In an era of uninspired reboots, there was many skeptics and even more apathy for the new sequel, Jurassic World. Early trailers with unfinished CGI and uneven editing, also did not do the film’s public perception any favors. However beneath it all, seemed to be a glimmer of the classic and at the end of the day, everyone loves to see dinosaur mayhem. Fortunately for fans of the franchise, Jurassic World is a worthy and inspired new installment to the universe that Steven Spielberg created.  

Over twenty years have passed since the original Jurassic Park and John Hammond’s dream has finally become a reality. A fully functional, island attraction-based resort, where dinosaurs are genetically engineered and brought back from time for our entertainment. Director Colin Trevorrow makes the decision to take the viewers on a tour of the park with the characters initially, which really makes everything come to life. The various attractions also hammer home the point that there are real people in this theme park and when the dinosaurs attack, it is surprisingly vicious and scary. 

Chris Pratt once again proves that he can carry a movie. Many were concerned that he might be a one-trick pony after his performance as Star Lord in Guardians of the Galaxy. While is character in Jurassic World isn’t a 180 degree turn, he is undoubtedly more motivated and capable. He is an animal expert who is serious about his job. Trevorrow takes the time to show the bond that Pratt’s Owen has made with a pack of captive raptors, which ultimately pays off unexpectedly.  However, it should be pointed out that this not a star-driven movie. Just like its predecessor, the stars are the dinosaurs, with humans serving as the colorful supporting cast. If anyone is the lead, that title would probably have to fall to Bryce Dallas Howard’s character, Claire.

The relationship between Howard and Pratt’s character is a throwback to older action films such as Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom. Where there is a fish-out-of-water proper lady, suddenly thrust into a dirty, jungle adventure with a rugged male adventurer. With that said, the characterizations are two-dimensional and the performances are probably the most forgettable elements. Claire is one of the more questionable parts of the movie and really is more of an anti-hero. She is written as severely flawed in both her family and work life. Plus many corporate decisions she makes end up costing numerous lives and she never seems to face any repercussions. Throughout the film she becomes more capable, but never gains any accountability which keeps her character from being truly likeable. 

The influence of Steven Spielberg can be felt throughout Jurassic World. At no point is that more clear than with the two brother’s story line, who have been left on the island theme park to reunite with their aunt Claire. The older brother is a typical teen with angst and is “too cool” for an island full of dinosaurs. The younger brother is played by Ty Simpkins (Iron Man 3) who for the most part, makes cliched juvenile dialogue relatively believable, which is an achievement for a child actor. The brothers are used as the vessel to introduce the viewers to the various attractions (and set pieces) available in the expanded amusement park. 

Jurassic World takes the approach that many sequels are nowadays by being self-referential. In the movie’s timeline, the events of Jurassic Park are a part of history. So there are characters wearing t-shirts with faded Jurassic Park logos and memorabilia from the original as well. They even emphasize that this movie will never be the same as the original. And they are right. Trevorrow deserves credit for crafting an exciting new dinosaur adventure, while staying true to the spirit of the original. As the movie progresses it becomes increasingly predictable, particularly the ending which is easily telegraphed. However, most of the enjoyment comes from the carefully planned action scenes, shifts in tone, and special FX. As well as the decision to add monster movie genre elements, which keeps the tension up when the movie could have gone off the rails. 

Jurassic World certainly is a worthy addition to the Jurassic Park franchise. It undoubtedly sits right behind the original as the second best in the series. It doesn’t qualify as a great action movie, but it is an entertaining thrill ride. It’s a B-movie at its very best and that is probably what you are expecting from a dinosaur flick anyways. The reintroduction to the amusement park will give you some childlike awe, while the straight up old-fashioned summer blockbuster action will keep most entertained. It’s also refreshing that while they left options open, it is clear that Trevorrow tried to make the single best Jurassic movie he can make, without worrying about setting up sequels. (Which will come regardless.) This movie is flawed, but it will keep you smiling or gripping your seat the entire way through. Jurassic World is worth the trip back to the park.