JURASSIC PARK is more than just a “dinosaurs on the rampage” film, writes Kat on Patreon.
Yes, it strikes an impeccable balance of adventure, horror, suspense, and science fiction but is also critiques the perils of unchecked consumerism and capitalism.
It engages with the timeless theme, reminiscent of Mary Shelley’s original Frankenstein, of humanity meddling in the domain of the divine and the dire consequences that follow.
The film underscores the hubris of humans playing god, leading to catastrophic outcomes.
Williams draws you in to the wonder
So many of the other characters represent different concepts and themes.
And in my opinion all the characters’ roles feel significant to the plot. The pacing is superb, and the soundtrack is classic John Williams. He does what he does best, drawing you in with his music.
The opening part of the film is sheer enchantment. It introduces characters, their arcs, and the overarching themes right from the start. The iconic scene with the majestic music when they arrive at the park and see the dinosaurs for the first time, with the camera panning on the enormous dinosaur, is such an emotional moment.
The effects on the dinosaurs, even today, remain absolutely stunning and far superior to the subpar and cheesy CGI we often see in contemporary films. The roar of the T. rex or velociraptor calls are spine-tingling.
MORE: THE REWIND SHOW – Jurassic Park (1993): 15 minutes of dinosaurs & CGI we actually like!
Muldoon’s end and Hammond’s difference
There are just too many standout scenes to mention From the simple water in the cup vibrating setting you up for what is to come with the TRex, through to, what I think is one of my favourite scenes, Muldoon’s ending. His realisation that the raptors had such great intelligence and had outflanked a “great hunter” like himself summed up in two words “clever girl”.
Attenborough plays Hammond so well, the eccentric, optimistic visionary, with a degree of naiveté and a total blindness to the dangers. It lends me to give him a degree of sympathy, something I did not have for the character in the book, but I digress as this is about the film not the book and there are many differences I could go into.
Neill and Dern convey all the emotions when Grant and Sattler see the dinosaurs, we feel their wonder, joy, and concern.
MORE: FAST FORWARD – How Jurassic World Rebirth takes us back to Spielberg’s Park
Goldbluming marvellous and a masterful blend
Goldblum, as always, brings out the qualities and depth of his character. His humour and charm elevate what could have been a dull, doom saying character to rock-star levels of pomp and grandeur.
Can I add I absolutely love Goldblum and will hear not a word against him.
The film works seamlessly across multiple genres without sacrificing any of the characters and themes that make the concept so compelling.
Basically Jurassic Park is a timeless classic that masterfully blends multiple genres, critiques societal issues including human hubris in playing god, and delivers unforgettable cinematic moments with a classic soundtrack. It is definitely S tier for me.
*This review was originally posted over at the Rewind Classic Movies Patreon, where Kat is a supporter.
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