Review: ★★★☆ (3/4 stars)
Jurassic World: Rebirth marks a refreshing return to form for the franchise. Where the previous two entries leaned heavily into spectacle and retread familiar territory, Rebirth channels a tone much closer to Spielberg’s original vision—imbuing each scene with an undercurrent of suspense and quiet wonder reminiscent of Jurassic Park. It skillfully balances nostalgia with fresh thrills, delivering a more grounded and emotionally engaging ride.
Strengths:
🎬 A Spielbergian Feel
From the mix of awe-struck wonder to creeping dread, Rebirth leans into the same emotional beats that defined Spielberg’s classics. The suspense is tangible—each dinosaur appearance, chase, or shadowy moment builds tension more deliberately than previous installments.
👥 Layered, Likeable Characters
One of the smartest choices here is the focus on multi-dimensional characters. They’re not just archetypes in safari gear; they have quirks, vulnerabilities, and clear arcs. You feel for them—not because they’re destined heroes, but because they genuinely earn our sympathy and investment.
🎢 Tension Over Predictability
Yes, the franchise still follows a somewhat familiar structure: discovery, chaos, escape. But Rebirth treats each beat with such care and pacing that even predictable moments feel fresh. The filmmakers lean into the inherent dread of those beats, letting suspense simmer before releasing it.
Overall:
While Jurassic World: Rebirth doesn’t fully reinvent the wheel, it does rejuvenate the franchise by returning to its roots—prioritizing mood, character, and suspense over relentless spectacle. It’s not without flaws and occasionally leans on familiar tropes, but it captures the magic of Spielberg’s original vision in a way the last two films struggled to — and that alone makes it a worthy, tension-packed thrill ride.
