2019 Tribeca Film Festival movie review: ‘Nomad: In the Footsteps of Bruce Chatwin’

May 5, 2019

by Carla Hay

Werner Herzog in “Nomad: In the Footsteps of Bruce Chatwin”

“Nomad: In the Footsteps of Bruce Chatwin”

Directed by Werner Herzog

World premiere at the Tribeca Film Festival in New York City on April 28, 2019.

German filmmaker Werner Herzog has directed an eclectic array of documentaries, which feature his deliberate and thoughtful style of narration and on-camera interview techniques. “Nomad: In the Footsteps of Bruce Chatwin” is probably one of Herzog’s most personal documentaries of his career because British writer/adventurer Bruce Chatwin, who died of AIDS in 1989 at the age of 48, was one of Herzog’s good friends.

Before Chatwin died, he gave Herzog a rucksack that Chatwin had carried in his travels around the world. In the documentary, Herzog brings the rucksack and retraces a lot of Chatwin’s journeys to pay tribute to and get a better understanding of his late friend. The documentary includes voiceovers from Herzog and old recordings of Chatwin. Unlike most movies, which are divided into three acts, “Nomad” has eight chapters, all of which are titled in the film.

“Chapter One: The Skin of the Brontosaurus” has Herzog going to Patagonia, Chile, which was the subject of Chatwin’s 1977 travel book “In Patagonia.” He interviews Karin Eberhard, the great-granddaughter of 19th-century explorer Hermann Eberhard, who is credited with discovering the remains of a giant sloth. In this chapter of the documentary, Herzog goes to the Patagonia city of Punta Arenas, where he visits the Lord Lonsdale Shipwreck, as well as the grave for Charles Milward, the British consul who was a cousin of Chatwin’s grandmother Isobel. Milward reportedly gave a piece of giant sloth fur (which was sometimes mistaken for brontosaurus hide) to Isobel as a wedding gift. It was Chatwin’s dream to get a piece of a brontosaurus. In this chapter, Herzog also interviews Chatwin biographer Nicholas Shakespeare.

“Chapter Two: Landscapes of the Soul” has Herzog traveling to Avebury, Wiltshire, in England, where there is a stone many people believe has mythical force and powers. Silbury Hill was Chatwin’s “pivot, his mythical place of origin,” according to Herzog, who includes footage of tourists wearing masks over their eyes for protection from these mysterious forces. There’s also footage of how the magnetic forces work with metal prongs. Herzog also travels to Llanthony Priory in Wales, the location of where Bruce courted his wife Elizabeth, who is interviewed in this chapter.

“Bruce Chatwin was searching for strangeness,” Herzog comments in the film. He also notes that Chatwin liked Herzog’s 1969 “Signs of Life” movie with the windmills scene that Chatwin called “dangerous landscape,” according to Herzog. The filmmaker also travels to Coober Pedy, Australia, where Chatwin and Herzog first met. “We were both fascinated by Aboriginal mythology,” Herzog remembers.

“Chapter Three: Songs and Songlines” explores indigenous sounds in Australia, particularly at the Strehlow Research Centre. People interviewed in this chapter include musician Glenn Morrison and Alyawerre experts Michael Liddle Pula, Marcus Wheeler and Shawn Angeles Penange. “Our songlines are our way of contributing to the health of this planet,” says one of the Alyawerre commentators.

“Chapter Four: The Nomadic Alternative” is named for an unpublished Chatwin manuscript. Herzog travels to Tierra del Feugo in Argentina, where photos of nomads fascinated Chatwin. There’s some great footage of hand imprints on overhanging rocks that were left more than 10,000 years ago, as well as some photos of nomads, such as those showing nomads with painted bodies and a naked man lying down.

“Chapter Five: Journey to the End of the World” finds Herzog in the remote La Isla Navariono in Chile.

“Chapter Six: Chatwin’s Rucksack” has Herzog back in Patagonia, where he carries the cherished rucksack and says that in his 1991 movie “Scream of Stone,” there’s a scene with someone with a rucksack, and that scene was a tribute to Chatwin.

“Chapter Seven: Cobra Verde” is a brief behind-the-scenes commentary on Herzog’s 1987 film “Cobra Verde,” which was based on “Bruce Chatwin’s 1980 novel “The Viceroy of Ouidah.”

“Chapter Eight: The Chapter Is Closed” circles back to Chatwin’s widow Elizabeth, who candidly talks about their open marriage. She says that she didn’t care that her husband Bruce was bisexual, and that he often invited his lovers into their home. Herzog also reads from the notebook containing the last line that Chatwin ever wrote.

“Nomad” is certainly going to appeal to fans of Herzog and Chatwin, as well as people who have a general interest in world travels. This is a quintessential arthouse film, so anyone who isn’t inclined to watch an artsy documentary will find a lot of this movie too slow-moving and dull for their tastes. The cinematography (by Louis Caulfield and Mike Paterson) has many stunning moments, which is to be expected in a Herzog film.

Herzog’s dry wit is present in the movie, but the wistfulness and sadness that he feels over his dear friend’s death can also be felt in the documentary. Above all, Herzog respectfully pays tribute to Chatwin in “Nomad,” and offers unique glimpses into Chatwin’s personality and intellectual curiosity in this celebration of Chatwin’s adventurous and full life.

