FORREC designs two new attraction narratives for Lionsgate Zone at Motiongate Dubai as part of Dubai Parks & Resorts expansion

Experience design company FORREC was “thrilled” to see the opening of the expanded Lionsgate Zone at MOTIONGATE Dubai and its two new roller coaster attractions, John Wick: Open Contract and Now You See Me: High Roller. Inspired by Lionsgate’s film franchises of the same name, the rides opened to guests on Friday 21st January at the Middle East’s largest integrated theme park, Dubai Parks and Resorts, part of Dubai Holding.

Under the mandate of Dubai Holding Entertainment and in collaboration with Lionsgate, FORREC developed the creative vision, direction, storyline, and planning for the Lionsgate Zone at MOTIONGATE Dubai. It occupies a land area of 16,200 sqm (1.6 ha) including:
– Now You See Me covered street storefronts – 730 sqm
– Now You See Me Attraction – 590 sqm plus overflow queue, load and unload
– John Wick – 655 sqm plus overflow queue, outdoor unload and exit

The expansion in the Lionsgate Zone offers branded retail and new F&B on the New York Street, along with iconic moments inspired by the films. The expanded Lionsgate Zone uses out-of-the-box creativity and innovative technology to ensure the ultimate experience for all visitors, including large 2D forced perspective murals and a multimedia LED canopy.

“FORREC is proud to have played a vital role in the creation, design, and development of these new experiences at MOTIONGATE Dubai” says Cale Heit, President and CEO, FORREC. “We are fortunate to have great partners at Dubai Holding Entertainment and Lionsgate; Dubai Holding Entertainment is incredibly well-seasoned in working with popular IPs and always have the guest experience top of mind, while Lionsgate spares no effort in bringing their IPs to life in the most impactful way possible. Working with both partners on John Wick: Open Contract and Now You See Me: High Roller was an exciting process filled with diverse perspectives and we’re excited to see guests’ reactions with these new, thrilling coasters.”

“Dubai continues to be a leader in the travel and tourism sector, with a reputation for delivering pioneering projects and landmarks,” said Fernando Eiroa, Chief Executive Officer, Dubai Holding Entertainment. “The opening of the world’s first John Wick rollercoaster and the world’s fastest spinning rollercoaster are an example of the breadth and diversity of entertainment experiences in Dubai. We are confident that these new offerings will contribute to further enhancing Dubai’s competitiveness as one of the leading international tourism destinations in the world.”

“We are immensely proud of the exceptional, authentic experiences we were able to craft for Lionsgate’s popular John Wick and Now You See Me film franchises,” says Jerry Sabatini, Vice President, Creative of Global Live and Location Based Entertainment, Lionsgate. “The heart-pounding thrill of the new world’s-first rides are delightfully counterbalanced by rich storytelling, deeply immersive interior spaces, and vibrant environments. In collaboration with our partners at MOTIONGATE Dubai and FORREC, we developed clever ways to weave interconnected storylines in and around a dazzling-built world that is both grandiose in spectacle and intimate in detail. We cannot wait for guests around the world to experience the new Lionsgate Zone at MOTIONGATE Dubai.”