The bus started moving. I may not be able to recount in the order in which it happened. But I will definitely describe those that impressed me in whatever order it comes to my memory. As the bus stopped near a huge body of water like a pond, a whale rushed out with its teeth bared. It was sudden and shocking. Then we were told this is the mechanical whale that had performed in ‘Jaws.’ Further down, there was a huge billboard with part of New York Central Park painted on it. Central Park scenes are shot in front of this. Much of the board gives the background on screen to make you believe it is Central Park. Many such sets we could see on the way.

We were told we would be meeting shortly a famous actor in a huge set. As we entered the dark set, the lights came on, and guess who was there - Godzilla! with the body, hands, and feet moving. Huge figure.

The bus entered a subway, and we were told we were in the New York Subway. Lights and noise of a train passing on the opposite side could be seen clearly. Then there was an earthquake. Scared all of us later realized it was a show. The subway had collapsed, and a car had crashed down. Total chaos. The entire bus was shaking during the earthquake.

As we came out, we moved into a town with shops, restaurants, and all. As we were watching, rain began to fall, and as quickly flood water started gushing in. All settings and make-believe. But it appeared to be so real. We entered the Red Sea, and we were told this was where the scene from Ten Commandments was shot, where the sea parts and opens a way for the entourage to

 move—Moses the Prophet leading the Hebrews from slavery in Egypt. The bus went through this path as the water opened up and gushed inwards on both sides. So real and thrilling.

It was fairly a big body of water, and even helicopter fighting scenes are shot here as if it is happening over an ocean.

And to wonder how we were awestruck by such scenes in movies.

Continued in 258. May Believe to Make Believe - Part 5