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  • Epic Universe First Impressions: Experiencing Battle at the Ministry & Monsters Unchained (Ep. 48)

    Epic Universe First Impressions: Experiencing Battle at the Ministry & Monsters Unchained (Ep. 48)
    2025/04/25
    Jim Hill and Eric Hersey share Eric’s full first impressions after visiting Epic Universe—just 27 days before its grand opening. From ride reviews to immersive lands, they explore how Universal’s newest park lives up to the hype. Plus, they discuss Annual Passholder perks, new cosplay merch, and Universal’s latest theme park innovations. Eric shares his thoughts after previewing Epic Universe for the first time New Dungeons & Dragons animatronic debuts at Universal Studios Hollywood, created in partnership with Jim Henson’s Creature Shop Passholder perks, merch discounts, and alcohol restrictions tied to the Monster Makeup Experience Fan Fest Nights merch preview includes Star Trek, One Piece, Jujutsu Kaisen, and more Universal’s $2B economic impact for Florida and $11B national impact highlighted by new reports This episode combines park preview excitement, detailed ride analysis, and big-picture context for Universal’s most ambitious project yet. Support Our Sponsor: Be Our Guest Vacations Planning your next Universal vacation? Be Our Guest Vacations is a Platinum-level Earmarked travel agency with concierge-level service to make every trip magical. Their team of expert agents plans vacations across the globe, from Disney and Universal to cruises and adventures, ensuring you have the best possible experience without the stress. Book Now Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 時間 6 分
  • Hop and the Hunt for a Holiday Classic: Why Easter Movies Never Stick (Ep. 47)

    Hop and the Hunt for a Holiday Classic: Why Easter Movies Never Stick (Ep. 47)
    2025/04/18
    Jim Hill and Eric Hersey take a closer look at Hop, Illumination’s forgotten holiday hopeful, and why Easter has never quite found its Elf or Home Alone. From Universal’s big swings to nostalgic flops, they explore what makes holiday movies stick - and why the Easter Bunny keeps missing the mark. • Why Hop had all the ingredients for success… but still faded into obscurity • A look back at forgotten Easter specials like The Tale of the Bunny Picnic and Here Comes Peter Cottontail • The challenge of making Easter “cinematic” compared to Christmas • Wicked’s Peacock streaming success and speculation on future park tie-ins • Epic Universe’s Parisian land and its links to Fantastic Beasts • Horror Unleashed teases its Las Vegas Scarecrow maze • Gabby’s Dollhouse heads to the big screen - and maybe to DreamWorks Land • First look at the Five Nights at Freddy’s 2 trailer and HHN speculation Support Our Sponsor: Be Our Guest Vacations Planning your next Universal vacation? Be Our Guest Vacations is a Platinum-level Earmarked travel agency with concierge-level service to make every trip magical. Their team of expert agents plans vacations across the globe, from Disney and Universal to cruises and adventures, ensuring you have the best possible experience without the stress. Book Now Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    57 分
  • Epic Universe Annual Passholder Details and Universal’s UK Theme Park Plans (Ep. 46)

    Epic Universe Annual Passholder Details and Universal’s UK Theme Park Plans (Ep. 46)
    2025/04/11
    Jim Hill and Eric Hersey break down the biggest stories in the Universal Parks universe, including new details on Epic Universe’s Annual Passholder preview days and Universal’s officially announced theme park in the UK. Plus, they wrap up their deep dive into Universal Studios Hollywood’s 1960s Mardi Gras de Mexico and explore what these early events meant for the future of theme park entertainment. Epic Universe preview day tickets go live - Eric shares his plan for a family-first experience The Epic Universe photo ban is lifted - what it means for social media and spoiler-sensitive fans Speculation on ride tech and show elements, including the Dart animatronic and Dark Universe misdirection Universal announces its new UK park, with rumored lands pulled from Epic Universe, Beijing - and possibly even a James Bond presence Ghostbusters props appear at the Film Vault in Orlando - teasing a Horror Nights tie-in or more? Universal Studios Hollywood's earliest tram tour effects, including foam boulders, flash floods, and parting seas How Mardi Gras de Mexico and Jesus Christ Superstar helped shape the model for today’s hard-ticket events Support Our Sponsor: Be Our Guest Vacations Planning your next Universal vacation? Be Our Guest Vacations is a Platinum-level Earmarked travel agency with concierge-level service to make every trip magical. Their team of expert agents plans vacations across the globe, from Disney and Universal to cruises and adventures, ensuring you have the best possible experience without the stress. Book Now Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    56 分
  • Aztec Dancers, Mariachis, Tequila, and Ceremonial Sacrifices?! (Ep. 45)

