Universal's 'Big One' ride gets makeover

ORLANDO, Fla., Nov. 5 (UPI) -- "Earthquake -- The Big One," an attraction at Universal Studios in Orlando, Fla., has been closed so it can get a makeover and reopen as "Disaster!"

The revamped attraction is expected to open in time for the December busy season, the Orlando Sentinel reported Monday.

The original ride was inspired by the 1974 Charlton Heston movie "Earthquake!" Universal Orlando said the ride, which is located in the San Francisco section of the theme park, will reopen as "Disaster! A Major Motion Picture Ride ... Starring You" and be more of an interactive experience with no specific movie tie-in.

"Back to the Future: The Ride," another movie-themed attraction, was closed recently so it can be replaced with a ride based on the animated TV show and movie "The Simpsons."

That ride is expected to be unveiled next spring.