The hiring will further expand Thinkwell’s interactive, technical, and media practices in Montréal under Hugues’ strategic leadership and creative expertise.
Montréal / Los Angeles (September 10): Thinkwell Group, a global experience design and production agency with studios and offices in Los Angeles, Beijing, Abu Dhabi, Riyadh, and Montréal, announced today the hiring of Montréal-based creative executive Hugues Sweeney as President of Thinkwell Studio Montréal. The appointment reaffirms the organization’s commitment to Montréal, Québec, and Canada for long-term growth and continues Thinkwell’s focus in the development of cutting-edge creative technologies for brands and businesses around the world.
“Our global projects demand the highest level of both creative execution and technology-driven design and development, and we believe that Montréal is a strong differentiator for Thinkwell in these pursuits,” said François Bergeron, Chief Operating & Financial Officer, Thinkwell Group. “Bringing Hugues into the organization will allow the company to strategically implement our long-term vision in Montréal.”
In this role, Hugues will bring in new creative projects for museums, attractions, corporate brand experiences, and hospitality clients through Thinkwell Studio Montréal. He will also oversee the research & development initiatives of Réalisations-Montréal, which was acquired by Thinkwell Group in early 2019. Réalisations will continue its commitment to the conception and development of new projects using technologies like artificial intelligence, real-time generative projection technologies, and big data integration systems under Hugues’ leadership.
“This appointment signals the next chapter for Réalisations,” said Roger Parent, founder of Réalisations-Montréal. “Hugues’ creative leadership and expertise will build upon our existing foundation as a boutique creative technology firm.”
Last month, the team in Montréal delivered the interactive and captivating nighttime nature experience at the Parc Omega safari park in Montebello, Quebec, Canada (pictured above), which follows the team’s significant role in the design and execution of the award-winning Jacques-Cartier Bridge illumination project in 2017. Thinkwell and Réalisations also collaborated on the Warner Bros. Cinema Spectacular, which introduced a patented auto-calibration projection system for the world’s-first 360-degree immersive indoor plaza show at Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi in 2018.
Hugues Sweeney is an award-winning digital media executive who has produced trailblazing interactive experiences for more than 20 years. Formerly head of Bande à part (CBC’s digital native music platform) and a founding member of National Film Board (NFB) digital studio, his experience connecting large audiences through new media platforms and interactivity has led to the development of multiple projects and partnerships across Europe, North America, and South America. His productions have received more than 150 global awards and distinctions, including SXSW, Webby, Japan Media Arts, Creative Review, and NUMIX. As an active member of the arts and culture community, Hugues serves as vice-president of Montréal Arts Council (CAM) Board of Trustees and co-president of Culture Montréal’s Digital Committee. He also advises the Montréal Symphonic Orchestra (OSM), XN Québec and La Piscine and is an active member of the Acquisition Committee of the Museum of Contemporary Art (MAC).
“I am honored to contribute to the new life of a studio that has been a pioneer in crafting interactive environments,” said Hugues. “Thinkwell’s presence in Montréal will play a key role in redefining collective experiences around the world through the creative application of technology, and I am excited to lead the Montréal teams into this next chapter.”
About Thinkwell Studio Montréal:
Thinkwell Studio Montréal is Thinkwell Group’s newest Quebec-based creative studio that is focused on expanding and integrating creative technologies at the earliest stages of design for guest experiences around the world. From creative content development to the design of integrated technical solutions, the capabilities of Thinkwell Studio Montréal will build upon the research & development initiatives of Réalisations-Montréal.
Réalisations-Montréal operates and collaborates with Thinkwell Studio Montréal to develop and deliver cutting edge interactive experiences that seamlessly blend art and technology. Founded in 2000 by Roger Parent, Réalisations conceives, invents, and perfects new technologies, including big data, artificial intelligence, real-time generative projection technologies, recognition systems, and more.
This appointment further expands Thinkwell’s capabilities in project management and project delivery out of Abu Dhabi.
Abu Dhabi / Los Angeles (August 8, 2019): Thinkwell Group is pleased to announce that Antonio Ramirez has joined the company’s Abu Dhabi office as Project Director. In his role, Antonio is responsible for project management, client partnership, and project delivery for Thinkwell’s EMEA projects.
“Antonio is a great addition to our Abu Dhabi team as we continue to grow our presence to meet evolving market needs,” said Amin Rashmani, Managing Director for Thinkwell in the EMEA region. “His engagement will ensure a continuity of excellent client service for our partners and will solidify our regional production capabilities within Thinkwell’s global network.”