UPDATE: Music Box Films will release “Nomad: In the Footsteps of Bruce Chatwin” in select U.S. virtual cinemas on August 26, 2020.

Netflix’s ‘The Final Table’ offers free snacks for Thanksgiving holiday airport travelers in New York City and Chicago

November 21, 2018

“The Final Table” airport activation November 21 to 25, 2018 (Photo courtesy of Netflix)

The following is a press release from Netflix:

Netflix is easing holiday travel woes with free snacks as a way to interact with the new global culinary competition “The Final Table.” Beginning November 21 through November 25, 2018, travelers through Terminal 3 at O’Hare Airport in Chicago and Terminal 4 at JFK airport in New York City, will be able to participate in Netflix’s interactive meal experience that will give free snacks that represent the global meals from the nine countries introduced in “The Final Table.”

Snacks will be from Mexico, Spain, UK, Brazil, India, United States, Italy, France and Japan.  Travelers will be able to interact with a customized screen where they can select the country they wish to “travel to” on their journey.  They can learn more information about the episode that highlights that country, the food, and the chefs. They will be shown a short clip from the relevant episode of The Final Table and will then be given a box that will be dispensed below the screen.  The box will include a gourmet treat that highlights ingredients from the dish of their chosen country.

SNACKS:

  • Mexico
    • Featured dish from the show: Tacos
    • Giveaway taste: Mexican Spice Crispy Elote – Mexican Crema, Cilantro, Avocado Oil, Jalapeno, Onions
  • Spain
    • Featured dish from the show: Paella
    • Giveaway taste:: Paella– Basmati Rice, Peas, salt, vegetable oil, Shrimp Crackers, Saffron, Turmeric, Onion Powder, Garlic Powder
  • England
    • Featured dish from the show: English Breakfast
    • Giveaway taste: Full English Breakfast Pork Scratchings– Pork skin, vegetable oil, Fennel Powder, Black Pepper, Salt, Tomato Powder, Natural Spices
  • Brazil
    • Featured dish from the show: Feijoada
    • Giveaway taste: Spiced Black Bean Brazil Nuts– Roasted salted brazil nuts, onion powder, garlic powder, black bean powder, dried lemon peel, citric acid, onion ash powder
  • India
    • Featured dish from the show: Murgh Makhni
    • Giveaway taste: Madrasi Snack Mix – Chickpea flour, corn oil, peanuts, bananas, chili powder, salt, coconut slices, curry leaves
  • The United States
    • Featured dish from the show: Thanksgiving Dinner
    • Giveaway taste: Thanksgiving Leftovers “Bread Pudding”– Bread crumbs, sugar, salt, celery, onion, corn starch, dehydrated chicken, garlic, turmeric, chicken broth, pecans, butter, onions, cranberries
  • Italy
    • Featured dish from the show: Pasta with Ragu
    • Giveaway bite: Sundried Tomato “Fusilli” – Enriched Flour, Parmesan cheese, Sundried Tomato Powder, Basil Powder
  • France
    • Featured dish from the show: Hare a la Royale
    • Giveaway taste:Pommes Aux Truffes – Potatoes, vegetable oil, Salt, Truffle oil
  • Japan
    • Featured dish from the show: Kaiseki
    • Giveaway taste: Nori Crusted Peanuts– Peanuts, Wheat Flour, Rice Flour, Sugar, Salt, Seaweed, Soy Sauce and Potato Starch

 

 

REI adds more adventure trips in U.S., Africa and Europe

November 21, 2018

REI Adventures Southern Africa Mountain Biking and Safari (Photo courtesy of REI)

The following is a press release from REI:

REI Adventures, the active adventure travel company of national outdoor co-op REI, has added 30 new trips this year, including South AfricaMozambiquePortugalGreece and the United States. The co-op also announced more of its popular women’s trips and options for travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace. The newly launched itineraries add to REI’s collection of experiences that travelers won’t find anywhere else, like the first-of-its-kind mountain bike adventure in Zululand and Mozambique.

“For more than three decades, we have had an unwavering focus on human-powered vacations that explore off-the-beaten-path destinations with local guides who are deeply knowledgeable in their country’s rich history and culture,” says Cynthia Dunbar, general manager of REI Adventures. “Our latest introductions are perfect for anyone looking to discover the world by two wheels, hikers who long to explore history and iconic routes, or animal lovers hoping to witness the big five in their natural habitat.”

South Africa Adventures
During REI’s new nine-day Southern Africa Mountain Biking and Safari – Zululand to Mozambiqueguests are immersed in vibrant culture, unforgettable wildlife and more. Travelers mountain bike through lush hills and acacia forests, iSimangaliso’s ancient subtropical “sand forest” and UNESCO World Heritage site of Lake St. Lucia; safari in a private conservancy for the big five – lion, leopard, buffalo, rhinoceros and elephant; pedal fat bikes on Mozambique’s unspoiled beaches; and snorkel at the pinnacle reefs before enjoying down at a seaside paradise with sweeping views of the Indian Ocean.

For those seeking a relaxed pace and less intensity, Discover Southern Africa – Victoria Falls, Okavango Delta, Cape Town & Kruger is a nonstop reel of bucket-list wildlife sights, walking and gentle cycling through diverse habitats of savannahs, mountains and lush grasslands. The 12-day journey starts in the adventure hub of Victoria Falls with a magical evening cruise to spot elephants, followed by a day hike to take in the thundering falls and rainbow spray. Travelers stay four nights at a private camp in the heart of Southern Africa’s most pristine safari ecosystem where they are delighted by the sights of lions, leopards, wild dog and more. Finally, the group takes a relaxed cycle trip through the famous Cape Winelands.

