The Making of Men in Black: Alien Attack at Universal Studios Florida

Reception

Men in Black: Alien Attack was enjoyed by many upon opening. Bill Wilson of Starlog said the ride was “as infectious as any life-size video game could possibly be.”

The reaction was positive, despite the resort’s struggles around the new millennium due to the clumsy Universal Studios Escape re-brand and failed marketing campaign. That was no fault of Men in Black: Alien Attack, however, as it’s considered among the best interactive dark rides to this day.

The ride is in the conversation for the most re-rideable attraction in the universe. Chasing a high score is just as thrilling as the attraction itself. As Dave Cobb told The Orlando Sentinel, “It’s just like a video game; you won’t figure it all out the first time you ride.” It is brimming with details to notice on repeat rides.

“It’s just like a video game; you won’t figure it all out the first time you ride.”
Dave Cobb, The Orlando Sentinel, 2000

Easter Eggs

Near the crash site, look out for Frank the Pug hanging out at the locksmith shop and a fake Steven Spielberg disguised on a bench, which was a personal suggestion by the creative consultant himself. A headgear stand in the Times Square scene has a nod to The Cat in the Hat; contrary to what some may say, the Spielberg and Cat in the Hat targets are not worth any points—just animation triggers.

The storefronts have a few references to other Universal properties, but the ride has one hidden detail riders will never see: A time capsule is built into the mouth of the big bug at the end for any potential demolition crew in the future to find—hopefully not any time soon.

Legacy

Universal Studios Florida has evolved since its early days, but Men in Black: Alien Attack has remained a consistent fan-favorite for 25 years and counting. The ride is surrounded by a passionate yet competitive community as friends, family, and fans share memories old and new with zappers in hand.

As one of the longest operating rides at the park, Men in Black: Alien Attack and its facade are an eye-catching backdrop across the lagoon as its towers add to the skyline.

Fans continue to honor the ride with recreations in video games, an elaborate virtual reality recreation, and many more tributes.

The attraction, its longevity, and its emotional draw are tremendous accomplishments for a project built under a strict time constraint. It was a technical and creative collaboration that anyone who has had a hand in its development or daily operation should be proud of.

So, are we alone? Of course we’re not.

“Working on a project like Men In Black is like having the keys to the greatest toy box on the planet and each of these people really put their hearts into their work.”
Dave Cobb, Animation World Network, 2001