In Summer 2024, Universal Orlando Resort will debut a collection of new, must-see experiences that offer exciting entertainment for the whole family from day to night. The lineup of summertime adventures includes the June 14 grand opening of DreamWorks Land, the vibrant new themed environment inspired by beloved characters from DreamWorks Animation’s Shrek, Trolls, and Kung Fu Panda.
Also coming is CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular, a riveting new nighttime lagoon show, and Hogwarts Always, an all-new castle projection show in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade. On July 3, guests will enjoy the debut of Universal’s largest daytime parade to date, the Universal Mega Movie Parade.
“We are thrilled to debut an array of never-before-seen experiences for the entire family to enjoy from day to night,” said Karen Irwin, President and COO of Universal Orlando Resort. “These new experiences—coupled with the amazing attractions currently in our theme parks—will...
Also coming is CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular, a riveting new nighttime lagoon show, and Hogwarts Always, an all-new castle projection show in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade. On July 3, guests will enjoy the debut of Universal’s largest daytime parade to date, the Universal Mega Movie Parade.
“We are thrilled to debut an array of never-before-seen experiences for the entire family to enjoy from day to night,” said Karen Irwin, President and COO of Universal Orlando Resort. “These new experiences—coupled with the amazing attractions currently in our theme parks—will...
- 4/30/2024
- by Mirko Parlevliet
- Vital Thrills
Universal Orlando Resort has revealed the first official look at one of five new lands slated to open as part of its Universal Epic Universe park, and confirmed the themes of three additional lands.
On Tuesday, the Florida-based NBCUniversal theme park and resort teased Celestial Park, a land that embodies the literal “park” experience with lush, living gardens, shimmering waterways and stroll-worthy paths alongside astronomical and mythological-inspired architecture. It also confirmed the themes of Epic Universe’s three previously unannounced parks beyond Super Nintendo World: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter — Ministry of Magic, How to Train Your Dragon — Isle of Berk and Dark Universe.
“Universal Epic Universe marks a huge transformational moment for Universal Orlando Resort and it will change everything about our destination,” Karen Irwin, president and chief operating officer of Universal Orlando Resort, said in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter. “This will be the exciting culmination...
On Tuesday, the Florida-based NBCUniversal theme park and resort teased Celestial Park, a land that embodies the literal “park” experience with lush, living gardens, shimmering waterways and stroll-worthy paths alongside astronomical and mythological-inspired architecture. It also confirmed the themes of Epic Universe’s three previously unannounced parks beyond Super Nintendo World: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter — Ministry of Magic, How to Train Your Dragon — Isle of Berk and Dark Universe.
“Universal Epic Universe marks a huge transformational moment for Universal Orlando Resort and it will change everything about our destination,” Karen Irwin, president and chief operating officer of Universal Orlando Resort, said in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter. “This will be the exciting culmination...
- 1/30/2024
- by Abbey White
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The Universal Orlando Resort theme park has added a new banana-loving attraction: Minion Land. The destination off the animation-studio-themed Illumination Avenue officially opened Friday.
The “Minions”-themed section will include the theme park’s newest attraction, Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast. The shooter game lets guests of all ages take aim at some of the biggest villains from the “Despicable Me” franchise as they see if they have what it takes to become a supervillainous member of the Vicious 6 themselves.
The ride marks Universal Orlando’s first phone-connected gameplay attraction. Using the park’s app, guests can sync their blasters to their phones. That lets them track their scores, start special missions in the attraction, earn digital collectibles and unlock other perks, including special blasts for their blasters.
Minion Land also adds new dining options, including the Minion Cafe; the walk-up location Pop-a-Nana, which features banana-flavored popcorn; and the walk-up dessert shop Freeze Ray Pops.
The “Minions”-themed section will include the theme park’s newest attraction, Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast. The shooter game lets guests of all ages take aim at some of the biggest villains from the “Despicable Me” franchise as they see if they have what it takes to become a supervillainous member of the Vicious 6 themselves.
The ride marks Universal Orlando’s first phone-connected gameplay attraction. Using the park’s app, guests can sync their blasters to their phones. That lets them track their scores, start special missions in the attraction, earn digital collectibles and unlock other perks, including special blasts for their blasters.