Trekking and multisport in Europe
Based on the popularity of its Camino de Santiago trek, REI Adventures is adding a seven-day Camino de Santiago – Portuguese Way trip. Together with their local guide, guests hike three historical paths of the Portuguese Camino though shorelines, forests and rural countryside. Culture and epicurean highlights include the exploration of two UNESCO World Heritage sites and local fare that features tapas, fresh-caught seafood and Iberian wine. The epic journey ends in the holy city of Santiago de Compostela. REI is also introducing a seven-day Discover the Heart of Portugaltrip that is a gentler pace itinerary where travelers explore the country’s best kept secrets from Lisbon to Porto.

In response to the popularity of its easier active collection, REI is adding Discover Greece – Santorini and Crete, a nine-day sun-soaked trip that is a perfect balance of gentle activity and relaxation. REI’s easier active trips are lower impact and travelers cover fewer miles each day. In Discover Greece, guests experience Santorini by sea and kayak the Cretan coast while stopping to dip their toes in the sand or float in warm waters. They take in fields of olive groves and grapes, then hike along Santorini’s edge with unbelievable sea views and winding coastal paths, and visit the archeological sites of Akrotiri and Knossos Palace. The itinerary immerses travelers in Greek cuisine, including a cooking class.

Popularity of women’s travel 
Today, more than half of all REI Adventures travelers are women. The company launched its women’s adventures in early 2017 and today the category is experiencing participation growth of 70 percent. Four new trips join the collection, including Arizona Hiking – Sedona Women’sAdventureCoastal Carolina Women’s Sea KayakingGrand Canyon Women’s Backpack and Yellowstone Women’s Backpacking – Bechler River. The new itineraries are four days in length. As with all of REI’s women’s adventures, small groups are led by female guides and trips blend outdoor activities with local highlights, cuisines and communities that a traveler wouldn’t replicate on her own, including surprises along the way.

About REI Adventures 
Award-winning REI Adventures has been a global leader in worldwide guided active adventure trips since 1987. As the travel business for national specialty outdoor retailer REI, the company offers unique itineraries focused on sustainable, human-powered outdoor adventure, including hiking, biking, kayaking, climbing and more. Guests experience iconic destinations as guides take them off the “beaten, common path,” and provide opportunities to explore a destination, get to know the local people, their culture, the flora and fauna and discover things they would not be able to duplicate on their own or with another travel company. REI members receive a special discount price on most trips. For more information, full itineraries and trip reviews provided by guests, visit http://www.rei.com/adventures.

Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Edge makes first transatlantic crossing

November 18, 2018

Celebrity Edge (Photo courtesy of Celebrity Cruises)

The following is a press release from Celebrity Cruises:

The game-changing Celebrity Edge has officially arrived at the new home of modern luxury – Port Everglades’ Terminal 25 (T25) in Hollywood, Fla. – following the ship’s first-ever, 15-day transatlantic crossing.

Chairman and CEO of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd., Richard D. Fain, said: “The arrival of Celebrity Edge today book-ends a major chapter in the growth of Celebrity Cruises. It’s the culmination of years of dreaming, designing and dedication to bring this magnificent ship to life. A new era is truly upon us.”

Viewing this momentous occasion from the bridge of Celebrity Edge with Fain, President and CEO of Celebrity Cruises, Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, added: “The completion of her first-ever transatlantic crossing and arrival at T25 marks such a historic moment for Celebrity Cruises. This has been more than four years in the making. The collaboration and effort between teams across the world all comes together in this incredible moment. I can think of no better place to be than with Captain Costas and the crew of Celebrity Edge knowing that we are sailing into the future, literally and figuratively, with this beautiful ship.”

Adorning the decks as Celebrity Edge entered the channel for the first time, more than 1,400 excited crew members waved to a sea of shoreside colleagues who gathered to welcome the ship and her crew to their new home at an exclusive welcome event hosted at the Nova Southeastern University Oceanographic Center — a fitting debut for Celebrity’s first new ship in six years and the first of a new class in more than a decade.

After the arrival of Celebrity Edge at T25, Lutoff-Perlo and Fain then hosted a grand opening ceremony in the revolutionary new terminal. Attended by key brand executives and esteemed Broward County and City of Hollywood officials, the dramatic ribbon-cutting ceremony marked the official grand opening of the first terminal designed exclusively for the Celebrity brand, dubbed the new home of modern luxury.

Brought to life in collaboration with Broward County’s Port Everglades, Bermello Ajamil & Partners, Inc. and Moss Construction, T25 melds a stunning, warmly inviting design with unique technology, such as Expedited Arrival, which will make the check-in process absolutely seamless, as well as an interactive light wall art installation. T25 will also offer The Retreat guests a singular experience along the path to The Retreat, with an exclusive lounge, elevator lobbies, screening areas and even a private rooftop terrace.

Celebrity Edge embarked on the more-than 4,000-mile transatlantic voyage from the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France, on November 4, 2018, with more than 1,400 crew members on board. Along the way, the cutting-edge new ship visited ports in both Azores, Portugal, and Freeport, Bahamas.

