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[DVD 51] PENNSYLVANIA CABLE NETWORK: DORNEY PARK & WILDWATER KINGDOM. [DVD-R / 2002 / 17 MINS] (6 of 12) Chris Ozimek (Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom's PR Manager) is our host, as he guides us through Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom (Allentown, PA). The history of the park is discussed, covering significant milestones and past and present rides and attractions. Fish Pond; The Whip; Train Ride; Thunderhawk (wooden coaster); Scrambler; Steel Force (coaster); Laser (coaster); Little Laser (kiddie coaster); Dominator (tower ride); Children's Rides; Shoot The Chutes; Talon (steel coaster); Carousel; Wildwater Kingdom (water park); Ferris Wheel; Swan Boats. ANDY SHINE SAYS: Recorded on location. The shots are unsteady; however, this does not distract from the subject matter. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good.
[DVD 52] PENNSYLVANIA CABLE NETWORK: KNOEBELS AMUSEMENT RESORT. [DVD-R / 2002 / 54 MINS] (7 of 12) Joe Muscato (Knoebels' PR Manager) is our host, as he guides us through Knoebels Amusement Resort (Elysburg, PA). The history of the park is discussed, covering significant milestones and past and present rides and attractions. Water Park; Alamo Restaurant; Grand Carousel; Pioneer Train; Shoot the Chutes; Balloon Race; Scrambler; Ferris Wheel; Picnic Pavilion; Galleon Pirate Ship; Whip; Boats Ride; High Speed Thrill Coaster; Rocket Ride; Dodgems; Stalls and Attractions; Kiddie Attractions; Haunted Mansion; Carousel Museum; Flying Scooters; Twister (wooden coaster); Antique Cars; Phoenix (wooden coaster); Log Flume; Knoebels' Museum. ANDY SHINE SAYS: A more detailed look at the key rides would not have gone amiss. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good / Recommended.
[DVD 53] PENNSYLVANIA CABLE NETWORK: DUTCH WONDERLAND. [DVD-R / 2002 / 41 MINS] (8 of 12) Chris Barrett (Dutch Wonderland's Assistant GM) is our host, as he guides us through Dutch Wonderland (Lancaster, PA). The history of the park is discussed, covering significant milestones and past and present rides and attractions. The Castle; Miniature Train; Themed Scenes; Off-Road Rally Ride; Frog Hopper; River Boat; Gardens; Sky Ride; Joust (junior steel coaster); Diving Show; Turnpike Ride; Astro-Liner; Voyager Simulator Ride; Sky Fighter; Old '99; Castle Cafe; Giant Slide; Sky Princess (wooden coaster); 'Lancaster, PA' Museum. ANDY SHINE SAYS: An enjoyable tour through the kiddie-oriented park and its attractions. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Fair / Good.
[DVD 54] PENNSYLVANIA CABLE NETWORK: WILLIAMS GROVE AMUSEMENT PARK. [DVD-R / 2002 / 21 MINS] (9 of 12) Ingrid Hughes (Williams Grove's Owner) is our host, as she guides us through Williams Grove Amusement Park (Mechanicsburg, PA). The history of the park is discussed, covering significant milestones and past and present rides and attractions. Magic Show; Cyclone (wooden coaster); Carousel; Go Karts; Traction Engines; Picnic Pavilion; Dodgems; Paratrooper Ride; Wave Swinger; Kiddie Go Karts; Dante's Inferno (dark ride); Twister (spin ride); Musik Express; Miniature Train; Fun House; Monster Ride; Tilt-A-Whirl; Wildcat (steel coaster); Water Slides; Kiddie Coaster (steel); Kiddie Rides and Attractions. ANDY SHINE SAYS: An enjoyable tour through the kiddie-oriented park. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Fair.
[DVD 55] PENNSYLVANIA CABLE NETWORK: LAKEMONT PARK. [DVD-R / 2002 / 28 MINS] (10 of 12) Barry Kumpf (Lakemont Park's GM) is our host, as he guides us through Lakemont Park (Altoona, PA). The history of the park is discussed, covering significant milestones and past and present rides and attractions. Miniature Golf Course; Antique Car Ride; Monster Motorway Go Karts; Mini-Indy Go Karts; Skyliner (wooden coaster); Round-Up; Scrambler; Twister (spin ride); Tilt-A-Whirl; Chance Toboggan (coaster); Leap The Dips (1902 side friction coaster); Miniature Train; Picnic Pavilion; Bumper Cars; The Mad Mouse (junior steel coaster); Gaming Arcade; Monster Ride; Water Park; Ice Skating Rink. ANDY SHINE SAYS: An informative whistle-stop tour of the park and its attractions. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Fair / Good.
