"Don’t Move…”

In the year 1993, audiences were first introduced to the beautiful yet terrifying world of dinosaurs. “Welcome to Jurassic Park” became one of the most common phrases referenced in the media to this day. In fact, it was even a line in the Mighty Morphin Power Rangers Movie. Almost 30 years since the original stomped in, we the audience have seen this franchise be taken in many different directions. The most recent is the live-action Jurassic World trilogy starting back in 2015. The Jurassic World trilogy has been divisive among audiences and critics alike, with Jurassic World: Dominion being the final entry. Was it a roaring time or a massive pile of fecal matter?

Before I get started, I want to mention I will not give away any spoilers. Readers can expect an honest review with all that I like and dislike.

Firstly, one of the best features of the movie is the dinosaurs. I love the combination of animatronics and CGI to give depth to the dinosaurs. I was in awe every time they were on screen and it made me wish they were real… until they started eating, crushing, or hunting people. Still, they were a sight to behold.

But no movie is without its flaws. I was not a fan of the villain and side characters or their motivation. It felt like the writers just threw some characteristics into a blender and said “yeah that works”. Couldn’t the writers spend just a few more minutes making me care or understand these characters a bit more?

If I’m being honest that is the same complaint I have about the previous Jurassic World and Fallen Kingdom. I find it to be a shame since at least two of the writers, Colin Trevorrow and Derek Connolly have been writing all three films. You would think the third time's the charm, but I guess not. It was not bad enough to take me out of the experience entirely, however, I found myself more puzzled and giggling than taking them seriously.

I would like to touch on the writing and acting seen in Dominion. Sure, there were some moments where the jokes were flat or the acting was cheesy. But every movie has those moments, nothing is perfect. When I watched this movie I did like the nods it gave to long-time fans. I personally liked what the movie was. It’s trying to best tie things up while also remembering those who watched the first time a dinosaur walked onto our screens.

Before I give my rating for Jurassic World: Dominion I did mention previously I would explain the coconut ratings. Besides testing the carrying capacity of a swallow, I rate things on a one to five scale. One coconut means do not bother renting, streaming, or even thinking about watching. Five is a “must-watch”. I may not give fives out often but, if I do then it is something worthwhile.

If you have some time to kill I would say check out Dominion. It is not something you absolutely have to see but it is not a regrettable watch. Jurassic Park: Dominion gets my rating of three coconuts out of five.

Jurassic Park: Dominion is currently out in theaters but will be on Peacock streaming towards the end of the year.