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Thrill Geek
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Thrill Geek
REVIEW – Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment at Universal Epic Universe
Universal Orlando Resort's newest and greatest theme park, Universal Epic Universe, is officially opening on May 22, 2025, and with it, may be one of, if not the best, dark ride ever created for a theme park, Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment. Let's take a closer look at this incredible new attraction coming soon to Universal Epic Universe. The queue Guests embark on their adventure inside the foreboding Frankenstein Manor, a towering structure that dominates the skyline of Dark Universe from the moment you enter the portal. There is no missing it. The queue for the attraction leads you through corridors steeped in gothic architecture and moody, atmospheric lighting, including tons of electric-themed wires and cables. As you progress deeper into the manor, guests encounter intricate set pieces and artifacts that suggest the manor's dark history of experimentation, including a standout exhibit showcasing Boris Karloff's original Frankenstein's monster corpse. One thing I HIGHLY recommend is getting caught up on the classic Universal Monster movies if you have not yet done so. There are several Easter Eggs throughout the attraction queue that you might notice if you're a fan of the classic Universal Monster movies. NOTE: The Universal Monsters in the attraction show up in order of their movie release, starting with The Hunchback of Notre Dame The preshow(s) One of the coolest things about this attraction is that it features not one, but two preshows. The first preshow features Dr. Frankenstein's assistant, Ygor, who introduces guests to the ride's KUKA ride vehicles and provides a glimpse into the experiments' mechanics. Which, for those that don't know, is the same KUKA robotics technology that's used on Harry Potter and The Forbidden Journey. Good news for those who get nauseous on Forbidden Journey due to the screen bubbles, like me! There are NO screen bubbles on Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment, just massive sets, animatronics, and screens that are done incredibly well. The second preshow introduces us to Dr. Victoria Frankenstein, the protagonist of the attraction. It outlines her plan to control the Universal Monsters we know, including Dracula, The Wolf Man, The Creature from the Black Lagoon, and more. This preshow also gives us our first glimpse of the incredibly impressive animatronics on this attraction. Not only is Victoria herself a very impressive animatronic, but you're then introduced to her new version of Frankenstein's Monster. Towering at an impressive nine feet and weighing more than 800 pounds, this animatronic ranks among the largest and most sophisticated ever developed by Universal. And this is just the beginning of the impressive animatronics sprinkled throughout this attraction. NOTE: After the second preshow are the lockers for you to store your personal belongings. There are no metal detectors on the attraction, but it is strongly suggested that you store your loose articles due to the intensity of the attraction. Lockers for small, loose items are available free of charge while you ride. The attraction Unlike Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey at Islands of Adventure, which features a straight loading platform, Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment features a semi-circle loading platform, similar to what you see on Kail River Rapids and Popeye & Bluto's Bilge-Rat Barges. Once boarded, you are then whisked off into the depths of the Frankenstein Manor where Ygor takes control of your ride vehicle and you are once again greeted by Victora Frankenstein, but not before being introduced to two Universal Monsters right off the bat, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, who you might miss if you're not paying attention (look inside the giant bell overhead). And my favorite scene of the entire attraction, The Phantom of the Opera. The Phantom of the Opera scene delivers theatrical flair with explosive fire effects. Guests come face-to-face with the Phantom's impressive pipe organ—a showstopping set piece that erupts with 14 towering jets of flame, each blast choreographed to the haunting notes of his haunting musical tunes. And of course, just like a lot of other rides at Universal Orlando Resort, not everything goes according to plan. Victoria's plans of controlling the Monsters go wrong, and Dracula escapes, thus beginning an over three-minute adventure of Dracula unleashing Universal Monsters on you at every turn. What sets 'Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment' apart from any ride Universal has ever done is the sheer amount of animatronics in the attraction. And impressive ones at that. Some of the most impressive animatronics Universal has ever built are featured in this ride, including Wolf Man, Creature from the Black Lagoon, Mummy, and more. The ride itself is a lot more fluid than Forbidden Journey, with movements being less jerky and a lot smoother between scenes, yet keeping you on the edge of your seat as to what is coming next. One of the greatest things technically about the ride is that Universal was able to use screen technology and integrate it into the ride to make it less obvious that you are just simply staring at a massive screen, such as building massive structures around the screens to hide them. Rise of the Resistance at Disney's Hollywood Studios is a great example of this. Theme parks, whether Disney and/or Universal, are getting a lot better at