Five years ago, Universal Orlando made headlines with the announcement of Epic Universe, an ambitious new theme park set to elevate the resort experience through a captivating array of themed lands. Among the enchanting realms that guests will have the opportunity to explore is the highly anticipated Dark Universe, a tribute to Universal’s legendary collection of classic movie monsters. Interestingly, this new land shares a name with the infamous 2017 cinematic reboot that faltered in its execution. Nevertheless, these iconic horror figures are poised for a contemporary revival, seamlessly blending nostalgia with modern technology.
The Dark Universe featured in Epic Universe marks a distinct departure from the last cinematic attempt at reviving these beloved monsters, most notably exemplified by Tom Cruise’s ill-fated endeavor in The Mummy. Instead, the artistic direction for attractions like The Frankenstein Experiment draws inspiration from the original designs of the Universal Monsters, which date back nearly a century. Impressively, the animatronic representation of Frankenstein’s Monster will stand at an astonishing nine feet tall and weigh over 800 pounds, showcasing unprecedented engineering prowess. Guests will witness this colossal figure come to life as it roams within the preshow experience, set in the eerie confines of Dr. Frankenstein’s laboratory.
However, this iteration of Dr. Frankenstein takes on a fresh twist: it will be portrayed by Victoria Frankenstein, the great-great-granddaughter of the original Henry Frankenstein. The intriguing storyline places Victoria at the center of a gripping narrative involving her attempts to master the Universal Monsters just as her ancestral manor is besieged by none other than Dracula himself. According to Universal’s exciting revelations, this enthralling attraction will showcase “14 of the most ambitious and life-like animated figures ever created,” featuring iconic characters such as Dracula, the Wolf Man, and Gill-Man, affectionately known as the Creature from the Black Lagoon.
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Expanding the allure of Dark Universe within Epic Universe, visitors will encounter a cadre of other legendary creatures, including the haunting Bride of Frankenstein, the enigmatic Invisible Man, and Victoria’s eccentric assistant, Ygor. Additionally, an unnamed monster hunter will add to the thrill, enhancing the immersive experience as guests navigate this dark and twisted realm.
Mark your calendars, as Epic Universe is set to make its grand debut on May 22, 2025, promising an unforgettable adventure for horror enthusiasts and theme park fans alike.