For over 20 years, it seemed like the much-loved fantasyJumanjiwas going to be one of those rare movies in Hollywood that is hugely popular but never gets a sequel. However, in 2017, Dwayne Johnson took on the task of continuing theJumanjifranchise without Robin Williams and managed to do it so successfully that not only are we now expecting a third sequel but also a whole range of amusement park rides and themed hotels inspired by the movies.
Merlin Entertainments, the operators of Madame Tussauds and Legoland, has joined forces withJumanjiproducers Sony Pictures to set in motion the development of many attractions, lands, and retail outlets in their many theme parks across the world, starting with a newJumanjiride at Gardaland Resort, Italy. This ride will be calledJumanji– The Adventure and will “transport guests to the fantastic world ofJumanji, where an exhilarating adventure awaits them: a journey full of pitfalls, surprises, and dangers through the wild jungle.” Themed bedrooms will also be made available at the resort in April this year when the ride opens.
Mark Fisher, Merlin Entertainments chief development officer, said:
“We are excited to be taking our relationship with Sony Pictures Entertainment to the next level with this strategic partnership. Sony [is] one of the top movie companies on the planet andJumanjiis a multi-billion-dollar brand which has appealed to guests of all ages, for over two decades. Our Merlin team are already hard at work developing brilliant creative concepts, which will bring to life the blockbuster-famous‘Jumanji’film across our theme parks and waterparks. We can’t wait to deliver thrilling rides and experiences for guests and film fans alike! The game is certainly on!”
Sony and Merlin Entertainments Will Once Again Team Up to Bring Movies to Life
This is not the first time Sony has collaborated with Merlin Entertainments; having already producedGhostbusters-basedrides and experiences in Germany and New York,Jumanjilooks like being their biggest and most expansive project to date. With Merlin Entertainments being behind massively successful parks based around the franchises such as LEGO,Peppa Pigand Marvel, their newJumanjiIP will soon join these as one of their instantly recognizable brands.
According to the information available, the projects will take their main source of inspiration from the newJumanjimovie series starring Johnson, Jack Black, Karen Gillan and Kevin Hart, which has grossed over $2 billion at the worldwide box office so far. Outside of their part-ownedSpider-Manfranchise,Jumanjiis by far their biggest movie series wholly owned by Sony, so it is not exactly unexpected that they want to capitalize on that.
Speaking of the venture, Sony’s Jeffrey Godsick commented, “Merlin is the ideal company to bring the world ofJumanjito life. Their commitment to strong storytelling, quality of craftsmanship and fantastic guest experiences ensure that fans ofJumanjiwill be fully immersed into the worlds of our films and have an unforgettable experience. I am very pleased to expand our relationship with the great team at Merlin.”
