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Los Angeles Times
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Los Angeles Times
Your 5 most burning questions about the new Nintendo Switch 2, answered
The Nintendo Switch 2 console has officially been released, as retailers opened their doors at midnight — 9 p.m. here on the West Coast — to welcome early adapters and die-hard fans. It's the follow-up to Nintendo's second-bestselling gaming device ever; with sales topping 150 million, the Switch is behind only the handheld Nintendo DS. Thus, Switch 2 carries expectations. Though it has a bigger, higher-resolution 1080p screen and more processing power than its predecessor to better run some of today's most popular games, it's not a wholesale re-imagining. It looks similar, albeit just a tad larger, and again comes with detachable controllers, which Nintendo dubs 'Joy-Con,' only now they are magnetized. Switch owners will feel right at home with the new device. And judging by lines at retailers yesterday — a social media friend of mine claims to have spent eight hours standing outside a Best Buy to get a Switch 2 on Day One — many have already made the plunge to buy the new console. Nintendo has stated that it expects to sell 15 million new consoles between now and the end of its fiscal year next March. Yet a new video game console brings with it questions. What is worth playing? Is it easy to upgrade? And will it even be in stock? Nintendo has stated it believes it has enough consoles to meet demand, but whether there will be shortages after the initial rush remains an unknown. I'm still getting to know my Switch 2, but have spent some time with its showcase game and transferred my data from my prior console, and here are some initial answers to basic queries. While it may seem odd to release a new console with only one potential blockbuster title, remember that the most recent game in the series, 'Mario Kart 8,' is one of Nintendo's top-selling games, selling more than 67 million units since its release about a decade ago. Therefore, it's a pretty safe bet, as it's a game that works for casual and hardcore players, and has cross-generational appeal. Nintendo has also made 'Mario Kart' the centerpiece of its theme park lands, of which there is one here at Universal Studios Hollywood. And there's good news: It's a winner. While its feel and tone will be instantly familiar, it comes with a couple of new tricks. One of those is a new mode called 'Knockout Tour,' in which you'll need to maintain a certain placement throughout each of the race's five checkpoints. It's a fast play style that is constantly upping the tension, which is key for a game in which it's always possible to go from first to last and vice versa at a moment's notice. Another new option, and my early favorite, is the 'free roam' setting. No racing here, just exploring. At a preview session earlier this year, some of the most fun I had was when I wasn't racing and was simply driving my kart off the track to see what hidden surprises awaited me in the world. I came across Toad characters fishing and ramshackle vehicles that encouraged me to follow them. It was play for play's sake. This morning, I relaxed with coffee while pulling up to a cafe run by Yoshi, and then stumbled across some timed mini-challenges in the world. It adds a surprising sense of depth and presence to Mario's Mushroom Kingdom. Short answer: Early impressions are dazzling. I was eager to get my hands on 'Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour,' a $9.99 title game-as-tutorial in which we control a tiny human avatar who appears to live in a giant Switch 2. Only instead of tech bits, we see a sleek mall-meets-amusement park world full of mini-games designed to showcase various aspects of the Switch 2's technology — a guessing game centered on frames per second or a dodging challenge that has us using the Joy-Con detachable controllers as mouse-like gadgets. The latter is one of the key differences between the Switch and Switch 2, and will be especially handy in games that require precision. Some of the other games in 'Welcome Tour' are essentially demos. One aims to show off modern television sets with 4K resolution. Another has us adjusting Switch settings to help convey the vibrancy of HDR via animated fireworks. They're simple, quick ways