Universal Parks & Resorts has announced plans to open major new entertainment rides based on the
Transformers blockbuster at two of its parks.
The new ride will fuse high definition 3D cinema with special effects and animatronics to create a ride system that will, according to a Universal spokesperson, "transform perceptions of theme park experiences".
The rides are scheduled to make their debuts in early 2011, first at Universal Studios Singapore and then at Universal Studios Hollywood. Acclaimed film director Steven Spielberg will act as creative consultant on the project.
Tom Williams, chair and CEO of 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, added: "'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."
Transformers broke box office records on its way to gathering worldwide gross revenues of more than US$706m – the highest non-sequel gross of any movie in 2007 – and three Academy Award nominations. The sequel, Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen is scheduled to be released by Paramount Pictures in the U.S. on June 26, 2009.
When open, the US$6bn Universal Studios Singapore, on the resort island of Sentosa, will span 49 hectares and will include the world's largest oceanarium and the region's first integrated destination spa.
The resort will also boasts 1,800 rooms, spread across its six hotels of varying themes, with full conference and meeting amenities.
