King Kong Speculation Thread

[ChrisM]

^ I for one am very excited for this. I really miss the big ape. I just hope they don't rehash the same set up of multiple pre shows and the old ride system. I think they should scrap it all and re examine something similar to the original proposition for the Earthquake attraction.

You would be riding a trolley car, above surface. Maybe have a preshow in a theatre where Kong escapes. Then we are evacuated via trolley into the streets of San Fransisco. Or perhaps this, an elevated train/ trolley that was planned but never built. (http://sf.curbed.com/archives/2012/11/21/san_franciscos_version_of_the_el_train.php).

Anyway I feel like that would open a lot more opportunities for interesting action sequences opposed to an underground subway (I know subways can go between above ground and below but stick with me). The trolley at some point can be knocked off its tracks and slide down the steep San Fran grades through the streets, hitting buildings, cars, and causing general mayhem. Then after we see a couple landmarks maybe it would make its way (via kong or gravity) to the Golden Gate Bridge.

I don't want a repeat fall gag like with TF and SM, but maybe, depending on the size of the vehicle and number of passengers (keeping it kinda sorta realistic) Kong could "pick up the tram" (just like his daddy did before ;D), and carry the tram up the side of the bridge... Yatta Yatta yatta, we get down some how. Maybe we fall and tangle in the cables making our way down similar to Kong and the T-Rex from the film. Just a working idea I thought I'd share.

Also, I did this quick little rendering awhile ago when I first heard about the make over, It's a facade based on a closed down theatre in San Fran. I did this when people were talking about expanding New York through San Francisco. I rather like having a SF area and would like to see them update the section instead of remove it. It could be as if Kong is on a world tour stopping in SF. I also included the rough outline of the s.s. venture which would be floating in the bay.

 

[TylerDurden]

^Awesome. I especially love the SS Venture, and retaining the San Francisco area. A 'world tour' is a realistic enough premise, also, but I don't know if they'd contradict the movies just to preserve a land with no area-specific attractions. Still, such a cool idea though.

Unfortunately, I think the Earthquake system will stay in tact. If the Disaster refurb was cancelled, that means Kong is cost-effective. Meaning it probably uses the same infrastructure. They could change the programming of the ride 'shake' profile but I think the general idea/ride system will be the same. It's believable that Kong would crash through a subway station and wreak havoc, shaking the train. It would probably be a mix of the old Kong at Hollywood and Kong 360 on my guess.

The thing that sucks is that we've been led to believe this was the alternative to refurbing Disaster, meaning there's no way it would be significantly more expensive. Not to mention, even if Universal was down to totally build this ride from scratch, the HE prevents any expansion of the current showbuilding. It's a shame you're not running the park, because I really like what you've got going on here.

 

[Cupcakes]

I'm thinking at least some parts of the building are going to have to be rearranged. If the merchandisibility of Kong is one of the driving factors behind this whole thing, then without a doubt there's going to be a gift shop at the exit. It'll be tricky to pull off, though. Because of the number of people that'll be coming off the ride each time, you're gonna need a big store. Nothing anywhere near the size of the TF Supply Vault or the Potter stores.

 

[TylerDurden]

I'm thinking at least some parts of the building are going to have to be rearranged. If the merchandisibility of Kong is one of the driving factors behind this whole thing, then without a doubt there's going to be a gift shop at the exit. It'll be tricky to pull off, though. Because of the number of people that'll be coming off the ride each time, you're gonna need a big store. Nothing anywhere near the size of the TF Supply Vault or the Potter stores.

They could get away with some Kong-themed carts at the exit of the ride, kinda where the Jaws photo-op is now. Also, a new ride justifies merchandise presence in any store on property, especially the Studio Store. I agree that a gift shop at the exit would just be too hard...but you never know. Shrek has two theaters, each of which holds 300, and they both exit into that tiny Ye Olde Souvenir Shoppe...it's a cluster**** but it gets the job done.

 

[Felipe]

^Awesome. I especially love the SS Venture, and retaining the San Francisco area. A 'world tour' is a realistic enough premise, also, but I don't know if they'd contradict the movies just to preserve a land with no area-specific attractions. Still, such a cool idea though.

Unfortunately, I think the Earthquake system will stay in tact. If the Disaster refurb was cancelled, that means Kong is cost-effective. Meaning it probably uses the same infrastructure. They could change the programming of the ride 'shake' profile but I think the general idea/ride system will be the same. It's believable that Kong would crash through a subway station and wreak havoc, shaking the train. It would probably be a mix of the old Kong at Hollywood and Kong 360 on my guess.

The thing that sucks is that we've been led to believe this was the alternative to refurbing Disaster, meaning there's no way it would be significantly more expensive. Not to mention, even if Universal was down to totally build this ride from scratch, the HE prevents any expansion of the current showbuilding. It's a shame you're not running the park, because I really like what you've got going on here.

Not necessarily. Kong has a name people recognize, whereas Disaster doesn't. Kong also brings along merchandise, which Disaster doesn't have. There are two very good reasons to invest and flip that attraction into something with a name people will recognize and which will get them in the gate, and merchandise sales where before there were none.

As for the gift shop, if they enclose this exit area (considering the exit remains here), it's a decent size space:

Disaster's exit area (give it a second to load street view)

 

[Disneyhead]

If in fact Disaster! becomes Kong I am positive that the Earthquake infrastructure will stay. The Subway Station will be replaced by massive 4K 3D screens. The similarities between the Earthquake ride system and the popular new Kong 360 attraction in Hollywood are too hard to ignore.

