Review: ‘Jurassic World: Dominion’ chooses nostalgia over substance
Jurassic World: Dominion is the latest picture in the dinosaur saga, integrating the giant creatures in cities across the globe and introducing a new villainous corporation trying to capitalize on their return.
Since 1993, there have been several attempts to create dinosaur-themed amusement parks with real-life reptiles, scientifically resurrected using DNA from fossils, as well as more than one plot to weaponize the once-extinct creatures and sell them to the highest bidder. Of course, all of these plans have failed in epic proportions, in some part due to arrogance and egotism, and because these ancient animals were never meant to be tamed — especially not the predators that should’ve remained in the past. Now, as they spread across the globe, life on Earth must reintegrate these beasts and everyone must learn to live together in… Jurassic World: Dominion.
Four years have passed since the last failed experiment and most of those involved (and still living) have moved on to new but related projects. Dr. Ellie Sattler (Laura Dern) is still studying prehistoric creatures, now in-person, investigating their effects on the environment and resources. Dr. Alan Grant (Sam Neill) continues to oversee digs to uncover more details about the past. Dr. Ian Malcolm (Jeff Goldblum) has attached himself to the latest company peddling cures for disease and other bioengineered products using dino DNA. To try to balance her conscience, Claire Dearing (Bryce Dallas Howard) works to save animals from poachers and other nefarious dealers, while Owen Grady (Chris Pratt) is a modern-day cowboy, working to protect the animals by herding them to safe spaces. Together, the pair cares for a now teenage Maisie Lockwood (Isabella Sermon), Dr. Hammond’s secret human experiment.
Firstly, the good things. The dinosaurs continue to be magnificent, mixing practical and CGI creatures (though it appears to be continuing to lean more heavily towards the latter). Seeing these extinct beasts roam, swim and fly never stops being awe-inspiring, particularly as they try to imitate their actual mannerisms and approximate their sounds. It’s especially neat to see the world’s largest apex predator in a natural setting. In addition, avid Jurassic fans will appreciate the many Easter eggs sprinkled throughout the narrative as the movie drops a number of references to the earlier pictures, particularly the first one. Though it’s not necessary to recognize the nods to enjoy the movie, it will enhance the viewing experience for enthusiasts.
In spite of all the positive elements, it’s unfortunate the film’s biggest obstacle is its own story. Bioengineering is always at the franchise’s core, but the villainous CEO at the plot’s centre (another throwback to the first film in the franchise) is outrageously over the top. His outfits, demeanour and random demands of snacks from an employee are all designed to be reminiscent of another genius, but it simply doesn’t fit. Moreover, average citizens are apparently so distracted by the mere existence of dinosaurs in their midst, they don’t see the obvious signs of subterfuge. Then there’s the Maisie subplot that appears to be strictly designed to create a thin reason for kidnapping her and building the action around her rescue. Moreover, the need to setup a giant monster fight just feels like an unnecessary attempt to emulate the recent Godzilla pictures.
Jurassic World director Colin Trevorrow returns to the helm, so moviegoers may spot some similarities, such as a high-speed demonstration of Owen’s motorcycle skills. In addition, it’s wonderful to see so many of the actors from the last 29 years return to their original roles, as well as some new faces, namely DeWanda Wise and Mamoudou Athie, who play significant roles in the narrative — but it all would’ve been better if the script stood up to its predecessors.
Director: Colin Trevorrow
Starring: Chris Pratt, Bryce Dallas Howard and Laura Dern
