For many of its fans, Jurassic Park sits in the prehistoric era of film, a time before summer blockbusters consisted of endless sequels, prequels, threequels and unbreakable superheroes. Now, a generation later, Steven Spielberg’s adventure classic has a follow-up worthy of its name.
The premise, once again, is simple, but undeniably entertaining: Jurassic World (because who needs a park when you can have a world?), is, apparently, in decline, with visitor attendance dropping year-on-year. And why? In a nod to society’s ever-increasing need for constant upgrades and improvements, the answer is that dinosaurs just aren’t that interesting anymore.
The theme park, run by the determined, if slightly cold, Claire Dearing (Bryce Dallas Howard), is in need of a dinosaur-sized kick, a new attraction that will draw back the gawkers and put paid to the naysayers. What it gets is the Indominus rex, a genetically-modified hybrid creature, comprised partly of various dinosaurs – and partly of a multitude of mainly undisclosed animals.
When the Indominus rex escapes its pen, it’s not long before carnivorous carnage ensues, with the hybrid’s path of destruction paving the way for a domino effect of uncontrollable carnage across the island, this time with thousands of unsuspecting guests waiting to be preyed upon.
One thing you need to do when watching “Jurassic World” is to forget the two previous installments in the franchise. As far as this film’s makers are concerned, they never happened: Sam Neill and Jeff Goldblum’s contribution ended 22-years-ago – and a Tyrannosaurus rex didn’t end up doing a Godzilla in San Diego.
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Once you’ve done that, set your brain to nostalgic mode, as numerous references are made to the original entry in the series, without ever being forced down your throat, “Terminator”-style. With Chris Pratt’s undeniable (if slightly cheesy) charm driving the film, it’s easy to stay on-board, as he, a dinosaur researcher and skilled Velociraptor trainer, sets out to save Dallas Howard’s two nephews, who have disappeared into the far reaches of the island.
It’s safe to say that, if “Jurassic Park” never existed, the public may not have bought into “Jurassic World”. The CGI creatures we see today are no longer new, nor more impressive than anything we’ve seen in similar movies. However, so many people hold “Jurassic Park” close to their hearts, that all they needed was for this to emulate its creator, to revere it, not to distance itself. This is why “Jurassic World” is such a joy to watch: it knows it only exists because something even more special came before it.
What’s more, Spielberg’s presence can be felt all over it, so that, even without his direction, the project flourishes, remaining riveting and pulsating throughout, with touches of emotion that will resonate with lovers of the initial tale.
Of course, as we’ve come to expect, the scenery is gorgeous, the dinosaurs are magnificent and the love story is bland. No harm there: the park is open again – and things are bigger and better than they’ve ever been. I...
Read moreBeautiful Cool and Green, filled with beautiful Birdlife, the Duck pond/boat pond is very shallow making it easier to retrieve your vessel, or for the children to feed the ducks, Cranes. Very cool due to massive gum trees, a lovely place for family barbecues and reunions, I have many fond memories growing up of picnics with my Aunt's, Uncles, cousins. Grandparents etc, and it's still exactly as it has always been. They've added fantastic bike paths through the park, which is also great for a family outing. Please, take the time to experience it, you won't regret it, there are barbecues there for public use and picnic tables, there's also a Cafe, car parking is limited within the grounds, however, a larger parking area is accessible from closer to the city and the RAH, and it's possible to catch the tram there also, car parking is on Port Rd. Concert's are held there regularly also and are a pleasure in the park, bring a blanket and a...
Read moreThis would be 5 star spot if the kiosk was operating. Absolutely love it here! It’s situated away from the main busy roads, secluded and safe the younger children. The upgraded playground is just fantastic, the undercover bbq facilities also great. Uncovered bbq areas as well as picnic spots scattered around evenly in view of the play equipment as well. There is lots for kids to keep entertained, Firefox, hamster wheel, swings slides, water play etc. bring a ball and you’re set for the day. Lovely luscious greenery and shaded & sunny areas. Ample of space for walking & hiking & bike rides around the perimeter. There are horse kept nearby which the kids love watching. Public toilets are kept reasonably clean and well lit. If you’re not into the play area there is also a duck pond port rd end as well where you can sit an relax...
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