Minion Land also adds new dining options, including the Minion Cafe; the walk-up location Pop-a-Nana, which features banana-flavored popcorn; and the walk-up dessert shop Freeze Ray Pops.
- 8/11/2023
- by Kayla Cobb
- The Wrap
Universal Studios Hollywood president Karen Irwin will lead Universal Orlando as the current president of the Florida theme resort is set to retire after 15 years, the company announced Wednesday.
In other developments, it was announced Tom Mehrmann, who most recently serves as president of Universal Beijing Resort, is taking on the newly created role as president, Pacific Rim, Universal Parks & Resorts, overseeing Universal Studios Hollywood, Universal Studios Japan and Universal Beijing Resort.
The leadership changes will be effective Jan. 1, as Mark Woodbury, currently the president of Universal Creative and vice chairman, becomes chairman and CEO for Universal ...
In other developments, it was announced Tom Mehrmann, who most recently serves as president of Universal Beijing Resort, is taking on the newly created role as president, Pacific Rim, Universal Parks & Resorts, overseeing Universal Studios Hollywood, Universal Studios Japan and Universal Beijing Resort.
The leadership changes will be effective Jan. 1, as Mark Woodbury, currently the president of Universal Creative and vice chairman, becomes chairman and CEO for Universal ...
- 12/2/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
Universal Studios Hollywood president Karen Irwin will lead Universal Orlando as the current president of the Florida theme resort is set to retire after 15 years, the company announced Wednesday.
In other developments, it was announced Tom Mehrmann, who most recently serves as president of Universal Beijing Resort, is taking on the newly created role as president, Pacific Rim, Universal Parks & Resorts, overseeing Universal Studios Hollywood, Universal Studios Japan and Universal Beijing Resort.
The leadership changes will be effective Jan. 1, as Mark Woodbury, currently the president of Universal Creative and vice chairman, becomes chairman and CEO for Universal ...
In other developments, it was announced Tom Mehrmann, who most recently serves as president of Universal Beijing Resort, is taking on the newly created role as president, Pacific Rim, Universal Parks & Resorts, overseeing Universal Studios Hollywood, Universal Studios Japan and Universal Beijing Resort.
The leadership changes will be effective Jan. 1, as Mark Woodbury, currently the president of Universal Creative and vice chairman, becomes chairman and CEO for Universal ...
- 12/2/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Universal Parks & Resorts made a number of big announcements today, among them that Karen Irwin, President of Universal Studios Hollywood, will become President of Universal Orlando Resort. That property’s current president, Bill Davis, is retiring after 15 years at his post.
Irwin began her career with Universal in Orlando. Most recently, she led the development and opening of The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash at the Hollywood park. That project was recently named Outstanding Achievement – Attraction by the Themed Entertainment Association.
The company also revealed that Tom Mehrmann, who recently served as President of Universal Beijing Resort, will take on a newly created role as President, Pacific Rim, Universal Parks & Resorts. In that capacity he will oversee Universal Studios Hollywood, Universal Studios Japan and Universal Beijing Resort.
The move is meant to leverage what the company calls Mehrmann’s “significant domestic and international industry experience to create a shared,...
Irwin began her career with Universal in Orlando. Most recently, she led the development and opening of The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash at the Hollywood park. That project was recently named Outstanding Achievement – Attraction by the Themed Entertainment Association.
The company also revealed that Tom Mehrmann, who recently served as President of Universal Beijing Resort, will take on a newly created role as President, Pacific Rim, Universal Parks & Resorts. In that capacity he will oversee Universal Studios Hollywood, Universal Studios Japan and Universal Beijing Resort.
The move is meant to leverage what the company calls Mehrmann’s “significant domestic and international industry experience to create a shared,...
- 12/2/2021
- by Tom Tapp
- Deadline Film + TV
Universal Studios Hollywood officially reopened Friday to California residents with new and revamped attractions including Jurassic World—The Ride and The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash!.
Annual and Season Pass Members attended a preview yesterday. The park announced its reopening plans March 30. Most but not all rides are operational while the park works with health and government officials on procedures for controlled capacity, physical distancing and required face coverings. Party size is limited to three households.
