A few weeks ago, Universal Studios Orlando debuted a new nighttime show in celebration of 100 years of movies from Universal Studios. This is one of the many new attractions that is part of Univeral’s “Year to Be Here” that are debuting in Orlando.
The new show is called Universal’s Cinematic Spectacular. Spectacular is the right description for it. Universal showcases several of its classic movies by featuring clips in segments of the show. The segments vary from 100 Years of Heros to 100 Years of Horror to 100 Years of Laughter. Some of the movies featured include such favorites as Back to the Future, Psycho, The Mummy, American Pie, and Gladiator.
The show is narrated by Morgan Freeman. It has three water screens in the Universal Studios lagoon where the movie clips are projected. The screens can be seen from multiple locations along the lagoon, with the most popular location being the decks near Mel’s Drive In. In addition to the water screens, the show has water fountains, water fan screens and colorful lights between the larger water sceens. To top it off the show includes fireworks to enhance the films and featured moments.
I was able to see the show at a preview in April and returned to see it during the opening week. During the preview it appeared that they were testing the water screens that the movies are projected onto, however, once the attraction officially opened the preshow was full of surprises on the water screen. I highly recommend getting there early enough to see these surprises.
A few viewing tips…
– find your spot at least a half hour before the show. While both times that I’ve seen the show the crowds were low, I have no idea how the larger summer crowds will affect your ability to get a good view of the show.
– on windy nights, be aware of which way the wind is blowing. The lagoon is narrow and you are close to the screens, water fountains and water fans and on windy days you will get wet. The lagoon is surrounded by signs indicating the “splash zones.”
– be sure to have a view of the sky. Don’t forget that the show includes fireworks around the lagoon!
If you’re not able to get to Universal soon, here is a video I took during the preview night. I hope you enjoy the show!
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