Antonio brings more than 27 years of experience in architecture and project management to the organization. Prior to his joining Thinkwell’s Abu Dhabi office, Antonio was acting as Project Director for WSP, an engineering firm based in the Middle East and the UK. His project experience includes work for Mall of Saudi Snow Park, Dubai Mall Boulevard Expansion, Muscat Al Seeb Development, Mall of Oman Snow Park, Ski Egypt, and London Bridge Network Rail, among others. He is an APM Registered Project Professional.
Joe Zenas, Chief Executive Officer of Thinkwell Group, added, “Bringing Antonio onboard further establishes Thinkwell’s commitment to the region and to our growing team in Abu Dhabi. He will be a valuable asset for Thinkwell across multiple opportunities, and we look forward to introducing him to our partners in the region.”
Following the acquisition of Réalisations-Montréal, Thinkwell Group is welcoming Ron Morissette back to the team to expand and accelerate growth plans for Thinkwell.
Montréal / Los Angeles (July 17, 2019): Thinkwell Group is pleased to announce the return of Ron Morissette as Vice President, Development for Réalisations-Montréal & Thinkwell’s Studio Montréal. In his role, Ron is responsible for the development of existing and new opportunities across Canada and the Eastern United States, with a focus on delivering innovative, interactive solutions from the company’s studio team in Montréal. Ron will also promote the technical research & development initiatives for Réalisations-Montréal through global strategic partnerships.
“Ron helped grow Réalisations since the company’s earliest days,” says Roger Parent, founding president of Réalisations-Montréal. “His return, which coincides with Thinkwell’s acquisition of Réalisations, will ensure a continuity of excellent client service for our past and future partners as we continue our growth as a part of Thinkwell’s global network.”
Ron brings more than 40 years of experience in technical production and sales within the entertainment sector to the organization. Prior to his return to Réalisations-Montréal and Thinkwell’s Studio Montréal, Ron was acting as General Manager for a major international systems integrator and was responsible for their Toronto operation. His experience includes work for past Olympic Games and World Fairs as well as international tours and broadcasts. He is also a past president of the Canadian Institute of Theatre Technology.
“I believe that our unique artistic approach combined with our R&D work in interactivity, video & projection mapping, and augmented reality within the realm of ambient intelligence will be a unique and differentiated contribution to Thinkwell’s worldwide projects,” says Morissette.
François Bergeron, Chief Operating & Financial Officer of Thinkwell Group, adds, “Bringing Ron onboard will help develop our growing presence in Canada, and his experience, energy, and dedication to partnership with our clients will be an asset to the organization globally.”
About Réalisations-Montréal
Réalisations-Montréal develops and delivers cutting edge interactive experiences that seamlessly blend art and technology. Founded in 2000 by Roger Parent, former Executive Producer and VP of Production at Cirque du Soleil, Réalisations conceives, invents, and perfects new technologies, including big data, artificial intelligence, real-time generative projection technologies, recognition systems, and more. Thinkwell and Réalisations collaborate in the earliest stages of design, testing and developing immersive interactive elements that can be seamlessly integrated into any guest experience.
Réalisations-Montréal is a Thinkwell Group company.
Lionsgate Entertainment World, to open July 31, will feature indoor themed rides and VR experiences inspired by the Hollywood studio’s movie franchises.
Lionsgate on Monday said its indoor theme park, which will bring Hunger Games- and Divergent-inspired attractions to China, will launch on July 31.
Lionsgate Entertainment World, through a licensing deal by the studio, will launch in Hengqin, China, an hour from Hong Kong, and will feature around 25 attractions based on the Hollywood studio’s film properties.
Lionsgate’s interactive indoor theme park will feature 3D and virtual reality experiences inspired by The Hunger Games, The Twilight Saga andthe Divergent and Now You See Me movie franchises, as well as story backgrounds from other film titles like Escape Plan and Gods of Egypt.
“From escaping the Capitol to braving the mental and physical challenges of Dauntless to taking on a newborn vampire army with Jacob and the Wolf Pack, we can’t wait for fans to step into the worlds of their favorite films to create their own authentic adventures,” Jenefer Brown, Lionsgate’s senior vp of global live and location-based entertainment, said in a statement.
The indoor theme park aims to leverage the earlier box office success of Lionsgate’s tentpole movies in China.
Lionsgate partnered with the Thinkwell Group and Village Roadshow Theme Parks to create the Lionsgate Entertainment World immersive attractions like Hunger Games – Mockingjay Flight, a 3D motion simulator ride; The Twilight Saga: Midnight Ride VR experience; and The Divergent Series – Fear Simulator.
