Cook review: ‘Jurassic World: Rebirth’ is a solid popcorn movie

“Jurassic World: Rebirth” feels more like a StevenSpielberg film than most of its predecessors.

‘Jurassic World: Rebirth’ (IMDb)

Nothing can compare to Spielberg’s 1993 original “Jurassic Park,” with its terrific story and jaw-dropping, lifelike dinosaurs. But this sequel is good summer fare: It’s a solid popcorn movie with an engaging ensemble.

There are some familiar faces, or names, behind the scenes. David Koepp is the same screenwriter who adapted the Michael Crichton novel for the big screen. Gareth Edwards is usedto directing lumbering creatures who aren’t really there: He helmed the 2014 “Godzilla.”

AdvertisementAdvertisement#«R15ekkr8lb2m7nfddbH1» iframe AdvertisementAdvertisement#«R25ekkr8lb2m7nfddbH1» iframe

Spielberg is executive producer. I was reminded of that especially during the first part of the film, which includes a lot of amphibious critters – I’m sure it’s no coincidence that this was released during the 50th anniversary of Spielberg’s “Jaws.” (Also, there’s a glimpse of a familiar “When Dinosaurs Ruled the Earth” banner.)Among the stars is Rupert Friend, who portrays a representative of a big pharma company that wants help from a tough special-ops expert (Scarlett Johansson) and a former student of Dr. Alan Grant: Paleontologist (Jonathan Bailey.) Their team is assigned to go where no human is legally allowed in a spot where dinosaurs still exist.

The troupe is supposed to collect blood samples from dinosaurs in hopes of creating a new medicine that could prolong millions of human lives.

Mahershala Ali is the likeable captain who steers the group on its voyage.

I love the way the water-dwelling Mosasaurus appears in a “Jaws”-y sequence. As always, all the creatures are a sight to behold, even the cute little Aquilops that every kid will want as a pet.

AdvertisementAdvertisement#«R1aekkr8lb2m7nfddbH1» iframe AdvertisementAdvertisement#«R2aekkr8lb2m7nfddbH1» iframe

Are the days of the Jurassic dinosaurs over? Hardly. I have a feeling that we won’t have to wait long for the next sequel in a franchise that refuses to die.

3 stars

Rated: PG-13 for violence and foul language.

Running time: Two hours and 14 minutes.

In theaters.

Watch the trailer here.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHBF - OurQuadCities.com.