Robert Niles
Editor
Robert Niles

Universal confirms Minion Mayhem for Hollywood in 2014

March 11, 2013, 10:12 PM · Universal Studios Hollywood confirmed today what theme park fans have known for months -- that the park's getting its own version of Universal Studios Florida's popular Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem ride.

Despicable Me
Attraction logo courtesy Universal

For those who haven't been on the ride in Orlando yet, Minion Mayhem is a 3D motion simulator ride, based on the Universal animated hit "Despicable Me," which takes you through Gru's laboratory as his team of Minions try to convert you and the rest of the audience into Minions, too. Of course, lots and lots goes terribly wrong, but that's the fun -- and there's a character interaction where you get the chance to dance with Minions in the post-show area.

But will Hollywood's version of the ride be any different than Orlando's? In Universal's press release, the head of Universal Creative hits at some upgrades, at least for the exterior.

“The ‘Despicable Me Minion Mayhem’ attraction at Universal Studios Hollywood will continue to push the creative envelope with its exceptional show content, sight gags, special effects and 3D digital animation. The exterior treatment will feature even more thematic and colorful creative touches that will literally place park guests inside Gru’s world,” said Mark Woodbury, President, Universal Creative.

In addition, the release references "3D Ultra-HD animation" for the ride, and I don't recall seeing that designation in the releases for the Florida version. Perhaps there will be an animation upgrade, too?

Looking at aerial photos and site plans, Universal has a bit more space to work with in Hollywood, where Minion Mayhem will replace the old Terminator show. And site plans suggest that the old Coke Soak area adjacent to the Terminator site will become a Despicable Me play area, perhaps to replace the Curious George play area that appears destined to be consumed by USH's new Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

Universal said that Hollywood's Minion Mayhem will open "in 2014," and isn't offering anything more specific than that. Thoughts?

Replies (8)

keepdude52
Eric S
March 12, 2013 at 5:02 AM · I really wish that Universal Creative would use their obviously fantastic creative talents instead of hitting copy paste with every attraction that's a success.
Russtinator
Writer
Russell Meyer
March 12, 2013 at 7:44 AM · I'm curious if they're planning on using a different ride system. The one used in Orlando is over 20 years old, dating back to when the ride was the Funtastic World of Hanna-Barbara when USF opened in 1990.
robert
Editor
Robert Niles
March 12, 2013 at 8:00 AM · Strong point, Russell. Remember, Universal's starting from scratch in Hollywood, where Minion Mayhem's replacing T2: 3D. There's no simulator tech in there now, just a 4D theater. I doubt Universal would downgrade MM to a 4D show, and who knows what damage that fire a few months ago really did to the building?
anonymous
92.237.20.57
March 12, 2013 at 8:42 AM · And so Universals demise into the realm of simulator only continues - Once proud to announce "Ride the Movies!" its now a case of "Simulate the movies!". Rapidly losing its appeal Universal, and were it not for the fact I had 2 weeks free passes x 2 included in my holiday price last year I doubt i would have gone again. Love Universal, but its so sad how its going down the pan with its overkill of another studios film, Harry Plopper everywhere (and this comes from a brit!). When you see classic rides like Kongfrontation replaced with The Mummy (ok but its no Kongfrontation), BTTF being reskinned and turned into the simpsons ride - where the print of the ride already looks dated and faded and the ever boring Fear Factor (replaced with the even duller Bill & Ted at Halloween - which even the Americans sat around us didnt get and thought was pants!). Just hate to see it losing its way so badly
Russtinator
Writer
Russell Meyer
March 12, 2013 at 12:27 PM · While you might think Universal is losing its way, their attendance and revenue numbers would say otherwise. With the HP expansion to Universal Orlando likely to open in 2014, both parks could potentially crack the top 5 in attendance. You might not like it, but the masses sure do. 8-hour lines around the park just to get into the Wizarding World is all the evidence necesary to demonstrate Universal's recent success.
Mountaindewz
Jay R.
March 12, 2013 at 1:36 PM · I always thought it would be ready for summer 2013 (based on how fast Universal worked to get Transformers ready for USO for the summer....I assumed they would do the same here)

But I could see there being some upgrades or slight differences if it's scheduled for next year.

Either way, glad USH is getting new attractions!

ynnam
Manny Barron
March 12, 2013 at 4:16 PM · About time they confirmed the ride. Hmm....2014, I was hoping for at least this fall but whatever hopefully the wait will be worth it. Plus its only natural following Universal Studios Hollywood's new attraction every two years model:

2008: The Simpsons Ride
2010: King Kong 360:3-D
2012: Transformers
2014: Despicable Me
2016: Harry Potter

This ride will be a great new addition to the park. It will be fun to experience this attraction when it opens next year.

robert
Editor
Robert Niles
March 13, 2013 at 8:48 AM · Nice observation, Manny.

Though I still do wonder about that fire, and if that set back the schedule at all.

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