[DVD 56] PENNSYLVANIA CABLE NETWORK: DELGROSSO'S AMUSEMENT PARK. [DVD-R / 2002 / 24 MINS] (11 of 12) Peter Gardella (DelGrosso's Vice President and GM) is our host, as he guides us through DelGrosso's Amusement Park (Tipton, PA). The history of the park is discussed, covering significant milestones and past and present rides and attractions. Picnic Groves; Dodgems; Casino Ride; Flying Bobs; Miniature Railroad; Carousel; Zyklon (steel coaster); Sea Dragon; Balloon Race; Scrambler; Kid's Kingdom Children's Area; Staged Entertainment; Miniature Golf Course; The Speedway Go Karts; Water Park. ANDY SHINE SAYS: A pleasant and relaxed guided tour through the park. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good.
[DVD 57] PENNSYLVANIA CABLE NETWORK: HERSHEYPARK. [DVD-R / 2002 / 36 MINS] (12 of 12) Kathy Burrows (Hersheypark's PR Manager) is our host, as she guides us through Hersheypark (Hershey, PA). The history of the park is discussed, covering significant milestones and past and present rides and attractions. Carrousel; Costumed Characters; Ferris Wheel; Helicopters Ride; Comet (wooden coaster); Great Bear (steel coaster); Zoo America; Amphitheatre; Observation Tower; Turnpike Ride; Whip; Shoot The Chutes; Monorail Tour; Wild Cat (wooden coaster). ANDY SHINE SAYS: An informative tour of Hersheypark, its rides and attractions. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good.
[DVD 58] EXTREME ROLLER COASTERS. [NTSC / 2002/3 / 120 MINS] This engrossing and highly entertaining documentary features the highest, fastest, newest and most cutting-edge coasters. This is an exciting adventure into coaster mania. Come behind the scenes and ride the Incomparable X at SFMM. Also featuring: Goliath; Colossus; Medusa; Invertigo; Vertical Velocity; Ninja; Speed, the Ride; Manhattan Express; Déjà Vu; Batman; Giant Dipper; Desperado; Canyon Blaster; Stealth; Top Gun; California Screamin'; Superman - The Escape; Riddler's Revenge; Quicksilver Express. ANDY SHINE SAYS: Discloses many interesting facts and figures concerning your favourite coasters. Meet designers at the workstation, and see the testing of X in the factory. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good.
[DVD 59] EUROPEAN COASTER THRILLS. [PAL / 2002/3 / 90 MINS] Discover 15 outstanding European coasters. Hop aboard the different rides and enjoy a front seat perspective right there in your own living room, where you don't even have to get out of your easy chair. Whether they're wooden, looping or water coasters, we'll take you closer to the action than you could possibly imagine. Features: Colossos; Superman - The Ride; Wild Wild West; Eurostar; Colorado Adventure; Weerwolf/Loup Garou; Tonnerre de Zeus; G'sengte Sau; Expedition GeForce; Poseidon; Blue Tornado; Katun; Thriller; Goliath; Silver Star and a hidden bonus feature! ANDY SHINE SAYS: Breathtaking footage and informative narration. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good / Excellent.
[DVD 60] ROLLER COASTER ADVENTURES - 6. [DVD-R / 2003 / 53 MINS] (6 of 7) Experience the world's first Terra/strata coaster, Top Thrill Dragster. Ride the first looping woodie, Son of Beast, or the world's first tilt-coaster, Gravity Max in Taiwan. Also showing: Wicked Twister; Top Gun; Ozark Wildcat; Nemesis Inferno; Cannon Ball; Superman - The Ride; Robin Hood; Stealth; Quicksilver Express; A Featurette on Vekoma's coasters; Upcoming innovations & more. ANDY SHINE SAYS: This home-produced programme kept me entertained, and the narration includes some interesting viewpoints and useful snippets of information. Some of the footage is pretty average; however, the majority of the film is pleasant enough to watch. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Fair / Good.
[DVD 61] E KIRMES: TRANSPORTABLE FUNFAIR ATTRACTIONS. [ALL / 2003 / 135 MINS] (1 of 6). Coasters: Olympia Looping; Euro Star; Alpina Bahn; Spinning Racer; Wilde Maus; Double Wilde Maus; Die Wilden 50er; Super Railway; Euro Coaster; Spinning Coaster; Dreier Looping. Rides: (Huss) Booster; Magic; Breakdance 2, 1 & 3; Shot 'n Drop; Power Tower #2; Freifall Turm; Ikarus; Drop Zone; Nightfly; Rollover; Top Spin (Fresh); Jumping; Alpha 1; Mondlift; Take Off; Jolly Joker; Playball; Shake and Roll; Frisbee; Projekt 1; Space Party; Experience; Tango; Move It 32; Star Gate; Vortex; Techno Power; Flic=Flac; Air Maxx; Flying Circus; Ranger; Millenium; Joker; Adrenalin Pur; (Fabbri) Booster; Bayernkurve; Hexentanz; Happy Monster; Polyp; Top Spin 2; Colorado; Wildwasser 3; Twister; Musik Express; Happy Sailor; Tai Fun; Disco Star; Fliegender Teppich; Ramba Zamba; Wellenflug; Galactica; Sky Rider; Hot Shot; Jump Street; Nessy; Joker; Big Ben Tower. +1,000 ride photos! ANDY SHINE SAYS: Wonderful! ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Excellent / Recommended.
