Category: Right Up Your Alley

Unboxing Doctor Collector’s New ‘Jurassic Park – The Lost Memories’ Box + Designer Interview!

Posted on by Derrick Davis

One of the coolest products in the last few years for ‘Jurassic’ fans have been the Doctor Collector boxes. This includes the ‘Jurassic Park – Welcome Kit’ & the ‘Jurassic World – Apex Predator Kit,’ but coming July 9th (available for pre-order) is the brand-new ‘Jurassic Park – The Lost Memories Collector’s Box!’

I received an early copy of this box and can confirm that Doctor Collector “spared no expense!” Fans of both ‘Jurassic Park’ & ‘The Lost World: Jurassic Park’ will absolutely love it. Before I reveal a closer look, here is a breakdown of what’s included:

Step into the Jurassic legacy with this exclusive collector’s box, inspired by the unforgettable events of Jurassic Park (1993) and The Lost World: Jurassic Park (1997).

This set brings you never-before-seen stories, iconic moments, and hidden details from the films that started it all.

This kit contains the following:

  • Official Jurassic Park Guide Book (Includes 3D images)
  • 3D Viewer Jurassic Park Googles
  • Staff Vehicle 004 ID
  • R.Muldoon Key Car
  • Jurassic Park Huge Flag (The Lost World)
  • “Danger” Metal Sign
  • Jurassic Park gift bag
  • Ingen Envelope
  • Lex, Tim & John Hammond photo
  • Dennis Nedry Ingen ID Pass
  • Allan Grant and Ellie Sattler photo
  • D.Gennaro Business Card
  • Snakewater Dig site Report
  • Triceratops Veterinary Report
  • Vehicle instructions and safety guidelines Brochure
  • Jurassic Park Map
  • San Diego Teller Newspaper spread
  • Isla Las Cinco Muertes Map
  • Ingen Button Badge
  • T-Rex Photo
  • Exclusive Mr. DNA Trading Cards (website exclusive)

Now, see for yourself the detailed items contained in the box by watching my unboxing video via Jurassic Time!

My favorite items have got to be the ‘Jurassic Park Official Guidebook;’ Donald Gennaro’s Cowan, Swain & Ross card; and the ‘Lost World’ mural banner!

To celebrate this release, I had the wonderful opportunity to speak with one of the box’s designers, Kiko Sánchez! Below is my exclusive interview with him that will give you a behind the scenes perspective on how these Doctor Collector sets are created.

Kiko Sánchez, you are an illustrator and graphic designer in Barcelona that makes detailed props and various film memorabilia. Which franchises inspire you the most for the art you create?

I draw a lot of inspiration from nostalgic franchises like ‘Back to the Future’ or ‘Jurassic Park,’ but ‘Harry Potter’ holds a special place in my heart. I actually started by creating maps and blueprints as a fan of that saga, and it was what pushed me to pursue this professionally. Thanks to ‘Harry Potter,’ I was able to reach a lot of people, and even though I’ve distanced myself from it a bit in recent years, it’s still very special to me.

How did you first get involved with Doctor Collector and what was your first assignment?

I’ve been working with them almost since the beginning. They saw my work and reached out to me for their first ‘Jurassic Park’ set, as they were recreating the famous yellow flyer from the first movie. They saw on my website that I had recreated it and got in touch with me.

Then, they started commissioning me for more specific projects, and we’ve never stopped collaborating. I’m happy to have started with them when they were still a very small company because I’ve seen them grow and carve out a niche in the market with their unique vision of merchandise, which is quite different from the usual commercial approach.

Several boxes and kits have been made by Doctor Collector for ‘Jurassic Park‘ & ‘Jurassic World.’ Which ones were you involved in, and in what capacities?

I think I’ve worked on all of them! My work is most prominent in the ‘Jurassic World’ sets, where I’ve contributed both as an illustrator and a graphic designer, as well as working on prop reproductions.

While the ‘Jurassic Park Welcome Kit‘ is one of my favorites, being related to the original film; the ‘Jurassic World Indominus Kit‘ is perhaps the one I like the most due to how comprehensively detailed it is. What did your work consist of for the ‘Indominus Kit?’

This was actually the project where I contributed the most designs. My most recognizable piece is the map of ‘Jurassic World’s’ Main Street, which was a very ambitious and detail-rich recreation. I loved working on that because maps and blueprints are my specialty as an illustrator, but I also did a lot of other work as a graphic designer.

For this set, I created many elements, like the welcome letter, tickets, coins, VIP passes, etc., but my favorite was the idea of the FastPass with different attraction tickets. I think that’s one of those props that only my colleagues at Doctor Collector would dare to make. I studied the ‘Jurassic World’ website and all the references I could find to understand exactly how a FastPass would work in that fictional world, adding little details that make it feel like a real object. I even studied the monorail stops to figure out how to get to the attractions on time. That’s always my goal—to make everything look as authentic and believable as possible.