There are also dining experiences like the Hunger Games-inspired Capitol Club, Peeta’s Bakery and the Lionsgate Cafe.
Lionsgate’s location-based entertainment business includes separate attractions in the U.S., Europe, the Middle East and Asia. The studio earlier announced the launch of the outdoor theme park Lionsgate Movie World at Jeju Island, South Korea.
The eagerly-awaited Lionsgate Entertainment World is set to open this summer at Novotown Hengqin. Asia’s first movie-themed vertical indoor experience centre will feature some of the world’s most popular film franchises. These include The Hunger Games, The Twilight Saga, The Divergent Series, and Now You See Me.
More information about the park was released at IAAPA Asia Expo 2019. Attendees at the event in Shanghai enjoyed an introductory video. It featured several new ride concepts and never-seen-before insights into the new park. Blooloop caught up with Selena Magill, General Manager at Lionsgate Entertainment World and Kelly Ryner, President of Thinkwell, Asia to find out more about the park’s development.
Lionsgate has offered six of its most successful global film franchises as the story backgrounds for the park’s attractions. These are fan favourites The Hunger Games, The Twilight Saga, The Divergent Series, Now You See Me, Gods of Egypt, and Escape Plan.
Selena Magill, General Manager, Lionsgate Entertainment World
Lionsgate Entertainment World – coming soon!
The project has been in construction for almost three years. Now, many of the closely-guarded secrets around the park are being released. The park will be opening to the public shortly, as Magill explains, “Opening is going to be sometime this summer, we are reallyreally close. It’s such an immersive and integrated facility we need to get it just right. We need to put the final touches through all that planning and we can’t wait to shout it from the rooftops.”
Lionsgate Entertainment World is in the Novotown precinct. The location is home to a mix of residential properties as well as a large shopping mall and entertainment offerings. Magill adds that there is a lot of other construction taking place in the area. “A Hyatt Regency hotel will also open later this year and a National Geographic Experience. This is another great family entertainment centre, so once we are all open together, we will all compliment each other. The other facilities will open later September/October time but we will be the first to open.”
Several partners are working together to bring Lionsgate Entertainment World to Life. These include key partner Thinkwell Group and operators Village Roadshow Theme Parks. Other notable companies from around the globe are the Australian construction services company Cockram, international show contractor Scenario, world-famous ride and attraction manufacturer CAVU and Oscar-winning visual media producer Framestore. There are many other names involved in the project too, including Mack, ETF Rides,DreamCraft Attractions and Walltopia.
28 years in the business
Magill recently celebrated her 28th year in the business. She began working for Village Roadshow Theme Parks in 1990, at Wet’n’Wild Gold Coast. “Warner Bros Movie World was being built next door,” says Magill. “I was finishing school and thought ‘that looks reallycool’ and didn’t know that much about theme parks. I was there for the opening of that park at the age of 17, in 1991.”
“Across that time I’ve opened many different theme parks. This is my 10th, which is amazing and the first for me in China, but I’ve worked across all our brands in Australia.” Magill says, “We had Warner Bros Movie World, Sea World, Wet’n’Wild – one in Vegas, one in China, we opened both of them last year. We have Movie World in Germany, both parks in Las Vegas. Then our waterparks and a number of smaller attractions as well as our resorts.”
“I’ve worked across pretty much every department including show and entertainment, operations, food and beverage and marketing, before returning to a more operational role. Part of every role I’ve done previously has given me a very deep understanding of the theme park industry. Now I’m able to apply this in China. This role is a great way to bring that theme park knowledge to this huge emerging market.”
Lionsgate Entertainment World and Thinkwell
The attractions industry is booming in China. To stand out from the crowd, the park chose Thinkwell Group to ensure a well-rounded, showstopping project. Thinkwell also worked on Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi. This means that the company has a strong movie-based theme park background.
The park includes theming and rides based around six of the most popular films in China. Magill says these titles continue to be popular and to resonate with audiences in China. “With Thinkwell, they can create these worlds and the level of immersive-ness in this park. Bringing the Hunger Games, the Twilight Saga, Divergent, Now You See Me, all these films across different levels to life.”
Bringing the IP to life
Because the new park is indoors, the environment is easy to control. “In the Hunger Games, for example, you walk into the Capitol,” continues Magill. “If you’ve seen the films, the Capitol is so opulent and elegant and so over the top. So too is our whole floor dedicated to that IP. In there we have the Capitol Club restaurant, which for a theme park you’ve never seen anything like it! It’s opulent, its marble, it’s gold, it’s rich. It’s not your normal theme park. We want people to live in that world.”
