Universal Epic Universe has shared a first look at the state-of-the-art animatronics of Universal’s classic monsters in the park’s Dark Universe land.
Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment, billed as Universal Orlando‘s most terrifying attraction to date, will feature 15 animated figures of iconic monsters.
These include Dracula, Frankenstein, Wolf Man, the Mummy, the Creature from the Black Lagoon, the Brides of Dracula, and the Phantom of the Opera.
Additionally, guests will meet Dr Victoria Frankenstein – the great-great granddaughter of Henry Frankenstein and a new addition to Universal’s monsters.
“These monsters are scary”
In a new video (above), Universal Creative’s senior creative director Peter Carsillo says: “Monsters Unchained has the most technologically advanced animated figures that have ever been built in the attraction”.
He adds: “They are visceral, they are powerful, they are intense and, from a technical standpoint, they exceed beyond everyone’s wildest expectations for what an animated figure can do.”
Across Dark Universe, guests will encounter Frankenstein and the Bride of Frankenstein, as well as Victoria Frankenstein’s servant Ygor and the Invisible Man.
“These animated figures are moving faster than any figures we have built and we have so many of them,” says Universal Creative production designer Frances Franceschi.
Gregory Hall, assistant director of creative design at Universal Creative, adds: “These monsters are scary.”
Dark Universe’s other attraction, Curse of the Werewolf, is a family-friendly spinning coaster featuring Maleva, the gypsy from The Wolf Man (1941).
As for F&B, Das Stakehaus is a restaurant in the catacombs under Darkmoor Village. “The vibe of Das Stakehaus is unmatched, dripping with the dark opulence of vampire culture and filled to the brim with historical relics and classical artwork,” said Universal Orlando in a blog post.
The land’s retail outlet, Pretorius’ Scientific Oddities, is themed to Doctor Septimus Pretorius, the mad scientist featured in Bride of Frankenstein (1935).
“From the moment you step through the portal and into Darkmoor, you’ll find yourself surrounded by a rich tapestry of mystery, intrigue and shadow,” Universal Orlando added.
“Peruse the headstones in the cemetery, admire the darkly quirky architecture of the village center, follow in Frankenstein’s footsteps to De Lacey’s Cottage… in Dark Universe, the sky (or grave) is the limit.”
Epic Universe opens to guests on 22 May 2025.
Images courtesy of Universal