to get to know new tech, and I had fun with a mini-game that tests out the rumbling of the controllers, challenging us to pinpoint the precise moment the vibrations are at their most intense. They're good mini-games that won't last more than a minute or two. Yet it's a game designed to teach players about the new fancy game console they just bought, and therefore should come bundled with it. I wonder if I'll revisit it after my initial week with it. Short answer: 'Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour' is cute but should be free. If you're purchasing a Switch 2 and playing via cartridges rather than downloadable games, you can jump right in. But I'd recommend downloading the system update and transferring your saved game data and as many games as you'd like from your prior Switch. The Switch 2 is largely backward compatible, meaning the vast majority of older titles will work on it (Nintendo is maintaining a list). While I opted not to download every game from my previous Switch, wanting to save space on the 256 GB internal storage of the new console, I was pleased to see that the more than 50 games I had on my older device were all ready to go. Better yet, this was all relatively simple to accomplish and extremely user intuitive. A QR code will have you log into your Nintendo account, and as long as your older Switch and Switch 2 are in the same room, everything should transfer within a couple hours, depending on how many games you want to port over. Short answer: Don't stress. Early headlines regarding the Switch 2 focused on the price. It's high. The base system sells for $449.99 and 'Mario Kart World' carries a hefty $80 tag, the highest price Nintendo has given a game, and an atypical price for an industry that has long valued non-special editions of games at around $59.99. And just hours after announcing a price and pre-sale date, Nintendo pulled back its pre-order plan, stating that there was uncertainty due 'the potential impact of tariffs and evolving market conditions.' President Trump's trade war remains an evolving situation, but the Japanese tech giant ultimately decided not to increase the price of the system. That being said, Nintendo did up the cost of some of the accessories for the Switch 2. In recent interviews, Nintendo of America President Doug Bowser said the company would continue to monitor the situation. For now, the price is set, but things seem to always be in flux in our current political climate. Nintendo's gaming competitor Microsoft recently raised the prices on its Xbox consoles. Short answer: It remains unknown, but if you're in the market for a Switch 2, it may be advisable to buy when you can. This is, of course, the No. 1 question I receive, and I'm being honest when I say it's difficult to answer. I've had a Switch 2 in my home for only half a day, at the time of writing, and while I attended a preview event earlier this year, I still haven't been able to put it through its paces. Additionally, it's always difficult to tell someone to drop $500 — $600 or more, if you're buying some games and a recommended Pro Controller — on a video game console, which is, of course, a luxury item. That being said, I am a big proponent of the importance of play, and Nintendo tends to get this right. The company's video game mantra since its Nintendo Entertainment System days has been to show gaming and play as a medium full of possibilities, using world-building, competition and puzzles to enchant. I believe some new additions to 'Mario Kart World,' for instance, such as the free roam mode, accomplish this goal. You likely already know if you're a fan of the worlds Nintendo creates, whether they involve Mario and his brother Luigi or are franchises such as 'Zelda' and 'Animal Crossing.' And Nintendo isn't going to abandon its core franchises — a new 'Donkey Kong' title arrives in July — and there are some abilities, such as using the detachable controllers as mice, that should add some fun twists to future gameplay. Short answer: If you have the means, my early impression is that Switch 2 is a worthy successor. That being said, if you're not a fan of 'Mario Kart' or Nintendo's main franchises, I think you're safe to wait until there are more games to your liking, as the Switch has a robust catalog and Nintendo is going to continue to support it for the near future.
