4D Theatre: Super 78 Produces China’s Premiere Digital Flying Attraction Film Flight of the Dragon at Shanghai’s OCT Theme Park

Super 78 Studios advances digital filmmaking in China, by producing the first ever digital large format, live-action aerial film for Shanghai's largest theme park with a projected annual attendance of three to five million people.

Super 78 Studios, Inc., an innovative production company providing expert digital media content worldwide, today announced the completion of their film for OCT (Overseas Chinese Town) and their 220 Acre Happy Valley Theme Park, Shanghai’s largest theme park located in the Sheshan Resort area which is anticipated to attract between three to five million guests annually.

Flight of the Dragon is the first ever, digital large format live-action aerial film produced for the China market. Super 78 Studios was sought out by OCT for their ambitious and powerhouse approach to making a film that was, considered by most, nearly impossible. Through a series of detailed design strategies, innovative digital mastering techniques, and a solution-oriented philosophy, Super 78 delivers this unique attraction film set to debut in 2010.

Flight of the Dragon, written and directed by Brent Young, Super 78’s Principal and Chief Creative Officer, is a large format film that captures astonishing aerial footage of China’s Great Wall, scenic views of the Yellow Mountains, Zhangjiajie, and the Lijiang River, taking guests through an extraordinary tour of China’s most famous and beautiful landmarks. This magical story of China begins with a photo-real, computer generated Dragon who accompanies the audience through the spectacular landmarks while guiding us towards the grand finale fireworks display over Shanghai’s futuristic Pudong district.

“Our team spent nearly eight weeks in helicopters over various locations to film a truly one-of-a-kind film,” says Brent Young. “Integrating unique animation elements enabled us to incorporate the rich Chinese culture on a grand scale.”

Dina Benadon, Super 78 CEO adds, “As an independent Hollywood-based studio, we faced a lot of challenges in the production process--dealing with the government, the military, and local production studios is very different from what Western producers are accustom to. We had to learn how to work in a new culture, with very unique customs and business practices while producing a film of this caliber. I think our exceptional team opened doors for future producers and this film will certainly play a key role in further bridging the cultural differences between our two countries.”

Charlotte Huggins, a well-known 3D feature film producer with acclaimed production credits that include Journey to the Center of the Earth (Warner Bros.), Honey I Shrunk The Audience (Disney) and Fly Me to The Moon (nWave Pictures) further added “The combination of securing multiple permits, access to equipment, restricted air space, in addition to cultural and language barriers was considered virtually impossible, but we did it. Our American and Chinese crews delivered an unprecedented experience for the people of China. We’re thrilled to capture the beauty of the countryside from the air which has been seen by so few Chinese—the visual experience is spellbinding.” Utilizing the latest in attraction technologies, the film will be projected on an air-suspended 30 meter by 17 meter dome screen, where four Christie Projectors will deliver the highest image quality. This amazing attraction is designed to fulfill the guest experience and the feeling of flying.

To achieve this major undertaking, Super 78 assembled a world-class team and developed proprietary image manipulation tools. The color correction process was completed at Fotokem and supervised by Rick Gordon whose credits include Wild Ocean 3D, U2 3D, and Sea Monsters. Using a proprietary technique known as the Super Canvas™ process and led by Super 78 in-house artist Michael “Oz” Smith, the film maintains its integrity when projected on any exhibition platform. Super 78 converted the footage to fit the custom dome projection system and to perform in the highest resolution possible.

Further enhancements to the attraction include a 35,000-watt sound system delivering a world-class musical score by Emmy award-winning composer, Dan Zank, exuding powerful Chinese melodies and accents recorded by members of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra. To complete the total immersive guest experience, in-theater effects including wind, mist and aromatic scents like bamboo-forest, make this a one-of-a kind theme park attraction.

About Super 78

Super 78 Studios is a group of multi-talented artists, technicians and engineers and who have developed and produced entertaining and educational stories across several digital media platforms. Celebrating 13 years in business, this award-winning creative production company continues to accentuate well-known brands and intellectual properties into special venues and experiential markets. With offices in Hollywood, California and Beijing, China, and offering a large library of original content, Super 78 is expanding into creating, producing and owning live-action and animated properties. For more information, please visit www.super78.com.

Original article posted on BLOOLOOP.com

'Madagascar' rides to Uni Studios Singapore

Theme park opens early next year

"Universal Studios Singapore, which opens early next year, will be the home to the first theme park attraction based on DreamWorks Animation movie property "Madagascar."

The Southeast Asia park, located on the island of Sentosa as part of a $4.2 billion Resorts World property, also will boast a Far Far Away Castle, a landmark in DWA's "Shrek" pic series. The 130-foot-tall castle, where King Harold lives, will house attractions such as Shrek 4-D, Donkey Live and Magic Potion Spin, Universal Studios announced Wednesday.

Madagascar: A Crate Adventure will be an indoor boat ride featuring animated figures, digital projection, special effects and a bubbling volcanic cauldron.