“We have been looking forward to this moment for over a year and are incredibly thrilled to reopen our theme park today,” said Karen Irwin, President & COO, Universal Studios Hollywood. “There is certainly lots to celebrate and we are overjoyed to return team members to work and welcome guests back to enjoy a Universal Studios Hollywood experience that is better than ever.”
Fans on Twitter are particularly taken with the Jurassic World...
Annual and Season Pass Members attended a preview yesterday. The park announced its reopening plans March 30. Most but not all rides are operational while the park works with health and government officials on procedures for controlled capacity, physical distancing and required face coverings. Party size is limited to three households.
“We have been looking forward to this moment for over a year and are incredibly thrilled to reopen our theme park today,” said Karen Irwin, President & COO, Universal Studios Hollywood. “There is certainly lots to celebrate and we are overjoyed to return team members to work and welcome guests back to enjoy a Universal Studios Hollywood experience that is better than ever.”
Fans on Twitter are particularly taken with the Jurassic World...
- 4/16/2021
- by Jill Goldsmith
- Deadline Film + TV
Universal Studios Hollywood will reopen on Friday, April 16. Tickets go on sale Thursday, April 8, the park announced today. There will be a special park preview for annual and season pass members starting on Thursday, April 15.
The park has been shuttered for more than a year. Want Disney said recently that Disneyland will be reopening at limited capacity on April 30.
“We are incredibly thrilled to finally be able to open Universal Studios Hollywood, return team members to work and welcome guests back to enjoy our amazing rides,” said Karen Irwin, President & COO, Universal Studios Hollywood. “It has been a very challenging year and we are overjoyed to have arrived at this moment.”
The announcement said most rides will be operational but some rides and attractions will reopen at a later date to comply with government restrictions. Those regs also mean the park will only be open to California residents at first.
The park has been shuttered for more than a year. Want Disney said recently that Disneyland will be reopening at limited capacity on April 30.
“We are incredibly thrilled to finally be able to open Universal Studios Hollywood, return team members to work and welcome guests back to enjoy our amazing rides,” said Karen Irwin, President & COO, Universal Studios Hollywood. “It has been a very challenging year and we are overjoyed to have arrived at this moment.”
The announcement said most rides will be operational but some rides and attractions will reopen at a later date to comply with government restrictions. Those regs also mean the park will only be open to California residents at first.
- 3/30/2021
- by Jill Goldsmith
- Deadline Film + TV
Universal Studios Hollywood will reopen its doors on Friday, April 16.
While most rides will be operational, some rides and attractions will reopen at a later date as the theme park complies with government restrictions. Universal Studios Hollywood continues to work in partnership with health and government officials to implement new health and safety procedures that include controlled capacity to enforce physical distancing and required face coverings.
In accordance with government guidelines, only California residents may visit the theme park at this time. Tickets to Universal Studios Hollywood will be available beginning on Thursday, April 8.
“We are incredibly thrilled to finally be able to open Universal Studios Hollywood, return team members to work and welcome guests back to enjoy our amazing rides,” Karen Irwin, president and COO of Universal Studios Hollywood, said. “It has been a very challenging year and we are overjoyed to have arrived at this moment.”
Disneyland has...
While most rides will be operational, some rides and attractions will reopen at a later date as the theme park complies with government restrictions. Universal Studios Hollywood continues to work in partnership with health and government officials to implement new health and safety procedures that include controlled capacity to enforce physical distancing and required face coverings.
In accordance with government guidelines, only California residents may visit the theme park at this time. Tickets to Universal Studios Hollywood will be available beginning on Thursday, April 8.
“We are incredibly thrilled to finally be able to open Universal Studios Hollywood, return team members to work and welcome guests back to enjoy our amazing rides,” Karen Irwin, president and COO of Universal Studios Hollywood, said. “It has been a very challenging year and we are overjoyed to have arrived at this moment.”
Disneyland has...
- 3/30/2021
- by Tim Baysinger
- The Wrap
Universal Studios Hollywood on Tuesday announced the Los Angeles theme park would reopen on April 16. Tickets go on sale Thursday, April 8.
“We are incredibly thrilled to finally be able to open Universal Studios Hollywood, return team members to work and welcome guests back to enjoy our amazing rides,” Karen Irwin, President & COO, Universal Studios Hollywood said in a statement. “It has been a very challenging year and we are overjoyed to have arrived at this moment.”