Sometimes, there are small props that might go unnoticed, but I’m particularly fond of them. One example is the ‘Camp Cretaceous’ postcard. Initially, I suggested creating an illustrated map of the camp (I actually studied the camp thoroughly and even made sketches) that would unfold when opening the doors—a nod to the yellow flyer from ‘Jurassic Park.’ But in the end, we opted for a simpler version with a sign-up form for kids. It’s another example of an in-universe design that enhances a set, even if it might be overlooked among all the other materials.

For the new ‘Jurassic Park Lost Memories‘ box, what’s the story behind its creation?

This box was entirely conceived by my colleagues. In this case, I designed some really cool retro-style vehicle blueprints, inspired by the aesthetic of the first movie’s materials. Since the idea is for them to be part of the attraction’s safety guidelines, I had a lot of fun incorporating little details and nods to the film—like small instructions for using the touchscreen display.

The other major prop I designed for this set is the Las Cinco Muertes map. Fans will recognize the reference—it’s one of those props that you blink and miss. I used that map as a base to create a slightly more realistic version.

Was it ever difficult to get licensed movie images, such as the Las Cinco Muertes map, or is Doctor Collector given free reign by Universal to have access to certain archives & requests?

In my case, as we say in Spain, I “throw the stone and hide my hand” — meaning I propose the designs, submit them for approval, and cross my fingers, hoping they get accepted.

Overall, Universal understands what we’re doing. They often provide us with style guides and pre-prepared materials, but since we handle the license differently than, say, a T-shirt company, we often can’t use their ready-made graphics. For example, Universal isn’t able to provide a Las Cinco Muertes map—that’s why Doctor Collector commissioned me to create one.

Once my work is done, it goes through the approval process, and if it meets all the requirements, it gets approved without any issues. Fortunately, I’m not the one handling approvals!

I love that in this new box, and even prior boxes, there are novel references as well as movie ones. The “Cowan, Swain, & Ross” card is a lovely nod to fans of the novel.

We always put a lot of effort into making the materials both canon and surprising. We usually start with what’s mentioned in the movies and then try to take it a step further. You can tell we’re fans, right?

What is your favorite piece in the new ‘Lost Memories’ box?

I think you’re going to love the safety guidelines for the Park Drive Tour.

Do you expect more ‘Jurassic’ boxes on the horizon? What are some ideas you’d like to tackle next?

Absolutely! I have so much fun coming up with ideas for these sets. Can you imagine a kit featuring the Bone-Shaker flyer or the Marine Facility blueprints [from 2011’s ‘Jurassic Park: The Game’]? I’d love to work on something like that. If my bosses are listening, I’m giving them these ideas for free!

I’d like to thank Kiko for his time in answering my questions! You can find more of Kiko’s work for sale at his Etsy store and fantastic displays on his Instagram.

Are you going to order this new collector’s box? Does Kiko’s work inspire you to be a graphic designer? Leave your comments below, and stay tuned to Jurassic Outpost for the latest!

Celebrate The 10th Anniversary Of ‘Jurassic World’ With 4 NEW Videos Of The ‘Extras Experience’ In New Orleans & Hawaii!

Posted on by Derrick Davis

10 years ago, ‘Jurassic World’ brought the ‘Jurassic Park’ franchise back from extinction. Since then, two sequels have come out, with more underway. But for many, the first ‘Jurassic World’ holds a special time and place, bringing to life the excitement of what a functioning dinosaur park could have been like.

In 2013, it was finally announced that the fourth film was on the horizon. Rumors that it would feature a fully realized theme park on Isla Nublar, known as Jurassic World, led to many questions running in everyone’s minds. It was quite a surprising direction for the story that most people didn’t see coming. When filming began in 2014, many fans flocked for the chance to personally take part in the experience. Cameras rolled in Hawaii first, but soon after that their lenses focused on several massive sets in New Orleans.

AN EIGHT-PART VIDEO INTERVIEW SERIES

Featuring Incredible Behind The Scenes Memories, Images, & Footage!

In case you missed the original 4-part series, below is a rundown of what has come before. Otherwise, jump down to the new ’10th Anniversary Special.’

During 2023, Derrick Davis of Jurassic Time conversed with three fans who were lucky enough to have been extras (background cast members) at New Orleans: Anthony Feliciano, Bo Monarch, and Brent Kappel. Their discussions were edited into a 4-part video series that dove into the memories of their incredible experiences on the impressive sets of ‘Jurassic World.’ We got to hear their fun stories, along with a plethora of rare behind the scenes photos, video footage, and other unique imagery.

PART ONE: Mosasaur Stadium & Old Visitor Center

Anthony and Bo first describe what it was like filming the famous Mosasaur Stadium sequence. We learn how little of the set there actually was, and the simple methods used to create a much larger effect on screen. They also catch a glimpse of the original ‘Jurassic Park’ Visitor Center’s eerie ruins. Despite seeing the set from afar, it was enough to give them immense excitement.

PART TWO: Hammond’s Lab & Innovation Center

In the second segment, Anthony and Bo look back at their experiences inside the highly-detailed Hammond Creation Lab and Samsung Innovation Center sets. We get a fun recollection of what they thought their scenes were about while being filmed, as well as some props, like a map, that they were able to take home with them.

