LOS ANGELES — “Jurassic World: Rebirth,” directed by Gareth Edwards, reintroduces audiences to the thrilling world of dinosaurs five years after the events of “Jurassic World Dominion.” The film plummets into a gripping narrative that features a team of mercenaries and scientists embarking on a perilous mission to the island of Saint-Hubert. Their goal: to recover dinosaur DNA believed to hold a cure for heart disease.
The cast includes Scarlett Johansson and Mahershala Ali, along with Jonathan Bailey, who lead the expedition. Their journey becomes unexpectedly complicated when they encounter a family in distress—the Delgados—stranded after their sailboat is attacked. As the mercenaries attempt to save them, the challenges escalate, revealing the unpredictable nature of the genetically altered creatures inhabiting the island.
Tension mounts throughout the movie, culminating in a breathtaking finale. As the characters make a desperate escape attempt by boat, they confront the fearsome Distortus rex, which has already obliterated their helicopter. In a selfless act, Ali’s character, Duncan, distracts the dinosaur to ensure the safety of his companions, lighting a flare that appears to signal his demise.
However, the original script diverged from this outcome. Initially, Duncan was penned to perish during the climactic sequence. Edwards shared that the reimagining came after Ali joined the project and expressed his desire for the character’s survival. The studio ultimately favored the revised ending, which saw Duncan live to fight another day, a decision that resonated well with test audiences.
The film integrates several nods to Steven Spielberg’s iconic works, adding layers of nostalgia for fans. The original “Jurassic Park” score makes a notable appearance, enriching the film’s atmosphere. Edwards collaborated closely with composer Alexandre Desplat to find the right moments to incorporate this beloved theme, ultimately concluding that the inclusion was essential for capturing the essence of the franchise.
A standout scene features a massive Mosasaurus reminiscent of Jaws. Edwards faced the challenge of honoring Spielberg’s masterpiece, striving to avoid imitation while creating an engaging sequence. He admitted that channeling excitement in the first half of the scene while building suspense in the latter proved effective.
While the film’s conclusion leaves audiences wondering about the future of these characters, Edwards has yet to engage in discussions about potential sequels. He acknowledged that the impact of this film will largely depend on audience reception and the actors’ performances. Despite the pressures of franchise expectations, he remains optimistic about the story’s potential to extend.
Reflecting on his experiences directing emblematic films like “Godzilla,” “Star Wars,” and now “Jurassic,” Edwards expressed humility for the opportunities he has had in his career. He joked about stepping aside to allow fresh talent to take the reins, demonstrating a sincere appreciation for his journey in film-making. The excitement surrounding “Jurassic World: Rebirth” stands as a testament to the enduring allure of dinosaurs in cinema, while also weaving in themes of sacrifice and hope.