“In Now You See Me, we literally recreated streetscapes from the film. These are the streets of Macau, bringing pieces of that to life. There will be magicians. Portuguese tarts and food offerings are integrated into that world too.”
An immersive experience
Lionsgate Entertainment World will feature actors who interact with guests, for an immersive experience. It will also include live shows and walking entertainments.
“One of the things that makes us different, is that rather than having set show times, we are doing it in a way that is more pop-up style. You walk down, there is a magician and you turn around and there is somebody entertaining. There will absolutely be live shows in the atrium. In our live show space, we can set shows up very quickly. You can see it standing down on the first level but also looking down from upper levels. It’s a very unique show space that will be very different,” says Magill.
Ride technologies
Lionsgate Entertainment World worked with CAVU Designwerks, Dreamcraft Attractions, Framestore and ETF on the technology behind the new rides.
EFT Rides created The Twilight Saga – Bella’s Journey. This articulated vehicle ride is basedon the much-loved Twilight franchise. “You get to see Bella and Edward kiss in the forest, and there is a lot of environmental effects, says Magill. “You are in the snow you feel cold, there is wind, you can smell the pine needles”.
CAVU, Dreamcraft Attractions and Framestore worked with the park to create The Twilight Saga: Midnight Ride. This is a simulated motorbike ride. “We have taken that simulator technology which most people are used to seeing in a group vehicle. Now it is just you on a motorbike. You can grab the throttle and make it go. You literally sit on the bike, put a seatbelt on and the VR goggles come down, and from that moment it’s unbelievable.”
A VR motorbike adventure
The ride features a pre-show with the character of Jacob, in his garage. Once guests put on the goggles, they are transported to this workshop. Amongst the sounds of the forest, Jacob explains he needs help to defeat the Volturi. Then, the bike takes off.
“It has that technology where you can see your own hands, you can see the person next to you in the VR world. The first time I rode it, I absolutely loved it! I screamed like a girl. There are parts when it is very interactive. You can actually personalise your experience, by pushing your bike to go down a certain route or path. You can have a different experience to the person next to you who has gone a different route. It is incredible technology. The realness of it, even though it is VR technology is amazing.”
The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Flight – Rebel Escape
The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Flight – Rebel Escape is the first enclosed motion simulator in mainland China. The story focuses on the character of Katniss and her need to escape from the Capitol. The state of the art simulator features a 6DOF (degrees of freedom) motion base. This supports a 30-person cabin.
From quick eats to fine dining
The park is home to the Lionsgate Cafe. This is an all-day dining, sit down option. It includes many different Chinese and western options, suitable for quick dining.
For fine dining, guests can experience the Capitol Club. “The food there is amazing,” says Magill. We have tried really hard to make sure our food offering is to a much higher standard. The way it is plated, some of the food is themed, based on the IPs and so on.”
Lionsgate Entertainment World also features the Oculus Lounge. This is an octagon shaped bar with several interactive tables. Guests can unlock a secret menu while they are drinking by interacting with the table. The atmospheric bar adds a different, quirky touch to the IP. “When you come in, it’s quite dark, it’s quite moody,” says Magill. “We do molecular cocktails, mixologists – it’s going to be my favourite part of the park!”
The park also has food carts, like most theme parks tend to do. However, they are all themed to be in keeping with the IP. For example, the one in the Macau themed area will sell Portuguese tarts.
An indoor adventure
The whole attraction is retrofit since the building’s first purpose was not to be a theme park. This added some extra challenges to the design and construction process. Magill explains, “We had to do a lot of work re-enforcing the floors, making sure the walls were strong enough – we have a two story roller coaster in there! It was incredible how we could fit it all in. When I stand up on the Twilight Floor in the forest and look down – it’s quite epic.”
The park features a huge central chandelier that is four storeys high. It is made of screens, so the images are constantly changing. “In a lot of theme parks, they use screens for content or to upsell products buy this or do this, ours is very on brand,” says Magill. “You will just see the IPs, the flames of the Mockingjay, the cards in Now You See Me, it’s beautiful on these screens.”
The best in the business
Thinkwell Group is a global design and production agency. It creates custom, content-driven experiences for companies and brands in the physical world.