Universal Studios, like the rest of the major theme parks in Southern California, has been shuttered since March of last year....
“We are incredibly thrilled to finally be able to open Universal Studios Hollywood, return team members to work and welcome guests back to enjoy our amazing rides,” Karen Irwin, President & COO, Universal Studios Hollywood said in a statement. “It has been a very challenging year and we are overjoyed to have arrived at this moment.”
Universal Studios, like the rest of the major theme parks in Southern California, has been shuttered since March of last year....
- 3/30/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
Universal Studios Hollywood on Tuesday announced the Los Angeles theme park would reopen on April 16. Tickets go on sale Thursday, April 8.
“We are incredibly thrilled to finally be able to open Universal Studios Hollywood, return team members to work and welcome guests back to enjoy our amazing rides,” Karen Irwin, President & COO, Universal Studios Hollywood said in a statement. “It has been a very challenging year and we are overjoyed to have arrived at this moment.”
Universal Studios, like the rest of the major theme parks in Southern California, has been shuttered since March of last year....
“We are incredibly thrilled to finally be able to open Universal Studios Hollywood, return team members to work and welcome guests back to enjoy our amazing rides,” Karen Irwin, President & COO, Universal Studios Hollywood said in a statement. “It has been a very challenging year and we are overjoyed to have arrived at this moment.”
Universal Studios, like the rest of the major theme parks in Southern California, has been shuttered since March of last year....
- 3/30/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
With Los Angeles County and Orange County’s Covid-19 cases subsiding enough for each region to potentially leave the most-heightened tier of restrictions, and Disneyland hoping to reopen its gates by late April, thousands of Southern California’s theme park workers are poised to return to work after enduring a grueling yearlong shutdown of the region’s amusement parks.
Disneyland, the second-most popular theme park in the world, has plans to bring back 10,000 furloughed workers for its reopening, announced Walt Disney Company CEO Bob Chapek at the company’s annual shareholder meeting Tuesday. The news followed adjusted guidelines from California officials that will allow theme parks, ballparks and stadiums to reopen as early as April 1, so long as they meet certain virus case rate thresholds.
While in line to get her Covid-19 vaccination, Unite Here Local 11 co-president Susan Minato told Variety on Monday, a day before to Chapek’s announcement,...
Disneyland, the second-most popular theme park in the world, has plans to bring back 10,000 furloughed workers for its reopening, announced Walt Disney Company CEO Bob Chapek at the company’s annual shareholder meeting Tuesday. The news followed adjusted guidelines from California officials that will allow theme parks, ballparks and stadiums to reopen as early as April 1, so long as they meet certain virus case rate thresholds.
While in line to get her Covid-19 vaccination, Unite Here Local 11 co-president Susan Minato told Variety on Monday, a day before to Chapek’s announcement,...
- 3/10/2021
- by Elaine Low
- Variety Film + TV
“We can’t wait,” wrote Disneyland Resort President Ken Potrock on Friday. Potrock was reacting to the announcement by California health officials that the state will allow reopening of outdoor stadiums, ball parks and theme parks beginning April 1st.
Potrock, in a statement posted to the official Disney Parks News Twitter account, added that park management and employees “look forward to sharing an official opening date soon.”
That’s because Orange County, where Disneyland is located, needs to make progress on its Covid-19 metrics before parks there can reopen. In the state’s newly-adjusted Blueprint for a Safer Economy, theme parks may open when their host county reaches the red tier. Orange and Los Angeles counties are currently one level above, in the more severe purple tier. But they could qualify for the red tier as soon as March 29. Numbers in both counties are expected to reach the red tier threshold this Tuesday.
Potrock, in a statement posted to the official Disney Parks News Twitter account, added that park management and employees “look forward to sharing an official opening date soon.”
That’s because Orange County, where Disneyland is located, needs to make progress on its Covid-19 metrics before parks there can reopen. In the state’s newly-adjusted Blueprint for a Safer Economy, theme parks may open when their host county reaches the red tier. Orange and Los Angeles counties are currently one level above, in the more severe purple tier. But they could qualify for the red tier as soon as March 29. Numbers in both counties are expected to reach the red tier threshold this Tuesday.