Forbes
29-05-2025
- Health
- Forbes
15 Tips For Women Traveling Solo
getty 'I'm a firm believer in the benefits of solo travel, especially for women, and I have personally traveled alone to many countries including Hungary and Egypt,' says Jess Watts, global Brand Director for Expedia, who has 13 years of travel, tourism and hospitality experience, having worked for brands like Southwest Airlines, Universal Studios Hollywood and MGM Hotels. 'It's not always easy being a female solo traveler, but it is endlessly rewarding!' Watts recommends the following four tips for solo female travelers. 1. 'I recommend checking out apps like Greether, that pair you up with verified local, female guides,' says Watts. They are in over 100+ countries, and can tailor your experience to what's important to you, as well as providing valuable insight on customs, safety, and areas to see or avoid. 2. A great tool for solo travelers is booking organized tours or experiences. 'Cooking classes, for example, are a great venue for solo travelers to meet other people with similar interests from all over the world,' says Watts. 3. A good habit for anyone, but women traveling alone in particular, is to make sure someone knows your itinerary, and that you check-in with them every day. 4. 'Sites like Expedia will let you sort reviews by those of solo travelers, which is great way to get a sense of if the property and amenities are solo friendly,' says Watts. Keep an eye out for things like the attentiveness of the staff, safety of the location, and whether properties take measures like keycards for the elevator or security personnel. getty 'We're seeing substantial growth in solo female travel and our research shows that the number of American women who are taking solo trips has risen dramatically,' says Giacomo Piva, a travel industry analyst and co-founder of Radical Storage, a global luggage storage company. 'This trend is an indication of the increasing desire of women to travel the world on their own.' Piva suggests thoroughly researching your destination including local customs and safe areas to boost confidence. Share your itinerary with trusted contacts and use apps that allow a real time sharing of your location. Be aware, and trust your instincts; particularly when you're in an unfamiliar place. He also notes that some women prefer to stay at women only accommodations. Doni Belau, a travel expert and founder of Girls' Guide to the World (GG2W), has over 15 years of experience in the travel industry and is an intrepid traveler who has explored over 80 countries. 'The most common issue people have is passport theft, so keep yours in a safe place while traveling,' says Belau. 'Wear a cross-body bag and stay alert and aware in crowded places.' She also suggests staying in a central hotel that keeps their reception open 24/7. getty Julie Waite, Co-Founder, Streetwise Defence, a UK-based company that provides street safety and self-defense workshops shares these trips for solo female travelers.
Thrill Geek
08-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Thrill Geek
Universal Studios Hollywood Announces Universal Mega Movie Summer
This summer, Universal Studios Hollywood will become movie buff central when iconic movies leap from the silver screen to the theme park as part of Universal Mega Movie Summer, an all-new seasonal event designed to offer guests the best summer day in L.A. Debuting Friday, June 13 and continuing daily through Sunday, August 10, 2025, Universal Mega Movie Summer will create experiences for guests that redefine how they can 'beat the heat,' 'hang with friends' and 'party in the park.' With the addition of ingenious menu items, curated by Universal Studios Hollywood Executive Chef Julia Thrash and complemented by all-new collections of exclusive merchandise, including apparel and toys, Universal Mega Movie Summer will delight guests and fans with an array of exclusive in-world, themed offerings. Highlights follow: Jurassic World—The Ride Featuring Mosasaurus Splash, inspired by Universal Pictures' highly-anticipated movie Jurassic World Rebirth opening in theaters on July 2, roars to life within the theme park's popular dinosaur-laden thrill ride. The iconic 84-foot water drop at the ride's finale will reverberate with the menacing roar of a Mosasaurus. Four new Spitter dinosaurs will join the melee and water geysers will erupt to shower guests. An all-new adorable dinosaur from Jurassic World Rebirth will join Blue the Velociraptor, Juliet the Triceratops and Baby Tango. These highly realistic, lifelike dinosaurs will engage with guests alongside the debut of an all-new adventure character, also