Two new films come to the Exploreum

MOBILE, Ala. - The Gulf Coast Exploreum is pleased to announce the return of NASCAR: The IMAX Experience to the J.L. Bedsole IMAX Dome Theater this fall.

On Saturday, September 5th, guests can join stock car drivers from the Mobile International Speedway as they showcase their cars in the Exploreum's courtyard, all in honor of NASCAR: The IMAX Experience's opening. Joining the film this fall is Animalopolis, an IMAX that takes viewers into the magical world of animals.

"We have two great IMAX films this fall to complement the Bob the Builder™ – Project: Build It exhibit," said Exploreum Assistant Director Caroline Etherton. "Guests have asked us to bring back the NASCAR IMAX for years, and it will now be joined by Animalopolis, a film that’s destined to be another big hit."

NASCAR fans will literally be transported into the driver's seat during NASCAR: The IMAX Experience. The film will first take fans in reverse to review the history of America's most popular spectator sport, told from the viewpoint of some of its most admired drivers, and it will then thrust into high-gear with a look at modern-day NASCAR.

The film will also discuss educational aspects of the sport by delving into the technology and underlying physics that drivers depend on. NASCAR: The IMAX Experience is narrated by Golden Globe Award winner, Kiefer Sutherland.

Show times for the film are Monday through Friday at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.; Saturday at 11 a.m., 2 p.m. and 4 p.m.; and Sunday at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.

Animalopolis, meanwhile, is a Suessian-styled film done in rhyme and verse with a humorous tone, while concentrating on real-world activities affecting selected animals. Among the featured animals are cheetahs, bears, lions and crabs. Animalopolis blends fun, interesting views of the animals with the appropriate educational overlays that form the core of the film.

"Animalopolis is a unique film, as it appeals to both young and old," said Etherton.

Show times for Animalopolis are Monday through Friday at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.; Saturday at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.; and Sunday at 2 p.m. and 4 p.m.

The Exploreum's normal operating hours are Mon. – Fri. from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sat. from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sun. from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Family memberships are available for only $100 and include unlimited visits to the Exploreum, discounts on IMAX films, Gift Shop purchases, camps, birthday parties and more. For more information on the Gulf Coast Exploreum, visit www.exploreum.com.