"These iconic animated characters promise to be another crown jewel in our collection of world-class rides and shows based on blockbuster movies that are loved by the entire family," said Tom Williams, chairman and CEO of Universal Parks & Resorts.

The two animated "Madagascar" films, featuring the voices of Ben Stiller and Chris Rock, have raked in more than $1.1 billion at the global boxoffice. A third film is planned for 2012, and the property has spread to TV and video games.

In addition to the Universal theme park, the 5 million square-foot Resorts World Singapore also will have a Marine Life Park, six hotels, shopping, an ESPA spa, conference and meeting facilities and an animatronic "Crane Dance" performance on the waterfront.

Universal also is planning a theme park for Dubai in 2012."

Original article written by Mike Barnes for "The Hollywood Reporter"

Universal Studios Singapore Launches 'Madagascar' & 'Shrek' Attractions From DreamWorks Animation

"SINGAPORE, 24 September 2009 – Asia’s largest integrated resort in Singapore, Resorts World Sentosa, has created not one, but TWO world’s firsts in collaboration with DreamWorks Animation SKG, Inc. (Nasdaq: DWA) within its Universal Studios Singapore theme park.

Themed after DreamWorks Animation’s blockbuster movie Madagascar, Madagascar: A Crate Adventure will be a mega-attraction at Universal Studios Singapore when it opens in early 2010. Widely successful across audiences of all ages, the hit DreamWorks Animation film will be brought to life with a state-of-the-art indoor boat ride featuring animated figures, digital projection, evocative sound, and special effects that create a one-of-a-kind, funny and fun family ride.

Southeast Asia’s first and only Universal Studios theme park will also be home to the world’s first Far Far Away Castle, a landmark in the box-office hit Shrek series. King Harold’s 40-metre high castle will house attractions such as Shrek 4-D, Donkey Live and Magic Potion Spin.

Madagascar: A Crate Adventure and Far Far Away Castle are part of the world’s biggest single collection of DreamWorks Animation theme park attractions making its debut at Universal Studios Singapore. The collection of six attractions, complemented by more than 10 DreamWorks Animation themed dining and shopping outlets, also features rides suitable for the entire family, such as the fairy tale themed junior-coaster Enchanted Airways and King Julien’s Beach Party Go-Round.

Mr Tan Hee Teck, CEO of Resorts World Sentosa, which Universal Studios Singapore is part of, said: “Resorts World Sentosa has a sales network spanning 22 Asian cities. In each of these cities, Shrek and Madagascar are well-known animation films with beloved characters. We are ecstatic to have made these characters residents in Resorts World Sentosa’s Universal Studios Singapore.

“We are excited about our relationship with DreamWorks Animation and Universal Studios Parks & Resorts, and I am sure that many Asian visitors will be too, when they see Universal Studios Singapore bring to life two of DreamWorks Animation’s most successful box-office franchises.”

“We are proud to announce the world-first Madagascar attraction in collaboration with DreamWorks Animation that will debut at Resorts World Sentosa’s Universal Studios Singapore,” said Tom Williams, Chairman and CEO, Universal Parks & Resorts. “These iconic animated characters promise to be another crown jewel in our collection of world-class rides and shows based on blockbuster movies that are loved by the entire family,” he added.

Universal Studios Singapore® is located within Singapore’s massive family destination resort, Resorts World® Sentosa. Universal Studios Singapore will feature 24 rides and attractions, 18 of which are either original or adapted for the park. Universal Studios Singapore opens in the first quarter of 2010.

DreamWorks Animation attractions at Universal Studios Singapore:

-- Madagascar: A Crate Adventure: The hit DreamWorks Animation films are brought to life with state-of-the-art animated figures, digital projection, evocative sound, and moving show-action effects that create a one-of-a-kind, immersive ride experience. Cast adrift while being transferred from the New York Zoo, our four heroes – Alex, Marty, Melman and Gloria – arrive at the shores of Madagascar. Here, they meet the impulsive leader of the local lemurs, King Julien, who, between bustin’ moves on the jungle floor, asks the New Yorkers to help defeat his nemesis – the dreaded Foosa. Aided by the technically-savvy but psychotic penguins, our heroes defeat the Foosa at the rim of a bubbling volcanic cauldron.

-- Shrek 4-D: Join Princess Fiona, Shrek and Donkey on a honeymoon adventure that picks up where the Oscar-winning movie “Shrek” left off, through an original 3-D film, complete with jumps, bumps, bounces, air blasts and water spray that bring the action to life for each guest – with an extra dimension of special effects through the miracle of Ogre Vision.

-- Donkey Live: Shrek’s fairy tale sidekick Donkey will bring the crowd to its feet in this all-new, one-of-a-kind, interactive live show experience, where guests sing along and even talk with Donkey in an intimate theatre setting. Situated along Far Far Away’s glamorous Romeo Drive, Hook’s Knight Club is the hottest nightspot in town.