PART THREE: Main Street

For the third segment, Brent details the stunning Main Street set that was built next to an abandoned Six Flags amusement park. He gives us detailed descriptions of many Main Street locations, including the mostly-unseen Jurassic Traders Gift Shop, and the shock of Katie McGrath (who played Zara) performing some of her insane stunts on set.

PART FOUR: Deep In The Creation Lab

The fourth segment of this series features Brent describing what it was like portraying a scientist in the Hammond Creation Lab, then reveals several props that mysteriously left with him. He tells a funny story involving Chris Pratt, and one of the props he shows us features a dinosaur dietary chart.

Now, for the 10th anniversary of ‘Jurassic World’ in 2025, Derrick engaged in conversations with a new group of extras from New Orleans and Hawaii. Through these discussions, a wealth of new stories emerged, accompanied by a vast array of images and footage. This special retrospective on the ‘Jurassic World’ extras experience was compiled into another 4-part video series to celebrate the occasion.

PART ONE: Revisiting New Orleans

In the first segment, New Orleans extras Mariah Lambes, Chris Topher, Rob Miranda, and Brent Kappel discuss the Mosasaur Stadium, Samsung Innovation Center, and Main Street sets. For the first time, we learn about the hangar set, which is seen at the end of the film, where the survivors of Jurassic World gather after their terrible ordeals. An extraordinary act of kindness by the film’s director, Colin Trevorrow, is also revealed.

PART TWO: New Orleans Revelations

For the second segment, Mariah, Chris, Rob, and Brent describe more about the Main Street set in New Orleans, including a minor injury that occurred and the full version of Jimmy Buffett’s cameo. Attractions inspired by the film at Universal Studios theme parks, the use of digital doubles, and other surprising stories are also revealed.

PART THREE: Journey To Hawaii

The third segment takes us to Hawaii, where a whole new group of extras tell their stories about this location’s incredible sets. We begin with Audrey Chang, who describes the process of being an extra in Hawaii, what it was like being on the ferry that took visitors to Jurassic World, and arriving at the dock set. Cody Easterbrook continues the conversation as he describes the Indominus Rex paddock set, the original name of the hybrid dinosaur, his role in the film, and much more.

PART FOUR: Exploring Hawaii

In the final fourth segment, Hawaii extra Ryota Takuma recounts stories about the Gyrosphere Loading Station set at Kualoa Ranch and the Hilton Isla Nublar Hotel set at the Hawaii Convention Center. Ryota also describes being part of a deleted scene, with some rare images and footage to help illustrate it. The concluding conversation features film enthusiast and photographer Charlie Chai, who reveals one-of-a-kind images and footage that he captured from several of Hawaii’s sets. We even get an incredibly rare look at the ‘Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom’ version of Main Street in ruins.

All the extras Derrick spoke with, and surely many others, finally got to see their work in June 2015 when the film premiered around the world. No matter what they thought of the final product, seeing themselves on the big screen was a huge thrill. While the rest of us may be envious of their experiences, it is wonderful to have their recollections joined with all the imagery to finally get a real sense of what these sets were truly like. And, if only for a short time, we can also imagine we visited ‘Jurassic World’ just as they had.

One can’t deny that Jurassic World brought a franchise back from extinction. After a decade, hearing memories from the film’s extras made me recall the excitement and fun that Jurassic World brought to my life. Learning more about the incredible sets with detailed images and footage made me appreciate the artistry even more. It truly feels like a real place, and for Jurassic World’s extras, it was. For the rest of us, every fan has their own special stories of what the entire Jurassic Park series means to them, and it’s in these stories that life has truly found a way to bring us all together.

Which set from ‘Jurassic World’ do you wish you could have visited the most? Were you also an extra in the film, and if so, what scenes were you in? Share your comments below, and as always, stay tuned to Jurassic Outpost for the latest!

Interviews conducted & videos created by Derrick Davis. Article written by Derrick Davis, duplicated at Jurassic Time & Derrick Davis Media.

Pre-Order ‘Jurassic Park – The Lost Memories’ New Doctor Collector Box!

Posted on by Derrick Davis

Coming soon from Doctor Collector, creators of the ‘Jurassic Park – Welcome Kit’ & the ‘Jurassic World – Apex Predator Kit,’ is the brand-new ‘Jurassic Park – The Lost Memories Collector’s Box!’

Step into the Jurassic legacy with this exclusive collector’s box, inspired by the unforgettable events of Jurassic Park (1993) and The Lost World: Jurassic Park (1997).

This set brings you never-before-seen stories, iconic moments, and hidden details from the films that started it all.

On April 9th, the pre-sale for this exclusive “Web Edition” of the Collector’s Box goes live, which includes exclusive Mr. DNA trading cards! You can set up a notification reminder right now so you don’t miss out.