blurring the line between what is a screen and what isn't one. Conclusion Blending classic Universal Monsters lore with cutting-edge technology, 'Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment' pushes the boundaries of the modern horror theme park attraction. As Epic Universe approaches its grand opening, the attraction is quickly positioning itself as the flagship attraction at Universal Epic Universe, as Team Member previews wrapped up, and now Passholder previews are happening. It took me a while to decide which dark ride is the king of Universal Epic Universe. Between this attraction and the other groundbreaking attraction at Universal Epic Universe, Harry Potter and the Ministry of Magic. I had to go with Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment due to its incredible animatronics, massive set design, special effects, fantastic screen usage, and incredible storytelling, which is sometimes not easy to pull off on an attraction of this scale. Parents, if you're little ones are frightened easily, they may want to sit this one out. The ride is pretty much Halloween Horror Nights as a ride. The ride does feature a 48-inch height requirement to ride. Child Swap is available for Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment. Clint Gamache is the owner of ThrillGeek. He started ThrillGeek to share his love of theme/amusement parks and pop culture with the world. You can find him at Halloween Horror Nights. Also, be sure to follow him on Twitter/X, Instagram @iamcg83
USA Today
23-04-2025
- Entertainment
- USA Today
Which monsters will be at Epic Universe's ‘Dark Universe' land? See rides, restaurants and more
Which monsters will be at Epic Universe's 'Dark Universe' land? See rides, restaurants and more Show Caption Hide Caption See Universal's Dark Universe 'creepy' sneak peek at Epic Universe The Dark Universe at Universal Orlando's Epic Universe brings classic horror staples to life, such as the Bride of Frankenstein and the Invisible Man. Dark Universe at Universal Orlando's Epic Universe brings classic monsters to life. The new themed land features two rides, restaurants, shops, and character meet-and-greets. Guests can experience a monster makeup transformation for an additional cost. Dare to walk amongst the undead? Maybe howl at the moon with werewolves? Or even come across the Creature of the Black Lagoon fresh out of the water? Universal Orlando's Epic Universe will give parkgoers a chance to channel their inner monster at Dark Universe, one of the five immersive lands featured at the new theme park. "There's so much for guests to do and see and discover. I really hope that the strokes that we've taken here feed the monster kids that are out there — the people who really love the legacy. And I hope that it starts a fire of passion for these characters in new audiences," Chris Frisella, executive producer of Dark Universe, said, according to WDWNT. Epic Universe will officially open on Thursday, May 22. It is located in Universal's new south campus, about 15 minutes down the road. The official address is 4700 E. Sand Lake Road in Orlando. What is Dark Universe at Epic Universe? Encounter Universal Classic Monsters Guests will enter Dark Universe from Celestial Park through a portal in a giant dead tree and walk right up to Frankenstein Manor. Described as a "shadowy world where the unknown lurks around every corner," Dark Universe takes Universal Classic Monsters off the screen and places them in real life. Universal says parkgoers will explore a village ravaged by the wrath of unearthly creatures and the monstrous experiments of Dr. Victoria Frankenstein. Oh, and the land's music is composed by Danny Elfman, for extra eerie feels. See map of Universal Orlando's Epic Universe How many rides are in Dark Universe Orlando? IT'S ALIVE … IT'S ALIVE!!! Dark Universe will bring two new attractions to life. Theme park fans have already been scoping out any new details for Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment. It features 14 of the most life-like (and downright terrifying) animated figures ever created, including Dracula, The Wolf Man, and The Creature from the Black Lagoon. " … It will take guests deep into the catacombs of Frankenstein Manor, where Dr. Victoria Frankenstein – the great-great-granddaughter of the infamous Henry Frankenstein – conducts her twisted and misguided experiments," Universal writes. "In a vain display of her genius, she invites guests to witness a demonstration of her ability to control monsters – but her plans go awry when a horde of enraged monsters are unleashed." The land's other ride, Curse of the Werewolf, is also sure to both thrill and chill parkgoers. Deep in the woods that sit on the edge of Darkmoor is a spinning family coaster inspired by 'The Wolf Man.' According to Universal, guests will enter the encampment of The Guild of Mystics, where they'll be greeted by the Maleva, the guild's all-knowing seer and leader, who warns them that they bear the mark of the werewolf. Guests then board a wagon and venture into the forest, racing to escape the werewolves before they become one themselves. What is Epic Universe's 'Darkmoor Monster Makeup Experience'? Guests can channel their inner monster at the Darkmoor Monster Makeup Experience, located in Dark Universe. Skilled artisans will apply face makeup to "experiment or transform" guests into Dracula, Frankenstein's monster, the Bride of Frankenstein, The Wolf Man, The Creature from the Black Lagoon and more. Experiment Ticket (Face Makeup Only): $45 plus tax per person (Face Makeup Only): $45 plus tax per person Transformation Ticket (Face Makeup and Accessories): $169 plus tax per adult; $109 plus tax