Dr. Henry Loomis, portrayed by Jonathan Bailey in the latest installment of the Jurassic World franchise, Jurassic World Rebirth, expresses a sentiment that echoes throughout the film: the public’s waning interest in familiar prehistoric creatures. This sentiment drives InGen, the biotech giant known for resurrecting extinct species, to embark on a daring new venture—crossbreeding to create novel species. Dubbed “engineered entertainment” by Loomis, this concept is central to Gareth Edwards’ new chapter in the iconic dinosaur saga initiated by Steven Spielberg over three decades ago. While the film introduces formidable new creatures, it largely revisits familiar storylines.
Despite the recycled elements, Jurassic World Rebirth delivers exhilarating action and intense encounters with colossal beasts, reminiscent of the exploited carnival attractions in Tod Browning’s Freaks. The film evokes sympathy for the genetically engineered Distortus Rex, or D. Rex, a creature with a beluga whale-like head, as it becomes a symbol of mankind’s hubris in playing God.
Revisiting the Franchise’s Roots
Released on July 2, Jurassic World Rebirth features a star-studded cast including Scarlett Johansson, Mahershala Ali, and Rupert Friend. Directed by Gareth Edwards and penned by David Koepp, the film revisits the themes and motifs of its predecessors. Koepp, who co-wrote the 1993 original with Michael Crichton, brings a sense of nostalgia to the screenplay, drawing heavily from the first and third installments of the series.
While originality may be sparse, the film compensates with a dynamic narrative, thrilling scares, and engaging new characters. Colin Trevorrow’s Jurassic World (2015) revitalized the franchise, and J.A. Bayona’s Fallen Kingdom (2018) ventured into new territory. However, the concluding chapter, Dominion, struggled with creativity. By returning to its roots, Rebirth fulfills the promise of its title.
Plot and Character Dynamics
The film picks up after Jurassic World Dominion, where humans and dinosaurs are on the brink of coexistence. However, Earth’s modern atmosphere proves inhospitable for many creatures, forcing them to migrate to equatorial regions reminiscent of the Mesozoic Era. A prologue set 17 years prior showcases a catastrophic event at an InGen facility, setting the stage for the film’s central conflict.
Rupert Friend’s character, Martin Krebs, a pharmaceutical executive, orchestrates an illegal expedition to Isle Saint-Hubert to extract DNA from the island’s largest species. He recruits Zora Bennett (Scarlett Johansson), a former special forces operative, and Dr. Loomis. Together, they embark on a perilous journey aboard the Essex, captained by Mahershala Ali’s Duncan Kincaid. The expedition’s goal is to harness the DNA for groundbreaking heart disease medication.
Family Drama and Dinosaur Encounters
In a parallel storyline, Reuben Delgado (Manuel Garcia-Rulfo) attempts to reconnect with his daughters during a sailing trip, which is abruptly interrupted by a mosasaurus attack. The Essex responds to their distress signal, leading to a collision of human and dinosaur narratives. The film’s action sequences, directed by Edwards, are a highlight, showcasing his expertise in crafting suspenseful and visually stunning scenes.
Visuals and Cinematic Homages
Filmed with Panavision cameras and anamorphic lenses, the lush jungles of Thailand stand in for the fictional island, providing a breathtaking backdrop for the film’s action. Cinematographer John Mathieson’s dynamic style enhances the tension as characters navigate the dense foliage, heightening the sense of danger lurking at every turn.
The film pays homage to Spielberg’s original, notably in scenes that recall the iconic kitchen sequence from Jurassic Park. The blend of practical effects and CGI is seamless, with the creatures rendered in impressive detail. Alexandre Desplat’s orchestral score, incorporating John Williams’ classic themes, adds emotional depth to the film, particularly in moments of wonder and awe.
Character Development and Emotional Arcs
Bailey and Johansson’s performances bring charm and humor to their evolving relationship, balancing the film’s intense action with moments of levity. The film also explores the Delgado family’s dynamics, with Reuben’s growing respect for his daughter’s boyfriend, Xavier, providing a heartwarming subplot.
The film’s climax features a thrilling encounter with the T. Rex, a franchise staple, as it pursues the Delgados in a nail-biting river chase. The introduction of the D. Rex adds a new layer of danger, culminating in a dramatic showdown that pays tribute to the franchise’s legacy.
Conclusion: A Nostalgic Yet Fresh Take
While Jurassic World Rebirth may not top the franchise’s rankings, it offers a nostalgic return to form with enough fresh elements to satisfy longtime fans. Edwards’ direction and Koepp’s script deliver a thrilling, action-packed adventure that honors Spielberg’s original vision while paving the way for potential future installments.
