The Premise

Go beyond bonus features and get a first hand view at some of Hollywood’s most famous special effects.

Modeled after the previous incarnation located on the lower lot, the Special Effects Stage will demonstrate effects past and present – from simple optical illusions to complex figures using state of the art CGI technology. It’s an excellent look at where special effects have been and where they’re going.

So how is it?

It’s good. They’ve modeled the exterior as a traditional Universal Studios soundstage, while the interior has been based off a room located within the prop department. Scattered about are various items from Universal’s vast collection of move titles, and located above are three large projection screens that serve as an aid throughout the entire show. In other words, they’re recreating what appears to be a traditional television set.

Now the show itself is a relatively respectable effort. Universal decided to use two hosts to represent completely opposing viewpoints to spur the argument of how effects were done in the past – and how they’ve evolved today. A seemingly simple mixture that manages to get the point across rather well.

While Universal does bill this show as a “tongue and cheek”, I would really have to say otherwise. True, while the Special Effects Stage actually does present some humor, almost none of it comes from the canned scripts the hosts are forced to recite. Instead, most of the humor is derived on the spot - from how the audience reacts to various bits, to the predicaments the participants manage to get themselves in. Universal should really rely more on improvisation, but I digress.

The important thing is the show itself is good. Like the versions before it, the Special Effects Stage continues to make important use of numerous audience members while still keeping things rolling without getting stale. True, it may not be as informative as its precedent, but it’s also shorter and works with a completely different format.

In all, I’d say it’s worth a visit or two.

Tips and Tricks

Please note that this is a new show. I’m still on the hunt for some more tips, but here are a few I acquired from my first showing.

Before you visit

Arrive at least 15 to 20 minutes before the show. The theater isn’t as large as WaterWorld and the queue can get disjointed at times, so get early so you’re guaranteed a seat. There is audience participation available, so sit somewhere visible if you want to volunteer.

Seating

In terms of seating, I would always try to grab a seat somewhat in the middle (marked in green). The front is usually too close, making you awkwardly tilt your head to see what’s happening and the back is usually too far for my personal taste. But if the center seats aren’t available, I would always go for the back near the aisles.

Parents

Besides being a bit loud, the Special Effects Stage is a very “PG” show. I could easily see someone as young as 7 attending the show without any problems.

Photographs & Discussions

You can view photos of the Special Effects Stage over at our Photo Album. We also have a discussion forum dedicated to the Special Effects Stage for any questions or comments you may have.