in that manner by the husband of the woman sitting to my left.

Insult.

To injury.

Kimmer was nice enough to refrain from I told you so even though she's the one who suggested the ponchos. She was, however, stoked to find out about the people dryers they have stationed near the exit. You don't get completely, thoroughly dry... but you do stop being awkwardly soaked.

Once dry-ish, we continue to Dudley Do-Right's Ripsaw Falls which Kimmer immediately declines because she's already been thoroughly soaked once this evening. So we continue to Pteranodon Flyers where there's an actual hight requirement and we are literally too tall to go on this ride.

First.

Time.

Ever.

Shortly after, around 6, we absolutely had to stop and watch, over and over, a section of the Velocicoaster track where, coming off a series of tight, twisty hills, the cars don't shed any speed on the straightaway, rather, they're relaunched before they lose any momentum. It's very very very obvious when you watch it from off the ride. You get a little taste of it at 39 seconds in the video...

It's a helluva thing to watch. It really is. Especially since they're launched right into the highest elevation of the ride.

Fifteen minutes later we're passing through Hogsmeade again, then through Poseidon's Fury, then into Seuss land where Kimmer steers us onto the Car-Seuss-El carousel for the pure enjoyment, the lovely photos, and one funny video.

After that, it's a short walk to the Backwater Bar for a Sam Adams Summer Ale and whatever the orange thing was that Kimmer ordered. We grabbed a pair of stools along the walk for people watching with particular attention to anyone wearing Hogwarts school robes.

Why?

Those things retail for $139 no matter the size. Children through adults. So whenever we see the robes, one of us goes ChaCHING!!!

Because there's a ton of money being made on each one of those things.

Every. Single. One.

When we're done, we loop back to Marvel Super Hero Island for The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man 4D ride that was unexpected and totally fun from the line all the way through the ride.

Interestingly, when we went into the building, it was still light out. Coming out at a quarter to 8?

It's night time. Full-on night.

Which means it's time to go.

We stop in at the Christmas store on our way out of the park which, I won't lie, I always love the intersection of Hogwarts and the Christmas holiday season. Even in the movies there's something sweet about it.

And then we're done in the park.

We leave the park at 8, catch a bus to the Aventura and its rooftop restaurant, Bar 17 Bistro for fried Korean chicken, Caesar Salad, the house burger, a Pinot Grigot and a Pinot Noir. Instead of a lightning show this time, we watch the Disney fireworks shows in the distance. One above the Magic Kingdom, one above Epcot, just as I saw them from our room before.

Our server's from Philly, by the way. Complete with accent and attitude. She's around our age so we talked adult kids with her. I think she's a little older than us. Her kids are 35 and 28.

She's incredibly proud of both.

Now, Orlando's the second act for she and her husband just like the jobs they currently hold.

Back in the day, they both worked collections for the same law firm. She held her position for twenty years. He held his for fifteen.

She says it was kind of a sad job given the sheer diversity of people who would lie to their faces. So when the firm closed and the kids were out of the house, it seemed a good time not only to change jobs but to change home as well.

I asked... and she said No, he didn't want to leave. He wanted to stay. She... wanted to move to Arizona. He countered with Florida or nothing because he has family in Florida.

So Florida was. Plus, looking at it, she could see a lot of job opportunities in the service industry. She, of course, settled into restaurant work. He, on the other hand, takes care of an elderly gentleman. He checks in multiple times a day. He cooks. He cleans. They actually helped him move to an apartment near their home.

Returning to our conversation about our kids, I asked and she said her son's two years into an electrical engineering degree. He was always off the chart smart, got a scholarship out of high school.

But.

He dropped out of college quickly, lived a little wild but eventually re-entered college on his own, with his own money, and his own motivations.

When I asked our server about her daughter, she said her daughter spent four years with the Air Force. After that, she moved into the private sector and now works in management at Comcast.

On top of that, she values continuing education so she's still taking college courses. She never stops building her intellect.

If you're wondering (because it was kind of a long conversation), our server was standing when we got into this conversation. Halfway through, though, she actually sat down right across from us.

I thought that was really sweet. And it's always a pleasure to talk adult kids with other parents.

We got back to our hotel coming up on 1030 after a bus back to City Walk transferring to a bus to the Dockside.

Bit of a commute there.

Settling into our room, Kimmer indulged some charting while I posted the day's photos. We watch a little more Harry Potter & the Deathly Hallows Part 1. Kimmer falls asleep around twenty passed midnight.

And thus endeth day 5 of our wedding anniversary celebration vacation.

☺️😍🥳🎉🤩

[lewisibarra1512]

An important update regarding the new Woody Woodpecker video

Hey, y'all! What's up? Hope your summer will be filled with gaming goods and plenty of dinos to go 'round. However, that's not the case here, as I want to address something very important.

Originally I was going to consider uploading the Woody Woodpecker video on the 9th or 11th of June in preparation for the 30th anniversary of Jurassic Park, but I have an important update. So far, all four scenes revolving Woody have been cleared up. Next will be the part where I want to get back into Drooler's Delight by recreating and reimagining the one from the short film. Getting to the point, the premiere date of Woody Woodpecker will take place on 22 June, the day Isla Nublar was gone for good.

In terms of this, I'll need to buy more time to add the scene and connect both shots from Drooler's Delight so it'll stay between the opening of the video and Photo Time at Universal! together. But before that, I'll be partaking in the upcoming Summer Game Fest that's happening in the weekends. Presumably, it's about Wholesome Games, Future Games Show, PC Gaming Show and Ubisoft Forward. I'm not going to tune in to Microsoft Studios' showcase since seeing them owning the gaming world made me not want to buy an XBOX nor a Windows PC. (Wonder if Steam Deck is still in the rounds...?) Around that time, I'm also heading to one of my uncle's house to celebrate his birthday there. It's just one day only, so I may have to opt in at a hotel room and sleep in a sofa bed. Good thing I've come prepared!

Tomorrow, I should take a five day break from animating so I can also work on the new thumbnail dedicated to Woody Woodpecker. Make sure y'all B's and G's get yo calendars marked until I say it's up on YouTube! :)

[blastkat]

Celebrate the 30-year anniversary of Jurassic Park with chances to win thrilling prizes, movie-inspired recipes and activities to share! Ends 6/30.