When you visit a place based almost entirely on a movie studio as long-running as Universal Studios, you can expect to witness filming equipment, costumes, and characters from many eras.
You’ll meet cartoon characters, pose with gigantic robots, and explore distant cities. However, how would you be able to enjoy the adventures when you have little to no idea about those films?
You can get the most out of those magical items if you have a solid grasp of the films and TV episodes the Universal Studios honor. The movies that you should watch before your visit to Universal Studios include:
- King Kong
- Harry Potter
- Call of Simpsons
- Minions
Many more movies can be a perfect choice
The following is a list of suggested films that might be viewed in preparation for your visit. Each of these films is perfect for a marathon viewing, and several even feature follow-ups that fill in the gaps.
10 Movies You Shouldn’t Miss Watching Before Going to Universal Studios
Just pick the ones that sound the most appealing to you, invite over some friends or family, and settle in for a relaxing evening.
1. The Call of the Simpsons
There are 26 seasons of The Simpsons, and they’re all based in Springfield, USA. In Season 1 Episode 8, titled “The Telltale Head,” Jebediah Springfield’s monument plays a significant role in Bart’s life.
In any case, The Call of the Simpsons, the episode that came out before it, is what you should see first (episode 7).
Although this episode aired before Homer became the fool and family headache, it addresses many families’ issues. Homer settles for a recreational vehicle, much to the dismay of his family.
Several episodes feature Homer’s wish for a luxurious RV, and now you can view their brand-new buy in person at Universal Orlando.
It’s slightly better than the one in Call of the Simpsons, so it can accommodate items and characters from all 500+ episodes of The Simpsons.
2. The Men in Black
There are three movies in the “Men in Black” series. They range in quality, but they are always entertaining thanks to Will Smith’s ability to combine the science fiction and comedy genres successfully.
Any of these movies will improve your time spent at Universal Studios.
The observatory towers from the New York State Pavilion are a prominent architectural element from the original film. Moreover, The Men in Black: Alien Attack attraction is set during the World Expo, so this makes sense.
Not to spoil anything for you, but they play a significant role in the movie.
But that’s just one of the movie’s many superficial appeals. The fact that this is the only film in which the protagonist learns about Men in Black for the first time adds even more intrigue.
The first film displays the agency’s eccentricities, hidden and natural means of concealing their existence, and creative weapons.
Universal expertly captured the dreamlike sensation of discovering an unseen extraterrestrial force.
3. Half-Blood Prince: Harry Potter
It isn’t easy to pick just one Harry Potter film to recommend. Diagon Alley (or Hogsmeade and Hogwarts, if you’re going that way) has been taken over by the boy who survived, and you can find bits and pieces from each film scattered throughout the parks.
Diagon Alley’s most popular attraction, Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts, is based on a pivotal incident in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part 2.
You’re bound to see several familiar sights from that movie as you explore.
This is the last and most recent movie, so it’s likely to be fresh in your mind. It’s possible that you won’t recall details from classic films so deeply.
To that end, it is highly recommended to view Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. In addition to being a fantastic film, it also has a book in the franchise, which Universal cleverly incorporated into one of their rides.
Looking closely, you can see that the billboard near which Professor Dumbledore appears advertises a perfume called “Divine Magic.”
The Kings Cross station in Universal Orlando features an identical billboard. It’s a nice detail that only astute observers will pick up on.
4. Spiderman
If you want to kill a lot of time, you can watch all the Spiderman films and cartoons. They are tried-and-true forms of family entertainment that never fail to attract audiences of any age.
There have been 9 Spiderman films, with three actors playing the title role. In other words, you can anticipate becoming addicted to all of them because of how fantastic they are.
On a simulator dark ride called “The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man,” at Universal Studios, you may tag along with the superhero as he battles some of Marvel’s most maniacal villains throughout New York City.
When it first launched in 1999, the attraction was appraised as a technological marvel for being the first to incorporate 3D film, ride movement, and practical and visual effects; since then, the attraction has only improved in terms of detail and immersion.
5. Minion
Minions’ are the main personas in the Despicable Me movies. They’re responsible for a lot of the film’s humor and often steal the show.
The movie portrays Felonius Gru, who has a great relationship with his supporters, in contrast to the norm among criminal masterminds, who tend to abuse their underlings.
He appears to have genuine affection for them and regularly expresses gratitude for their efforts and support.
Those lovable little Minions are on everything these days, and everyone has given them immense love. It’s time to see all three of Despicable Me films and the Minions feature.
They’re great for marathon watching, and audiences of all ages will enjoy them.
You can then go with no further ado to the Despicable Me Minion Mayhem ride or attraction. When you visit Universal Studios, the minions will arrive for photo ops at specific intervals throughout the day.
Watching the movies in advance will increase your excitement levels when you click pictures with these cute characters.