Celebrity Edge begins her inaugural season sailing alternating seven-night eastern and western Caribbean cruise itineraries, with her Maiden Western Caribbean voyage departing on December 9, 2018, and her Maiden Eastern Caribbean voyage departing on December 16, 2018. Then, in spring of 2019, Celebrity Edge crosses the Atlantic again to offer guests stunning vistas of the Mediterranean with a range of seven- to 11-night sailings visiting iconic cities, including Barcelona and Rome.

Bookings for Celebrity Edge are now open at www.celebritycruises.com/edge or through a travel advisor. Celebrity Edge will be joined by her sister ship, Celebrity Apex, in 2020, and two additional ships in the Edge Series will follow in 2021 and 2022.

Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Flora debuts glamping experience

November 8, 2018

Celebrity Flora
Celebrity Flora (Images courtesy of Celebrity Cruises)

The following is a press release from Celebrity Cruises:

The first ship ever designed exclusively for the Galapagos Islands, Celebrity Flora, just introduced another enticing industry first: A once-in-a-lifetime camping experience on the top deck of the luxury yacht that allows guests to dine, drink, and, yes, even sleep under one of the most spectacular night skies in the world.

Celebrity Flora was specifically designed to bring our guests closer to the Galapagos Islands than ever before – from its outward-facing design that takes guests to the water’s edge, to the enhanced custom-designed Novurania yacht tenders,” said Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, President and CEO, Celebrity Cruises. “And now our new Galapagos Glamping experience gives guests an incredible opportunity to experience the destination the ship was built for, on a whole new level, under the millions of stars above.”

TREATED LIKE STARS—UNDER THE STARS
Four star-struck guests per night will be able to book the top deck onboard experience and participate in this one-night-only adventure. The reservations include two luxuriously inviting cabanas, one fitted with a double bed for sleeping, and the other for enjoying a mouthwatering, alfresco meal. Galapagos Glamping was created to break down the walls and bring guests closer than ever to this stunning destination. To help guests fully appreciate the breathtaking views this experience offers, a naturalist will also be available to highlight the stars and constellations visible from this region of the world directly from the cabana seats.

NEW VIEWS AND NEW FLAVORS
Exclusive campfire-inspired culinary delights – from cocktails to carefully selected wines to s’mores – will be specially curated for the evening, while guests gaze at the endless open skies above. Guests will have a delicious dinner served exclusively as part of the Galapagos Glamping experience. Campers will also welcome the spectacular sunrise with a full bed-side breakfast.

Modern luxury exploration in the Galapagos Islands will never be the same once Celebrity Florabegins her inaugural season, sailing alternating 10- and 11-night tours, there is also the option for guests to select a 16-night itinerary— an inner loop and outer loop — to the region’s most stunning locales in 2019 and 2020.

Based in Baltra Island in the Galapagos, Celebrity Flora will make her debut sailing on May 26, 2019. Bookings are now open at www.celebritycruises.com/flora, or through a travel advisor. The exclusive Galapagos Glamping experience will be available upon request for a fee, on every Celebrity Flora sailing, subject to availability.

To learn more about the brand’s unrivaled offerings, or its industry-leading stewardship and conservation efforts in the region, visit www.celebrity.com/galapagos.

About Celebrity Cruises:
Celebrity Cruises’ iconic “X” is the mark of modern luxury, with its cool, contemporary design and warm spaces; dining experiences where the design of the venues is as important as the cuisine; and the amazing service that only Celebrity can provide, all created to provide an unmatchable experience for vacationers’ precious time. Celebrity Cruises’ 12 ships offer modern luxury vacations visiting all seven continents. Celebrity also presents incredible cruise tour experiences in Alaska and Canada. Celebrity is one of five cruise brands operated by global cruise vacation company Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. (NYSE: RCL). For more information, dial 1-800-437-3111, visit www.celebritycruises.com, or call your travel agent.

Halloween 2018: America Haunts names the best haunted houses in America

October 31, 2018

Photos courtesy of America Haunts
Pictured from left to right in each row: Bennett’s Curse – Baltimore, MD; Haunted Hotel – San Diego, CA; Spookywoods – High Point, NC; Netherworld – Stone Mountain, GA (Photos courtesy of America Haunts)

The following is a press release from America Haunts:

The origin of commercial haunted attractions started in the United States and thrives as an American tradition. America Haunts, the commercial haunt industry association, has named the best haunted houses by feature on the bucket list of “must-experience” attractions across America.

No bones about it – haunted attractions must enlist high tech, and be extreme in the sense to do what has never been done, to craft adrenaline-rushing fright for fun.

Pictured from left to right in each row: Bennett’s Curse – Baltimore, MD; Spooky World – Litchfield, NH; Erebus – Pontiac, MI; Bates Motel – Philadelphia, PA; 13th Floor – Denver, CO (Photos courtesy of America Haunts)

2018 TOP 5 BEST HAUNTED ATTRACTIONS IN THE UNITED STATES – It takes wicked ingenuity to entertain using fierce storylines, advanced costuming, seemingly perilous leaps by cast, and responsive animatronics.

