Unmasking the Horror

Decided to do the tours back-to-front this time – doing the behind the scenes before the actual HHN RIP tour.

Whilst this runs the risk of losing some of the shock/surprise element, we discovered last time that we missed some of the details and storyline. By doing the tour first, we get to watch out for some key features… at least that’s the idea anyway.

Tour Guide Dave is a true movie buff. His capacity for trivia and knowledge of all things Movie and especially the horror genre was remarkable. I think he has been in the industry for 30+ years and the last 15 working for the VIP Experience team. Possibly the best tour guide we have ever had – albeit his jokes reach whole new levels of corny.

The tour visits 6 of the houses with “ lights on” and you get to see the detail which is often frankly wasted on the event itself. Hidden little gems and tributes to other films. Names on signs and photographs of creators current or those sadly passed away. 35,000 fake ants, hand glued onto one of the sets etc.

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There is a whole language to describe the different scares and effects. For example, if you find your self walking on rubber flooring, this is anti slip and means they will spray you with water as part of the effect. SIF ( stuff in face) are hanging threads to feel like cobwebs across your face)

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Houses fall into two categories. Original and IP. Original houses are created with a bespoke story and theme by Universal in house designers. IP are houses based upon films. Eg Halloween, Friday 13th, Saw, American Horror Story, Stranger Things etc.

This latter category reproduce series of scenes from film or tv series. Often using set designs and even props from the actual film

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IP houses build on the familiarity of the film/tv – are more interesting as you find yourself recognising scenes and looking for things you remember.

Original houses are often more clever or sophisticated in their setup and achieve more shock and scares.

The tour was excellent with a brilliant guide. We were pretty lucky with the other guests on the tour too. They were really enthusiastic and film buffs too, so asked good questions and made it more interesting.

After 6km of walking in pretty toasty conditions, we headed back to the hotel. Went to club lounge and got some snacks and cool drinks. Got back to the room just in time for the F1