After Universal’s rather Expensive Purchase of Dreamworks Studios, they set about finding ways to utilize their newly acquired Characters and Brands. The Dream Works Theatre is one of these streams and is set to change the Featured Characters regularly to coincide with new releases and keep the experience fresh.
So in this review, we take a look at the theatre in general along with the current “featuring” Character which is presently Kung Fu Panda. The Theatre itself is a modern high-tech attraction and could be set to host some really innovative presentations in years to come.
- Location – Upper Lot, Universal Studios Hollywood
- Type – 4-D Cinema Style Motion Simulator.
- Duration – 5 Mins
- Height Restriction – None
- Average Queue time – 20 mins – 60 Mins
- Single Rider – No
- Additional Info – Child-Friendly
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Exhilaration
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Fun
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Smoothness and Comfort
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Uniqueness and Theming
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Value For Time
Dreamworks Theatre
The Theatre is a High-tech 180 Degree 4k Projection system with a 62ft Screen that immerses the viewer in the scene, along with this the 241 individual seats are actuated that allows them to tilt and pivot to provide real movement along with environmental effects such as smoke wind and water and 360 Degree Surround Sound. The Screens utilize 2d Projection so do not require glasses for the 3D effects. It’s one hell of a piece of kit!
While it is not as immersive as some ride experiences it’s still a fun ride and a great addition as a family experience. It replaces Shrek 4D which has always been a letdown to us (despite being Shrek Fans) so it’s not too much of a shame to see it leaving and the theatre should offer a great experience for years to come as it utilizes various Dreamworks properties such as Madagascar, Shrek, How to Train Your Dragon, and of course the Current Featuring Film Kung-Fu Panda…
Kung-Fu Panda
The Kung-Fu Panda presentation is a fun action-packed trip through ancient China Stating with a river ride down the mountain river rapids and over a huge waterfall. the journey is then highjacked by Kang the Wold Pirate and his hordes. The Ensuing Battle takes you through the emperor’s palace and into the Spirit World for the final Battle featuring lots of kung-Fu.
It’s a fun-packed 5 Minutes and while not the most exhilarating ride available, and nowhere near as immersive as the best experiences at Universal as a family ride it is suitable for all ages and a great experience.
We have included a video below but be warned it’s a complete Spoiler!
Overall
Overall we were very underwhelmed by the concept of the Dreamworks Theatre, but in reality, it is a far better experience than we expected the 7x4k Projectors are Pin sharp and the Seat actuation makes it a fun unexpected experience. While Kung-Fu Panda is not our favorite franchise the future should see some great presentations offered to coincide with blockbuster releases, we are particularly hopeful for the How to Train Your Dragon film! (Unconfirmed)
Considering the underwhelming Shrek 4D experience it’s replaced we are really happy with the Dreamworks theatre and feel it will deliver a great family experience for years.
Have Your Say
Have you tried the Dreamworks Theatre? What did you think? Was it a damp squib or a righteous success? Let us know in the comments below or if you have any questions then fire away in the comments.