This kit contains the following:

  • Official Jurassic Park Guide Book (Includes 3D images)
  • 3D Viewer Jurassic Park Googles
  • Staff Vehicle 004 ID
  • R.Muldoon Key Car
  • Jurassic Park Huge Flag (The Lost World)
  • “Danger” Metal Sign
  • Jurassic Park gift bag
  • Ingen Envelope
  • Lex, Tim & John Hammond photo
  • Dennis Nedry Ingen ID Pass
  • Allan Grant and Ellie Sattler photo
  • D.Gennaro Business Card
  • Snakewater Dig site Report
  • Triceratops Veterinary Report
  • Vehicle instructions and safety guidelines Brochure
  • Jurassic Park Map
  • San Diego Teller Newspaper spread
  • Isla Las Cinco Muertes Map
  • Ingen Button Badge
  • T-Rex Photo
  • Exclusive Mr.DNA Trading Cards (exclusive in our website)

Fans of both ‘Jurassic Park’ & ‘The Lost World: Jurassic Park’ should find plenty to love, so don’t miss out on this new box from Doctor Collector!

Are you going to order this new collector’s box? Which item inside spoke to you the most? Leave your comments below, and stay tuned to Jurassic Outpost for the latest!

See The Work Of Two ‘Jurassic’ Legends At The ‘Design +’ Cinematic Art Exhibit!

Posted on by Derrick Davis

It’s a very ‘Jurassic’ year with the new film, ‘Jurassic World Rebirth,’ on the horizon. There’s also a new game (maybe two?) and a new season of Chaos Theory to look forward to. Well, adding to this packed list is a chance for people to see the work by two absolute legends who helped create the ‘Jurassic’ films!

If you’re in the Los Angeles, California area from March 8th-March 29th, be sure to see the ‘Design +’ Cinematic Art Exhibition. It will feature the work of Rick Carter, the production designer of ‘Jurassic Park’ and ‘The Lost World: Jurassic Park,’ as well as Joanna Johnston, the costume designer of ‘Jurassic World: Dominion!’ Their incredible work from various films (ranging from ‘Back To The Future’ to ‘Forrest Gump’) will be on display, along with several other esteemed artists.

‘Design +‘ is a cinematic art exhibition featuring the original designs and artworks of 2 time Academy Award winner Rick Carter, Costume Designer Joanna Johnston, and Production Designer Anne Seibel. The exhibition explores filmmaking through each Artist’s personal and collaborative process. From Midnight in Paris to Forrest Gump, visitors will be able to see the original artworks behind Hollywood set designs and costume designs. The exhibition will run from March 8th until March 29th at the Berrics Art Society and will include weekend programming and discussions with Steve Berra, the Urban Film Festival of Paris’s François Gautret, and Silicon Beach’s Jon V.  With the original artworks exhibited, visitors will be able to see collaborations by Los Angeles painters “Aiseborn” and “Kopyeson” from the exhibit “TIME” at ESMoA. Lastly we are proud to have partnered with Studio Auctions to showcase iconic film memorabilia from the films of these Artists and beyond.

Featured at the exhibit are several artworks for sale, including concept designs by Rick Carter for ‘Jurassic Park’ & ‘The Lost World: Jurassic Park!’

Immerse yourself in a world of film history before time runs out! In fact, a DeLorean from ‘Back To The Future’ will be on display to take you back to the time of the dinosaurs!

A special short film festival event will also be held at the exhibit on March 22nd, featuring the following panelists: Production Designer Rick Carter, Costume Designer Joanna Johnston, X-Files Creator Chris Carter, Olympian Andy Anderson, Urban Film Festival Founder Francois Gautret. Print signings will also be available. This is the perfect chance to meet Rick Carter & Joanna Johnston in-person, surrounded by their spectacular work!

Exhibition Dates: March 8th until March 29th

Artists: Rick Carter, Joanna Johnston, Anne Seibel, Aiseborn, Kopyeson, Bastien

Grand Opening: March 8th from 2pm until 6pm

Venue & Hours: Berrics Art Society | 609 South Anderson Street Los Angeles, CA 90023 (Open by appointment during the week, except for the March 22nd ‘Urban Films’ event.)

Exhibition Producers: Steve Berra & Jim Carter

Weekend Programming/Partners: The Berrics, Urban Film Festival, RStyle, Studio Auctions, ESMoA, 608 Studios, Legacy West Media, UC Santa Cruz

For more information about the exhibit & the event, visit Legacy West Media.

Do you plan to attend? Let us know in the comments below, and stay tuned to Jurassic Outpost for the latest!

New Universal Kids Park, Featuring Jurassic World, set to open in 2026!

Posted on by J. Malone

Universal released more details on their upcoming park in Texas, now set to officially open in 2026!

Initially announced just over a year ago, the Texas park will be Universal’s first ever entirely children and family centered theme park. The other Universal destinations around the globe feature a mixture of attractions, shows, and events for all ages, but the all new Universal Kids Resort will have offerings specifically geared towards a younger audience.