Kelly Ryner, President of Thinkwell, Asia
For Lionsgate Entertainment World, the choice to work with Thinkwell was a straightforward one, as Magill explains. “Thinkwell is just the best in the business when it comes to immersion and theming. And also when it comes to creating, conceptualising and creating the vision. They have really been the most wonderful partners. They have finished designing and creating the project which is coming to life in just a few weeks.”
Ryner agrees, “It really has been amazing, this really was a turn-key opportunity for us. Lionsgate said we want you to design and produce this, we want to sign as few contracts as possible. We put together a rock star team – it wasn’t about what is the cheapest way, it was what is the BEST way. The best way to develop something that was really setting the new gold standard in China but also internationally.”
Pushing the limits
“We have just come off of creating Warner Bros Abu Dhabi which is the polar opposite,” continues Ryner. “Lionsgate is all about 16 years and up, edgy, dare I say it sexy IPs, as opposed to cartoon characters. So for us to get to play in a completely different sandbox like that and create something that pushes our limits with technology…its something we can’t do in a kids park.”
For Thinkwell, the project involved a lot of innovative design and some real firsts. Not only is the attraction the world’s first vertical park, but it is also the world’s first use of motorbike path changing technology.
“Considering its only 25,000 sqm, what we crammed into the space – it’s very special,” agrees Ryner. However, the design process was not without its unique challenges. “The great thing about space issues is the challenges force you to new creative ideas,” says Ryner. “There are things that came out of playing around with this complicated space. The design is wholly unique because the space isn’t like a flat ground like Warner Bros. So challenges always end up bringing the best out of everyone. I’m really proud of some of the solutions we came up with and how we bring people up into the vertical-ness of the space.
Setting the bar high
The park estimates visitor figures of 1.4 – 1.5 million people per year. The location of the new attraction will be a key factor in its popularity. It lies in close proximity to Macau and Hong Kong, thanks to the Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macau bridge, as well as the whole greater bay area.
There is a huge local population within reach. Chimelong Ocean Kingdom is also nearby. With the shopping mall and the new National Geographic Experience, there is a lot to draw visitors to the area. Lionsgate Entertainment World is likely to attract a majority of visitors from mainland China, the greater bay area, and Macau. However, it also expects a percentage of international visitors.
“We want them to have a good time at the theme park and return lots of times. We want people to come to the park for that same reason. The other thing with our park is you can come and dine at the cafe, or visit the studio store and not have a ticket to get into the park. People with tickets can come and go in the park. If they want to pop out do some shopping and pop back in they can do that as well.”
Lai Sun Group
Lai Sun Group is a Hong Kong-based company with a number of developments in entertainment and real estate. It developed the site.
“They have also been fantastic for us to work with,” says Magill. “Lai Sun Group brought on the IPs which is Lionsgate. They then worked with Thinkwell to conceptualise the theme parks and Village Roadshow to take on the operations and run the park.”
Lai Sun Group developed the building previously and has since re-done it for Lionsgate Entertainment World. The mall, hotel and welcome centre were already in place. Magill explains, “Before Lionsgate was in the plans, the area was going to be more shopping mall space. The fact that they have been able to fit all this into the exterior of the building, a big jelly bean, to retrofit all of it and make such good use of the space is incredible.”
CAVU Designwerks, the media-based attractions specialist, Dreamcraft Attractions, the integrated ride specialist, Thinkwell Group Inc, the global experience design and production company, and Framestore, the visual effects specialist, have announced a new collaboration to work on two next-generation rides to showcase Lionsgate film properties.
The four companies, are proud to be working with Lionsgate on two new projects. This innovative partnership will lead to two exciting new attractions, based on fan favourites The Twilight Saga and The Hunger Games: Mockingjay.
The unique rides are set to launch this year at Lionsgate Entertainment World in China. This much-awaited destination is a new concept, blending the theme park experience with some of Lionsgate’s most popular film franchises. The indoor immersive entertainment venue includes state-of-the-art VR, AR, and multimedia attractions, performances, dining, and exclusive retail experiences. The rides will be called The Twilight Saga: Midnight Ride and The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Flight Rebel Escape.
Action-packed rides
Fans can experience the world of The Twilight Saga in a hyper-reality VR ride, The Twilight Saga: Midnight Ride. “Midnight Ride is a VR motorcycle simulator that features real motorcycles, avatar embodiment and proprietary Predictive Ride TrackingTM. Dreamcraft has created a world’s first virtual ride path with real-time virtual motorcycle physics matched with real-world motorcycles and motion bases,” says Terry Sanderson, VR Producer at DreamCraft Attractions.