- 3/6/2021
- by Tom Tapp
- Deadline Film + TV
California health officials announced on Friday that the state will allow reopening of outdoor stadiums, ball parks and theme parks beginning April 1st.
The Department of Health says events and venues are for California residents only. Masks will be mandatory.
Live performances/sports with fans can begin in all tiers of the state’s Blueprint for a Safer Economy. Theme parks open in Red tier, which for Los Angeles, could be as soon as March 29. Numbers in L.A. County are expected to reach the red tier threshold next Tuesday. They then just need to stay there for three consecutive weeks to qualify LA parks for reopening.
When the counties reach the red tier, theme parks can open at 15% of overall capacity. When they advance to the orange tier, capacity will be increased to 25%. In the least-restrictive yellow tier, a capacity of 35% will be allowed.
Breaking: Disneyland Resort Theme Parks...
The Department of Health says events and venues are for California residents only. Masks will be mandatory.
Live performances/sports with fans can begin in all tiers of the state’s Blueprint for a Safer Economy. Theme parks open in Red tier, which for Los Angeles, could be as soon as March 29. Numbers in L.A. County are expected to reach the red tier threshold next Tuesday. They then just need to stay there for three consecutive weeks to qualify LA parks for reopening.
When the counties reach the red tier, theme parks can open at 15% of overall capacity. When they advance to the orange tier, capacity will be increased to 25%. In the least-restrictive yellow tier, a capacity of 35% will be allowed.
Breaking: Disneyland Resort Theme Parks...
- 3/5/2021
- by Tom Tapp
- Deadline Film + TV
Almost exactly a year since the park closed due to Covid-19, Universal Studios Hollywood will take its first step in re-opening with “Taste of Universal,” an outdoor dining and shopping experience taking place within select themed lands. The event will take place Friday to Sunday from noon to 7:00 p.m. beginning Friday, March 12.
The move comes about two weeks after Disneyland officials released announced their own very similar mini reopening in Anaheim. That limited-capacity ticketed event will be called “A Touch of Disney.” It’s worth noting that the date for Universal’s event will let it reopen before Disneyland.
Universal Studios Hollywood said it is working closely with local health and government officials to implement new health and safety procedures that include controlled capacity to enforce physical distancing and required face coverings.
This experience will allow guests to sample the park’s best culinary offerings and premium shopping...
The move comes about two weeks after Disneyland officials released announced their own very similar mini reopening in Anaheim. That limited-capacity ticketed event will be called “A Touch of Disney.” It’s worth noting that the date for Universal’s event will let it reopen before Disneyland.
Universal Studios Hollywood said it is working closely with local health and government officials to implement new health and safety procedures that include controlled capacity to enforce physical distancing and required face coverings.
This experience will allow guests to sample the park’s best culinary offerings and premium shopping...
- 3/4/2021
- by Tom Tapp
- Deadline Film + TV
On Thursday, two California Assembly Members representing districts impacted greatly by the closure of Disneyland and Six Flags Magic Mountain were set to co-sponsor a bill that will place all theme parks in the “Orange – Moderate – Tier 3” of the state’s Covid-19 Industry Guidance for Amusement Parks and Theme Parks. The guidance in Governor Gavin Newsom’s Blueprint for a Safer Economy currently restricts theme parks from reopening until the county they are located in achieves the “Yellow – Minimal – Tier 4.”
Even then, the guest limit at parks would be 25% and indoor dining establishments could only operate at 25% capacity. Disneyland, Magic Mountain and Knott’s Berry Farm all closed in March 2020.
Amusement park operators have long chafed at what they considered the too restrictive demands placed on them by Newsom’s Blueprint. They argue that there has not been a single documented case at a theme park, and The California Attractions...
Even then, the guest limit at parks would be 25% and indoor dining establishments could only operate at 25% capacity. Disneyland, Magic Mountain and Knott’s Berry Farm all closed in March 2020.
Amusement park operators have long chafed at what they considered the too restrictive demands placed on them by Newsom’s Blueprint. They argue that there has not been a single documented case at a theme park, and The California Attractions...
- 2/4/2021
- by Tom Tapp
- Deadline Film + TV
Updated with the latest: Just minutes after California Governor Gavin Newsom reiterated his support for stringent rules around the reopening of theme parks in the state, the California Attractions and Parks Association, a trade group that represents theme parks, issued a response.