  1. Bennett’s Curse Baltimore, Maryland: A legendary haunt famous for its themed and immersive experiences that are as unique as they are terrifying. Monster Fest showcases an unrivaled scare cast. Go from the classic horrors in Legends of Halloween to the epic scale of Underworld, the immersive world of Inferno 3D, and Ravenbrook Asylum.
  2. Spooky World Litchfield, New Hampshire: Visitors feel the unsettling reality of five frightful attractions in their trail of terror to Nightmare New England and the mile-long Haunted Hayride. A Monster Midway, zombie paintball, go-karts, tarot card readers, and fire-pits make fear fun.
  3. Erebus Pontiac, Michigan: This world-renowned four-story fortress of fear provokes blood-curdling screams throughout its half mile walk indoors. Its intense special effects and elaborate sets feature things that will grab, bite, land on top of its victims, and even bury them alive!
  4. Haunted Hayride and Bates Motel Haunted House Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: An incredible display of terror and mayhem awaits those who enter. A creepy sixth-sense of being watched is ever-present with peering animatronic props and a 20-foot tall rock monster.
  5. 13th Floor Haunted House Denver, Colorado: Legends and nightmares alike will come to life with a gut-wrenching ride to untold nightmares 13 floors straight down. Cast stunts use technology to amp scares.
Pictured from left to right in each row: Haunted Hotel – San Diego, CA; Headless Horseman Hayrides – Ulster Park, NY; 13th Floor – Phoenix, AZ; Nightmare on 13th – Salt Lake City, UT; Dent Schoolhouse -Cincinnati, OH (Photos courtesy of America Haunts)

2018 TOP 5 SCARIEST HAUNTED ATTRACTIONS – These attractions go to great lengths to make the scares bigger, more immersive, and bolder.

  1. Haunted Hotel San Diego, California: The Haunted Hotel sends visitors on a stroll down a dark, zombie-infested alley where, unlike the walking dead of Hollywood, the undead are in hot pursuit. The apocalyptic nightmare hearkens sea creatures and beasts from all directions.
  2. Headless Horseman Hayrides and Haunted Houses Ulster Park, New York: Encompassing 65 acres in the historic Hudson Valley, this mega haunted attraction has seemingly endless options with 375 cast and crew members to work the hayrides, corn maze, and ten haunted attractions.
  3. 13th Floor Haunted House Phoenix, Arizona: This intense, graphic, theatrical show takes the courageous on a gut-wrenching journey of visceral thrills and psychological horror. In the chaos, walls close in, floors shake and vibrate – and zombies swarm.
  4. Nightmare on 13th Haunted House Salt Lake City, Utah: There are no stones unturned to frighten at this haunted attraction. With 45 different rooms, including the Ossuary and the Bone Lord, Goblin mines and X-scream attraction creating fright is certain.
  5. Dent Schoolhouse Haunted House Cincinnati, Ohio: Guests walk through the spooky old schoolhouse and, with advanced projection mapping technology deployed, this haunt can make picture frames and statues appear eerily alive.

2018 TOP 4 EXTREME HAUNTED ATTRACTIONS – Extreme haunts strive to create a sensory overload through unique mix of scare entertainment visitors will not find elsewhere.

  1. Spookywoods High Point, North Carolina: Taking the top extreme spot given its use of multi-layered, fear-fetching, interactive features – including zombie laser tag, zip line, and a maze cut through 60′ tall Pine trees with clusters of individual haunted houses along an eerily path.
  2. Thrillvania Dallas, Texas: This haunt has 50 acres of horror, using a variety of fright to cover the gauntlet. Internationally recognized for its elaborate sets, amazing actors, and over the top special effects.
  3. House of Torment Austin, Texas:  In 2018 they tripled the horror with three new themed haunted attractions on their horror campus – with fully immersive entertainment to chill visitors down to their bones. The haunt also has laser shows, flying characters, and much more.
  4. Beast Kansas City, Missouri:  The Beast hails from the producers of the first, commercial haunted house nearly a half century ago. Visitors become disoriented through 4-stories looking for ways to get out and escape the onslaught of beasts.

2018 TOP 4 INNOVATIVE HAUNTED ATTRACTIONS – Wizardry among the the most innovative is mind-blowing with magical illusions and high tech to make everything stunningly realistic.

  1. Netherworld Stone Mountain, Georgia: Pioneered the use of high-quality special effect foam and silicone monsters, creating massive moving scares that immerse the customer. Unique and terrifying actors’ stunts coupled with strong story lines are sure to win over haunt critics.
  2. Cutting Edge Fort Worth, Texas: This world-record largest haunted house gets its name for its use of an abandoned meat-packing factory as well as its cutting edge innovation. People often frantically run fearing they’ll end up on a beef hook as live bands intensify the experience.
  3. 13th Floor San Antonio, Texas: Visitors get thrills and psychological horror intensified by a pulsating, state-of-the-art sound system at 13th Floor. Their animatronics have built-in technology that can see, hear, and move using responsive controls around its laser lake.
  4. 13th Gate Baton Rouge, Louisiana: Known for its ultra-realism and detail, this haunt blurs the lines between nightmares and reality. Forty-thousand square feet in this factory with its CarnEvil, a haunted midway full of twisted sideshows, creepy characters, and more.

About America Haunts

America Haunts is the national association of top-tier haunted attractions dedicated to excellence in fear-based entertainment, thrilling more than a million visitors annually. America Haunts’ members are recognized for their longevity in the industry, technical expertise, innovative design, and professional talent who find screams of laughter and fear the best form of applause. AmericaHaunts.com.

