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Battle of Galactica: Difference between revisions

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== Story ==
== Story ==


[[Image:Battle of Galactica art.jpg|thumb|Promotional art used in a program guide for Universal Studios.]]
[[File:Battle of Galactica art.jpg|thumb|Promotional art used in a program guide for Universal Studios.]]


The ride begins with a bewildered tour guide happening across a huge space ship blocking the road. Off to the driver's left, the tour comes across a tank manned by two [[Cylon (TOS)|Cylon]] [[Centurion (TOS)|Centurion]]s.
The ride begins with a bewildered tour guide happening across a huge space ship blocking the road. Off to the driver's left, the tour comes across a tank manned by two {{TOS|Cylon|Cylon}} {{TOS|Centurion|Centurion}}s.


The Cylon driver of the tank instructs the driver to halt: "Halt foolish humans, you have blundered into a Cylon battle zone. You are now our prisoner. Do not attempt to escape or we will blast you!"
The Cylon driver of the tank instructs the driver to halt: "Halt, foolish humans, you have blundered into a Cylon battle zone. You are now our prisoners. Do not attempt to escape. Move forward immediately or we will blast you!"


When the driver objects, the gunner of the tank fires a warning shot across the bow of the tram at a nearby rock. The Centurion driver instructs the tram to "Move!"
When the driver objects, the gunner of the tank fires a warning shot across the bow of the tram at a nearby rock. The Centurion driver instructs the tram to "Move!"
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Entering into the command center of the battle cruiser, a Centurion presents the prisoners to [[Imperious Leader]], informing them that "strange looking Earth creatures" have been captured while "attempting a sneak attack on our battleship." The Centurion further notes that, "Their general is called Tour Guide."
Entering into the command center of the battle cruiser, a Centurion presents the prisoners to [[Imperious Leader]], informing them that "strange looking Earth creatures" have been captured while "attempting a sneak attack on our battleship." The Centurion further notes that, "Their general is called Tour Guide."


The Tour Guide objects, but is silenced by Imperious Leader: "Silence foolish mortal, your fate is sealed..." Imperious Leader instructs his Centurions to prepare for departure, fearing further sneak attacks by humans.  
The Tour Guide objects, but is silenced by Imperious Leader: "Silence foolish mortals, your fate is sealed." He asks a Centurion his standing order, to which the Centurion replies "the total extermination of the life form known as man." Imperious Leader notes that the humans would make good morsels for their [[Ovion]] allies. Imperious Leader instructs his Centurions to prepare for departure, fearing further sneak attacks by humans.  


Imperious Leader notes that the humans would make good morsels for their [[Ovion]] allies. However, this is thwarted by a lone Colonial [[Warrior]], who arrives on behalf of the [[Twelve Colonies of Man]] and begins firing at Cylons. During the fight, the Warrior blasts another large door open and tells the humans to escape: "Get out of here! I'll be all right!"
However, this is thwarted by a lone Colonial [[Warrior]], who arrives on behalf of the [[Twelve Colonies of Man]] and begins firing at Cylons. During the fight, the Warrior blasts another large door open and tells the humans to escape: "Get out of here! I'll be all right!"


The not-General Tour Guide continues their narration following their escape: "Ladies and Gentlemen, we have just survived the ''Battle of Galactica'', inspired by the television series, ''[[Battlestar Galactica (TOS)|Battlestar Galactica]]''." <ref>{{cite_web|url=http://www.thestudiotour.com/wp/studios/universal-studios-hollywood/theme-park/attractions/the-studio-tour/past-studio-tour/battle-of-galactica/|title=TheStudioTour.com: "Battle of Galactica"|date=|accessdate=23 August 2019}}</ref>
The not-General Tour Guide continues their narration following their escape: "Ladies and Gentlemen, we have just survived the ''Battle of Galactica'', inspired by the television series, ''{{TOS|Battlestar Galactica|Battlestar Galactica}}''." <ref>{{cite_web|url=http://www.thestudiotour.com/wp/studios/universal-studios-hollywood/theme-park/attractions/the-studio-tour/past-studio-tour/battle-of-galactica/|title=TheStudioTour.com: "Battle of Galactica"|date=|accessdate=23 August 2019}}</ref>