VP and executive producer of Universal Creative Sarah Gibbon stated “At each point, we considered how we could design a place especially for kids where they could explore, imagine and adventure with their families and friends They’ll be able to do all this while being fully immersed in some of their favorite stories – ones full of curiosity, laughter and joy.”

With that in mind, many have wondered what types of attractions, and IP properties we would see In 2024 Universal released two official pieces of conceptual art of an ariel views of all the lands that would make up UKR, and both included portions that appeared to be hinting at potential Jurassic themed sections.

Well, with the announcement of UKR opening in 2026, Universal also released what lands and characters we can expect to see- with Jurassic World being among them!

The official website teases,

‘[At Jurassic World] Discoveries abound as kids learn about and come face to face with beloved dinosaurs of Jurassic World in uniquely exciting and interactive ways. The new adventure exclusively created for young explorers will be both exhilarating and awe-inspiring.’

Along with the land synopsis is a picture of everyone’s favorite juvenile ankylosaur Bumpy, from Jurassic World: Camp Cretaceous.

Along with Bumpy (and whatever other dinosaurs and characters from Jurassic World we may encounter,) guests can experience many other iconic lands and characters in this 97-acre theme park including Shrek, Puss in Boots, Trolls, SpongeBob SquarePants, Minions, and Gabby’s Dollhouse .

While there are no official details on what guests can specifically expect as far as rides and shows go for UKR, many fans will no doubt be scouring the previously released concept art for clues. And people can also sign up for news and updates on the official UKR site as well!


Tell us what you think. Are you excited for the all-new Universal Kids Resort? Will you be visiting? What kind of rides and experiences do you hope to see? Let us know in the comments!

More Science than Fiction: Universal Continues to Utilize Jurassic for STEAM Education

Posted on by J. Malone

From traveling museum exhibitions, to multiple educational books written by some of world’s leading scientists, and even donating nearly a million dollars of paleontological research through The Jurassic Foundation, Universal Pictures and Amblin have found many unique and inventive ways to utilize the Jurassic franchise to promote education through STEAM (an acronym for science, technology, engineering, art, and math.) Universal Destinations and Experiences now continues this trend with their latest student programing at Universal Orlando!

Jurassic World VelociCoaster: Breaking Down the DNA is an all new educational youth program that allows student attendees to discover the the collaborative and innovative world of ride design! Developed in partnership with Universal Pictures, students will explore how a diverse Universal team with varied backgrounds and skills aligned to collectively transform an idea into a multi-award winning ride. They’ll discover how ride design is a complex collaborative process the combines creativity and problem-solving to create an innovative, story-driven attraction.

Program Objectives include:

  • Exploring academic and professional interests connected to themed entertainment.
  • Examining how diverse perspectives drive innovative thinking.
  • Identifying how teamwork is fundamental in achieving a common goal.
  • How to describe storytelling elements and how they drive immersive experiences.
  • Explaining the importance of how research influences decision making.

The program is the latest in a series of STEAM centered events hosted at the parks that seek to engage students into exploring engineering, creativity, science, and teamwork. It’s also the latest way Universal has used the Jurassic franchise to promote education. Previously, in 2023, Universal Orlando hosted a STEAM Symposium themed around Jurassic Park’s 30th Anniversary, and Universal Orlando also offers a “Jurassic Paleobotany” program associated with their STEAM App Series, where students work together to describe the importance of understanding plants and environments of the past and present to create authentic, immersive, and themed environments.

Programs at Universal are intended for groups of twenty or more students, and reservations must be made ahead of time. Tours will be scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis. Programs are subject to availability. More details and resources for educators interested can be found on Universal Orlando’s Youth Programing website.

Universal Japan to Host Jurassic World Journey Event!

Posted on by J. Malone

Coming off reopening Jurassic Park The Ride after an extended refurbishment, Universal Studios Japan has announced that they will be hosting a six-month long Jurassic interactive event!

From March 14, 2025, through August 31, 2025 (*dates subject to change) Universal Studios Japan will be hosting Jurassic World Journey, a special limited time event during daytime park hours with unique show offerings, special food, interactive missions, and more!

Universal Japan’s website states:

‘A new great adventure begins!

Take your family on a thrilling, new adventure to experience the dinosaurs from Jurassic World like never before! See the terrifying T. rex on a boat tour through the jungle. Meet and interact with adorable baby dinosaurs! And try not to scream during a tense encounter with a Raptor! You can also go on an all-new “”Mission Walk”” where you can explore the area while solving fun and exciting new puzzles along the way!’

So, lets break down exactly what guests can expect and experience during JW Journey!

ENTERTAINMENT OFFERINGS

There will be three “new” shows offered during the Jurassic World Journey event that will bring guests closer than ever to the park’s dinosaurs! Universal Japan has proven time and again that they love experimenting with live performance to showcase dinosaurs in their Jurassic Park area. Universal Japan has been the stage for a variety of Jurassic shows through the years since the 00’s, showcasing many different dinosaurs with each iteration (one of which even had a Spinosaurus!) 

In “Dino Encounter” guests will be able to see some of the park’s herbivorous dinosaurs, like Triceratops and Stegosaurus, and will also have opportunities to pet and even feed the animals!