 

Universal Studios Hollywood announces its first Halloween party, opens ‘Stranger Things’ maze during the day

October 23, 2018

Halloween children party

The following is a press release from Universal Studios Hollywood:

Universal Studios Hollywood hosts its first-ever kid-friendly Halloween celebration, inviting all children 12 years of age and under to don creative costumes to Trick-or-Treat at the theme park along with some of their favorite characters on Saturday, October 27 and Sunday, October 28 from 10 am to 4 pm.

Halloween-themed characters located throughout the theme park include Hello Kitty as The Bride of Frankenstein, Illumination’s Minion Monsters, SpongeBob SquarePants and Patrick Star, Scooby Doo and the gang, Curious George, Woody Woodpecker, Dracula, Frankenstein and The Mummy.

Other entertaining activities include a Halloween Party in the Plaza with a live DJ, music, games and costume showcase. Also, Halloween treat decorating will be available for purchase. All children 12 years of age and under will receive a free carnival game voucher redeemable at Super Silly Fun Land, located adjacent to the “Despicable Minion Mayhem” ride or Krustyland’s Carnival Games, located adjacent to “The Simpsons™ Ride.”

The Halloween celebration is included in the price of theme park admission to Universal Studios Hollywood. A specially-designed activity map will be provided complementary to help navigate the many memorably-ghoulish moments.

The at-a-glance schedule of events features:

10am – 4pm: Trick-or-Treat and Character meet and greets at select theme park locations

11am – 2pm: Halloween Party in the Plaza

1 – 2pm: Costume Showcase at Universal Plaza

For the first time, Universal Studios Hollywood offers guests a “lights on” walk-through experience of the all-new “Stranger Things” maze during the day, providing an authentic, behind-the-scenes look at how the Upside Down comes to life at “Halloween Horror Nights” from Monday, October 29 through Friday, November 2. The self-guided tour of the movie-quality sets featured in the “Stranger Things” maze is included in the price of daytime admission to the theme park.

“Halloween Horror Nights” continues select nights now through Sunday, November 4, adding one more terrifying night due to popular demand.

Working collaboratively with Netflix, along with the creators and executive producer of the blockbuster series—Matt Duffer, Ross Duffer and Shawn Levy, the maze is an authentic representation of “Stranger Things,” designed to transport guests into artfully recreated scenes and storylines in season one. From the menacing Hawkins National Laboratory, under the U.S. Department of Energy, to the Byers home adorned with an erratic display of flashing Christmas lights and the eerie Upside Down woods oozing a shower of floating orb-like spores, guests will discover how the chilling new maze offers surprising twists and unexpected turns around every corner – in the light of day.

Each night at “Halloween Horror Nights,” the parallel universe, referred to as the Upside Down, that terrorized the small town of Hawkins, Indiana in “Stranger Things,” brings the chittering, predatory Demogorgon to stalk unwitting guests as they encounter iconic scenes, characters and environments from the mesmerizing season one of the critically-acclaimed series.

Universal Studios’ “Halloween Horror Nights” is the ultimate Halloween event. For more than 25 years, guests from around the world have visited “Halloween Horror Nights” to become victims inside their own horror film. Multiple movie-quality mazes based on iconic horror television shows, films and original stories come to life season after season, while the streets of each park’s event are transformed into highly-themed scare zones with menacing scare-actors lunging from every darkened corner.

For the first time ever, Universal Studios HollywoodUniversal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Singapore are partnering with Netflix to bring “Stranger Things” to life at this year’s “Halloween Horror Nights” events. For more information and to purchase tickets for “Halloween Horror Nights,” visit www.HalloweenHorrorNights.com.

More information is available at www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com. Like Universal Studios Hollywood on Facebook and follow @UniStudios on Instagram and Twitter.

Universal Studios Hollywood is The Entertainment Capital of L.A. and includes a full-day, movie-based theme park and Studio Tour. As a leading global entertainment destination, Universal Studios Hollywood delivers highly themed immersive lands that translate to real-life interpretations of iconic movie and television shows. Recent additions include “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™” which features a bustling Hogsmeade village and such critically-acclaimed rides as “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey” and “Flight of the Hippogriff™”. Other immersive lands include “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem” and “Super Silly Fun Land” as well as “Springfield,” hometown of America’s favorite TV family, located adjacent to the award-winning “The Simpsons Ride™” and the “The Walking Dead” daytime attraction and the all-new DreamWorks Theatre featuring “Kung Fu Panda: The Emperor’s Quest.” The world-renowned Studio Tour is Universal Studios Hollywood’s signature attraction, inviting guests behind-the-scenes of the world’s biggest and busiest movie and television production studio where they can also experience such authentic thrill rides as “Fast & Furious—Supercharged.” The adjacent Universal CityWalk entertainment, shopping and dining complex also includes the all-new multi-million dollar, redesigned Universal CityWalk Cinema, featuring deluxe recliner seating in screening room quality theatres, and the “5 Towers” state-of-the-art outdoor concert stage.

2018 Halloween Horror Nights: Menu inspired by ‘Stranger Things’ debuts at Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Orlando Resort

September 12, 2018

Eleven’s Waffle Extravaganza (Photo courtesy of Universal Studios Hollywood)

The following is a press release from Universal Studios:

This year, “Halloween Horror Nights” brings a taste of Hawkins, Indiana to Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Orlando Resort, inviting guests to enjoy foods inspired by Netflix’s “Stranger Things” that also complement the terrifying “Stranger Things” mazes debuting at both parks.