== History ==
== History ==


Constructed upon the site of the short-lived "Rockslide" attraction, ''Battle of Galactica'' was conceived as a response to the massive initial success of [[Battlestar Galactica (TOS)|Battlestar Galactica]]. As prelude to the ride, Cylon Centurions and Colonial Warriors would mingle amongst the Universal Studios Hollywood guests beginning in 1978, as members of the "Streetmosphere."<ref>{{cite_web|url=http://www.thestudiotour.com/ush/attractions/streetmosphere/cylon.php|title=TheStudioTour.com: Past Streetmosphere - Cylon (Battlestar Galactica) 1978 - 1992
Constructed upon the site of the short-lived "Rockslide" attraction, ''Battle of Galactica'' was conceived as a response to the massive initial success of {{TOS|Battlestar Galactica|Battlestar Galactica}}. As prelude to the ride, Cylon Centurions and Colonial Warriors would mingle amongst the Universal Studios Hollywood guests beginning in 1978, as members of the "Streetmosphere."<ref>{{cite_web|url=http://www.thestudiotour.com/ush/attractions/streetmosphere/cylon.php|title=TheStudioTour.com: Past Streetmosphere - Cylon (Battlestar Galactica) 1978 - 1992
|date=|accessdate=23 August 2019}}</ref>
|date=|accessdate=23 August 2019}}</ref>


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Various pieces of concept art were commissioned to assist the developers envision and execute upon the vision of the attraction.
Various pieces of concept art were commissioned to assist the developers envision and execute upon the vision of the attraction.


<gallery>
<gallery mode="slideshow">
Battle of Galactica - Concept Art.jpg|A black and white artistic depiction of the tram entering the gaping maw of the landed "Cylon battle cruiser" from the street, and the Cylon tanker "shooting" a rock. Artwork by Gary Meyers.<ref>{{cite_web|url=https://www.byyourcommand.net/cylongallery/displayimage.php?album=4673&pid=71834#top_display_media|title=ByYourCommand.net: ''Battle of Galactica'' Building Concept Art|date=|accessdate=25 August 2019}}</ref>
Battle of Galactica - Concept Art.jpg|A black and white artistic depiction of the tram entering the gaping maw of the landed "Cylon battle cruiser" from the street, and the Cylon tanker "shooting" a rock. Artwork by Gary Meyers.<ref>{{cite_web|url=https://www.byyourcommand.net/cylongallery/displayimage.php?album=4673&pid=71834#top_display_media|title=ByYourCommand.net: ''Battle of Galactica'' Building Concept Art|date=|accessdate=25 August 2019}}</ref>
BOG Building Promo Artwork 1.jpg|Artwork depicting the [[Cylon battle cruiser]] that, having landed on [[Earth]], is discovered by the tourists on the [[Universal Studios Tour]]'s [[Glamtram]]. <br/>The tram drives into the open maw of the ship. Absent is the [[Cylon tank]] that would force the tour guide to make that decision.
BOG Building Promo Artwork 1.jpg|Artwork depicting the [[Cylon battle cruiser]] that, having landed on [[Earth]], is discovered by the tourists on the [[Universal Studios Tour]]'s [[Glamtram]]. <br/>The tram drives into the open maw of the ship. Absent is the [[Cylon tank]] that would force the tour guide to make that decision.
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Promotion for the attraction continued into the 1980s with newsprint advertisements, as well as clips from the actual ride interspersed in commercials promoting the [[w:Universal Studios Tour|Universal Studios Tour]].
Promotion for the attraction continued into the 1980s with newsprint advertisements, as well as clips from the actual ride interspersed in commercials promoting the [[w:Universal Studios Tour|Universal Studios Tour]].


<gallery>
<gallery mode="slideshow">
The Battle of Galactica - 1979 Advertisement.jpg|Full color advertisement from 1979.
The Battle of Galactica - 1979 Advertisement.jpg|Full color advertisement from 1979.
The Battle of Galactica - 1979 Newspaper Advertisement.jpg|Monochrome newsprint advertisement from 1979.
The Battle of Galactica - 1979 Newspaper Advertisement.jpg|Monochrome newsprint advertisement from 1979.
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The following items were made available via press kits issued by [[Jim Goyjer]], consisting of photographs for reproduction in newspapers and other newsprint media, in addition to corresponding descriptions.
The following items were made available via press kits issued by [[Jim Goyjer]], consisting of photographs for reproduction in newspapers and other newsprint media, in addition to corresponding descriptions.


<gallery>
<gallery mode="slideshow">
Universal Studios Tour - Press Kit - Battle for Galactica - Folder.jpg|Folder for the press kit, with full color artist rendering of the attraction's "laser battle."
Universal Studios Tour - Press Kit - Battle for Galactica - Folder.jpg|Folder for the press kit, with full color artist rendering of the attraction's "laser battle."
Universal Studios Tour - Press Kit - Battle for Galactica - Map Brochure and Technical Detail Pages.jpg|Interior of folder containing the park map, park brochure, and stapled packets of technical and additional attraction details.
Universal Studios Tour - Press Kit - Battle for Galactica - Map Brochure and Technical Detail Pages.jpg|Interior of folder containing the park map, park brochure, and stapled packets of technical and additional attraction details.
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Battle of Galactica - Cylons and Aliens Photo.jpg|Black and white photo of the ''Battle of Galactica'' antagonists, as seen in the commercials promoting the opening of the attraction in 1979.
Battle of Galactica - Cylons and Aliens Photo.jpg|Black and white photo of the ''Battle of Galactica'' antagonists, as seen in the commercials promoting the opening of the attraction in 1979.
Battle of Galactica - Description Memo - Cylons and Aliens Photo.jpg|Description memo relating to the previous photo.
Battle of Galactica - Description Memo - Cylons and Aliens Photo.jpg|Description memo relating to the previous photo.
</gallery>
=== Miscellany ===
Various promotional collateral were also created for use in other non-newsworthy venues, including park welcome kits, envelopes, and other miscellany.
<gallery mode="slideshow">
Battle of Galactica - Material Request & Credit Approval Form.jpg|An envelope featuring artwork for the attraction, circa 1983.
Battle of Galactica - Universal Studios Tour Guide Map.jpg|Guide pamphlet and map of the Universal Studios Tour, featuring the cover promoting ''Battle of Galactica''.
</gallery>
</gallery>