Mark Stepanian, VP Innovation & Engineering at CAVU describes Midnight Ride as a “first-of-its-kind” attraction. “Guests can move throughout the Twilight world and interact with friends, family and familiar characters from a highly responsive motion base. Coupled with force feedback haptics, wind and scent, it is designed to fully engage all the senses. This ride makes for a truly ground-breaking experience.”
Visitors can also enjoy the world of the successful Hunger Games franchise as they are taken on an exciting escape from the Capitol. The Hunger Games: Mockingjay FlightRebel Escape is the first enclosed motion simulator in mainland China. The state of the art simulator is entirely electric and runs
silently. The 6DOF (degrees of freedom) motion base supports a 30-person cabin. It features a digital presentation for a vivid and realistic experience.
A scene from The Hunger Games: Mockingjay FlightRebel Escape.
A unique experience
The collaboration will provide the focused expertise that Lionsgate requires to provide an entirely new experience. CAVU and DreamCraft provide ride systems engineering talent, Framestore provides media expertise and Thinkwell adds creative and production leadership.
“CAVU and DreamCraft are excited to have collaborated with Lionsgate, Thinkwell and Framestore to introduce these revolutionary attractions to the industry at Lionsgate Entertainment World,” says Peter Schnabel, CEO of CAVU.
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Some of Lionsgate’s most popular film franchises from “Hunger Games” to “Twilight” will be brought to life when the studio opens what it calls the world’s first vertical theme park in China this summer.
Lionsgate Entertainment World will offer several adventures including a virtual reality motorcycle ride based on “Twilight,” a maximum-security prison breakout like in “Escape Plan” and a replica of The Capitol lobby from “Hunger Games,” complete with shops where guests can fashion themselves in the film’s distinctive couture.
More than 25 rides and virtual reality experiences will pack a sleek, futuristic looking bean-shaped building that stands 10 stories high. The theme park, which will also include attractions based on films such as “Divergent,” ″Now You See Me” and “Gods of Egypt,” is scheduled to open in July on Hengqin Island located in Zhuhai, China.
“We found a way to create this theme park experience inside of one box over multiple floors,” said Jenefer Brown, senior vice president of Global Live and Location Based Entertainment at Lionsgate.
“We created experiences that are immersive, that tell stories and are organic to the brands,” she said. “It’s a mix of all the cutting-edge attractions that you’ll find in entertainment right now.”
Brown said Lionsgate decided to create its first theme park to expand their international brand into China where films like “Twilight” and “Gods of Egypt” are popular. She said the studio hopes to capitalize off Zhuhai’s emerging status as a tourist destination and its proximity to Macau, which is considered the “Las Vegas of China.” She said the Chimelong Ocean Kingdom theme park in Zhuhai has already drawn tens of millions of people.
The Santa Monica, California-based company expects to have around 1.5 million park goers this year.
“We would complement Macau,” Brown said. “The idea is to have Vegas and Orlando right next to each other and create this super tourist destination. … People are already coming here. But we’re on the early side in terms of development on the island. It’s growing into this dedicated kind of entertainment tourist place and virtual containment vessel.”
Lionsgate Entertainment World would be the first movie-themed park on Hengqin Island. Disney has a theme resort in Shanghai, and Universal has plans for a park based on its franchises, including “Fast and the Furious,” in Beijing.
The theme park will be a part of a large destination called Novotown, a multi-phase project that includes a hotel and office towers along with retail dining and entertainment. Future phases include plans for the National Geographic Ultimate Explorer and Real Madrid interactive experiences, as well as an international school will be built offering British-based education.
Here are some of the theme park’s other features shown to The Associated Press during a recent sneak peek of the park’s design and attractions:
FLYING, AND FASHION, IN “HUNGER GAMES”
Based on the four-part film series starring Jennifer Lawrence as Katniss Everdeen, park goers will journey through a motion simulator 3D ride experience called The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Flight Rebel Escape. It starts on the streets before riders board a vehicle that gets picked up by a hovercraft that flies through The Capitol.
Guests will also have the opportunity to venture around the lobby area of The Capitol where they can get their hair, makeup and even nails done to look like a citizen of the “Hunger Games” films, including the look of chaperone Effie Trinket.
Restaurants will feature a “Hunger Games”-themed menu with different dishes inspired by the film’s various districts.
BIKING WITH WOLVES IN “TWILIGHT”
Guests will have a chance to spend time in Forks, the town where author Stephenie Meyer based her vampire novels before they were turned into movies.
