Former Dunedinite Damian George takes the newly unveiled Simpsons Ride at Universal Studios Hollywood in LA.
Universal Studios Hollywood is not known so much for its thrilling rides as for its films, and the special effects that go along with them.
And, judging by the brand new Simpsons ride, which opened on May 19, that is not likely to change soon.
Perhaps discovering the ride was a simulation ride, as opposed to an actual roller coaster, would not have been so disappointing had the marketing of the new attraction not been so ambiguous, even a touch misleading, as to exactly what was on offer.
Many would have checked the ride's website to see a short animated video depicting a roller coaster with loops, swirls and drops - a blatant misrepresentation of the lacklustre experience of the actual ride.
Further adding to speculation of exactly what we were about to embark on was a sign at the start of the waiting line, warning guests of a "topsy-turvy, upside-downy, spins-aroundsy" roller-coaster experience.
It was only when the safety announcement was made over the PA system that the attraction was confirmed as a "high-speed, roller-coaster simulation", leaving a slightly sour taste in the mouth.
However, in keeping with the show's status as one of the funniest and most successful sitcoms of all time, the entertainment provided for those waiting in line was probably the best ride I have been on.
In fact, the adventure actually starts from this point, as punters are treated to a mixture of hilarious Simpsons material, old and new, during which they learn they will be embarking on the ride with the Simpson family, chased once again by the infamous Sideshow Bob.
As far as simulation rides go, it is well done and does, to an extent, simulate the feeling of being on a real roller coaster.
It is a rocky ride, with passengers thrown around somewhat violently, while the Simpsons (3-D computer-graphics characters) face various challenges, including a broken track, as they try to keep out of the villain's reach.
For me, though, the ride simply raises the question: "If you want to feel like you are on a roller coaster, why not go on a roller coaster?" The answer is probably that, as mentioned, the real attraction of this theme park is not centred on thrilling rides but, rather, the spectacular special effects of one of the world's leading film and television studios.
While in Krustyland, be sure also to check out the Kwik-E-Mart, which has some tremendous Simpsons memorabilia, including "real" Duff Beer and Flamin' Moe's energy drinks.