 

[AK-Jake]

So in other words, the original announcement of Kong being "new" in all aspects (including the ride system with exception to the show building) is now null and void and we're looking at a simple "Disaster" refresh with a Kong overlay, huh?

 

[k_peek_2000]

If in fact Disaster! becomes Kong I am positive that the Earthquake infrastructure will stay. The Subway Station will be replaced by massive 4K 3D screens. The similarities between the Earthquake ride system and the popular new Kong 360 attraction in Hollywood are too hard to ignore.

Kong could hypothetically fit into the subway station but they would have to gut the top of the building and make it one big giant box. The screens would also be slightly smaller than Hollywood's Kong without having to tearing down the entire building - but I can't imagine that would be a noticeable difference since the screens immerse you so well.

 

[Disneyhead]

So in other words, the original announcement of Kong being "new" in all aspects (including the ride system with exception to the show building) is now null and void and we're looking at a simple "Disaster" refresh with a Kong overlay, huh?

Not an entirely new ride system, but new ride vehicles. As one of the reason that this would happen at all is there are some major issues with the existing ride vehicles. But HTF would know more about that. Maybe he can comment.

 

[Ash]

But from Universal's point of view, isn't the long length of the attraction a good thing? Keeps people busy for a good long time and away from the two hour lineup to get into Diagon Alley :smiley:

But that's also keeping them away from spending money in the parks. One thing I remember reading Disney kicking themselves over was that universe of energy kept people spending money for 2+ hours.

 

[Disneyhead]

Disney refers to it as "unnessesary ride time".

 

[Nick]

So in other words, the original announcement of Kong being "new" in all aspects (including the ride system with exception to the show building) is now null and void and we're looking at a simple "Disaster" refresh with a Kong overlay, huh?

I tried getting people to see that this wasn't likely to be too much more than a simple overlay/refurb when HTF and DH posted about it originally, but no one listened...

 

[ChrisM]

But that's also keeping them away from spending money in the parks. One thing I remember reading Disney kicking themselves over was that universe of energy kept people spending money for 2+ hours.

I love Universe of Energy exactly for that reason! It's a great way to beat the heat, considering Disney barely has a/c pumping in the stores anymore.

 

[AK-Jake]

I tried getting people to see that this wasn't likely to be too much more than a simple overlay/refurb when HTF and DH posted about it originally, but no one listened...

If that's all the project ends up being, I'm no longer interested. I was gunning for something spectacular--a family E-Ticket of "Universal" proportions that saw Kongfrontation! and King Kong 360 3D have a love child that blew the socks off of both Kong attractions. That's what the original info HTF leaked was inferring from what I read. Now it seems as though it's not going to be that expansive of a project after all. Granted, it's FAR too early for me to pass judgement on it, and I'm not complaining...any new attraction is a good thing (so long as they don't tear out E.T.). I just set my hopes a little high.

I guess we'll find out the scope of the project in time.

 

[Accio Butterbeer]

If that's all the project ends up being, I'm no longer interested. I was gunning for something spectacular--a family E-Ticket of "Universal" proportions that saw Kongfrontation! and King Kong 360 3D have a love child that blew the socks off of both Kong attractions. That's what the original info HTF leaked was inferring from what I read. Now it seems as though it's not going to be that expansive of a project after all. Granted, it's FAR too early for me to pass judgement on it, and I'm not complaining...any new attraction is a good thing (so long as they don't tear out E.T.). I just set my hopes a little high.

I guess we'll find out the scope of the project in time.

A Kong AA alone is an upgrade over Disaster for me.

 

[emily7793]

I'm pretty sure IF Disaster was to be closed BEFORE Potter opens, it would only be to serve as a maintenance bay for the trains.

Disaster is a people-eater attraction. They are going to need it when Potter opens and the massive lines begin. They won't need it forever, but they will need it. Simple.

- - - Updated - - -

I have a friend who was just hired as a Lonnie with a start date of November. I expect Disaster to stay open at least through New Year.

Aww I know who you're talking about. He took a big risk, very happy for him

And while I'm on board with you that Disaster WON'T be closing, didn't they also hire JAWS skippers a few months before it closed? That's not exactly a clear indication that it won't close.

 

[TubaGeek]

So if Disaster! goes, how much longer till the generic earthquake-themed hamburger place goes too? I mean, it'd be kinda' awkward having one little store themed to San Fran in the middle of New York. Oh, and the rails in the street, too!

 

[Cupcakes]

So if Disaster! goes, how much longer till the generic earthquake-themed hamburger place goes too? I mean, it'd be kinda' awkward having one little store themed to San Fran in the middle of New York. Oh, and the rails in the street, too!

I imagine it's all going to get re-done. It would be best for Universal to go all-out on this.

 

[Nick]

And while I'm on board with you that Disaster WON'T be closing, didn't they also hire JAWS skippers a few months before it closed? That's not exactly a clear indication that it won't close.

I don't think Seth was saying it won't happen at all, just that it will wait until the Holiday rush is over at least, much like when Jaws closed. :thumbs:

 

[jtsalien]

I saw Kong 360 for the first time this weekend. I wasnt all that impressed. It was nice as part of the tram tour, but if it's the crux of the new ride: Meh.