-- King Julien’s Beach Party-Go-Round: King Julien, the self-appointed king of the lemurs, knows how to move it, move it, and now he spins guests round and round to the beat of high-energy dance music in this crazy carousel, sure to be a family favorite. At this festive beach scene, King Julien and the Lemurs are throwing a party for their favorite freaks from New York: Alex the Lion, Marty the Zebra, Gloria the Hippo, and Melman the Giraffe.

-- Enchanted Airways: Guests of all ages climb aboard Donkey’s beloved Dragon for a flight over Far Far Away and beyond. At Enchanted Airways, a merry cast of fairy tale creatures – from the Three Pigs to the Big Bad Wolf, from Gingerbread Man to Pinocchio – forms part of a magical airline in the form of a junior coaster that serves destinations throughout the World of Shrek!

-- Magic Potion Spin: As guests make their way past the bubbling vats of Fairy Godmother’s Potion Shop, they’ll encounter the fantastical heart of the factory, the Magic Potion Spin. This miniature Ferris wheel drives a clinking, clanking potion assembly line that circles the room, bottling magical elixirs from a giant wooden vat."

Original article written by Nikki Finke, posted on Deadline.com

Super 78 Names Troy Bryans Vice President, Business Development

HOLLYWOOD, California -- Super 78 Principals Dina Benadon and Brent Young announced the addition of Troy Bryans as Vice President, Business Development for the company. Bryans’ responsibilities will include driving new business initiatives, consulting with clients and co-financiers, overseeing marketing and public relations and expanding the Super 78 brand into exploding experiential and cross-platform markets.

"Troy Lee Bryans is a powerful person in our industry and we are delighted to announce that he is Super 78’s new Vice President, Business Development," says Super 78 Principal Dina Benadon. "Troy's extensive business connections, his facility in adapting brands and IPs for unique, media-based guest experiences, his knowledge of the range of exhibition platforms, and his savvy in marketing and branding all combine to make him an ideal match with our company's current direction."

Bryans has over sixteen years of diverse business development experience in a host of markets including special venue, branded content, experiential marketing and cross-platform production. He’s worked with such branded properties as James Bond™, Aliens™, RoboCop™, Happy Feet™, Speed Racer™ and many others.

“Super 78’s commitment to creativity, their top-notch production team and tireless dedication to creating engaging entertainment experiences is very exciting. I look forward to helping drive the business and developing cross-platform media solutions leveraging all of Super 78’s talent and market expertise,” said Bryans.

Prior to that, Bryans worked at Iwerks Studios where he built Iwerks’ special venue content distribution business overseeing the sales and marketing of Iwerks vast special venue content library to over 100 clients across five continents. In addition, Bryans has worked developing experiential marketing initiatives utilizing innovative technologies that drive brands. He’s worked with such clients as Paramount Parks, Coca-Cola, Volvo, Warner Bros., Universal Music Group, Walt Disney, Churchill Downs, Discovery Communications, Philip Morris and many others.

Super 78 and Audubon Insectarium Celebrate "Awards Night" 4D Attraction

New Orleans-based Audubon Nature Institute
receives a Thea Award for new Insectarium,
featuring the "Tiniest Show on Earth"

New Orleans, USA, Feb 26 2009 -
The 4D theater experience "Awards Night" created and produced by Super 78 is the showpiece of the new Audubon Insectarium, an educational venue recently named for a Thea Award, the themed entertainment industry's highest honor. The award will be presented to the Audubon Nature Institute March 7 in Anaheim, by the Themed Entertainment Association (TEA).

The 23,000-sq.-ft. Audubon Insectarium opened in spring 2008 as a new extension of the Audubon Nature Institute. The 8-minute "Awards Night" show with 5-minute preshow simulates an Oscars®-inspired awards gala for insects - billed as the "Tiniest Show on Earth." Super 78 took charge of scripting, animating and producing the show, including designing the theater set, and casting celebrities to voice the main characters, Joan Riversfly, Jay Lunamoth and The Cricket/Goliath Beetle.

"'Awards Night' is a very successful blend of education and entertainment," says Super 78 principal Dina Benadon.

"We really did our homework on the educational and scientific material, but we also gave it that showbiz touch," adds "Awards Night" director and Super 78 studio creative head, Brent Young. "We're overjoyed about the Thea award, which has special significance because it represents a major milestone in the city's and Audubon's recovery from Hurricane Katrina."

Visitors enter the 80-seat "Awards Night" theater, the curtains draw back and the multi-legged characters appear on three 50-inch HD plasma screens. Insects parade along the red carpet in a composited picture that integrates live action footage of real bugs with CGI animated counterparts. In-theater props, special effects and theatrical lighting, plus motion seats with ticklers, buzzers and misters add the extra dimension that makes it a "4D" experience.

Having created a set of branded insect characters, Super 78 has been busy developing a concept for a TV spinoff that would chronicle the ongoing lives of those characters - a backstage-at-the-awards-show story.

Super 78 is teamed with Nickelodeon and currently in production on "Dora and Diego: Catch that Robot Butterfly," a joint venture with SimEx-Iwerks to develop an educational and entertaining 4D experience for theme parks and museums, based on the hit shows "Dora the Explorer" and "Go Diego Go."