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Universal’s Cinematic Spectacular at Universal Studios Florida

Former location
All around the lagoon at Universal Studios Florida

Dates of operation
May 8, 2012 to September 8, 2017

Former restrictions and access
None

Two-sentence insider summary
In celebration of Universal Studios’s 100-year anniversary in 2012, this nighttime lagoon show presents the most iconic movie moments in Universal’s film history on state-of-the-art water curtains, together with dazzling fountain effects, fireworks, and an incredible soundtrack. This is simply the perfect way to end your day at Universal Studios Florida and should not be missed.

Former showtimes and other information
This show is performed at park closing (but double-check the time in your guide map — they may adjust the times). If you want a front-row seat along the lagoon, you may get wet. You don’t need to worry about getting soaked, and you will never be directly sprayed by the fountains — but since the jets of water shoot up quite high, a little wind can carry sprinklings of water out of the lagoon and into the audience.

Why did it close?
Read our analysis here.

What replaced it?
Universal hasn’t said yet, although it did hint that “a new nighttime lagoon show is coming to Universal Studios Florida that will include new animation featuring characters from favorite Universal attractions, a new storyline, new music, [and new] lighting and special effects. It will take Universal’s Cinematic Spectacular to an entirely new level.”

Where was the best place to watch the show?
The first thing to know is that the show literally takes place all around the lagoon, with water fountains everywhere, and three enormous screens for viewing the movie clips. Although this image is an artistic rendering, it is very accurate in depicting the setup of the fountains and screens:


Universal’s Cinematic Spectacular: a view from above

But if we had to recommend a spot as the best place to view all the action, we would say that you should get yourself to the Central Park area of Universal Studios and line up right where you see the red arrow pointing here:


Universal’s Cinematic Spectacular map

We recommend this spot because, as you can tell from the image, the lagoon slightly curves around this point. So watching the show from here gets you a fantastic perspective on the entire performance. Also, the Central Park area is rather romantic in the evening.

Here is a photo of the spot, located to the left of the frame:

Universal’s Cinematic Spectacular

Here’s a shot of the same spot during the day:

Universal’s Cinematic Spectacular

Keep in mind that you will want to line up 30 to 45 minutes early for the show if you do, indeed, want a front-row seat. (However, another reason why Central Park is the best place to view the show is because it offers several levels — kind of like amphitheater seating, but on a smaller scale.)

Universal’s Cinematic Spectacular highlights with limited spoilers – HD video

Universal’s Cinematic Spectacular – real guest reviews

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Universal's Cinematic Spectacular
Average rating:  
 3 reviews
 by Matthew Lynch
100 years of Universal
Date Of Last Visit: August 2013

Last year was the 100th Anniversary version of Cinematic Spectacular and it was spectacular!

I loved how the fireworks paired with the films and it made the films really come to life. Excellent fireworks and the display in the lagoon is superb.

Simply the best way to end a perfect day at Universal!

 by Universal Bob
Movie Magic
Date Of Last Visit: 14 June 2013

My wife and I are big movie buffs and we really enjoyed the Cinematic Spectacular. The combination of all the classic movie clips on the water screens and the fireworks very well together. It was a beautiful night and the sights and sounds were perfect. I recommend this show for everyone. It's well worth staying for closing to see.

 by Angel L.
Great way to End and Unforgettable Day!
Date Of Last Visit: July 2013

So after spending all day in the parks what better way to end the day other than sitting at the Lagoon at Universal Studios and watching Universal Orlando's Cinematic Spectacular. And every time I watch this show I find myself falling in love with something else in the show. And whether you like how it starts off with the stars, where it's horror, or where the minions say "Whaaaa?" at the beginning of the comedic part of the show. But my favorite part by far is how the fireworks sync up to the show. Whether it is your first time at the parks or your 1 billionth time I would recommend to anyone to end the day sitting at the lagoon for Universals Cinematic Spectacular 100 Years of Movie Memories.