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It’s interesting to note how many theme park designers start with different ideas for their careers. They often work on movies, animation, or theater before taking an indirect route to the industry. A perfect example is Dave Cobb, who started on the Studio Tour at Universal Studios Hollywood. Everything changed when he took a job as project coordinator on Back to the Future: The Ride. It was the start of a diverse, successful career in theme parks.
Dave is my guest on this episode of The Tomorrow Society Podcast to talk about his background and some key projects. After working as a show writer and designer for Landmark Entertainment Group, Dave took on the massive role as creative director of Men in Black: Alien Attack. We focus on that remarkable attraction, which was developed and completed in just over two years. Also, Dave explains why Men in Black remains so popular 20 years later.
I loved the chance to ask Dave about Survivor: The Ride, which he designed while working for Paramount Pictures Licensing. I never had the chance to experience that attraction, but I’m a diehard fan of the TV show. We close out the episode by talking about the Warner Bros. World in Abu Dhabi. Dave was the primary park-wide creative director, and the indoor theme park looks incredible based on what I’ve seen online. It was great to have the chance to speak with Dave about his awesome career.
Show Notes: Dave Cobb
Learn more about Dave Cobb and follow him on Twitter, YouTube, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
Watch the Men in Black: Alien Attack Livestream Q&A for the attraction’s 20th anniversary.
Check out the pre-show video with Ethan Zohn and Jenna Morasca and see ride footage of Survivor: The Ride from 2006.
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Dave Cobb says
So sorry about the dropouts — darn technology! If anyone has any questions for things they missed, feel free to reach out! LOL
Dan Heaton says
No problem, Dave! Thanks again for being on the podcast.
Melanie B. says
One of my favorite interviews ever here! Loved hearing Dave talk about Back to the Future and Men in Black. It’s so interesting how his life’s journey developed, and how he used all the skills he used to help create wonderful attractions. Back in 2004 my husband and I left our toddler with the grandparents and had ourselves a trip to Universal Florida. It was in January and there was barely a wait for anything, and there were so many attractions that neither of us had seen before. Men in Black was a highlight. I’m so glad the ride operators gave us the full pre-show. It was so immersive and we loved how the whole theme park was a “cover” for MIB. One of the best, if not THE best, vacations we’ve had as a couple. Thanks for all the contributions you’ve made to theme park magic, Dave!
Dave Cobb says
Thank you! <3 <3 <3
Dan Heaton says
Thanks Melanie! I’ve had similar experiences at Universal, and Men in Black is definitely a favorite. The pre-show is so well-done! Before the pandemic, I was hoping to get back to Universal on a quick weekend trip. I still haven’t experienced the latest attractions like Hagrid’s and Kong. I’ll keep my hopes up for 2021 (or maybe 2022)…