Twilight Saga: Midnight Ride offers a chance for four to hop on a motorcycle and take a virtual ride with Jacob Black and a pack of wolves on a dirt-bike adventure through the moonlit woods while an evil creature roams the area looking for blood.
Guests will control their bike’s speed, which path it takes and see other riders during the excursion.
Twilight Saga: Bella’s Journey will be an indoor amusement ride that highlights key moments from the films including Bella Swan’s relationship with her vampire husband Edward Cullen and encountering The Volturi, the most powerful coven of vampires.
SOARING WITH THE “GODS OF EGYPT”
Gods of Egypt: Battle for Eternity will be a virtual reality roller coaster based on the 2016 film about Egyptian deities. Riders on the high-speed amusement train ride will don headsets and soar through ancient Egypt during an epic battle between good and evil.
PLOTTING AN “ESCAPE PLAN”
About 20 people work together to break out of a maximum-security prison in Escape Plan: Prison Break. The group faces a climbing challenge course and crawl through tunnels to escape to freedom.
Thinkwell designed and produced the new Gringotts Wizarding Bank experience and new attraction hub working in close collaboration with the filmmakers of the Harry Potter film series.
LOS ANGELES, CA (April 30, 2019) – In ongoing collaboration with Warner Bros. Studio Tour London, Thinkwell designed and produced the largest expansion at The Making of Harry Potter attraction since its opening in 2012. Thinkwell conceived and created the original experience and has been involved with the UK’s most successful attraction for every expansion since, including the addition of Platform 9 ¾, featuring the Hogwarts Express, in 2015 and the Forbidden Forest in 2017. This latest expansion includes the pristine Gringotts Wizarding Bank set as seen in the Harry Potter film series, a dynamic exhibition area, an exploratory vaults area, and an immersive surprise finale. In addition, Thinkwell developed and created the guest experience and media elements in the new, expansive central hub and entrance for the attraction, notably the massive “living mural.”
“Once again, Thinkwell is honored to have played an important role in the development, design, and production of new experiences at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London,” said Craig Hanna, Chief Creative Officer, Thinkwell Group. “Working with the Studio Tour team and the original filmmakers from the Harry Potter films is always an exciting experience. They challenge us to do our best work, and we are proud of how much visitors from all over the world love the experience.”
A new entry to the Tour is part of a 37,480 sq. ft. (3,482 sq./m) expansion that creates a more inviting arrival for guests with a new ticketing area, arrival hall, and entrance hub. In the new hub, guests are greeted by a massive 64 foot (19 m) long dragon, custom built by the filmmakers, suspended in the space. On either side of the dragon are two 135 foot (41 m) long photo murals that surround the lobby. With moving video backlighting and front mapped projected imagery, the living mural is slowly transformed with a 35-minute ambient and atmospheric series of magical media moments that reflect motifs and events from the Harry Potter film series.
“This expansion is our most ambitious addition since opening and the reaction from visitors has been fantastic. Gringotts certainly showcases the very best of filmmaking talent from the incredible set design to the beautifully crafted props. This extension, coupled with our new entrance and lobby, has taken to the Studio Tour to a new level of excellence,” commented Geoff Spooner, VP and General Manager, Warner Bros. Studio Tour London.
The Gringotts Bank expansion is divided into six zones and is a seamless extension to the existing attraction. Guests exit out of the Creature Effects Area and into the new Gallery of Goblins, an area that highlights how the various Gringotts goblins were designed and created for the films. From there, guests move on to discover original models, designs, and inspiration for the making of Gringotts Bank and the vaults, and a variety of interactives and integrated media elements can be experienced throughout. Around the corner, visitors are amazed to find themselves in the pristine Gringotts Wizarding Bank set, one of the largest sets made for the films and now on display in the attraction.
After exploring the massive set, visitors move into the vaults area, where they see the Gringotts vault cart, the vault door, and further displays. Then visitors get a one of a kind photo opportunity in the Lestrange vault before moving onto the surprise finale, one of the most dynamic and immersive experiences in the attraction. Utilizing seamless custom computer animation, environmental effects, multichannel surround sound, and other elements, this surprise will be the capstone moment of a guests’ visit to the Gringotts expansion before returning to Diagon Alley.
In conjunction with the new guest arrival and entry areas, Thinkwell also created a 1,280 sq. ft. (390 sq./m) introductory experience for the attraction, including new exhibits, new media, and an entirely new 180-degree seamless projection preshow. Thinkwell conceived, designed, and produced all media for the expansion and Tour updates through Thinkwell Media.