[DVD 62] FRONT SEAT THRILLS! [DVD-R / 2003 / 53 MINS] (1 of 2) Take a front seat ride on 35 roller coasters: Superman RoS; Ozark Wildcat; The Legend; Raven; Nemesis Inferno; Wolverine Wildcat; Shivering Timbers; Speed The Ride; Great White; Hoosier Hurricane; Cornball Express; Colossus (Ten Inversions!); Wild Thing; The Boss; Wildfire; Air; Son of Beast; Expedition GeForce; Top Gun, The Jet Coaster; Hurricane, Category 5; Ghostrider; X-Flight; Nitro; Excalibur; Lightning Racer; Blue Streak; Mantis; Mean Streak; Millennium Force; Top Thrill Dragster; Drachen Fire; Timberwolf; Volcano The Blast Coaster; Joker's Jinx; Cheetah. ANDY SHINE SAYS: Just what it says in the title; no frills, no narration and no music - and occasionally no sound at all - just front seat coaster footage. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Poor / Fair.
[DVD 63] THE GREAT AMERICAN SCREAM MACHINE. [DVD-R / 2003 / 26 MINS] The building of a classic wooden roller coaster. The Great American Scream Machine was the tallest roller coaster in the world when it opened back in 1973 at Six Flags Over Georgia (Austell, Georgia). This beautiful classic was designed by John Allen of the PTC, and in this '70s vintage documentary, see the design, construction, testing and opening of this amazing coaster. Features interviews with John Allen and his team. ANDY SHINE SAYS: The film quality is pretty poor, but then it was the 1970s! ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Fair.
[DVD 64] WHERE MAGIC LIVES: WALT DISNEY WORLD. [NTSC / 2003 / 53 MINS] Capturing the fantasy, imagination and excitement of the Walt Disney World Resort (Lake Buena Vista, Florida). See rare footage of WDW, with focus on its four unique theme parks: Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney MGM Studios and Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park. Features optional English subtitles for the hearing impaired. ANDY SHINE SAYS: A lacklustre piece from Disney that never really gets going. I was disappointed. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Fair.
[DVD 65] KENNYWOOD MEMORIES. [NTSC / 2003 / 60 MINS - PLUS EXTRAS] Makes for compulsive viewing, thoroughly entertaining and educational. Whooooosh! It's roller coasters! French fries! And lots of good times! It's a high-flying, double-dipped, screeching, squealing, scream-your-eyes-out documentary about one of America's greatest amusement parks, Kennywood! (West Mifflin, Pennsylvania). Extras include: A compilation of vintage Kennywood television commercials. Rare, unedited, black and white footage of the park in the twentieth century. And, a Kodachrome movie of the Westinghouse Air Brake Company at Kennywood on 12 July 1941. ANDY SHINE SAYS: Entertaining and thoroughly absorbing. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Excellent / Recommended.
[DVD 66] THE LIFE AND TIMES OF CRYSTAL BEACH. [NTSC / 2003 / 60 MINS] A fond and affectionate documentary about the legendary amusement park and its effect on the community. This production will show you how the village was so entwined with the fabric of the park that they were almost as one. See the Dance Hall come alive once more to the tune of the many great bands of the era that were fortunate enough to play there, and journey aboard the famed Canadiana. Featuring on and off-ride footage of the legendary woodies: The Cyclone, The Giant Coaster (Side-Friction) and the Comet. Witness the final moments of Crystal Beach Amusement Park (Ontario, Canada) during its eventual demolition in 1989. ANDY SHINE SAYS: An affectionate look at a park long gone. Memories will come flooding back. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good.
[DVD 67] UNIVERSAL ORLANDO'S HALLOWEEN HORROR NIGHTS - THE ART OF THE SCARE. [NTSC / 2003 / 48 MINS] We know what you're afraid of. Turn out the lights and go "behind the screams" of Universal Orlando's Halloween Horror Nights. Explore each terrifying haunted maze and see how they were designed and constructed. Discover how the event creators play on your deepest, darkest fears to bring your worst nightmares to life. It's a never -before- seen look into one of the biggest and scariest annual Halloween events in the world. [Warning: Due to the frightening nature of this programme, some content may be too intense for young children.] ANDY SHINE SAYS: No coasters or rides, just plenty of Halloween spookiness. I enjoyed this peek behind the scenes. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good / Excellent.
[DVD 68] SIX FLAGS OVER GEORGIA: RELICS FROM THE VAULT. [DVD-R / 2004 / 63 MINS] Six Flags Over Georgia (Austell, Georgia) opened in 1967. Containing exclusive, vintage footage of SFoG's rides and attractions. See defunct rides such as the Mini Mine Train, Drunken Barrels, and the Okefonokee Swamp. Take an early ride on the Dahlonega Mine Train. See the construction of the Great American Scream Machine wooden roller coaster. Features: SFoG, the Early Years; SFoG, the First Decade; Making of the Monster Plantation; The Great American Scream Machine; 1973 Newsreel. ANDY SHINE SAYS: The film quality is pretty poor, but then, it was the 1970s! ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Fair.
