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Universal Studios to build a coaster based on Mummy movies
Associated Press


ORLANDO, Fla. - Universal Studios plans to replace its Kongfrontation ride with an indoor roller coaster based on "The Mummy" films.

The ride will be influenced by a scene from "The Mummy Returns" in which the hero races through the streets of London in a double-decker bus with the main mummy's skeletal assistants attacking through the windows, The Orlando Sentinel reported Friday.

Kong, one of Universal's highest-profile original ride from the theme park's opening in 1990, closed in September to make way for a new attraction. A Universal spokeswoman wouldn't confirm what the new ride is but said the ride is expected to open in 1 1/2 years.

"I'm not confirming one way or another what our plans are for the attraction," spokeswoman Susan Lomax said Friday. "Mum's the word."

The 71,000-square-foot soundstage building that housed the 30-foot audioanimatron version of Kong has enough space for a coaster track that has narrow corkscrews and tight loops similar to the indoor rides at Disney World, such as Space Mountain and Aerosmith Rock 'n' Roller Coaster, said Peter Stapp, an Orlando theme park consultant and former Universal Studios executive.

Those are two of Disney World's most popular rides. A Mummy attraction modeled on such rides would bring Universal Studios its first roller coaster.

"It's a great choice," said Stapp, who designs attractions and entertainment facilities worldwide. "The movie is popular with the teens and preteens they're trying to attract, and there's a lot you can do with that theme on a thrill ride."