    Aztec Dancers, Mariachis, Tequila, and Ceremonial Sacrifices?! (Ep. 45)
    2025/04/04
    In this episode of The Epic Universal Podcast, Jim Hill and Eric Hersey take a wild detour into Universal’s 1960s event history—when guests could watch a ceremonial Aztec princess sacrifice as part of the “Mardi Gras to Mexico” celebration. Yes, really. They also dive into the latest Universal news and rumors leading up to Epic Universe’s debut. Universal’s new Epic Universe Portal Tour and how it’s drawing nationwide attention A full breakdown of Epic Universe’s Express Pass pricing and early reactions The $150 Monster Make-Up Experience—worth the price or a pass? Rumors surrounding Rip Ride Rockit’s removal and what could replace it Drones returning to CineSational: how Universal is reviving nighttime shows The Voladores de Papantla, Aztec dancers, tequila bars, and scripted sacrifices that defined Universal’s wild early festival days Deep-cut park memories like the Jack Benny vault tour and a Creature from the Black Lagoon meet-and-greet Show Notes For links, photos, and more context from this episode, visit: https://jimhillmedia.com/epic-universal-podcast-aztec-dancers-mariachis-tequila-and-ceremonial-sacrifices-ep-45/ Support Our Sponsor: Be Our Guest Vacations Planning your next Universal vacation? Be Our Guest Vacations is a Platinum-level Earmarked travel agency with concierge-level service to make every trip magical. Their team of expert agents plans vacations across the globe, from Disney and Universal to cruises and adventures, ensuring you have the best possible experience without the stress. Book Now Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 時間 2 分
  • From Mariachi to Mardi Gras: The Forgotten Festival That Shaped Universal (Ep. 44)

    From Mariachi to Mardi Gras: The Forgotten Festival That Shaped Universal (Ep. 44)
    2025/03/28
    In this episode of The Epic Universal Podcast, Jim Hill and Eric Hersey uncover the surprising 1960s Hollywood event that helped inspire Universal Studios’ Mardi Gras celebrations today. Plus, they unpack the latest rumors, leaks, and hotel openings as Epic Universe edges closer to launch. • Mardi Gras Origins: How Universal’s “Fiesta Mexicana” and “Mardi Gras de Mexico” laid the groundwork for today’s fan-favorite events. • Epic Universe Hotel News: Terra Luna opens for bookings—what it means for the summer rush. • Mario Kart Express Rumors: New signage reveals a possible upgrade to the most popular ride in Super Nintendo World. • Leaked Footage Controversy: Team member previews are underway, but influencers sneaking in early may risk ruining the magic. • Power Rangers & Military Discounts: Jim and Eric answer listener questions about live shows and lesser-known perks. • Abraham Lincoln in the Hills?: The quirky story behind a statue that once stood tall in Universal’s early years. It’s a mix of park history, speculation, and theme park detective work you won’t want to miss. Support Our Sponsor: Be Our Guest Vacations Planning your next Universal vacation? Be Our Guest Vacations is a Platinum-level Earmarked travel agency with concierge-level service to make every trip magical. Their team of expert agents plans vacations across the globe, from Disney and Universal to cruises and adventures, ensuring you have the best possible experience without the stress. Book Now Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    57 分
  • From SpongeBob to Slime: The Story of Nickelodeon at Universal (Ep. 43)

