Backlot Stunt Coaster

Backlot Stunt Coaster opened in May 2005 as Italian Job: Stunt Track.  The theme was based on the 2003 "The Italian Job" movie staring Charlize Theron, Ed Norton, Mark Wahlberg, Seth Green, and Donald Sutherland.  The movie was distributed by Paramount Pictures, so it made sense to have this ride in a Paramount Park property.  When the ride opened, many special effects were used.  Sound recordings of "Action!" and "Cut!" were heard during the first launch and at the end of the ride.  At the midway point of the ride, cars were stopped on the track shown below, the helicopter rose up, and simulated machine gun blasts were heard.  This burst of flames occurred just before the train was launched into a tunnel.  It was a dramatic scene and an uncommon show during the middle of a roller coaster experience.

©2019 Joel A. Rogers.