In it, Capa executive director Erin Guerrero asked the governor for the data supporting his decision to treat large and small parks in the state differently.
Per Capa:
We continue to ask the administration to share any data or science related to theme parks that they are using to inform their decision to keep the major theme parks closed indefinitely while allowing similar venues to reopen. Parks have been opened throughout the country and world for months and we have seen no data indicating that Covid outbreaks are being traced back to theme parks. If they can reopen safely in other states and countries, then why not in California?...
In it, Capa executive director Erin Guerrero asked the governor for the data supporting his decision to treat large and small parks in the state differently.
Per Capa:
We continue to ask the administration to share any data or science related to theme parks that they are using to inform their decision to keep the major theme parks closed indefinitely while allowing similar venues to reopen. Parks have been opened throughout the country and world for months and we have seen no data indicating that Covid outbreaks are being traced back to theme parks. If they can reopen safely in other states and countries, then why not in California?...
- 10/27/2020
- by Tom Tapp
- Deadline Film + TV
Theme park executives from Disneyland, Universal Studios Hollywood, Legoland and the company that operates Knott’s Berry Farm came together on Wednesday to decry what they see as an edict handed down by the State of California and Governor Gavin Newsom on Tuesday. Officials say the state guidelines make it nearly impossible for them to reopen. Some hinted at legal action.
When asked about legal recourse Erin Guerrero, Executive Director of the California Attractions and Parks Association said, “I think that all options are open at this point. Our number one goal is to reopen responsibly.”
Raffi Kaprelyan, Regional Vice President of Cedar Fair, which operates Knott’s Berry Farm expressed dismay that recent visits from state health officers appeared to have been “just a show.”
Disneyland Resort President Ken Potrock said the teams of state officials who visited parks in Orange County and Florida seemed “incredibly through.” Each of the...
When asked about legal recourse Erin Guerrero, Executive Director of the California Attractions and Parks Association said, “I think that all options are open at this point. Our number one goal is to reopen responsibly.”
Raffi Kaprelyan, Regional Vice President of Cedar Fair, which operates Knott’s Berry Farm expressed dismay that recent visits from state health officers appeared to have been “just a show.”
Disneyland Resort President Ken Potrock said the teams of state officials who visited parks in Orange County and Florida seemed “incredibly through.” Each of the...
- 10/21/2020
- by Tom Tapp
- Deadline Film + TV
Just minutes after California’s Director of Health and Human Services on Tuesday unveiled restrictive new guidelines under which amusement parks in the state could reopen, the industry fired back.
“We have proven that we can responsibly reopen, with science-based health and safety protocols strictly enforced at our theme park properties around the world,” said Disneyland Resort president Ken Potrock. “Nevertheless, the State of California continues to ignore this fact, instead mandating arbitrary guidelines that it knows are unworkable and that hold us to a standard vastly different from other reopened businesses and state-operated facilities.”
California’s director of Health and Human Services Dr. Mark Ghaly said on Tuesday that smaller theme parks can resume operations in the state’s Orange Tier. Capacity will be limited to 25% or 500 visitors, whichever is fewer. Only outdoor attractions may reopen and only to guests who are residents of the same county.
All theme...
“We have proven that we can responsibly reopen, with science-based health and safety protocols strictly enforced at our theme park properties around the world,” said Disneyland Resort president Ken Potrock. “Nevertheless, the State of California continues to ignore this fact, instead mandating arbitrary guidelines that it knows are unworkable and that hold us to a standard vastly different from other reopened businesses and state-operated facilities.”
California’s director of Health and Human Services Dr. Mark Ghaly said on Tuesday that smaller theme parks can resume operations in the state’s Orange Tier. Capacity will be limited to 25% or 500 visitors, whichever is fewer. Only outdoor attractions may reopen and only to guests who are residents of the same county.
All theme...
- 10/20/2020
- by Tom Tapp
- Deadline Film + TV
Here are five top media-tech biz happenings that you might have missed from last week:
1.) AMC says when (some) light at the end of the tunnel could arrive.