“Halloween Horror Nights” begins on Friday, September 14, 2018.

The specialized foods were created by the executive chef and culinary teams at each park to further enhance the already immersive “Halloween Horror Nights” experience.

Here’s what guests can expect to feast on during “Halloween Horror Nights” at Universal Studios Hollywood:

  • Benny’s Burgers: This classic burger, aptly named after the show’s family-owned diner, features a juicy beef burger served on a potato roll and a side of Tater Tots®.
  • The Upside Down Burger: served “upside down,” this signature burger features spicy queso and Flamin’ Hot® Cheetos® served on a potato roll with lettuce, tomatoes and a side of Tater Tots.
  • Benny’s Chicken & Waffle Sandwich: Drizzled with sage-maple aioli and topped with sweet and sour onions, lettuce and tomatoes, this grilled chicken sandwich is served on iconic Kellogg’s® Eggo® waffles with a side of Tater Tots.
  • Demogorgon’s Totcho: A twist on the classic nacho, this dangerously delicious snack piles up Tater Tots, doused in spicy queso, chili, Flamin’ Hot Cheetos, sour cream and scallions.
  • Eleven’s Waffle Extravaganza: Inspired by the lead protagonist’s favorite food, this tasty treat mixes Reese’s Pieces, jelly beans, chocolate chips and whipped cream stacked high on three Kellogg’s Eggo waffles.

Additional treats will be served throughout the theme park, including Mini Meatball Subs, Loaded Mac ‘n’ Cheese and Stir Fry Noodles as well as Voodoo Doughnuts.

Here’s what guests can expect to dine on at Universal Orlando Resort:

  • Waffles Galore!: All inspired by Eleven’s favorite food, guests can enjoy a variety of waffle treats at “Halloween Horror Nights,” including Fudge Dipped Waffle on a Stick topped with peanuts and sprinkles; Waffle Ice Cream Pocket Sundae which features two chocolate chip waffles stuffed with strawberry ice cream and topped with whipped cream, chocolate sauce, caramel sauce, sprinkles, chopped peanuts and a cherry; Triple Decker Extravaganza, which is Orlando’s version of Eleven’s Waffle Extravaganza – and more.
  • Syrup & Waffles: Enjoy Eleven’s favorite food…beverage-style! This non-alcoholic frozen drink is a delicious blend of syrup flavors with tiny waffles on top.
  • Christmas Tree Light Cupcakes: Inspired by the iconic scene from ”Stranger Things” where Joyce uses Christmas lights to communicate with Will, guests can choose from chocolate or red velvet cupcakes, each topped with whipped cream frosting and covered with jelly beans to resemble the colorful lights.
  • 11 Mini Donuts: These donuts are covered in powdered sugar or cinnamon and topped with red frosting – inspired by the nosebleed Eleven typically has when she uses her telekinesis powers.
  • Pepperoni & Sausage Pizza: Inspired by the slice of pizza Dustin offers his crush, Nancy, in the first episode of Season One.
  • Benny’s Burgers: Universal Orlando will also feature a Benny’s Burgers food location, where guests can grab a variety of burgers, chicken sandwiches and more.

Universal Orlando’s “Halloween Horror Nights” will feature additional highly-themed food and beverages inspired by this year’s ‘80s theme and Halloween overall, including a unique Candy Corn frozen drink, a sweet and sour drink called “Gnarly Twist,” a special HHN Tombstone Doughnut at Voodoo Doughnut, and more. For a complete list of the highly-themed food and drinks available at Universal Orlando’s “Halloween Horror Nights,” click here.

For the first time ever, Universal Studios HollywoodUniversal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Singapore are partnering with Netflix to bring “Stranger Things” to life at this year’s “Halloween Horror Nights” events. Fans of the series will get the chance to brave the Upside Down and confront the supernatural as each park debuts all-new mazes inspired by season one of the critically-acclaimed series.

For more information and to purchase tickets for “Halloween Horror Nights “at Universal Studios Hollywood, Universal Orlando Resort or Universal Studios Singapore, visit www.HalloweenHorrorNights.com.

2018 Halloween Horror Nights: Universal Studios Hollywood unveils full lineup, R.I.P. package

September 6, 2018

The following is a press release from Universal Studios Hollywood:

The all-new R.I.P. Tour is Universal Studios Hollywood’s first-class ticket to terror this “Halloween Horror Nights,” featuring a private guided tour with trolley access, a gourmet buffet dinner, unlimited Universal Express line privileges and exclusive access to a specially-themed “Stranger Things” lounge.

A premium experience that will sell out, the R.I.P. Tour is a must for guests who prefer to scare in style. This year’s “Halloween Horror Nights” dates are: September 14-16, 20-22, 26-30, October 4-7, 11-14, 18-21, 25-28, 31, and November 1-3, 2018. Tickets are available for purchase at Hollywood.HalloweenHorrorNights.com.