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=== Characters ===
=== Characters ===


<gallery>
<gallery mode="slideshow">
Battle of Galactica - Imperious Leader and Minions - Colorized.jpg|Promotional photo of the [[Imperious Leader]] and its minions from the video commercials promoting the ride.
Battle of Galactica - Imperious Leader and Minions - Colorized.jpg|Promotional photo of the [[Imperious Leader]] and its minions from the video commercials promoting the ride.
Imperious Leader - Battle of Galactica ride.jpg|Imperious Leader from ''Battle of Galactica''.
Imperious Leader - Battle of Galactica ride.jpg|Imperious Leader from ''Battle of Galactica''.
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The following are photos of a fairly preserved Cylon Centurion animatronic from the attraction, as presented in the 2014 exhibit celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Universal Studios Tour. It was presented alongside the [[U-87]] practical stand-in built for ''[[Caprica (series)|Caprica]]''.
The following are photos of a fairly preserved Cylon Centurion animatronic from the attraction, as presented in the 2014 exhibit celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Universal Studios Tour. It was presented alongside the [[U-87]] practical stand-in built for ''[[Caprica (series)|Caprica]]''.


<gallery>
<gallery mode="slideshow">
Universal Experience - Cylon Animatronic 1.jpg|Front with display base.
Universal Experience - Cylon Animatronic 1.jpg|Front with display base.
Universal Experience - Cylon Animatronic Right Three-Quarter.jpg|Three-quarter, left side view.
Universal Experience - Cylon Animatronic Right Three-Quarter.jpg|Three-quarter, left side view.
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=== Colonial Warrior ===
=== Colonial Warrior ===


<gallery>
<gallery mode="slideshow">
Battle of Galactica - Prop Helmet 6 - Right Side.jpg|A [[D Squadron]] helmet from ''[[Galactica 1980]]'', which was repurposed for the attraction. It is identified as "Helmet #6". Right side view.
Battle of Galactica - Prop Helmet 6 - Right Side.jpg|A [[D Squadron]] helmet from ''[[Galactica 1980]]'', which was repurposed for the attraction. It is identified as "Helmet #6". Right side view.
Battle of Galactica - Prop Helmet 6 - Left Side.jpg|A [[D Squadron]] helmet from ''[[Galactica 1980]]'', which was repurposed for the attraction. It is identified as "Helmet #6". Left side view.
Battle of Galactica - Prop Helmet 6 - Left Side.jpg|A [[D Squadron]] helmet from ''[[Galactica 1980]]'', which was repurposed for the attraction. It is identified as "Helmet #6". Left side view.
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== References ==
== References ==


<div style="font-size:85%"><references/></div>
{{reflist}}


[[Category: A to Z]]
[[Category: A to Z]]
[[Category: Attractions]]
[[Category: Attractions]]
[[Category: TOS]]
[[Category: TOS]]

Latest revision as of 02:24, 22 January 2024

Logo for Battle of Galactica, circa 1979-1980.

Battle of Galactica was a theme park ride at Universal Studios Hollywood. It debuted on June 9, 1979 and was popular enough that it lasted until 1992. The ride lasted only 2 minutes and 45 seconds.

Story[edit]

Promotional art used in a program guide for Universal Studios.

The ride begins with a bewildered tour guide happening across a huge space ship blocking the road. Off to the driver's left, the tour comes across a tank manned by two Cylon Centurions.

The Cylon driver of the tank instructs the driver to halt: "Halt, foolish humans, you have blundered into a Cylon battle zone. You are now our prisoners. Do not attempt to escape. Move forward immediately or we will blast you!"

When the driver objects, the gunner of the tank fires a warning shot across the bow of the tram at a nearby rock. The Centurion driver instructs the tram to "Move!"

The door of the spaceship opens, allowing the tram to enter while the tour guide comments on their predicament.

