Deadline has reported that the first even Jumanji theme park will be open for business next year at the Chessington World of Adventures Resort in Chessington, U.K.
The $20.5 million development is a collaboration between Columbia Pictures Location Based Entertainment and Merlin Entertainments. It’s said to be a “world-first experience” which will encompass the adventures from all of the Jumanji movies. More details will be revealed in future, but a piece of concept art shows the entrance portal to the World of Jumanji, which featured an overgrown jungle and a 55ft tall Jaguar Shrine.
Tim Harrison-Jones, Divisional Director at Chessington World of Adventures Resort, said: “What could be more exciting than bringing the global hit Jumanji film franchise to life within the single largest development Chessington has ever seen. We know what it takes to create the ultimate adventure for our guests, spread over 128acres the Resort already delivers surprises around everyone corner with over 40 wild rides and attractions, zoo with over 1,000 majestic animals and two themed hotels, plus glamping!” Jeffrey Godsick, EVP of Global Partnerships and Brand Management and Head of Location Based Entertainment at Sony Pictures Entertainment, added, “After being entertained by the films for so many years, fans now have the chance to experience Jumanji in a whole new dimension and we are thrilled to be going on this exciting adventure with the creative team at Chessington as Jumanji further expands with its very own themed land.“
The Jumanji franchise was revitalized several years ago with Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle starring Dwayne Johnson, Kevin Hart, Jack Black, and Karen Gillan. The film was a huge success, and the foursome returned for Jumanji: The Next Level. Franchise producer Hiram Garcia has confirmed that they’re in the early stages of developing another Jumanji movie. “We’ve been discussing it,” Garcia said. “There’s conversations that have been going on & we’re in the process of moving that along. I can’t tell you anything, but we do have big plans for it and that’s one of our favorite projects to work on and that’s cooking away.“
The Jumanji theme park will open in Chessington World of Adventures Resort in Spring 2023.