The film opens by introducing Zora (Scarlett Johansson), Dr. Henry (Jonathan Bailey), Dunkin (Mahershala Ali), Martin (Rupert Friend), and a few others who travel to a strictly forbidden island to collect DNA samples from the dinosaurs living there. These samples are meant to help elongate human life and could earn them trillions of dollars. While on this dangerous mission, they encounter another mysterious group with their own intentions. The mission tests them in more ways than you'd expect: they're forced to think quickly, get chased by dinosaurs and even do some chasing of their own.
I really like the storyline; the film kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time, except for the beginning, which is a bit too slow. Plus, it sometimes feels just too intense - every ten minutes the characters are thrown into a new life-threatening situation. I appreciate how screenwriter David Koepp kept the plot straightforward and entertaining, though at times it is too predictable. The acting stands out. I love Scarlett Johansson's performance as a strong, witty female leader. She adds a funny and interesting dynamic to the group. I also really like Mahershala Ali's performance and wish that he had more screen time, because it feels like his character is overlooked for much of the movie. Jonathan Bailey, as the "good doctor," brings a real sense of wonder to his role. His awe toward the dinosaurs reflects how I felt as an audience member, which made it easy to connect with him. Since I haven't seen the other Jurassic World films, I don't have anything to compare this one to, but I still enjoyed how it introduces new dinosaurs. The island is home to cross-bred species, which makes the visuals especially interesting. Director Gareth Edwards brings a unique style, delivering strong action sequences and impressive effects. The cinematography by John Mathieso makes the film feel massive and immersive. This is a solid ending to the franchise (with eight films total). I'm not sure if longtime fans will consider this a true "rebirth," but it's definitely entertaining.
The film's message is to always do what's right and not let selfishness take over.
I give Jurassic World: Rebirth 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. You can catch it in theaters starting July 2, 2025.
By Zoe C., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16
I like Jurassic World Rebirth because the dinosaurs are realistic and the cast is fantastic.
Jurassic World Rebirth is the fourth movie in the Jurassic World franchise. It follows Zora Bennet (Scarlett Johansson) and her team as they embark on a dangerous journey to collect DNA samples from dinosaurs. Along the way they meet a family stranded in the ocean after their boat capsized and decide to bring them along.
The CGI is incredible, especially during the fight or action scenes, which isn't always the case with CGI. The dinosaurs are very realistic. Some scenes really had me on the edge of my seat; however, other scenes felt too long and drawn out. And then, some scenes suffer from poor acting. For example, in one scene where the family's boat capsizes, some characters show no fear on their faces or in their voices. Scarlett Johansson plays her character, Zora, exceptionally well. Her movements look realistic and her emotions are clear and believable. At one point, when she nearly falls off a boat with dinosaurs encircling it, her fear feels genuine and her fall looks real. Another aspect of the movie that I like is that the main cast works together as a great team. They have a leader, Zora, the newbie, Dr. Henry Loomis (Jonathan Bailey), the betrayer, Martin Krebs (Rupert Friend) and the guy who knows what's going on, Duncan Kincaid (Mahershala Ali). Their chemistry on camera is outstanding; one would think that they actually know and work together in real life.
The film's message is to work for what is right, not for money.
I give Jurassic World Rebirth 3 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theaters on July 2, 2025.
By Charlotte L., KIDS FIRST! Film Critics, age 14
KIDS FIRST! Goes Local: Submit a review & win!
|
Kid Critic video review by CHARLOTTE LOHMANN
|
Kid Critic video review by ZOE CANNELLA
|