Complimenting the experience with the herbivores will be the “Baby Dino Adventure,”  guests will experience the awe and wonder of interacting with a baby dinosaur and learn some fun new facts about the incredible species from its handler! You can even take a commemorative photo to have as a keepsake of this truly unforgettable and heartwarming moment!

Be careful though, because while the island is home to many magnificent and wonderful animals, danger also lurks around every corner! In “Raptor Alert”  you find out that several raptors have escaped from their enclosures and have been spotted in the area! Be sure to take caution as you move throughout the area! Get ready to experience the thrill of a lifetime as you try to avoid being trapped by the Raptor pack!

Universal is also planning the “ultimate adventure” for the whole family to enjoy with the Jurassic World “Mission Walk!” After picking up your mission booklet at Jurassic Outfitters (each guest can obtain one mission booklet per day), guests will explore the jungles of Jurassic World and complete their exciting missions throughout the Park! As you complete the various missions you’ll also encounter various dinosaurs hidden in the jungle. Every participant who completes all of the missions will receive an exclusive sticker as a gift!

The Jurassic section highlighted on the USJ map.
①Jurassic World Raptor Alert​
②Jurassic World Dino Encounter
③Jurassic World Baby Dino Adventure​
④Jurassic World Mission Walk

PHOTO OP

On top of the new entertainment offerings, there will also be a special photo op location where guests can get a commemorative photo with a Jurassic World gyrosphere!

FOOD OFFERINGS

The new T, Rex Burger, volcanic Strawberry and Chocolate Cupcake, and Ancient Sea drink.

Universal never misses an opportunity to come up with unique and special foods for their parks as well, and during Jurassic World Journey the park will be offering multiple new edible dishes. 

There will be five new meals offered- the massive T. rex Burger Meal, the Raptor Burger Meal, the Pteranodon Burger meal (which looks to be a crispy chicken sandwich,) the Mosasaurus Burger Meal (a breaded fish sandwich,) and the bite sized Triceratops Burger Meal for kids. To pair with the meal there will also be a unique drink, a salty lemon and lychee soda mix named the Ancient Sea.

And don’t forget desert! Offerings like a pteranodon topped chocolate and strawberry cupcake (made to look like Mt. Sibo erupting,) and the Jurassic Chocolate Lemon Churritos are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Images on Universal Japan’s website suggest that there may be even more food and treat options available as well during the event, like a delectable multi-layered dessert dish of some kind and Jurassic themed macarons.

While there has been no news of new or special merchandise (other than the sticker awarded at the end of the Mission Walk,) the Blue and Gyrosphere popcorn bucket will finally be making its way to Universal Japan!

And don’t forget to ride that ever flowing river with the newly refurbished Jurassic Park The Ride, and fly alongside pterosaurs on the rollercoaster The Flying Dinosaur.

Walt Disney World News Today reported in their article reporting on the special event that Universal Japan has said that there will be “enhancements” added to the rides for the event, but we could not find any information on Universal Japan’s website (or elsewhere) corroborating this. It is not without precedent though, as other parks like Universal Hollywood and Orlando have made minor tweaks to their respective Jurassic rides in the past for special events like Halloween Horror Nights. So perhaps we will see a few added details, props, or dinosaurs in the coming months!

Universal Destinations and Resorts around the world have had many different special Jurassic offerings over the years. For instance, for Jurassic Park‘s 30th Anniversary Universal Orlando had a special tribute store, and in 2018 Universal Singapore had the short show Jurassic World ROAR! in honor of the release of Jurassic World Fallen Kingdom. While none of the other Universal’s other resorts have announced any special events or offerings accompanying the release Jurassic World Rebirth as of yet, we can hope that perhaps Universal Japan is just leading the way and maybe some of the other destinations will soon follow suit with some dino-sized surprises for guests this year!

What would you like to see come to Universal Parks around the globe? More special Jurassic events? More unique shows with dinosaurs? New rides? Let us know in the comments below.

Interview with Rick Bluhm – Field Art Director for Jurassic Park Institute Tour

Posted on by J. Malone

The InGen Spinosaurs and Tyrannosaurus facing off in the Aviary showroom of the Jurassic Park Institute Tour. Image courtesy of Rick Bluhm

Since the release of Jurassic Park in 1993, there have been multiple accompanying live shows, exhibits, and experiences across the world that have helped bridge the gap between the fictitious world of the franchise, and our real one. 

In the early 00’s, one such exhibit was the Jurassic Park Institute Tour, located in Japan. Designed and produced by Thinkwell Design & Production, the Thea Award Winning exhibit brought the world and science of Jurassic Park alive unlike ever before.

The nearly hour-long experience featured twelve different exhibits, all featuring interactive displays and showcasing breathtaking encounters with dinosaurs using of state of the art technology and theatrical techniques. To bring these environments and exhibits to life, the creative team employed artists who took great great care of the loaned props, and in recreating entire environments from educational museum galleries, to an InGen laboratory, and even a jaunt through the Aviary.

