Ramez Has Lost His Mind 

The Build 

The capsule - which measured approximately 5.5m x 3.5m x 3m high - was hand-built around a frame of box and c-section steel, strong enough to withstand being lifted and tilted at height by two cranes. The exterior skin was made of 3mm aluminium and the interior was wood, panelled with foam and leatherette sections.  Tinted 4mm polycarbonate windows and a 20mm clear acrylic floor enabled a clear view of the outside world once the prank was underway. The unit sat on a remote-controlled motion base, built by Artem and incorporated in the scenic design by Masscom.98’s production designer.

Inside the capsule seven rally-style seats were surrounded by screens and blinds, on which were projected images of Space (all AV provided by the production), and the dark upholstered panels were fitted with LED lighting. The fitted blinds and carpet could be drawn back at speed. The capsule also included ducting and fans for ventilation and recesses for hidden cameras.

The Effects 

As the prank commenced an Artem technician on the ground operated the motion control base, which another technician – masquerading as a ride passenger - delivered a number of cued pyrotechnic, smoke and water effects via remote control set ups once the capsule was in the air. We also provided bad smell effects for a disguised Ramez to set off – the first indication that all was not well with the Hop Drop.