inspired by Jurassic World Rebirth. A larger-than-life photo op of a Spinosaurus dinosaur will welcome guests to step into a thrilling scene from the film for a memorable photo for instant social postings, and an inspiring scavenger hunt game featuring Compy will entertain visitors while keeping them on their toes. Jurassic Cafe will serve up a sampling of new prehistoric delicacies, plus Isla Nubar will feature new cocktails, The Jurassic Water Rebirth and Spicy Jurassic Pearadise. To mark the 50th Golden Anniversary of Jaws the movie, Universal Studios Hollywood is reintroducing its iconic hanging shark, a larger-than-life dimensional sculpture photo op, and paying homage to this Academy Award-winning blockbuster with the debut of meet and greet characters, Captain Quint and Chief Brody. On the Studio Tour, Jaws will be featured on the iconic Hollywood Sign replica, situated along the backlot hillside, and the infamous Jaws Lake attraction as it celebrates July 4th all summer long. Hollywood & Dine, located just inside the theme park's main entry, will transform into Amity Island Cafe, serving up a menu fit for a great white. Menu and beverage highlights will include Lobster Roll, Vegan Crab Cake Sandwich, Fish and Chips, Fish and Chicken Basket, Shark Bait Burger, Shark Fin Funnel Cake, Amity Island Parfait and Amity Beach Lifesaver Donut, as well as The Shark Bite cocktail and Amity Open Water, a non-alcoholic beverage. To commemorate the 40th anniversary of the landmark film Back to the Future , the iconic Time Machine from the film will be staged on the theme park's Upper Lot, adjacent to Mel's Diner. Characters Doc Brown, Marty McFly and Einstein the dog will all be on hand and paw to greet guests and pose for timeless photo ops. With its decades-old throwback sensibilities, Mel's Diner idyllically captures the essence of Back to the Future , serving up such menu options as the Flux Capacitor Patty Melt, Time Machine Pastrami Melt, Doc Brown's Chicken Pot Pie, Outatime Cookie, Time Traveler's Milk Shake, Flux Capacitor Mocktail and Wake Up Juice Cocktail. Guests and fans of Universal Pictures' blockbuster Wicked will have a chance to rejoicify with popular characters, Elphaba and Glinda, when they step out in style to greet guests at the theme park's existing vibrant Wicked themed photo op, located adjacent to the main entrance. A sculpted dimensional photo op of Toothless from Universal Pictures and DreamWorks' live action movie How to Train Your Dragon opening in theatres on June 13, will take center stage within Universal Plaza. This lifelike, 730-pound, larger-than-life sculpted dimensional dragon will tower at nearly 6' in height, measuring 24' in length and 8' in width. Surprised guests posing next to Toothless will no doubt be able to imagine themselves soaring with their favorite dragon within the Isle of Berk. A dedicated food cart within Universal Plaza will serve scrumptious treats that only a dragon could devour, such as Toothless and Light Fury cookies and a Toothless popcorn bucket. As construction continues on Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift, Universal Studios Hollywood's first-ever, high-speed outdoor roller coaster opening in 2026, the theme park will offer guests an exciting sneak peek at one of the ride vehicles for this all-new adventure. The Dodge Charger ride vehicle, designed to look like Dominic Toretto's 1970 Dodge Charger, will park within Universal Plaza for guests to enjoy as the theme park races towards the roller coaster's grand opening next year. Universal CityWalk Hollywood is also toasting Universal Mega Movie Summer with a variety of entertainment and limited-time offerings. These include: Voodoo Doughnut, featuring the cleverly named Doughnut Go In the Water inspired by Jaws, plusLittle Stepper and Big Stepper treats inspired by Jurassic World Rebirth . The Universal Studio Store and Cartooniversal will sell a variety of themed merchandise aligned with Universal Mega Movie Summer's engaging entertainment. Five Towers Stage will shake, rattle and roll with DJs and stage performances. Visit Universal CityWalk for more information and a schedule of events. Universal Cinema, an AMC® Theatre, is the ideal location to catch the latest blockbusters, including How to Train Your Dragon and Jurassic World Rebirth , with an opportunity to see original movie costumes on display in the theatre lobby. Moviegoers will also have a chance to watch the original Back to the Future movie on the big screen with multiple screenings taking place on July 3. Universal Cinema is the only theatrical venue in the world to feature both a six-story 70MM IMAX® with 4K laser projection and the new PRIME at AMC® theater, featuring 4K laser projection, superior acoustics and heated, plush, recliner seats with built-in subwoofer technology. Visit Universal Cinema for up-to-date screenings and times. Clint Gamache is the owner of ThrillGeek. He started ThrillGeek to share his love of theme/amusement parks and pop culture with the world. You can find him at Halloween Horror Nights. Also, be sure to follow him on Twitter/X, Instagram @iamcg83
