Blumhouse’s Terror Tram: A New Twist on Universal’s Iconic Backlot
As the calendar flips to another year, we find ourselves once again standing on the precipice of a fresh Terror Tram takeover. This year’s theme, brought to life by Blumhouse, is a considerable upgrade from previous iterations. The redesign transforms Universal’s iconic backlot into a nightmare playground, complete with The Bates Motel, a downed aircraft, and other cinematic landmarks. With Blumhouse having licensed titles like “The Black Phone” and “The Purge” for previous haunted houses, you can anticipate a wealth of familiar costumes, interspersed with a few surprises that lend a unique spin to the traditional Terror Tram experience.
The Journey Begins
Your journey into the heart of horror begins in the same way as always: with a tram ride to the backlot. As the driver and host shuttle you to your destination, a video package plays, featuring a montage of hair-raising Blumhouse trailer clips. Upon reaching the backlot, you’re greeted by M3GAN, waiting ominously at the entrance. A black, neon-outlined archway serves as the doorway into the Blumhouse universe, a creative touch that sets the tone for the terror to come. As you prepare to cross the threshold into Jason Blum’s world of horror, a horde of the production company’s “iconic” villains burst from a side curtain, chainsaws revving, ready to give you a fright.
A Walk Through the Terror Tram
As you disembark from the tram and approach M3GAN, you’ll embark on a chilling walk along the uphill paths of the Terror Tram. The journey kicks off with a series of platforms showcasing scare actors dressed as AI bestie M3GAN, gruesomely dispatching Funki employees. This is followed by a two-for-one section featuring “Freaky” and “Happy Death Day,” taking over the domain of Norman Bates. The ground is littered with fake corpses dressed as Tree Gelbman, while Millie Kessler, possessed by the Blissfield Butcher, bursts out of motel room doors in hot pursuit of other Trees. Despite the rapid pace and slight confusion, the experience is undeniably thrilling.
The Black Phone
Next on the tour is “The Black Phone,” which, unfortunately, feels more like an afterthought. As you walk down a nondescript path, The Grabber, clutching a black balloon, watches you from the shadows. Despite the attempts at jump scares, the placement feels off, and the lack of atmospheric elements reduces the experience to little more than an outdoor stroll.
War of the Worlds Set
The tour concludes with a walk through Universal’s iconic “War of the Worlds” set, now overrun by Purge Night maniacs. If you’ve been here before, you’ll recognize these psychos from when “The Purge” took over the Terror Tram. Despite the familiarity, the production value remains impressive, with the Purgers dressed as Statues of Liberty, deranged teddy bears, and the iconic “Kiss Me” deviants all adding to the spectacle. The scare actors clearly enjoy their roles, helping to elevate the climax of the tour above the lesser points that came before.
Conclusion
The Terror Tram takeover by Blumhouse offers a fresh spin on Universal’s iconic backlot, blending familiar elements with new twists for a unique and thrilling experience. Despite some minor shortcomings, the overall production value and the enthusiasm of the scare actors make for a memorable journey into the world of horror.
FAQs
What is the Terror Tram?
The Terror Tram is an annual Halloween event at Universal Studios, where the backlot is transformed into a horror-themed attraction.
What is new in this year’s Terror Tram?
This year’s Terror Tram is brought to life by Blumhouse and features elements from their licensed titles like “The Black Phone” and “The Purge.”
What can I expect from the Terror Tram experience?
Expect a mix of familiar and new elements, including scare actors, iconic villains, and a walk through Universal’s iconic backlot.
Credit: www.slashfilm.com