JPIT’s Field Art Director, Rick Bluhm, adjusting a display in the InGen lab. Image courtesy of Rick Bluhm.

To tackle such an endeavor as one of these dino-sized projects, you need a dedicated and creative team. Enter Rick Bluhm, a Field Art Director on the Jurassic Park Institute Tour project. We were lucky enough to be able to connect with Bluhm, and asked him to reflect on his career as well as on his time with the JPIT project.

JO: What got you interested in being in entertainment and ultimately a Creative Director, and how did you make the journey to now helping create some of the most immersive theatrical and ride experiences in the world?

RB: My career began with theatrical set design in the Los Angeles area at dozens of small theatres. Through contacts there I transitioned into Art Direction for television commercials, series and ultimately films. It was while I was on hiatus between those projects that I was asked to join Universal and have been in themed immersive entertainment ever since – although I just retired from my position of Senior Director, Creative, after 12 years developing attractions for the parks in Orlando and Osaka.

I was very proud to be a part of the Thinkwell team that produced Jurassic Park Institute Tour and we had quite an adventure in Tokyo that summer! Prior to [joining JPI], I was the Art Director for several show attractions that we opened in Universal Studios Japan in 2001. Needless to say, I had experience with the culture and that helped me lead the wonderful local prop and set dressing crew for JPIT.

One of the earlier exhibits in the JPIT, showcasing the latest information and research in paleontology. Image courtesy of Rick Bluhm

JO: In the early 00’s with the release of Jurassic Park 3 there was this kind of push with the Jurassic Park Institute branding to kind of be more educational focused. There were books, games, and a website. But then of course there was the inception and creation of this live experience which looks like it bridges a lot of the fantastical elements and universe of the films with science and education. Can you tell us how the tour came to be initially?

RB: Ken Nakashima was the man who brought the idea for the tour to Thinkwell. He was studying paleontology at a university in the L.A. area and was keenly interested in dinosaur DNA. His father, Sam Nakashima brought investors together to create this tour, which would package the education Ken was passionate about into a wonderfully immersive entertainment experience.

An InGen lab showroom. Image courtesy of Rick Bluhm.

RB: The details about developing the concept happened all before I was brought on to the project. Joe Cashman was the Production Designer who oversaw creative and he hired me as a Field Art Director to procure all the set dressing and props, plants etc. and stage them all when we arrived in Tokyo. Before the “Mr. DNA” film pre-show, we had a huge exhibit of dinosaur skeletons with informational graphic panels to anchor the experience with a strong scientific foundation.

The Brachiosaur canopy scene, where guests would come face to face with some of the largest animals InGen created. Image courtesy of Rick Bluhm.

JO: What was one of the hardest aspects of bringing this experience to life?

RB: The biggest challenge was the scene which featured Brachiosaurs feeding. Guests felt as if they were on a bridge, overlooking the canopy of trees through which the long necks of the dinosaurs were grazing. We had limited depth there, so I had a firm in Singapore fabricate trunks with bases and armatures so we could create huge diameters of gingko trees that sat a few feet above the floor and masked it. 

This EX-STINKS. Image courtesy of Rick Bluhm.

RB: One particularly silly moment was when we received delivery of the dung pile for the Triceratops yard. It didn’t seem quite real enough, so I asked the prop team to coat it in clear gloss. It worked so well that it elicited big laughs from the crew and guests. 

A section of the JPIT that showcased scenic props and models from Jurassic Park 3, including the unused infamous “RED” Velociraptor from early pre-production. Image courtesy of Rick Bluhm.

JO: Did you all have any movie props or pieces that were a part of the tour?

RB: Although we moulded a few props (eggs, for example) from originals from the films, we wanted a special way to feature actual props and wardrobe from the latest film (JP3).

Costumes used by the main cast of Jurassic Park 3 on display at the JPTI. Image courtesy of Rick Bluhm.

RB: We created a post-show before the exit which displayed incubators and other equipment from the scene where they stumble on the dilapidated Ingen lab – plus a couple of full size Raptors and wardrobe from the key characters. I also created an Art Directors’ Studio area to feature blueprints and renderings of the sets from that film.

Concept art, models, and other preproduction and production material from the first three Jurassic films on display. Image courtesy of Rick Bluhm.

RB: I took great care in the authenticity of our props – particularly the genetics lab and medical bay – researching details from the films. Also, the artificial foliage had to have proper scale and species that would be found in the regions from the films.

Rick Bluhm adjusting and adding foliage to one of the various scenes in JPTI. A small compy pops up to keep the creative company. Image courtesy of Rick Bluhm.

JO: What do you think captivates people about Jurassic or dinosaurs in general?

RB: Dinosaurs will always be a source of fascination to us humans. The strength and majesty of those exotic creatures in an ancient world, so different from what it is now. I was obsessed as a boy and have seen my nephews and others continue with that curiosity.

One of the many animal containment areas apart of JPTI, featuring Triceratops and a fully animatronic Jurassic Park 3 style Ankylosaurus. Image courtesy of Rick Bluhm.

