Jurassic Park and its sequels are a juggernaut of a moneymaking entertainment franchise. Jurassic World represents the latest chapter of a story that began 22 years ago. I was curious how the creative production team planned to reignite the excitement for dinosaurs given the familiarity with the genre. Arguably, the thrills and chills have been in decline with each successive Jurassic Park iteration. Casting Chris Pratt in the leading role, fresh off his charismatic performance in Guardians of the Galaxy, certainly helps. But would it be enough?
How’s the Story?
I found Jurassic World to be entertaining in the same way one can still nostalgically enjoy riding on Disney World’s Space Mountain for the 100th time. You’ll always love it for the great memories even if the excitement has waned. The story takes place 22 years after the events of Jurassic Park in 3D. A fully functioning dinosaur theme park known as Jurassic World has been in operation for 10 years with attendance starting to decline. The solution to reverse the tide? Get the scientific team to create a new and improved dinosaur! Much like Dr. Ian Malcolm (Jeff Goldblum) warned in the original Jurassic Park “your scientists were so preoccupied with whether or not they could, that they didn’t stop to think if they should.” Of course mayhem inevitably ensues. The kids find themselves in harm’s way and it’s up to the unlikely pairing of Owen and Claire to save the day.
How are the main characters?
Chris Pratt plays Owen, a former military specialist who’s enlisted to train velociraptors. He’s sort of a mashup of a badass naturalist with a dash of Indiana Jones. Bryce Dallas Howard takes on the role of Claire, an ambitious corporate minded Director of Jurassic World Operations who also happens to be an emotionally detached Aunt to her two visiting nephews, Zach(Nick Robinson) and Gray(Ty Simpkins). Vincent D’onofrio portrays a thankless role as Hoskins, a zealot eager to prove the worthiness of dinosaurs as military combat weapons.
How are the special effects?
Admittedly, upon viewing the first couple of movie trailers for Jurassic World, I was concerned the movie would rely heavily on CGI instead of the use of animatronics like the original film. Thankfully I was mistaken. Of course there are CGI laden effects aplenty but they’re seamless in their execution. I’m also elated to report animatronics continue to be an integral part of bringing these fascinating creatures to life on the big screen. The legendary work of special effects artist Stan Winston lives on.
The movie has a rating of PG-13. Can kids under 13 see Jurassic World?
The dinosaur scenes are quite intense and loud. Many actors find themselves on the menu during the course of the movie. Young, impressionable children will not be happy campers watching this film. In short, I’d recommend ages 9 and up.
Any opportune moment for a bathroom break during the movie?
This is a fast paced movie with a lot of action. If you must answer nature’s call, do so when the kids are first arriving at the Jurassic World theme park.
Overall Rating: B
Recommended for kids ages 9 and up.
Pros: Lots of dinosaurs. Cool effects. Non-stop action.
Cons: Script is mediocre. Franchise is showing its age offering up few surprises or new ideas.
Official Jurassic World Movie Trailer
Are you tired of the Jurassic Park universe or do you want Universal to keep the movies coming?