Each R.I.P. Tour accommodates groups of 12, making it ideal for large parties or smaller mix-in groups. Highlights include:

  • Exclusive “Stranger Things” experience featuring themed photo ops, props from the popular Netflix series and scare-actor make-up demonstrations
  • Unlimited line privileges via Universal Express access to all mazes, Terror Tram and available rides
  • Private VIP trolley transportation to backlot mazes and Terror Tram
  • Reserved VIP seating at the Jabbawockeez live show
  • Gourmet buffet dinner, featuring specially-themed “Stranger Things” foods, including appropriately named Upside Down Sliders at exclusive VIP Dining Room
  • Two complimentary drinks
  • Access to the two Lounges, including the “Stranger Things” themed lounge and lounge on the theme park’s lower lot
  • Commemorative R.I.P. Tour credentials
  • Complimentary valet parking

“Halloween Horror Nights” brings together the sickest minds in horror to immerse guests in a living, breathing, three-dimensional world of terror inspired by TV and film’s most compelling horror properties.

This year’s terrifying line-up includes:

  • “Stranger Things” gives fans a chance to brace the Upside Down in this new maze inspired by Netflix’s critically-acclaimed television series
  • “Poltergeist” brings guests into the light based on the iconic supernatural horror film, directed by Tobe Hooper and produced by Steven Spielberg
  • “The First Purge,” based on Universal Picture’s blockbuster thriller, bears witness to the tradition that unleashed the anarchy
  • “Trick ‘r Treat” brings director Michael Dougherty’s cult Halloween classic to life daring guests to live the rules or suffer the consequences
  • “Halloween 4: The Return of Michael Myers” unmasks Haddonfield’s infamous serial killer based on the fourth installment in the classic slasher series created by John Carpenter
  • “The Horrors of Blumhouse,” makes an encore performance at this year’s event, bringing leading producer of horror Jason Blum’s Truth or Dare and Unfriended blockbusters movies to life in an all new maze
  • “Universal Monsters” is inspired by Universal’s original cinematic Monsters and the studio that invented the horror film and featuring an original score produced and composed by celebrated Grammy Award-winning musician, Slash, long hailed as one of the 10-best electric guitar-players of all time
  • “The Walking Dead,” Universal Studios Hollywood’s permanent attraction inspired by AMC’s record-breaking television series, adds to the evening’s carnage
  • The Jabbawockeez award-winning hip hop dance crew returns by popular demand with an all-new, high-energy performance created exclusively for “Halloween Horror Nights”
  • The return of serial killer clown, Hollywood Harry takes a stab at the Terror Tram while guests amble about a portion of the world-famous backlot

For exciting updates and exclusive “Halloween Horror Nights” content, visit Hollywood.HalloweenHorrorNights.com, like Halloween Horror Nights – Hollywood on Facebook; follow @HorrorNights #UniversalHHN on InstagramTwitter and Snapchat; and watch the terror come to life on Halloween Horror Nights YouTube.

 

2018 Halloween Horror Nights: Sneak-preview images of ‘Stranger Things’ and ‘Slaughter Sinemia’

September 6, 2018

“Stranger Things” at Halloween Horror Nights 2018 (Photo courtesy of Universal Orlando Resort)

The following is a press release from Universal Orlando Resort:

Universal Studios reveals first look images from the “Stranger Things” haunted mazes coming to “Halloween Horror Nights” 2018.

For the first time ever, Universal Studios Hollywood, Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Singapore are partnering with Netflix to bring “Stranger Things” to life at their “Halloween Horror Nights” events. Each park will feature its very own maze that will give guests the chance to brave the Upside Down and encounter iconic scenes, characters and environments from season one of the critically-acclaimed series.

The images showcase some of the eerily-authentic environments guests will encounter at “Halloween Horror Nights” 2018 – including the Byers’ living room adorned with an erratic display of flashing Christmas lights, Hawkins National Laboratory in the Upside Down, Will’s makeshift fort called Castle Byers and more.

“Halloween Horror Nights” begins Friday, September 14 in Hollywood and Orlando, and on Thursday, September 27 in Singapore. Tickets and vacation packages are on sale now. For more information about “Halloween Horror Nights” at Universal Studios Hollywood, Universal Orlando Resort or Universal Studios Singapore, visit www.HalloweenHorrorNights.com.

Universal Orlando Resort is giving guests a sneak peek at the horror that awaits in Slaughter Sinema – an all-new original haunted house at Halloween Horror Nights 2018.

In the haunted house, guests will enter a decrepit drive-in movie theater and jump through the screens of original storylines filled with monsters and nightmares inspired by 80s horror B-movies. They will come face-to-face with terrifying creatures with razor-sharp teeth in Midnight Snacks 2: The House Swarming; deadly werewolf bikers in Devil Dogs; a lethal barber in Barber Chop and more.

For an up-close look at Slaughter Sinema, including photos and video, check out the Universal Orlando Blog. And to download the images, click here.

Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights 2018 will run for a record-breaking 36 select nights from September 14 to November 3 and feature the most haunted houses in event history. Cinematic greats, slasher films, cult classics and original nightmares inspired by the past will come to life as guests face 10 disturbingly real haunted houses, five sinister scare zones and more.

For more information about “Halloween Horror Nights,” visit www.HalloweenHorrorNights.com.

“Slaughterhouse Sinemia” at Halloween Horror Nights 2018 (Photo by Ken Kinzie/Universal Studios Hollywood)
“Slaughterhouse Sinemia” at Halloween Horror Nights 2018 (Photo by Ken Kinzie/Universal Studios Hollywood)
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