I feel ripped off. The strengths of last year's event were character interactions within immersive environments. The recent reveals seem to focus on shows and meet and greets rather than personal experiences.
Weeks ago I purchased the event pass, not for the collectible medallion(another commemorative eventually lost in a drawer), but to show support for the event. "I believe in this event, Universal. Last year was extraordinary. Build it and they will come."
But what's been announced seems weak and predictive, with fewer opportunities for memorable engagement: Potter walk through appears similar to an HHN progressive with no opportunities to engage with characters. One Piece show at Waterworld has potential for great entertainment, but again, is a show and not an interaction. D&D remains a show, with perhaps a few changes. Yoshi is hardly conversational. Scooby is likely a group event accompanying the Gang on a mystery quest, not an open-ended story. Possibly fun, but if everyone is following clues or searching for the next reveal, will there be time to discuss science with Velma, or debate with Shaggy about what's the most excellent sandwich?
I still think about the interactions I had with George, Doc, Marty,Biff, and most surprisingly, Goldie Wilson. A year later BTTF /Hill Valley / Courthouse Square is discussed among production and performance professionals as a model of interactive character experiences. It wasn't perfect, but it was unique and groundbreaking. It's almost negligent for this not to be continued, in some form, each year. If the courthouse isn't available, Mel's Diner is themed to the period, even if it isn't in-world, and could be converted into a BTTF mini-experience. What fan wouldn't want to sit next to George when Biff arrives? Talk with Goldie about running for mayor? Order a Pepsi - or a coffee - with Marty? Bring back last years F&B menu inside an immersive experience and Universal would be printing money.
To recoup the cost of my pass I need to attend a minimum four nights. But coming from NorCal, the price of gas, hotel, and park food and drink has me wondering if I should attend only one weekend, or cut my losses and not go at all. When I phone to say I need to change my starting date from the first week to the second, I will certainly state one of my main reasons is the absence of BTTF.
I don't know the status of the IP, but Star Trek could have been saved with the addition of a few lines and fifteen - twenty seconds runtime resulting in an unexpected twist. Think a variation of Ramcon Six. During its 60th anniversary, there should be a presence of Trek.
Last year, between one and two a.m. when sounds had to be lessened,fireworks were prohibited, and the scripting wasn't as important as the characterisation, the most Crispin-like George began imagining 'dates with Lorraine' ideas with the now, much smaller crowd. For a fourteen-day gig, this actor was exceptional, fully committed, and became George. At one point his stories veered into fantasy and fairy-tale scenarios. Of the dozen or so guests surrounding him, someone called out 'That's good, George. But a little too Disney." This year, I'm afraid Fan Fest is trying to be more Disney, and less Universal.