[DVD 69] ROLLER COASTER ADVENTURES - 7. [DVD-R / 2004 / 54 MINS] (7 of 7) With never-before-seen footage, full circuit point-of-view rides, exclusive construction footage and access all areas admittance inside the massive steel and wooden structures. Showing Spanish coasters: Magnus Colossus; Tizona; Tren Bravo; Superman; Batman La Fuga; Stuntfall. And: Flying Coaster; Twister ll; Boomerang; Mind Eraser; The Phoenix; Twister; Tennessee Tornado; Gwazi; Montu; Screaming Squirrel. ANDY SHINE SAYS: This home-produced programme kept me entertained, and the narration includes some interesting viewpoints and useful snippets of information. Some of the footage is pretty average; however, the majority of the film is pleasant enough to watch. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Fair / Good
[DVD 70] PHANTASIALAND - DIE GANZE WELT DES ENTERTAINMENTS! [PAL / 2004 / 25 MINS - PLUS EXTRAS] A park promotional DVD exploring the many rides and attractions of Phantasialand (Brühl, Germany). See the River Quest rapids and the Winja's Fear and Force spinning roller coasters. Come for a ride aboard the Colorado Adventure mine train before exploring the rides and attractions made especially for the children. Why not take in a show too. When twilight comes, the celebrated Festival of Light takes to the streets - a beautiful and truly unforgettable experience. Phantasialand really is a world of entertainment. (German narration throughout). ANDY SHINE SAYS: A guided tour exploring the sights and experiences Phantasialand has to offer. I enjoyed this. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good / Recommended.
[DVD 71] FRONT SEAT THRILLS! #2. [DVD-R / 2004 / 52 MINS] (2 of 2) Featuring a front seat ride aboard 35 roller coasters: Talon; Hercules; Steel Force; Thunderhawk; Laser; Raging Bull; Superman, Ultimate Flight; Iron Wolf; Viper; Batman; Stunt Fall; Hangman; Goliath; Coastersaurus; Magnum XL-200; Wild Wild West; Steel Eel; Incredible Hulk; Dueling Dragons (Ice); Dueling Dragons (Fire); Bandit (Japan); Crazy Mouse (Japan); Moonsault Scramble (Japan); Ultra Twister (Japan); Shuttle Loop (Japan); Gwazi; Montu; Tennessee Tornado; Medusa; Silver Star; Twister; Phoenix; Jack Rabbit; Thunderbolt; Cannon Ball. ANDY SHINE SAYS: Just what it says in the title; no frills, no narration and no music - and occasionally no sound at all - just front seat coaster footage. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Poor / Fair.
[DVD 72] GREAT OLD AMUSEMENT PARKS. [NTSC / 2004 / 60 MINS - PLUS EXTRAS] Visit some of America's most charming parks, from Lake Compounce in Connecticut to Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk in California. A celebration of places like Whalom Park in Massachusetts, Oaks Park in Oregon, Pennsylvania's idyllic Idlewild and Ohio's spectacular Cedar Point. It's a fun trip from Lakeside to Lakemont and, of course, there are coasters, including the Thunderbolt at Kennywood, the Cyclone at Astroland, the Raven at Holiday World and San Diego's Giant Dipper! Extras include: A look at long gone West View Park near Pittsburgh, stories about Olympia Park and Rainbow Gardens (McKeesport, PA), with rare footage of Kennywood Park in 1941, and more! ANDY SHINE SAYS: I became totally engrossed in this wonderful programme. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Excellent / Recommended.
[DVD 73] CEDAR POINT - A SUMMERTIME TRADITION ON LAKE ERIE. [NTSC / 2004 / 39 MINS] Since 1870, generations of Midwesterners haven't considered the summer complete without a visit to Cedar Point (Sandusky, Ohio). This collection of historic footage and fascinating details brings the past to life and celebrates the current excitement of the number one amusement park in the world. ANDY SHINE SAYS: This is an informative and engaging film from Cedar Point. It is nicely shot, and details the history of the resort, its hotels, attractions, and rides. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good / Recommended.
[DVD 74] THE ROLLER COASTERS OF CEDAR POINT. [NTSC / 2004 / 26 MINS] Cedar Point (Sandusky, Ohio) is a coaster lover's dream come true. Whether you crave the tallest and fastest coaster in the universe, Top Thrill Dragster, the high-tech thrills of Millennium Force, the speed of Mean Streak, the unpredictability of Raptor, or the madness of Wicked Twister, Cedar Point has the coaster for you. This action-packed programme will not only give you a brief history of the park's legendary coasters, but will actually give you a front-row seat on some of the best! Also includes a short bonus feature titled, "Are You Ready?" ANDY SHINE SAYS: A short segment discusses the park's founding and its former coasters. I hoped for a longer, more detailed programme. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good.
