Foxxfur has published “The Theme Park Trope List,” a first approximation attempt to summarize the narrative gimmicks used in theme park attractions to move the action along, for example, “the book report ride,” which “shows exactly the same events which occurred in the source film in the same order.”
Why Did It Have to be Tourists – “You’re sending a bunch of wet behind the ears tourists out in the SCOOP?” Or: any time a beleaguered hero has to save your miserable ass because you were a bunch of dumb tourists. You are lower than dirt.
Namer: Indiana Jones Adventure
Examples: The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man, Star Tours, Transformers the Ride 4D, Dinosaur
Where Have You Been?! – A Harry Potter-specific subset of Why Did It Have to be Tourists. Harry Potter is constantly saving your ass. There’s no moment when he isn’t. Dementors? Voldemort? Whomping Willow? Harry Potter saved your ass. Theme Park Harry Potter is more competent than movie Harry Potter, book Harry Potter, and fanfic Harry Potter rolled into one. That time you nearly fell trying to buy a carton of milk in Target? He saved your ass that time too. Harry Potter is the hardest working guy in theme parks. He hates you so much.
Namer: Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
Examples: Hogwarts Express, Harry Potter and the Escape From Gringotts, Harry Potter and You In Line For Butterbeer, Harry Potter and the……..
The Theme Park Trope List [Foxxfur/Passport to Dreams Old and New]