Gringotts Wizarding Bank
Lestrange Vault
New Tour Entry
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Photos and media courtesy of Warner Bros. Studio Tour London
BEIJING, CHINA (Thursday April 25, 2019) – Today the partnership of Wines of Chile and Lam International announced at the Beijing Media Conference the launching of ”Chile Experience” an immersive Culture Park is being developed for China with the purpose of strengthening the friendship between the peoples of Chile and China for years to come by creating a place that would bring together Chilean culture, products and investment opportunities in a way that is fun, experiential, educational and memorable.
“The Chile Experience will bring a taste of Chile to our Chinese friends by not only showcasing Chilean wines, food, and other authentic products from Chile, but it will also feature immersive high-tech attractions that will connect our guests with the culture of Chile” said Wines of Chile representative Julio Alonso.
Lam Yau Sun of Lam International noted “The Chile Experience truly demonstrates the spirit of One Belt One Road, as she promotes understanding, trade and investments between the peoples of China and Chile through engagements (food, shopping, entertainment, cultural events) that are fun, learning, experiential, and memorable.
This is Chile’s home away from home and we hope our project will incentivize more Chinese to visit Chile and vice versa for generations to come.”
To ensure a high-quality immersive experience, Alonso and Lam turned to guest experience and theme park development experts Thinkwell Group to bring their big idea to life. “We are elated to be a part of this team” said Kelly Ryner, President of Thinkwell Asia “the Chilean culture and country has so much to choose from that this is going to be a wonderful place to visit for the whole family.”
The Chilean adventure will capture the vast extremes of the regions of Chile and express them through 4 zones. While each zone is uniquely themed/programmed, includes a wine/dining experience, and contains a Key Attraction, collectively they bring a singular experience & adventure from the furthest point half-way around the world — one that guests could only get from Chile.
Zone 1 – Green Gateway: Santiago & Valparaiso
Marked by 19th century European architecture, vibrant colors, music and dance performances, and a marketplace liveliness that serves as the gateway to the greens of the wine lands of Central Chile. Featured is an attraction that uses state-of-the-art VR motion platform technology allowing guests to expertly navigate the famous, albeit insane downhill street course of colorful Valparaiso on mountain bikes.
Zone 2 – Atacama Sands & Skies
One end of the extremes within the spectrum of a Chilean adventure, the arid but beautiful vitas of the Atacama Desert provide the perfect backdrop to open up the clearest skies that exist on the planet. Among the key attractions is “Fly Through Chile” a flying theater experience, simulating flying over the vast landscape of Chile.
Zone 3 – Rapa Nui: Easter Island & Robinson Crusoe Island
Representative of Chilean Polynesia in Easter Island and Robinson Crusoe Island, this zone is to capture the imagination for adventurers of all ages with a walk through aquarium and dry-for-wet kids play zone.
Zone 4 – Patagonia & Antarctica
Cold zone base, showcasing the adventuring spirit within the wilds and vistas of the region including a thrill coaster, boating experience and potentially some snow play.
Final location and opening date will be announced soon.
About Wines of Chile
Wines of Chile is a non-profit organization that represents Chile’s wine producers. Established in April 20, 2007, the association represents the trade unions of the industry, strengthens the image and recognition of Chilean wines in international markets, and positions the best quality and diversity of Chilean wine.
About Lam International
Lam International Limited Company is a foreign funded enterprise headquartered in Shanghai Tower, the tallest building in China. The company has three main business areas: investment banking, global online platforms, international trade & investment. To support our investment in Hainan and Hefei, we have registered our company in Shanghai Free Trade Pilot Area, with a registered capital of RMB 100 million.
Photos from Wine of Chile Roadshow and Chile Experience Media Conference
Thinkwell Asia Vice President of Design, Randy Ewing and President, Kelly Ryner with Lan Yau Sun of Lam International at the Wines of Chile Roadshow and Chile Experience Media Conference held on April 25, 2019.
Thinkwell Asia Vice President of Design, Randy Ewing and President, Kelly Ryner with Lan Yau Sun of Lam International at the Wines of Chile Roadshow and Chile Experience Media Conference held on April 25, 2019.
Wines of Chile and Lam International at the Wines of Chile Roadshow and Chile Experience Media Conference held on April 25, 2019.
Thinkwell Asia Vice President of Design, Randy Ewing and President, Kelly Ryner with Lan Yau Sun of Lam International at the Wines of Chile Roadshow and Chile Experience Media Conference held on April 25, 2019.
Wines of Chile and Lam International at the Wines of Chile Roadshow and Chile Experience Media Conference held on April 25, 2019.