Buzz Feed
02-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Buzz Feed
The "Back To The Future" Experience At Universal Fan Fest Nights Is W-I-L-D, Here's What It's Like
Hello, fellow movie fans! In case you hadn't heard, Universal Studios Hollywood JUST launched the very first "Fan Fest Nights" (think of it as Halloween Horror Nights meets Comic-Con), and it's no secret the most highly-anticipated attraction at this event is " Back to the Future: Destination Hill Valley." This highly immersive experience takes places at Universal Studios' backlot in Courthouse Square, which is the ACTUAL location where they filmed the iconic Clock Tower scene (and more) in Back to the Future. And there's an entire storyline with actors you can follow and interact with. So, yeah, you basically get to "live" inside Back to the Future for a night, and it's SO. FUN. So, in case you go (or can't make it and just wanna see), here are all the best Back to the Future details, Easter eggs, and just really cool things I saw and experienced at Fan Fest Nights. Check it out... 1. First of all, before you even get on the tram to the backlot, you'll get a taste of what's to come when you bump into the Clock Tower lady from Hill Valley's Preservation Society. (Be sure to grab one of the iconic blue "Save the Clock Tower" flyers she's handing out!) 2. Getting you even more into the mindset of being "immersed" in Hill Valley, the typical Tram tour video has been replaced with a special video from Doc Brown advising you to do things like "observe, interact, and above all, don't cause a paradox." 3. When you arrive at the backlot, if your timing is lucky, you'll actually get to see Marty wandering into town (just like in the movie)! And you are 10000% welcome to interact with him (and all the other actors). 4. And there are perfect replicas of the Lyon Estates billboard and signs before you even arrive at Courthouse Square. 5. OKAY, so when you do finally step foot into Courthouse Square, you'll instantly feel transported to 1955. And there are all kinds of great details to look out for that callback to the film. 6. For example one of the first things you'll probably notice is Biff's Ford Super De Luxe Convertible. 7. There's also Doc Brown's 1949 Packard Custom 8 Victoria Convertible over at the gas station. 8. Closer to the entrance, you'll see a replica of a "Re-Elect Mayor 'Red' Thomas" sign. 9. And, of course, not-so-subtly, the "Welcome to Hill Valley" square sign that Marty walks by in the film. 10. There's Ruth's Frock Shop, where Lorraine gets her dress for the "Enchantment Under the Sea" dance. 11. And if you look more closely at the shops you'll see a lot of great Easter eggs. For example, the jewelry shop has a sign that says: Timeless Classics (~timeless~ get it?!). 12. And the stationary store has some fun science fiction books that are very on brand, like A Man Returns (Marty's goal is to return to 1985!), The Traveler from Orange County (time TRAVEL!), and I'll Have What She's Having * by Tony Lindas, who is the Manager of Props and Placemaking at Universal Studios Hollywood. 13. At the Realtor's office, you'll see homes for sale throughout Hill Valley including a couple of houses for sale on streets like "S. Hill Valley Circle" and "N. Courthouse Drive." 14. We don't get Lou's Cafe, sadly, however there is a thematic "Valley Diner & Cafe"... 15. ...as well as a "Hill Valley Hotel." 16. But there IS Roy's Records, which doesn't have "The Ballad of Davy Crockett" for sale, but they do have a nice record player for sale in the window. 17. And there's even a toy shop with some fun details in the window, including this train set, which looks a lot like the train in Back to the Future Part III. 18. Also, be on the lookout (up high) for a fun "Hill Valley High School" sign above the "Enchantment Under the Sea" stage... 19. ....as well as the panthers that have been added to the Clock Tower over at Courthouse Square (also way up high). 20. Now, back to the BIG things. As I mentioned, this is a totally immserive event. So fans are encouraged to cosplay as BTTF characters. And you get to interact with the actors playing the characters from the film as much as you want! 21. Like, you can help George McFly come up with something clever to say to Lorraine. 