    From SpongeBob to Slime: The Story of Nickelodeon at Universal (Ep. 43)
    2025/03/21
    In this episode of The Epic Universal Podcast, Jim Hill and Eric Hersey dive deep into the surprising and nostalgic story of Nickelodeon’s presence at Universal Studios Florida—from green slime to dark rides and beyond. Plus, they share the latest updates on Epic Universe and more theme park buzz. Highlights include: Nickelodeon at Universal Studios Florida: How a rent-free deal brought Nick Studios to Orlando and made Double Dare, the Slime Geyser, and Nick-themed attractions part of theme park history. Jimmy Neutron’s Nicktoon Blast & SpongeBob Square Store: The rise (and fall) of Nick’s attraction presence in the park—and what stayed behind. SpongeBob in Las Vegas: Eric’s review of the new dark ride at Circus Circus and the surprising quality of this family-friendly experience. Epic Universe Parking Lot Names Revealed: Eric and Jim break down the new themed lot sections like Monster, Gamer, and Hero. Universal Hollywood’s Free Parking Updates: What new perks mean for Gold and Platinum passholders—and why free parking hours don’t always make sense. Rumors of Universal’s ‘Mega Movie Summer’: Alicia Stella uncovers a new trademark hinting at a possible new event or seasonal promotion. Rankin/Bass & Classic Media Catalog: Jim unpacks the forgotten goldmine of IP (like Rudolph, Casper, and Rocky & Bullwinkle) that Universal owns but rarely uses. From ‘90s nostalgia to Epic Universe speculation, this episode is packed with trivia, theme park deep dives, and classic Nickelodeon vibes! Support Our Sponsor: Be Our Guest Vacations Planning your next Universal vacation? Be Our Guest Vacations is a Platinum-level Earmarked travel agency with concierge-level service to make every trip magical. Their team of expert agents plans vacations across the globe, from Disney and Universal to cruises and adventures, ensuring you have the best possible experience without the stress. Book Now Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    56 分
  • Universal’s Forgotten Past: Ma & Pa Kettle’s Hollywood Legacy (Ep. 42)

    Universal’s Forgotten Past: Ma & Pa Kettle’s Hollywood Legacy (Ep. 42)
    2025/03/14
    In this episode of The Epic Universal Podcast, Jim Hill and Eric Hersey take a nostalgic journey through Universal’s lesser-known history, focusing on the Ma & Pa Kettle film series and its unexpected impact on Universal Studios Hollywood. Along the way, they also dive into the latest Universal news and rumors. Highlights include: The Ma & Pa Kettle Film Legacy: How these quirky, small-town characters became box office gold for Universal in the 1940s and 50s. The Ma & Pa Kettle Petting Zoo: How Universal repurposed the set into a real farm attraction for guests in the early days of the studio tour. The Evolution of Universal Studios Hollywood: From petting zoos to world-class attractions, how the park transitioned into the entertainment giant it is today. Epic Universe Updates: The latest behind-the-scenes insights from team member previews, including first reactions to Monsters Unchained and Isle of Berk. Stardust Racers Testing Issues: What happened when Universal’s new dueling coaster stalled on the track? Cirque du Soleil in Vegas: Eric shares his experience seeing the long-running Mystère show and how Cirque compares to other theme park entertainment. This episode blends Hollywood history, Universal’s evolving theme park legacy, and the latest attraction updates. Whether you're a longtime film buff or excited for the future of Universal parks, this one’s for you! Support Our Sponsor: Be Our Guest Vacations Planning your next Universal vacation? Be Our Guest Vacations is a Platinum-level Earmarked travel agency with concierge-level service to make every trip magical. Their team of expert agents plans vacations across the globe, from Disney and Universal to cruises and adventures, ensuring you have the best possible experience without the stress. Book Now Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    49 分
  • News, More News, and Even More News from Universal (Ep. 41)

    News, More News, and Even More News from Universal (Ep. 41)
    2025/03/07
    In this episode of The Epic Universal Podcast, Jim Hill and Eric Hersey dive into the latest news about Epic Universe as team member previews begin, along with rumors about the highly anticipated Wolfman coaster. Plus, they explore Universal’s expanding horror offerings and what’s next for theme park fans. Highlights include: Epic Universe Team Member Previews: What early reactions reveal about the Ministry of Magic, Isle of Berk, and new interactive wands. Wolfman Coaster Rumors: Speculation about the mysterious netting seen on the Curse of the Werewolf coaster and how it might hint at a thrilling new ride experience. Universal Horror Unleashed in Las Vegas: A sneak peek at the year-round horror attraction opening in August, featuring iconic Universal Monsters. Virtual Queues and New Ticket Options: How Universal is handling crowd control and what new vacation packages mean for fans. Shrek 5 Trailer Reactions: Why the character redesigns are causing a stir among fans. FanFest at Universal Studios Hollywood: From Back to the Future recreations to walk-around characters from Wicked and One Piece. This episode is packed with Epic Universe previews, horror rumors, and plenty of speculation. Whether you’re excited for new coasters or curious about Universal’s horror expansion, this one’s for you! Support Our Sponsor: Be Our Guest Vacations Planning your next Universal vacation? Be Our Guest Vacations is a Platinum-level Earmarked travel agency with concierge-level service to make every trip magical. Their team of expert agents plans vacations across the globe, from Disney and Universal to cruises and adventures, ensuring you have the best possible experience without the stress. Book Now Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 時間 16 分