[DVD 75] I KIRMES: FUNFAIR RIDES & COASTERS. [ALL / 2004 / 138 MINS] (2 of 6). Featuring: Revolution; Shaker; Countdown; Fun Factory; Bayern Breaker; Imperator; Musik Express 3000; Circus Circus; Eclypse; Skyrider II; Turbo Star; Fliegender Teppich; Techno Power; Power Tower 2; Breakdance #1; Tornado; High Energy (Contact); Happy Traveller; X Factor; Wellenflug; Ikarus Der Mythos; Super Schunkler; Sweety Star; Super Passat; (Huss) Booster; High Energy (Star Shape); Take Off; Scream; Big Monster; Sombrero; Hully Gully; Calypso; Sprungschanze; Eurostar; Cool & Fresh; Spinning Racer; Super Mouse; River Rafting; Power Shot; Space Roller; Jumping; Sound Factory; Speedy. +650 ride photos! ANDY SHINE SAYS: The optional subtitles will tell you all you need to know! ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good / Recommended
[DVD 76] THRILLRIDERS. [DVD-R / 2004 / 135 MINS] (1 of 2) Featuring all manner of travelling thrill rides in the German fair circuit across 10 chapters. See Breakdancer; Eurostar; Alpina Bahn; Booster; Hexentanz; Star World; Black Hole; Extrem; Magic Spinning Coaster; 1001 Nacht; Crazy Coaster and more...; Observe the 'build up' of some of your favourite rides: Olympia Looping; Power Tower; Dreier Looping and others... Contains 4 Picture-Shows displaying over 300 ride photographs. ANDY SHINE SAYS: With this sort of programme you may navigate to find points of interest, rather than to watch from start to finish. German fair enthusiasts should enjoy this. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good.
[DVD 77] RIVERVIEW 1904-1967 - GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN. [NTSC / 2004 / 120 MINS] Journey down Riverview Park's (Chicago, Illinois) midway and experience The Bobs; Fireball; The Water Chutes and the Pair -O- Chutes! See The Silver Flash wooden roller coaster with its impressive enclosed cars and take a bumpy jaunt around The Flying Turns. The double Ferris Wheel; Bubble Bounce; Water Bug; Hot Rods and the Wild Mouse are all here waiting to be viewed again and again. Some great colour and B&W archive footage and a slide show are sure to re-ignite those most jaded memories. ANDY SHINE SAYS: A captivating production that certainly taught me a thing or two about a much missed park. Features professionally shot film aboard the Bobs. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good.
[DVD 78] DISCOVERY SCHOOL: ROLLER COASTER PHYSICS. [NTSC / 2004 / 26 MINS] Roller coasters are so much fun thanks to friction, potential energy, gravity, and acceleration - you can take some terrifying amusement-park turns. Take a thrilling look at the applied physics of roller coasters, as well as the g-forces experienced by an aerobatics pilot. Learn about the wonderful world of applied physics in this purely educational programme. ANDY SHINE SAYS: One for young teens, if you're looking to acquire a basic understanding of how coasters are designed, you've come to the right place. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good.
[DVD 79] REAL SCIENCE: DESIGNING THRILL RIDES FROM START TO FINISH. [DVD-R / 2004 / 25 MINS] This programme travels to the home of Colossus (Thorpe Park, England) -the world's first ten-inversion steel roller coaster- to reveal the physical, mechanical, and psychological forces that make the roller coaster the undisputed king of thrill rides. Concepting, computer-assisted track design, 3D simulation, track construction, and car safety mechanisms are covered by some of the experts who know roller coasters best. The goal? Pulse-pounding speed and mind-blowing disorientation through the manipulation of potential and kinetic energy and plenty of positive and negative Gs. ANDY SHINE SAYS: See how coasters are designed using the very latest software. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good.
[DVD 80] CHANNEL 4 LEARNING: ENGINEERING AT THE CUTTING EDGE. [PAL / 2004 / 125 MINS] (Five 25-minute programmes on one DVD). Visit The Pleasure Beach, Blackpool (England) and find out what it takes to keep the Pepsi Max Big One operating safely. The control desk; blocking systems; brakes, conventional (as on PMBO) and magnetic (as on Space Invader 2); wheel assemblies and positive / negative g's are discussed. We also witness the rebuilding of the Grand National after a serious fire (2004). Our main aim is to excite you with the best of British cutting-edge engineering. So enjoy our passionate exploration of how engineering is shaping our future. (Programme 1=Building a bridge. 2=Designing a car. 3=Engineering in sport. 4=Designing roller coasters. 5=Designing prosthetic limbs. ANDY SHINE SAYS: For older children. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Fair / Good.
[DVD 81] SIX NEWSREELS: CONEY ISLAND FILMS (NEW YORK). [DVD-R / 60 MINS] "Coney Island" A breezy 1939 newsreel from the legendary producer William Castle extols the endless pleasures of Pre World War II Coney Island (9 minutes). "Shorty At Coney Island" 1939. An inquisitive young chimp spends the day exploring the delights of Steeplechase Park (10 minutes). "A Day's Outing" 1930. An old time sing -a- long with organist Lew White about the romantic possibilities of a day at Coney Island (5 minutes). "Coney Island USA" 1954 One of the very best Coney Island films. The dawn to dusk activity of one glorious summer day at Coney (20 minutes). "Edison Films" 1903-04 Three early motion pictures by Thomas Edison. Steeplechase, Fighting the Flames & The Great Fire (7 minutes - silent). ANDY SHINE SAYS: Showcases Coney Island in its heyday. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Fair.