22. You can ask Biff for a photo (although there's a 100% change he'll be ~mean~ to you, because, ya know, he's a bully). 24. And, of course, you can talk to Marty and try and help him figure out how the heck he's going to get back to 1985! Crystal Ro / BuzzFeed 25. FYI, there are ~major~ events that happen throughout your visit, and the whole story plays out in a roughly 1-hour loop, so if you miss one of the major events, you can hang out and see it again a little later. Crystal Ro / BuzzFeed 26. Like, you can see Marty trying to avoid Lorraine's (his mom) romantic advances. Crystal Ro / BuzzFeed 27. Or watch Marty and Doc hash out their plan to get Marty BACK to the future. Crystal Ro / BuzzFeed 28. You can see Strickland Strickland. Crystal Ro / BuzzFeed 29. And you can even see Marty play up on stage with Marvin Berry and the Starlighters at the "Enchantment Under the Sea" dance. Crystal Ro / BuzzFeed 30. But, of course, the pièce de résistance is the recreation of the Clock Tower lightning strike. Now, FAIR WARNING, you will not actually see a Delorean/Time Machine drive down the road during the recreation. However, you will see a cool projection and lighting sequence timed to the music that recreates the scene. And it's pretty spectacular. Crystal Ro / BuzzFeed 31. And they've also added some cool special effects to recreate the lightning striking the tower and then going through the wires on Marty's path. Crystal Ro / BuzzFeed TBH, I was HOPING they'd at least have a Time Machine drive through the square for this recreation, but I get it, it's probably too dangerous to have that happen with a ton of people wandering around. (STILL, would've been cool!) 32. There's also a REALLY great photo op they've set up with the iconic flames on the road and spinning license plate*. And this is just up and running all night, so get your pics in whenever you want! Crystal Ro / BuzzFeed *TECHNICALLY, the whole spinning license plate thing happens earlier in the movie, in 1985 when Einstein (the dog) time travels, but I'll give them a pass here because it looks cool and is a fun effect and photo op they've set up, LOL. Here's me (as Jennifer! LOL), just to give you a sense of what that looks like: Darren Leis / BuzzFeed 33. But, don't worry, you can get your Time Machine moment in with this other A+++ photo op that also includes EINSTEIN. Crystal Ro / BuzzFeed The line gets REALLY long for this photo op, as you can imagine, so just keep that in mind when planning! As you can see, there's a TONNNNN to do at " Back to the Future: Destination Hill Valley," and if you love the films, 10/10 would recommend you check this out! You can purchase tickets NOW for Universal Fan Fest Nights to see it all IRL. The remaining event dates are May 2–4, 9–11, and 16–18, 2025.
New York Post
29-04-2025
- Entertainment
- New York Post
‘Back to the Future' screenwriter goes off over incessant spinoff rumors — reveals only way it would happen
You'll have to time travel in the DeLorean to relive 'Back to the Future.' According to franchise screenwriter Bob Gale, there won't be any more films following up the 1985 classic, the 1989 sequel 'Back to the Future Part II' and 1990's 'Back to the Future Part III.' After the 'Cobra Kai' finale featured an Easter egg that alluded to a television adaptation of the franchise, Gale, 73, who co-wrote and produced all three projects alongside co-creator Robert Zemeckis, shut down all speculation. Advertisement 9 Bob Gale attends Universal Fan Fest Nights Opening Night Event. Getty Images for Universal Studios Hollywood 'I don't know why they keep talking about that!' the writer exclaimed while at Universal Fan Fest Nights on Friday, per People. 'I mean, do they think that if they say it enough times, we're going to actually do it?' 'I mean, it's like they know in every interview people say, 'Oh Bob, when is there going to be a 'Back to the Future 4″?' Gale continued. 'Never. 'When is there going to be a prequel?' Never. 'When is there going to be a spinoff?' Never. It's just fine the way it is. It's not perfect, but as Bob Zemeckis used to say, 'It's perfect enough.'' Advertisement If another project in the franchise were to occur, it would take a lot of convincing for the film producer. 9 Bob Gale, Dean Cundey and Charles Croughwell attend the screening for 'Back to the Future' during the 2025 TCM Classic Film Festival. Getty Images for TCM 9 Bob Gale speaks onstage at the screening for 'Back to the Future' during the 2025 TCM Classic Film Festival. Getty Images for TCM 'If the juggernaut of corporate America or corporate international mishigas says, 'If you don't agree to this, we're going to kill your children,' alright, well, no, we don't want our children killed,'' teased Gale. 