When we were in Los Angeles, we wanted to do something very “Hollywood.” As this wasn’t our first trip to California, we had already visited The Walk of Fame and Universal Studios. So, this time we decided to do the Warner Brothers Studio Tour Hollywood. Having already been to the sister location in London had high expectations for this tour.
The Hollywood Studio Tour is very different from the tour in London. Firstly, it is not just based on the Harry Potter franchise, but features movies from all the Studio’s productions. Secondly, the tour involves visiting some sets that are currently in use (more on that lately). Finally, much of the tour takes place on a tram as you explore the sound stages.
The Classic Tour
Upon arrival at the welcome centre, we were rushed into a cinema for a quick overview of the Studio. Then divided into groups depending on our tour type. We opted for the Classic tour, which they advertise as focusing on the history of Warner Bros. Our tour guide drove us around the lot. Taking in all the various locations featured in movies and television programmes. As the Studio is a working studio, we didn’t see all the set locations. Unfortunately, we missed out on seeing the whole of the ‘Star Hollow’ set from Gilmore Girls.
We didn’t spend the whole time on the tram, as we were also given the opportunity to step off and walk around. We also got the chance to walk into some of the empty buildings to see behind the scenes. As well as seeing one of the current set for a TV programme. On the Classic Tour, tour guide’s references of the locations referred to classic movies. (mainly before 1980).
Stage 48
Once the hour-long tour was over, we explored Stage 48, an interactive area. That aims to demystify a lot of the magic of filmmaking. This area has an array of photo opportunities. These include seating on the couch in “Central Perk” from Friends. Or in “Sheldon’s Spot” from The Big Bang Theory. There is also the chance to sit on Friend’s couch by the fountain.
The final part of the Warner Bros Studio Tour Hollywood is like its London counterpart. It features props and costumes from the recent Warner Bros movies. These include seeing costumes from Justice League and vehicles from The Batman. As well as the costumes from the Fantastic Beasts and Harry Potter movies.
Overall, I enjoyed the Warner Bros Studio Tour Hollywood. It was a great insight into a working Hollywood studio. My only criticism was that I expected the Classic Tour to explore the Studio’s history, which it did not. In fact, the only reference to Studio’s history is in the welcome centre. Although it is not advertised as such, the classic tour focuses on locations used in older movies. If like us your interest is the history of the Studio. My advise is to do the regular tour and get there early to explore the displays in the welcome centre.
