DVD Review: “Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom” A Fun Addition to the Long-running Franchise

“Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom” is the sequel to the massive 2015 hit “Jurassic World” and the fifth film overall in the “Jurassic Park” franchise. While not the best entry in the long-running series, it’s still an overall fun installment to celebrate its 25th anniversary.

Three years have passed since the events of “Jurassic World.” As a massive volcanic eruption threatens the land of Isla Nublar, Owen Grady (Chris Pratt) and Claire Dearing (Bryce Dallas Howard) must evacuate the dinosaurs there, under orders from a mysterious financier known as Lockwood (James Cromwell). However, it soon becomes clear that a bigger plot is at hand in a film that challenges much of the core mythology of the series.

Director JA Bayona (“A Monster Calls”) also gives a unique take on the action with the film’s $170 million budget. While some scenes are over the top, others are among the darkest in the series and would not be out of place in a horror film. The final act in Lockwood’s estate centers around a fearsome genetic hybrid known as an “Indoraptor,” and is great proof for showing how an indie director can bring a unique look and feel to big budget action fare.

That said, the film definitely isn’t perfect. Without spoiling anything, not every plot twist in the film works, and the script (co-written by Colin Trevorrow and Derek Connolly) does get heavy-handed at times. Still, the fact that the film has proven to be a financial success is a testament to the lasting appeal of the series. Despite mixed reviews from critics (49% Rotten Tomatoes rating as of this writing), the film made over $416 million domestically and over $1 billion worldwide; and a third installment is on track for 2021.

Even though it’s not perfect, “Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom” still proves to be a solid sequel and an overall fun film. While Universal’s plans for the third movie in 2021 remain to be seen, a cameo from Dr. Ian Malcolm (Jeff Goldblum) says it best: “life finds a way.”

Verdict: 4 out of 5 Stars

Review by Steven Pryor

At a Glance:
Jurassic World- Fallen Kingdom
Starring Chris Pratt, Bryce Dallas Howard, Rafe Spall, Justice Smith, Daniella Pineda, James Cromwell, and Ted Levine with BD Wong and Jeff Goldblum
Directed by JA Bayona
Rated PG-13