'But Steven Spielberg, of course, he's got to sign off on it, too. And Steven, just like Steven won't allow another 'E.T.,' he totally respects the fact that we don't want any more 'Back to the Future.' He gets it and always stood behind that. And thank you, Steven.' Advertisement What the 'Back to the Future' cast — including Michael J. Fox, Christopher Lloyd, Lea Thompson and Crispin Glover — have created is more than enough for Gale. 'What's so great is seeing the next generation of kids that are being touched by this and [say], 'Gee, my parents were once kids,'' he gushed. 'That's why I think it keeps on going, because every kid comes to that realization at some point, and we made a movie about that. So I love the fact that people are newly discovering it.' 9 Michael J. Fox and Christopher Lloyd in 'Back to the Future.' Universal Pictures/courtesy Everett Collection Although there are zero plans for a prequel, sequel or television show, the sci-fi adventure made its mark on Broadway with 'Back to the Future: the Musical.' Advertisement The show opened on Broadway in August 2023 after it debuted in London's West End. The play went on to win the Laurence Olivier Award for best new musical in 2022. The musical finished its Broadway run in January 2025 with 500 performances and $80 million worth of ticket sales, per producers. But the show is far from over. 9 Claudia Wells and Michael J. Fox in the sci-fi film. ©Universal/Courtesy Everett Collection In the last episode of 'Cobra Kai,' two men — the show's co-creators, Josh Heald and Jon Hurwitz — discussed the possibility of doing a 'Back to the Future' series at a bar. 'So the show would be set in Hill Valley, alternate 1985,' Hurwitz explained. 'All we need are Wilson, Thompson and Zane, and we've got the green light.' 9 Christopher Lloyd and Michael J. Fox in 'Back to the Future.' ©Universal/Courtesy Everett Collection 'Billy's a friend,' Heald responded. 'Guy did an art piece for my foyer. It's an easy call to make. I feel like why not get Crispin, too? Maybe Mike to direct? We can blow this thing up.' The exchange wasn't meant to be a reveal of anything in the works. Advertisement 'That's just us having fun,' Hurwitz told People at SCAD TVfest in February. 'We know that the 'Back to the Future' franchise is something that's very closely guarded — and for good reason. If they ever decided they wanted to have a sequel series, then we'd be all-in.' Meanwhile, this isn't the first time Gale has made it clear that he isn't looking to revive the time travel franchise with a fourth film. 9 Michael J. Fox in 'Back to the Future.' ©Universal/Courtesy Everett Collection The comic book writer jokingly told Yahoo Entertainment in February, 'People always say, 'When are you going to do 'Back to the Future 4?' And we say, 'F – – k you.'' Advertisement These days, Gale is helping Fox, 63, write a book about his experience as the titular character, time traveler Marty McFly, in the movie. 9 Christopher Lloyd and Michael J. Fox in 'Back to the Future.' ©Universal/Courtesy Everett Collection The book is set to be titled 'Future Boy,' but no other details have been disclosed. In 2023, Fox told Variety that there's no need for a 'Back to the Future' reboot, but teased: 'Do what you want. It's your movie. I got paid already.' Advertisement 'I don't think it needs to be,' the actor admitted. 'I think [Zemeckis has] been really smart about that. I don't think it needs rebooting because are you going to clarify something? You're going to find a better way to tell the story? I doubt it.' 9 'Back to the Future.' ©Universal/Courtesy Everett Collection Zemeckis, 72, also chimed in on if Universal Pictures ever asks him to make 'Back to the Future 4.' In October, he said during the 'Happy Sad Confused' podcast that the studio checks in 'every six months,' which was 'just an exaggeration.' Advertisement 'You know, we have to say, 'There are different things that might work.' Something like that, you know? But to remake the movie or to suggest that there's a 'Back to the Future 4,' it just isn't in the cards,' Zemeckis shared. 'I would like to do the 'Back to the Future: the Musical' [movie]. I would love to do that. I think that would be great. I floated that out to the folks at Universal. They don't get it. So, [there's] nothing I can do.' The original film is just three months away from a major milestone — celebrating its 40th anniversary in July.