per child (ages 3 – 9) What are the restaurants at Dark Universe at Epic Universe? There are three quick-service establishments for guests to sink their teeth into: Das Stakehaus - A mysterious restaurant where you can enjoy a hearty meal while "surrounded by vampire artwork and artifacts." - A mysterious restaurant where you can enjoy a hearty meal while "surrounded by vampire artwork and artifacts." The Burning Blade Tavern - Where Darkmoor Village's monster hunters catch and display their monstrous trophies, this tavern offers burgers, wings, bratwursts, pretzels and beverages. Where Darkmoor Village's monster hunters catch and display their monstrous trophies, this tavern offers burgers, wings, bratwursts, pretzels and beverages. De Lacey's Cottage - Near Frankenstein Manor sits De Lacey's Cottage, where you can refresh yourself with a variety of snacks and treats. First taste of Universal Epic Universe: Trying its highly themed food, drinks What are the shops in Dark Universe at Epic Universe? Looking for some spooky souvenirs to bring back home? Dark Universe has three shops for you to stumble across strange and macabre items — Pretorius' Scientific Oddities, The Manor Storehouse, and The Guild of Mystics. Are there character meet-and-greets at Dark Universe? Yes, if you dare. Guests can meet the iconic characters of Dark Universe, including Dr. Victoria Frankenstein's Monster, Bride of Frankenstein, Ygor, and The Invisible Man. There will also be new characters for guests to greet and learn their lore — an eccentric monster hunter and a talented musician who regales guests with songs and tales. What are the other four portals at Universal's Epic Universe? Celestial Park – The first-world guest will encounter when they arrive. The land will feature relaxing gardens, a 'wet play area,' a grand carousel, and a dual-launch racing roller coaster with 5,000 feet of track and speeds up to 62 mph. Celestial Park will also be the gateway to Epic Universe's four other worlds, accessed by themed portals. The first-world guest will encounter when they arrive. The land will feature relaxing gardens, a 'wet play area,' a grand carousel, and a dual-launch racing roller coaster with 5,000 feet of track and speeds up to 62 mph. Celestial Park will also be the gateway to Epic Universe's four other worlds, accessed by themed portals. How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk will give fans of the 'How to Train Your Dragon' franchise a chance to finally soar like Hiccup, Astrid and their fellow Dragon Riders do on screen. will give fans of the 'How to Train Your Dragon' franchise a chance to finally soar like Hiccup, Astrid and their fellow Dragon Riders do on screen. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic will blend "1920s wizarding Paris from Warner Bros. Pictures' 'Fantastic Beasts' films with the iconic British Ministry of Magic from the Harry Potter series,' according to Universal Orlando, which is already home to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley will blend "1920s wizarding Paris from Warner Bros. Pictures' 'Fantastic Beasts' films with the iconic British Ministry of Magic from the Harry Potter series,' according to Universal Orlando, which is already home to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley Super Nintendo World will bring guests into the fan-favorite video game franchise for adventures with Mario, Princess Peach, and more, like at Universal Studios Hollywood. Can I buy tickets to Epic Universe? How much are tickets to Epic Universe? Yes. Guests can purchase single-day admission or multi-day ticket packages to Epic Universe. Single-day tickets are available now for stays starting Sunday, June 1. These tickets start at $139 and can go up to $199 during peak periods. Annual pass holders can purchase single-day tickets at a discounted price. May dates are unavailable unless you choose the multi-day ticket packages that were announced last year. The packages all include one or more days at Universal's other parks and a single day admission to Epic Universe. Universal has also announced other products guests can add onto their admission, including express passes, VIP Tours, photos and costume experiences.
Express Tribune
05-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Express Tribune
Universal's Dark Universe brings classic monsters to life at Epic Universe
Universal's Epic Universe opens May 22, 2025, with Dark Universe reviving classic monsters in a chilling themed land. Guests enter through a massive dead tree and step into the village of Darkmoor, where unearthly creatures roam and the legacy of Frankenstein lives on. The area features two main attractions, themed dining, monster-inspired shops, and interactive character meet-and-greets. The flagship ride, Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment, takes guests deep into Frankenstein Manor, where Dr. Victoria Frankenstein's monstrous experiments unravel. This dark ride features 14 advanced animatronic figures including Dracula, The Wolf Man, and The Creature from the Black Lagoon. The second ride, Curse of the Werewolf, is a spinning family coaster inspired by The Wolf Man. Riders are warned by a seer from the Guild of Mystics before racing through haunted woods in wagons, trying to escape a werewolf curse. Visitors can also transform into their favorite creature at the Darkmoor Monster Makeup Experience. Options include the $45 Experiment Ticket (face makeup) or the $169 Transformation Ticket (face makeup + accessories for adults). With music composed by Danny Elfman and iconic horror lore brought to life, Dark Universe promises a uniquely thrilling experience for monster fans of all ages.