[DVD 82] EFTELING: DE MAGISCHE BOL. [PAL / 2004 / 90 MINS] Capturing the magic and excitement of a day at Efteling (Kaatscheuvel, Netherlands). Take a seat on some of the many rides: Python, Villa Volta, Dream Flight... See the Fairytale Forest and archive footage detailing Efteling's history. Packed with extras, adults and children will want to watch over and over. Essential viewing for anyone planning a trip to this fairytale-themed park. ANDY SHINE SAYS: Features some nice footage; however, everything is hidden behind menus etc. so you are never sure if you have missed something. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Fair.
[DVD 83] KNOTT'S BERRY FARM'S SEASON OF SCREAMS. [NTSC / 2004 / 138 MINS] In 1973 a phenomenon took place in Buena Park (California) at one of the oldest and most beloved theme parks in the USA, Knott's Berry Farm. The phenomenon continues to this day and has grown into one of the largest Halloween parties in the world. Until now the story behind the incredible event only existed in the memories of the many people who have worked there through the years. For the first time in the event's history the story of the Halloween Haunt is revealed. How did it start? What was it like in the beginning? And how did it evolve into the most successful Halloween attraction in the world? Take a tour of this one-of-a-kind attraction, from makeup and prosthetics, stunts and shows, to themed walk-through attractions, and of course, the scares themselves! ANDY SHINE SAYS: Most enjoyable. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good / Excellent.
[DVD 84] LAUGH YOUR TROUBLES AWAY: THE COMPLETE HISTORY OF RIVERVIEW PARK. [NTSC / 2004 / 66 MINS - PLUS EXTRAS] Riverview was Chicago's largest and best known amusement park. Although Riverview closed at the end of the 1967 season, it is still lovingly remembered by the citizens of Chicago. This DVD - an extended update of the VHS of the same name - traces the development of the park as seen through postcards, vintage advertisements, photographs taken by the park and motion pictures. ANDY SHINE SAYS: A most interesting and captivating film sure to appeal to all amusement park enthusiasts. Well presented and featuring rare footage of the park and its rides. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Excellent / Recommended.
[DVD 85] EUCLID BEACH PARK IS CLOSED FOR THE SEASON & IT HAPPENED IN CLEVELAND. [DVD-R / 2004 / 113 MINS] (1 of 3 / Two programmes on one DVD). The Euclid Beach story really begins with the founding of the park in 1895 and progresses quickly, up through the 1940s and into the '50s when we all remember this great old Cleveland (Ohio) landmark. Step aboard the "Bug" the "Flying Scooters" the "Racing Coasters" and the "Flying Turns." Looking back it seems like yesterday. This presentation is guaranteed to re-ignite those jaded memories of a park long gone. The second programme takes a look at Cleveland legends and landmarks (Including a short piece on Euclid Beach) from the 1940s through to the '60s. ANDY SHINE SAYS: Some wonderful footage of the park and its rides. The second programme is not coaster related. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good / Recommended.
[DVD 86] EUCLID BEACH PARK - GONE TOO SOON & AMUSEMENT PARK MEMORIES. [DVD-R / 2004 / 110 MINS] (2 of 3 / Two programmes on one DVD). Just mention Euclid Beach Park (Cleveland, Ohio) and you immediately conjure up memories of the Thriller, The Flying Turns and the Racing Coasters. Come back with us again to the glorious 1950s and '60s when you were young and 'The Beach' was the place to be. In this presentation the Euclid Beach story is told mostly in vintage footage up until the '60s when we lost this great old park. The second programme takes a nostalgic look at not only Euclid Beach Park but also many of the great old American amusement parks: Kennywood, West View Park, Willow Grove Park, Palisades Park, Idora Park, Meyers Lake Park, Coney Island Cincinnati and Coney Island New York. ANDY SHINE SAYS: Two absorbing documentaries capturing parks and rides long gone. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Excellent / Recommended.
[DVD 87] EUCLID BEACH PARK - FOOTSTEPS INTO YESTERDAY & EUCLID BEACH CAROUSEL - THE LONG JOURNEY HOME. [DVD-R / 2004 / 120 MINS] (3 of 3 / Two programmes on one DVD). Opened in 1895, Euclid Beach Park (Cleveland, Ohio) would delight hundreds of thousands of people from northeastern Ohio over the next 74 years of its life. Hop aboard the Thriller, the Flying Turns and the Racing Coaster! Take a spin on the Racing Derby. Including interviews with patrons and former park employees, sit back and enjoy the delight of Euclid Beach Park as the story continues. We see why Euclid Beach Park closed for good in 1969 and where many of the rides ended up. The second programme details the travels of PTC #19, the beloved Euclid Beach Carousel. ANDY SHINE SAYS: One of my favourite programmes. The second programme should appeal to carousel enthusiasts. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good / Recommended.
