In “Jurassic World Rebirth,” Dr. Henry Loomis, portrayed by Jonathan Bailey, expresses concern over the public’s waning interest in familiar prehistoric creatures. This prompts InGen, the billion-dollar biotech corporation, to embark on a new venture: crossbreeding to create novel species. Dubbed “engineered entertainment” by Loomis, this concept mirrors the latest installment in the iconic dinosaur franchise originally launched by Steven Spielberg over three decades ago. While the film introduces formidable new monsters, it primarily revisits familiar storylines.
Despite its reliance on nostalgia, the movie delivers high-octane action and thrilling encounters with colossal beasts, reminiscent of the mistreated carnival attractions in Tod Browning’s “Freaks.” Audiences might find themselves sympathizing with the Distortus Rex, or D. Rex, a mutant with a beluga whale-like head. The narrative underscores the perils of humans playing God, as these hybrid creatures have ample reasons for their fury.
Directed by Gareth Edwards and written by David Koepp, “Jurassic World Rebirth” is set to hit theaters on July 2. The film features a star-studded cast including Scarlett Johansson, Mahershala Ali, and Rupert Friend. Rated PG-13, it runs for 2 hours and 14 minutes.
A Franchise Rooted in History
David Koepp, who co-wrote the 1993 original with Michael Crichton, returns to the franchise, drawing heavily from the first and third installments. While “Rebirth” may lack originality, it compensates with a gripping narrative, intense scares, and a charismatic cast.
Colin Trevorrow’s 2015 “Jurassic World” revitalized the series, and J.A. Bayona’s “Fallen Kingdom” introduced innovative elements. However, “Dominion” struggled to maintain momentum, shifting focus from horror to action-adventure. By revisiting its roots, “Rebirth” fulfills its titular promise.
A New Era of Co-Existence
Following “Jurassic World Dominion,” humans and dinosaurs began co-existing, with prehistoric clones populating the world beyond their sanctuary. However, Earth’s modern atmosphere proved inhospitable, causing many to perish or migrate to equatorial regions resembling their native Mesozoic climate. Tourism to these areas is strictly forbidden.
The film opens with a prologue set 17 years prior, in an InGen research facility on Isle Saint-Hubert near Barbados. A containment breach, triggered by a stray Snickers wrapper, leads to a technician’s gruesome demise at the hands of a genetic dino-mutation.
The Quest for DNA
In the present, Martin Krebs, a Big Pharma executive played by Rupert Friend, orchestrates an illegal expedition to extract DNA from the island’s largest species: the titanosaurus, mosasaurus, and quetzalcoatlus. His corporation, ParkerGenix, believes these samples hold the key to groundbreaking heart disease treatments.
Krebs recruits Zora Bennett (Scarlett Johansson), a former special forces operative turned private contractor. Despite her reservations, Zora sees the $10 million fee as a path to retirement. Together, they join Duncan Kincaid (Mahershala Ali), captain of the Essex, to navigate the treacherous waters to Isle Saint-Hubert.
An Adventure Unfolds
The Essex crew includes security head Bobby Atwater (Ed Skrein), co-pilot LeClerc (Bechir Sylvain), and deckhand Nina (Philippine Velge). Meanwhile, a separate plot follows Reuben Delgado (Manuel Garcia-Rulfo) and his daughters on a sailing trip, which takes a perilous turn when their boat is capsized by a mosasaurus.
After receiving a distress signal, the Essex crew debates whether to assist, with Martin’s true intentions gradually revealed. The script, penned by Koepp, accelerates with dinosaur encounters, culminating in a spinosaurus attack that forces the crew to seek refuge on the island.
Visual Spectacle and Emotional Depth
Filmed with Panavision cameras and anamorphic lenses, the lush Thai jungles stand in for the island, offering breathtaking visuals. Cinematographer John Mathieson’s dynamic style enhances the tension as characters navigate the dense foliage.
The abandoned InGen facility, powered by geothermal springs, becomes a focal point for survival. The film pays homage to iconic scenes from the original, including a quetzalcoatlus stalking sequence reminiscent of the velociraptor kitchen scene.
Humor and charm emerge through the dynamic between Henry and Zora, as they grapple with the ethical implications of their mission. Their evolving relationship adds depth to the narrative, with Bailey and Johansson delivering standout performances.
Heartfelt Moments and Franchise Legacy
One of the film’s most poignant scenes occurs in a valley of grazing titanosauruses, evoking the wonder of Spielberg’s original. Henry’s awe and emotional connection to these gentle giants are underscored by Alexandre Desplat’s orchestral score, which incorporates John Williams’ classic themes.
The Delgado family’s journey also provides emotional resonance, as they bond through adversity. Isabella’s connection with a small animatronic creature, Dolores, offers a touch of Spielbergian sweetness, while Reuben’s growing respect for Xavier adds depth to their dynamic.
The T. Rex makes a triumphant return, adding suspense to a river escape sequence. The seamless blend of physical locations, sets, and digital effects elevates the film’s climactic moments, particularly during the D. Rex showdown.
“Jurassic World Rebirth is unlikely to top anyone’s ranked franchise list. But longtime fans (count me among them) should have a blast.”
Gareth Edwards’ “Jurassic World Rebirth” may not redefine the franchise, but it delivers a thrilling ride for fans, paying homage to its storied legacy while introducing new elements to the beloved dinosaur saga.