6. The Mummy
Before visiting Universal Orlando to watch Revenge of the Mummy, watch the original The Mummy and its sequel, The Mummy Returns. The comedic value of the films is high, and there is a good deal of action as well.
Get on the ride without watching the movie; you could be disoriented and puzzled about what’s happening.
7. Dr. Seuss
Everybody has a favorite author from their childhood, and many films center on these authors. Cat in the Hat and The Lorax are two movies you should certainly watch.
They’re adapted from the books but add new dimensions to the storylines.
At Universal Studios, Seuss Landing, the children’s section of Island of Adventure, features rides and shops geared at younger guests, but Dr. Seuss lovers of all ages will enjoy their time there.
You’ll recognize many of the characters from your youth or through reading these stories to your kids.
Moreover, vacationers visiting this funny island will quickly realize that much as in the Dr. Seuss novels, there are very few straight lines down to the crooked trees.
8. Jurassic Park
Taking place in the Jurassic Park theme park of the blockbuster films Jurassic World—The Ride is an exciting attraction with a unique tale.
You’ll feel like you’ve arrived on Isla Nublar thanks to the cafe, the Raptor Encounter, and the ride.
You’ll enjoy a thrilling sail through thick foliage to get up and personal with some magnificent life-size dinosaurs.
Something goes wrong, as the new Indominus rex has gotten out of her enclosure in typical Jurassic Park fashion. As you continue your journey through the jungle on the boat, she follows you, making it impossible for you to get away from her.
Not to fear, though. Help is coming from Claire Dearing, Owen Grady, and even Blue.
9. King Kong
One of the busiest attractions at Universal Orlando is Skull Island: Reign of Kong. The largest Orlando-based animatronic may be seen in this mostly family-friendly ride.
Guests on this non-tracked trip will find themselves outside the temple’s famous gates, where an audio-animatronic native will warn them to beware of Kong.
From that point on, traditional Skull Island chaos breaks out, with huge bats lifting screaming expedition members and horrific, swamp-dwelling meat weasels swallowing people whole.
There’s even some of that trademark Kong vs. dinosaur action. But how would you enjoy it if you hadn’t seen the movie yet?
10. Transformers
When it comes to 3D rides at Universal Studios, I recommend Transformers. If you haven’t seen the Transformers movies, especially the first one, you should do so before you leave on vacation.
Special effects and 3D features add to the nonstop action that begins when the Transformers: 3D ride begins. This trip seems to go on forever due to the nonstop action and unexpected plot twists.
Finally, this ride gives you a chance to become a part of the ongoing fight between the Autobots and the Decepticons – your traditional good vs. evil situation, perfect for fans of the brand who grew up watching the 1980s animated television series or the more recent live-action movies.
Conclusion
The attractions of Universal Studios park are themed around a wide variety of well-known films and TV shows. You can still have a good time if you haven’t seen the movies that inspired the shows and attractions, but you’ll get a lot more out of your visit.
Above listed are the films that have inspired the attractions at Universal Studios Orlando’s two theme parks.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Should I Prepare for My Visit to Universal Studios?
Your visit to Universal Studios can be much more fun and exciting if you follow simple tips and tricks.
- Universal Express allows you to skip the lineups. You can get an entry with free, fast passes.
- If you book your stay at a Universal Resort, you’ll have an early entry.
- Get shoes that won’t hurt your feet because you must travel miles.
- Carry a lightweight backpack for long adventurous rides.
- Carry a water bottle that you can refill if required.
- Get the official Universal Resorts app for your smartphone.
- If you suffer from motion sickness, take precautions.
What Can You Do First at Universal Studios?
The Lower Lot has the shortest queues first thing in the morning (just as it opens), so that’s where you should head first.
They’re at their best in the afternoon. The quickest way to ride without a Universal Express Pass is to split up your party and use the Single Rider lines.
What Are the Items I Cannot Carry at Universal Studios?
Park regulations prohibit bringing in things like alcoholic beverages, perishable food, items that need to be heated or refrigerated, glass containers or glassware, picnic lunches, folding chairs, and hard-sided coolers.
Soft-sided coolers are allowed, but their dimensions cannot exceed 8.5 inches by 6 inches by 6 inches.
Which Is the Scariest Ride at Universal Studios?
Despite being tucked down in the park’s bottom lot, Revenge of the Mummy: The Ride routinely has standby wait times recorded at over an hour.
Riders on Revenge of the Mummy: The Ride will be propelled at 45 mph in near darkness as they “race” from the vengeful Mummy.
Special effects are guaranteed to pump up the adrenaline, and unexpected plot twists lurk around every corner.
The ride is unlike the simulators and cutting-edge 3D/4D attractions that Universal has become known for over the years.
Can I Pay in Cash at Universal Studios?
Cash is accepted at Universal Studios for the purchase of admission tickets, as well as for the purchase of food and drinks.
It is required that payments be made in US Dollars. The theme park also acknowledges payments made via the Universal mobile app and credit cards as valid forms of payment.