[DVD 88] MEYERS LAKE PARK REMEMBERED & STARK COUNTY MOMENTS IN TIME. [DVD-R / 2004 / 105 MINS] (1 of 2 / Two programmes on one DVD). "Meyers Lake Park Remembered" starts with the park's early beginnings and takes us on a journey through intervening years until the park's closing in 1974. "Stark County, Moments in Time" is a nostalgic look at growing up in Stark County in the '40s, '50s & '60s. ANDY SHINE SAYS: The first programme features rare footage of Meyers Lake Park (Canton, Ohio). The second programme may only appeal to residents and enthusiasts of Stark County. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good.
[DVD 89] MOONLIGHT MEMORIES OF MEYERS LAKE PARK. [DVD-R / 2004 / 100 MINS] (2 of 2 / Two programmes on one DVD). Just the mention of Meyers Lake Park (Canton, Ohio) brings a tear to the eye and wonderful memories of the Comet, the Rocket Ride, the Carousel and dancing under the stars at the Moonlight Gardens. Come back with us again to the glorious 1950s and 1960s when you were young and Meyers Lake Park was the place to be. (Includes a 50-minute bonus programme titled, 'Amusement Park Memories'). ANDY SHINE SAYS: Two enjoyable, well put together programmes. The second programme is marvellous, containing much archive footage of parks and rides long gone. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good / Excellent.
[DVD 90] THE WORLD'S GREATEST FAIR - SAINT LOUIS 1904. [NTSC / 2004 / 113 MINS] The 1904 World's Fair was intended to be the biggest and the best World's Fair ever. We present the fair through a series of compelling stories, including: The first Olympic Games on American soil. A Ferris wheel, so large that a wedding was held in one of its compartments on horseback. Tales of a loincloth wearing tribe that shocked and enthralled visitors by eating dogs. And a story about the famous Geronimo, who sold visitors his autograph and hat - then replaced it with another from a box hidden under the table. This documentary is a unique snapshot of America at the dawn of a new era. ANDY SHINE SAYS: Interesting, but it left me feeling underwhelmed. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Fair / Good.
[DVD 91] ROY NICOL PRODUCTIONS: THE HISTORY OF THE BELLE VUE ZOOLOGICAL GARDENS (VOL 2). [DVD-R / 2004 / 76 MINS] (2 of 3) The Belle Vue Zoo Gardens (Manchester, England) was 'The Showground of the World' with its huge variety of entertainment. You could shoot the Rapids, visit the Ghost Train, the Bobs, or even make a splash on the Water Chute. Features: Introduction/historical overview. Vintage film: Carousel, Bobs (coaster), Octopus etc... zoo, fireworks, circus performances. Vox pops (Interviews). Film: Boxing, speedway, stock car racing. The Water Chute (Peter Schofield remembers/interview). Outro... ANDY SHINE SAYS: I enjoyed the vintage film showing the various rides and attractions. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Fair.
[DVD 92] ROY NICOL PRODUCTIONS: THE HISTORY OF THE BELLE VUE ZOOLOGICAL GARDENS (VOL 3). [DVD-R / 2004 / 103 MINS] (3 of 3) The Belle Vue Zoo Gardens (Manchester, England) was 'The Showground of the World' with its huge variety of entertainment. Why not tour around the Zoo and see the world's best animal collection. Features: Introduction; Belle Vue Aces (Speedway) and Stadium. Rides and Zoo montage... Film: "Circus Parade." Personal recollections. Film: "Donovan & Byl's Tumbling Tomfoolery." The Trust House Forte takeover. Fireworks displays. Rides: film montage, Exhibition Halls and displays. Belle Vue: An Artist's Perspective. Jet Stream (coaster) POV. The closing of Belle Vue. ANDY SHINE SAYS: A nice enough programme, but way too long. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Fair.
[DVD 93] A TIME TO REFLECT - THE HISTORY OF WHALOM PARK. [DVD-R / 2005 / 35 MINS] A documentary film chronicling over 100 years of Whalom Park's history; from prior inception in 1893 to its present status after closing in 2000. Hear from a number of local residents as they remember this beloved landmark. Go back in time to the park's humble beginnings in the rustic woodlands of Lunenburg Massachusetts. See how Whalom's landscape changed throughout the years after a number of destructive fires and storms. Venture through the park during its golden years and take a ride on the Flyer Comet roller coaster, the antique Carousel, the Tumble Bug, and other classic rides. ANDY SHINE SAYS: This is a wonderful, documentary. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good / Excellent.
[DVD 94] EUROPA PARK JUBILÄUMS EDITION. [PAL / 2005 / 120+ MINS] Celebrating 30 years of attractions, shows and magical moments at Europa-Park! (Rust, Germany). Featuring TV trailers of: Atlantica & Silver Star. Contains interviews with: Roland Mack; Claude Mabillard; Erich Willi; Franz Mack. Also features front-seat footage of Poseidon; Silver Star; Matterhorn Blitz; Euro Mir; Schweizer Bobbahn. Details the park's 30-year history with archive footage. Includes many extras and lots of bonus material. Have fun! ANDY SHINE SAYS: Europa-Park fans will love this. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good / Excellent.
