Movie Review: Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom (2018)

Directed by: J.A. Bayona
Starring: Chris Pratt, Bryce Dallas Howard, Rafe Spall, Toby Jones, and Jeff Goldblum
Release Year: 2018

Plot Overview:

Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom is the fifth installment in the Jurassic Park franchise and a sequel to Jurassic World (2015). The film picks up three years after the events of the previous film, where the dinosaurs on Isla Nublar are facing extinction due to a catastrophic volcanic eruption.

As the government debates whether to rescue the remaining dinosaurs, former park operations manager Claire Dearing (Bryce Dallas Howard) and dinosaur trainer Owen Grady (Chris Pratt) embark on a mission to save the creatures from annihilation. They soon discover a nefarious plot involving the illegal trafficking of dinosaurs, leading to unexpected challenges and ethical dilemmas about humanity’s relationship with these magnificent creatures.

Performances:

Chris Pratt and Bryce Dallas Howard reprise their roles, delivering strong performances that capture the urgency and emotional stakes of their mission. Pratt brings a mix of charm and bravery to Owen, while Howard effectively portrays Claire’s growth from a park operator to a passionate advocate for the dinosaurs.

The supporting cast, including Rafe Spall as the villainous Eli Mills and Jeff Goldblum returning as Dr. Ian Malcolm, adds depth to the narrative. Goldblum’s iconic presence brings both wisdom and humor to the film, though his role is more limited than in previous entries.

Direction and Style:

J.A. Bayona’s direction brings a darker and more intense tone to the franchise. His use of suspenseful cinematography and atmospheric visuals enhances the film’s tension, particularly during the action sequences and dinosaur encounters.

The pacing effectively balances character development and thrilling moments, maintaining engagement throughout the narrative. The film’s visual effects are impressive, showcasing the dinosaurs in both realistic and awe-inspiring ways.

Action and Suspense:

Fallen Kingdom is packed with action and suspense, featuring several thrilling sequences that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. The volcanic eruption creates a sense of urgency and danger, leading to intense moments as the characters race against time to save the dinosaurs.

The film balances high-stakes action with emotional moments, particularly regarding the moral implications of cloning and the ethical treatment of dinosaurs. The climax features a gripping confrontation that highlights the consequences of humanity’s interference with nature.

Themes:

The film explores themes of ethics, responsibility, and the consequences of scientific advancement. It raises questions about the morality of cloning and the treatment of living beings, encouraging viewers to reflect on the relationship between humans and nature.

Additionally, Fallen Kingdom examines the idea of legacy and the choices that define our actions, making it relevant to contemporary discussions about conservation and ethical responsibility.

Weaknesses:

One potential weakness of Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom is that it follows some familiar tropes of the franchise, which may make certain plot points predictable for seasoned viewers. While the action is thrilling, some may find the storyline less cohesive compared to previous films.

Additionally, some character arcs could benefit from deeper development, particularly with the new supporting characters, leading to moments where their motivations feel less clear.

Conclusion:

Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom is an entertaining and action-packed installment in the beloved franchise that effectively blends thrilling moments with ethical dilemmas. With strong performances from Chris Pratt and Bryce Dallas Howard, and a darker tone brought by director J.A. Bayona, the film delivers an engaging narrative filled with suspense and excitement.