Almost all (97%) of AMC theaters will reopen in July, ending a painfully long 4 month wait-and-see period. Studio heads will be keeping a close watch on Solstice’s “Unhinged,” out July 10, and Christopher Nolan’s “Tenet” (now releasing July 31), long seen as the launching pad for the post-covid-19 lockdown saved-for-later slew of blockbusters. While exhibitors are more than happy to take whatever they can quickly get in July, the problem is many still indicate they won’t be comfortable at theaters for a while (certainly beyond July for some). Greater than expected consumer trepidation could cause media execs to more heavily lean on their D2Cs as feature film distribution avenues.
2.) The commingling of Silicon Valley and Reliance Industries increases.
Reliance Industries, one of India’s most-valuable firms,...
1.) AMC says when (some) light at the end of the tunnel could arrive.
Almost all (97%) of AMC theaters will reopen in July, ending a painfully long 4 month wait-and-see period. Studio heads will be keeping a close watch on Solstice’s “Unhinged,” out July 10, and Christopher Nolan’s “Tenet” (now releasing July 31), long seen as the launching pad for the post-covid-19 lockdown saved-for-later slew of blockbusters. While exhibitors are more than happy to take whatever they can quickly get in July, the problem is many still indicate they won’t be comfortable at theaters for a while (certainly beyond July for some). Greater than expected consumer trepidation could cause media execs to more heavily lean on their D2Cs as feature film distribution avenues.
2.) The commingling of Silicon Valley and Reliance Industries increases.
Reliance Industries, one of India’s most-valuable firms,...
- 6/15/2020
- by Kevin Tran
- Variety Film + TV
Donna Langley, chairman of Universal Filmed Entertainment Group, has called on Los Angeles County authorities to resume all film and television production, following the submission of a 22-page blueprint outlining coronavirus safety guidelines.
Representing the wider industry on a conference call with the county’s Economic Resilience Task Force on Tuesday, Langley highlighted a white paper report delivered to California Governor Gavin Newsom on Monday and asked that production resume immediately. TV and film sets have been shuttered since mid-March as the pandemic took hold of the country.
“If there is any delay in lifting overall restrictions on filming activities based on protocols and procedures outlined in the white paper, we’d like you to identify and authorize certain sector roles and job functions that can immediately resume with appropriate safety protocols in place,” Langley said.
Lower-risk jobs Langley referred to included pre- and post-production, set construction, video editing and...
Representing the wider industry on a conference call with the county’s Economic Resilience Task Force on Tuesday, Langley highlighted a white paper report delivered to California Governor Gavin Newsom on Monday and asked that production resume immediately. TV and film sets have been shuttered since mid-March as the pandemic took hold of the country.
“If there is any delay in lifting overall restrictions on filming activities based on protocols and procedures outlined in the white paper, we’d like you to identify and authorize certain sector roles and job functions that can immediately resume with appropriate safety protocols in place,” Langley said.
Lower-risk jobs Langley referred to included pre- and post-production, set construction, video editing and...
- 6/2/2020
- by Matt Donnelly
- Variety Film + TV
Deadline reported yesterday that the 22-page “Proposed Health and Safety Guidelines for Motion Picture, Television, and Streaming Productions During the Covid-19 Pandemic” document was sent to New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo and California Gov. Gavin Newsom on Monday.
There was no response from Newsom’s office on Monday as to whether it had received the white paper. No word either from Cuomo’s folks as to whether they have laid eyes on the report either. View the document in its entirety here.
But one very important group of officials has seen the report.
On Tuesday, leaders in the film, sports, TV and theme park businesses presented those plans for reopening to the powerful Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, urging county officials to allow them to move as quickly as safely possible.
Members of the Economic Resiliency Task Force — including NBCU’s Jeff Shell and Wasserman Media Group CEO Casey Wasserman...
There was no response from Newsom’s office on Monday as to whether it had received the white paper. No word either from Cuomo’s folks as to whether they have laid eyes on the report either. View the document in its entirety here.
But one very important group of officials has seen the report.
On Tuesday, leaders in the film, sports, TV and theme park businesses presented those plans for reopening to the powerful Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, urging county officials to allow them to move as quickly as safely possible.
Members of the Economic Resiliency Task Force — including NBCU’s Jeff Shell and Wasserman Media Group CEO Casey Wasserman...