[DVD 95] THE STORY OF ALTON TOWERS. [DVD-R / 2005 / 60 MINS] The story of Alton Towers (Staffordshire, England), as a place of fun, thrills and magic since the 1830s! Crowds have flocked to this magical place ever since - to the great fairs, wakes and firework extravaganzas in the 1890s -through to the funfairs of the 1950s- and into modern times, from the unveiling of The Corkscrew in 1980 through to the present. We take a look, and ride upon, the remarkable gravity-defying rides of today, such as Oblivion, Air, Nemesis and Rita Queen of Speed, with fascinating insights from Roller Coaster guru, John Wardley. This is the story of Alton Towers today and yesterday. Re-live the magic and wonderment of nearly two centuries of Alton Towers! ANDY SHINE SAYS: A shame there's nothing about former rides or park maintenance. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Fair / Good.
[DVD 96] THE HISTORY CHANNEL: MODERN MARVELS - WALT DISNEY WORLD. [NTSC / 2005 / 89 MINS] The world-famous Orlando theme park is not only the most visited in the world, it is also the most technologically advanced. From a network of underground tunnels connecting various regions of the park, to the space-age propulsion technology of linear synchronous motors, the Disney dynasty has been on the leading edge of theme park innovation since the opening of Disneyland, its first park, in 1955. Chapters: Make-Believe World; The Magic Kingdom; Audio Animatronics; Epcot Centre; Motion-Based Technology; Disney Studios; Lights, Motion, Action! Animal Kingdom; Living Dinosaurs. ANDY SHINE SAYS: This is a most entertaining, factual piece that is nicely paced and well presented. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good.
[DVD 97] INDIANA BEACH AMUSEMENT RESORT: PROVING THERE'S MORE THAN CORN IN INDIANA! [NTSC / 2005 / 54 MINS] Celebrating 80 years of Indiana Beach Amusement Resort (Monticello, Indiana). Holding a special place in the hearts of guests of all ages, through the continued vision of the Spackman family who have owned and operated it since the beginning, Indiana Beach has grown from the Ideal Beach swimming area to one of the most exciting and unique amusement resorts in the world. Chapter Points: Ideal Beach 1926-1947; The Riviera of the Midwest 1947-1984; Moving On 1984-Present. ANDY SHINE SAYS: A thoroughly entertaining, researched, educational documentary. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good / Recommended.
[DVD 98] DISNEY THEMENPARKS - DIE VERRÜCKTESTEN RIDES... [PAL / 2005 / 99 MINS - PLUS EXTRAS] (Two programmes on one DVD). Programme 1 (47 mins) goes behind the scenes of Disney Imagineering and explains how their biggest and best rides and attractions came to be. From 'Blue Sky' brainstorming sessions, to development, problem solving, and eventual construction of your Disney favourites. See Tower of Terror; Rock 'n' Roller Coaster; Indiana Jones' Adventure; Splash Mountain; Muppet Vision 3D; ExtraTERRORestrial Alien Encounter, and the technological advances in the creation of audio animatronic figures. Programme 2, "America's Thrill Makers," (52 mins) investigates enthusiasts and ride-phobics as they experience various attractions for the first time. (Choose either English or German narration). ANDY SHINE SAYS: Saturate your senses, this is 100% Disney! ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Excellent.
[DVD 99] DISNEYWORLD FLORIDA. [PAL / 2005 / 150 MINS - PLUS EXTRAS] (Three programmes on one DVD). Programme 1 (48 mins) explains everything you wanted to know about Animal Kingdom. Go behind the scenes and find out what difficulties Disney overcame to bring this park to fruition. See the Primeval Whirl roller coaster and the Kilimanjaro Safaris. Programme 2 (50 mins) welcomes you aboard the Disney Cruise experience. From the ship's design and manufacture, to everything onboard to keep guests comfortable, well fed and entertained. Programme 3 (52 mins) showcases the most exciting rides and attractions Disney World has to offer, including: The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror; Test Track; Space Mountain; Rock 'n' Roller Coaster; Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin; Splash Mountain; Mission Space, and others. (Choose either English or German narration). ANDY SHINE SAYS: I enjoyed all three programmes. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good.
[DVD 100] DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA. [PAL / 2005 / 104 MINS - PLUS EXTRAS] (Two programmes on one DVD). Programme 1 (52 mins) explores parts of Disneyland that regular visitors do not see, including: Walt's private apartment overlooking Main Street, and the exclusive "Club 33." Visit Disney's California Adventure too, and have a go on your favourite rides. Programme 2 (52 mins) "Undiscovered Walt Disney World Resort" explains the special activities that many people don't know about - a world of secrets and surprises, including: The Sunrise Safari; surfing classes at Typhoon Lagoon; Key to the Kingdom, where visitors may see behind the "Cast Members Only" signs etc... (Choose either English or German narration). ANDY SHINE SAYS: Disney fanatics should enjoy this. ANDY SHINE'S RATING: Good.