Jurassic World (2015)

[Chainsaw Brutality]

Rated PG-13 / 2 Hours 3 Minutes (123 Minutes)


After being greenlit in 2004, eleven years later and twenty-two years after the original -

Jurassic World has arrived in theaters. The park, now known as "Jurassic World", is in fact a worldwide attraction. Thousands upon thousands visit the high-tech, state-of-the-art facility. Running or overseeing the daily operation for current owner, Simon Masrani, is Claire Dearing (Bryce Dallas Howard) who is committed to her job 100% and really has not had much up-close contact with the dinosaurs. Chris Pratt plays Owen Grady, an ex Marine and has been working at the park for quite some time. His specialty is Velociraptors, he is like a horse whisperer of sorts and connects with them unlike anyone else can at the park.

Meanwhile, In-Gen is hard at work trying to meet it's consumer demands by constantly adding new "attractions", dinosaurs, into the park. Any new attractions are made safe before people visit them. So, when their newest genetic creation, Indominus Rex is brought into the mix - Owen Grady is requested to give his opinion and thoughts on the safety & stability of the structure containing the creature. In the blink of an eye, things go South and the entire park is at the mercy of Indominus Rex and the other dinos.

The first thing to get my attention was the original theme music from John Williams, I had goosebumps when I heard it. I remembered how I felt in '93 and the nostalgic feeling it brought back. The score is played more than once during the film. I appreciated Colin Trevorrow's respect he shows toward the original as well. There are nuggets or easter eggs throughout the movie that pay homage to Jurassic Park. He also stays true to the feel and atmosphere of what a JP movie should be. There is a nice balance of humor thrown in amongst the suspenseful moments. It flows well and the movie nevers feels disjointed or uneven.

Chris Pratt, Bryce Dallas Howard, Ty Simpkins and Nick Robinson all give really strong performances. The chemistry between Pratt & Howard really make the experience even more enjoyable. The same can also be said for Simpkins and Robinson who play brothers in the movie. Vincent D'Onofrio gives a solid performance too.

All the dinosaurs look legit, if there was any CGI used on them - I couldn't tell. The cinematography is handled well, the island really looks beautiful & is showcased more than once. The action scenes are done good too and shot smoothly - loved the p-o-v shots.

For me, Jurassic World does not reach the level of the original but it is the best sequel. This is a fun and enjoyable film, any JP fan can find something to love about it.

Dinosaurs are back on the big screen!


4/5 (B+)

[Chainsaw Brutality]

I wrote this review in June, after going to the Thursday night preview.