- 6/2/2020
- by Tom Tapp
- Deadline Film + TV
Theme parks in Los Angeles County are urging local officials to allow them to reopen between mid-June and July 1, arguing that they can do so safely.
Karen Irwin, president and chief operating officer of Universal Studios Hollywood, asked the L.A. County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday to allow theme park workers to return to work immediately in order to prepare for a reopening. The county’s amusement parks include Six Flags Magic Mountain and Pacific Park at the Santa Monica Pier.
She said that it is a “misperception” that theme parks should be among the last facilities to reopen, noting that park visitors spend most of their time outdoors.
“Theme parks actually offer a more controlled environment than beaches, gardens or hiking trails,” said Irwin, speaking at a meeting of the county’s Economic Resiliency Task Force. She said that the industry is developing protective measures that will allow for physical distancing,...
Karen Irwin, president and chief operating officer of Universal Studios Hollywood, asked the L.A. County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday to allow theme park workers to return to work immediately in order to prepare for a reopening. The county’s amusement parks include Six Flags Magic Mountain and Pacific Park at the Santa Monica Pier.
She said that it is a “misperception” that theme parks should be among the last facilities to reopen, noting that park visitors spend most of their time outdoors.
“Theme parks actually offer a more controlled environment than beaches, gardens or hiking trails,” said Irwin, speaking at a meeting of the county’s Economic Resiliency Task Force. She said that the industry is developing protective measures that will allow for physical distancing,...
- 6/2/2020
- by Elaine Low and Gene Maddaus
- Variety Film + TV
Universal Studios Hollywood has announced that it will open a theme park ride based on “The Secret Life of Pets” next year.
The news about the upcoming ride, titled “The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash!,” came on Wednesday, two months before the sequel opens on June 7. It will be located adjacent to the “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem” attraction.
The ride will take theme park customers in vehicles through recreations of New York City streets toward a pet adoption event. Like the 2016 animated hit, the ride will explore what pets do when their owners aren’t home.
“We are thrilled to be able to bring another exciting Illumination movie-based ride to our guests,” said Karen Irwin, president and chief operating officer of Universal Studios Hollywood, in a statement. “’The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash!’ will capture the essence of the popular film and invite our guests to...
The news about the upcoming ride, titled “The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash!,” came on Wednesday, two months before the sequel opens on June 7. It will be located adjacent to the “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem” attraction.
The ride will take theme park customers in vehicles through recreations of New York City streets toward a pet adoption event. Like the 2016 animated hit, the ride will explore what pets do when their owners aren’t home.
“We are thrilled to be able to bring another exciting Illumination movie-based ride to our guests,” said Karen Irwin, president and chief operating officer of Universal Studios Hollywood, in a statement. “’The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash!’ will capture the essence of the popular film and invite our guests to...
- 4/10/2019
- by Dave McNary
- Variety Film + TV
As Universal nears the June release of its sequel to The Secret Life of Pets, it has announced plans for a ride spawned from the Illumination animated franchise that will open in 2020 at Universal Studios Hollywood.
Pet adoption is the main concept of the ride, whose subtitle is “Off the Leash.” Theme-park guests will take on the role of stray puppies, joining characters from the movies, among them Max, Snowball, Gidget, Chloe and Duke.
“We are thrilled to be able to bring another exciting Illumination movie-based ride to our guests,” said Karen Irwin, President and COO, Universal Studios Hollywood. “’The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash!’ will capture the essence of the popular film and invite our guests to live vicariously through some of their favorite characters as they embark on a one-of-a-kind experience only available at Universal Studios Hollywood.”
The ride will blend live, dimensional and animated characters...
Pet adoption is the main concept of the ride, whose subtitle is “Off the Leash.” Theme-park guests will take on the role of stray puppies, joining characters from the movies, among them Max, Snowball, Gidget, Chloe and Duke.
“We are thrilled to be able to bring another exciting Illumination movie-based ride to our guests,” said Karen Irwin, President and COO, Universal Studios Hollywood. “’The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash!’ will capture the essence of the popular film and invite our guests to live vicariously through some of their favorite characters as they embark on a one-of-a-kind experience only available at Universal Studios Hollywood.”
The ride will blend live, dimensional and animated characters...
- 4/10/2019
- by Dade Hayes
- Deadline Film + TV
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