Entering into the command center of the battle cruiser, a Centurion presents the prisoners to Imperious Leader, informing them that "strange looking Earth creatures" have been captured while "attempting a sneak attack on our battleship." The Centurion further notes that, "Their general is called Tour Guide."

The Tour Guide objects, but is silenced by Imperious Leader: "Silence foolish mortals, your fate is sealed." He asks a Centurion his standing order, to which the Centurion replies "the total extermination of the life form known as man." Imperious Leader notes that the humans would make good morsels for their Ovion allies. Imperious Leader instructs his Centurions to prepare for departure, fearing further sneak attacks by humans.

However, this is thwarted by a lone Colonial Warrior, who arrives on behalf of the Twelve Colonies of Man and begins firing at Cylons. During the fight, the Warrior blasts another large door open and tells the humans to escape: "Get out of here! I'll be all right!"

The not-General Tour Guide continues their narration following their escape: "Ladies and Gentlemen, we have just survived the Battle of Galactica, inspired by the television series, Battlestar Galactica." [1]

History[edit]

Constructed upon the site of the short-lived "Rockslide" attraction, Battle of Galactica was conceived as a response to the massive initial success of Battlestar Galactica. As prelude to the ride, Cylon Centurions and Colonial Warriors would mingle amongst the Universal Studios Hollywood guests beginning in 1978, as members of the "Streetmosphere."[2]

The ride debuted on June 9, 1979 and lasted until 1992, where it was demolished and replaced with the foundations of the Back to the Future ride, until that too became replaced by The Simpsons building.

Concept Artwork[edit]

Various pieces of concept art were commissioned to assist the developers envision and execute upon the vision of the attraction.

Promotion[edit]

Back of an unused concert ticket for The Beach Boys, circa 4 June 1979, featuring a monochromatic print ad and depiction for the attraction.

Leading up to the debut of the ride, a series of commercials featuring Cylon Centurions, an Imperious Leader (voiced by Lennie Weinrib), and even one alien depicted from "Saga of a Star World"'s Carillon chancery were aired. (See: "Related Videos".)

In addition, promotion for the attraction was executed via print media, including the back side of movie ticket stubs issued by the Universal Amphitheatre.

For print media, press kits on the attraction were prepared and released to the public. (See: "Press Kits".)

The magazine Starlog ran an article on the attraction in 1979.

Promotion for the attraction continued into the 1980s with newsprint advertisements, as well as clips from the actual ride interspersed in commercials promoting the Universal Studios Tour.

Press Kits[edit]

The following items were made available via press kits issued by Jim Goyjer, consisting of photographs for reproduction in newspapers and other newsprint media, in addition to corresponding descriptions.

Miscellany[edit]

Various promotional collateral were also created for use in other non-newsworthy venues, including park welcome kits, envelopes, and other miscellany.

Merchandise[edit]

See also: Battle of Galactica Merchandise

A variety of merchandise was made available relating to the ride, including t-shirts, postcards, View-Master slides and even pens. Such offerings are documented in the link above.

Related Imagery[edit]

Characters[edit]

Cylon Animatronic[edit]

The following are photos of a fairly preserved Cylon Centurion animatronic from the attraction, as presented in the 2014 exhibit celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Universal Studios Tour. It was presented alongside the U-87 practical stand-in built for Caprica.

Colonial Warrior[edit]

Related Videos[edit]

Commercials[edit]

Television commercial for "Battle of Galactica," circa 1979.
Television commercial for "Battle of Galactica" that notes the date of the attraction's opening, circa 1979.

Ride Itself[edit]

Video presentation of the ride itself.

Appearances in Other Venues[edit]

As part of Universal Studios Tour, the Battle of Galactica experience was featured in movies and television during its nearly 13 years of operation, including the 1980 movie The Nude Bomb, the comedy film based from the television series Get Smart starring Don Adams as Maxwell Smart.

In 1988, the "Robot Man" music video segment from Young Talent Time at Universal Studios featuring Courtney Compagnino is shot on the Battle of Galactica set.

"Robot Man" music video segment featuring Courtney Compagnino.

Notes[edit]

  • Patrick MacNee, who lent his voice to the Imperious Leader in the Original Series, also lent his voice to the ride when it first opened. The voice was changed over in later years.
  • The voice of Imperious Leader in the commercials promoting the ride in 1979 is Lennie Weinrib.

External Links[edit]

References[edit]

  1. TheStudioTour.com: "Battle of Galactica" (backup available on Archive.org) (in English). Retrieved on 23 August 2019.
  2. TheStudioTour.com: Past Streetmosphere - Cylon (Battlestar Galactica) 1978 - 1992 (backup available on Archive.org) (in English). Retrieved on 23 August 2019.
  3. ByYourCommand.net: Battle of Galactica Building Concept Art (backup available on Archive.org) (in English). Retrieved on 25 August 2019.