While the Tour is no longer, an other interactive Jurassic experiences have now taken its place, you can watch a promotional reel for the Jurassic Park Institute Tour below thanks to archival efforts of The Jurassic Park Collection.

Have you ever experienced a Jurassic exhibit? If so, which one, and what kind of affect did it have on you? Would you like to see more edutainment style experiences and material from the Jurassic brand like with Jurassic Park Institute? Let us know in the comments below!

VelociCoaster Awarded “Best Rollercoaster” for Fourth Year in a Row

Posted on by J. Malone

Theme Park Insider released their lists of top attractions across the world for the past year, and for the fourth consecutive year Universal’s VelociCoaster remains the apex of coasters.

Jurassic World VelociCoaster at Universal’s Islands of Adventure puts you right in the middle of a training session with Owen’s IBRIS Raptors. You’ll come face to face with Echo, Charlie, Delta, and Blue as you are launched at 50 miles per hour (80 kilometers per hour) into a paddock. After you careen around tight corners, barely missing sharp rocks and snapping teeth as you roll through multiple inversions, you’ll be launched a final time at 70 miles per hour (113 kilometers per hour) and up a 155 foot hill (47.2 meters) to just narrowly avoid becoming dino-chow!

The thrilling ride is accompanied by an breathtakingly immersive queue, where you will see and encounter the raptors several times before even boarding the ride train (as well as other neat Jurassic Park and World easter eggs!)

Have you survived VelociCoaster? What other types of Jurassic rides or offerings would you like to see come to Universal Destinations and Resorts around the world? Lets us know in the comments below!

Jurassic Park: The Ride to Reopen After Being Closed for Over a Year

Posted on by J. Malone
Image by Brightest World

After a lengthy closure, Jurassic Park: The Ride at Universal Studios Japan is set to reopen in 2025, and a lot sooner than you think!

Back in July of 2023, it was reported that Universal Studios in Japan would be closing Jurassic Park: The Ride for a lengthy refurbishment. While outlets said that the ride would reopen at some point in 2025, no official date was ever given. Since the closure, the official Universal Studios Japan website has had the ride listed as being closed ‘indefinitely.’ Since the official closure in September of 2023, very little news or information has been given on the status of the refurbishment, with any updates solely coming from theme park vlogging videos. For months there have been no real or official updates of any kind.

Previously, the only other Jurassic ride to undergo such a lengthy closure was the original Jurassic Park: The Ride in Universal Hollywood. which closed in 2018 and was to be replaced with Jurassic World: The Ride in 2019. The replacement was met with a mixed to favorable response, with many happy that new animatronics and effects were added to a ride that needed a good amount of updates and fixes, but that certain elements felt incomplete or cut and a bit of the original magic and storytelling was absent.

While some speculated that perhaps Japan would be going through the IP change, it had never been stated that the ride would be changing so dramatically. Moreover, in the last year, there has been no change at all to any of the signage or theming in the area of the park. So it seems like Japan has kept with the more iconic and recognizable Jurassic Park branding. So perhaps the ride will stay mostly the same, with all the major animatronics being replaced with more updated technology and effects?

Well, guests to Universal Japan will finally be able to ride the ever-flowing river once again as Jurassic Park: The Ride prepares to open its gates again, on January 8th of 2025!! The reopening marks the end of a sixteen-month-long refurbishment (six months longer than the Park to World flip in Universal Hollywood.)

The official Universal Japan X account announced the reopening in a post, stating:

‘Jurassic Park – The Ride, which has been closed for renovations since September 2023, will reopen on Wednesday, January 8, 2025. Thank you all for your understanding and cooperation. Please look forward to the reopening.’

Accompanying the announcement was a short teaser video:

To many the teaser may be a tad… underwhelming. After such a long time of being closed, all we are essentially seeing is stock footage of the ride pre-refurbishment. When Jurassic World: The Ride was preparing to open after only ten months there was a special teaser released to build excitement for the opening, and something along those lines would have been a tad more exciting to see.

But all this just begs the question… what will the ride look like once it opens in two weeks; what exactly are we in store for? Universal Japan has played the entire refurbishment very close to their chest, and it seems like if they have made any major updates to the dinosaurs, ride system, or other effects they plan on keeping it a secret until the ride is reopened to the public on the 8th.

We very much are looking forward to the reopening of this legendary attraction. It marks the start of what is sure to be a massive dino-sized year to come for Jurassic fans! Moreover, the fact that Japan has chosen to retain the iconic Jurassic Park branding instead of changing it to Jurassic World is noteworthy, and hopefully, if the ride is a success in popularity and excitement to Universal guests upon its reopening it means that all Jurassic rides and attractions aren’t necessarily resorted to the fate of being changed to the Jurassic World model.

Are you excited about the reopening of Jurassic Park: The Ride in Japan? Would you like to see more Universal parks refurbishing their Jurassic rides and areas, and if so- what kind of attractions would you like to see? Let us know in the comments below!