Coming Soon: Jurassic World: Rebirth (2025) by Gareth Edwards: A Primal Return to Terror
- dailyentertainment95
- Jun 26
- 16 min read
The Core Story: An Extraction Mission Gone Horribly Wrong on a Forbidden Isle
"Jurassic World: Rebirth" is the highly anticipated 2025 installment in the enduring "Jurassic" franchise, directed by Gareth Edwards ("Rogue One," "Godzilla"). Marking a significant departure from the "Jurassic World" trilogy, the film returns to the series' horror roots, focusing on a new group of characters trapped in a primal, dinosaur-infested environment.
Set five years after the events of "Jurassic World Dominion," the world's ecology has largely proven inhospitable to dinosaurs, with most remaining in isolated, equatorial environments. The story centers on Zora Bennett (Scarlett Johansson), a skilled covert operations expert. She is contracted to lead a high-stakes, top-secret extraction mission: to secure genetic material from three of the most colossal creatures across land, sea, and air within a tropical biosphere. The DNA from these dinosaurs holds the key to a miraculous, life-saving drug for humankind. Zora's team includes her trusted leader Duncan Kincaid (Mahershala Ali) and paleontologist Dr. Henry Loomis (Jonathan Bailey), alongside a representative from a big pharmaceutical company, Martin Krebs (Rupert Friend).
However, their covert operation tragically intersects with a civilian family – Reuben Delgado (Manuel Garcia-Rulfo) and his children (Luna Blaise, David Iacono, Audrina Miranda) – whose boating expedition is capsized by marauding aquatic dinosaurs. Stranded together on a forbidden island that once housed an undisclosed, highly secretive research facility for the original Jurassic Park, the two groups must contend with vastly different dinosaur species, including terrifying new threats. As they fight for survival against the island's prehistoric inhabitants, they uncover a sinister and shocking discovery that has been hidden from the world for decades, forcing them to confront not only the primal predators but also the dark secrets of the "Jurassic" legacy.
Short Summary: Marooned on a Hidden Dino Hell
Five years after "Dominion," covert operative Zora Bennett (Scarlett Johansson) leads a team to an isolated island, home to three colossal dinosaurs whose DNA holds a life-saving cure. Their mission, however, is derailed when they encounter a stranded family. Now, trapped together on a forbidden island that once housed a secret Jurassic Park research facility, they face not only diverse and deadly dinosaurs but also a sinister, decades-old secret, in Gareth Edwards' return-to-horror "Jurassic World: Rebirth."
Link IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt31036941/
Link Review: https://variety.com/2025/film/news/jurassic-world-rebirth-first-reactions-scarlett-johansson-1236433855/
Release date: July, 2nd
Detailed Look: Back to Primal Fear and Practicality
"Jurassic World: Rebirth" represents a conscious effort to reinvigorate the "Jurassic" franchise by returning to the suspense and primal horror that defined Steven Spielberg's original "Jurassic Park." Director Gareth Edwards, known for his grounded approach to giant creatures in "Godzilla" and "Rogue One," has emphasized a desire to make the dinosaurs truly terrifying again, moving away from some of the more blockbuster-heavy, creature-feature aspects of the "Jurassic World" trilogy. Edwards reportedly insisted on shooting on 35mm film to achieve a "naturalistic, cinematic quality," a "love letter to Steven Spielberg," aiming for a balance of humor, awe, and "very scary, very intense moments." This commitment to film stock echoes Spielberg's own aesthetic and suggests a desire for a more tangible, less overtly digital feel for the dinosaurs.
The film's strength is expected to lie in its return to the "trapped in the dinosaurs' environment" premise, shifting the focus back to human survival against overwhelming odds. Screenwriter David Koepp, who penned the original "Jurassic Park" and "The Lost World," returns, contributing to this "streamlined mission-driven" throwback tone. The casting of Scarlett Johansson, Mahershala Ali, and Jonathan Bailey promises a strong, character-driven ensemble, with Edwards describing their dynamic as a "Brody-Hooper-Quint triangle" akin to "Jaws" – a competitive "who's the alpha in the group" dynamic. Early buzz highlights sequences like boat scenes with Mosasaurus and Spinosaurus, a Titanosaurus in long grass, and a T. rex river raft scene as particularly suspenseful and impactful, with the open-ocean sequences explicitly evoking "Jaws." The film aims to make the audience "feel the impact of dinosaurs in the world, but it's so much more centralized and grounded." While early critical reactions are mixed, many highlight the effective portrayal of dinosaurs and the film being "better than the last few installments," with the potential to revitalize the series.
Plot Summary: The Race for the Cure and the Fight for Survival
The World After Dominion: Five years after the events of "Jurassic World Dominion," dinosaurs mostly exist in isolated equatorial regions due to global ecological changes.
The Life-Saving Mission: Zora Bennett, a highly skilled covert operations expert, is hired by a pharmaceutical company for a top-secret extraction mission. Her goal: secure genetic material from the three most colossal land, sea, and air dinosaurs, as their DNA holds the key to a revolutionary life-saving drug.
The Elite Team: Zora leads a specialized team, including her most trusted operative Duncan Kincaid, the knowledgeable paleontologist Dr. Henry Loomis, and Martin Krebs, a pharmaceutical representative with his own agenda.
A Civilian Interruption: During their perilous mission, Zora's team unexpectedly encounters the Delgado family – Reuben and his three children – whose boating trip has been tragically interrupted by fierce aquatic dinosaurs, leaving them stranded.
Stranded on a Forbidden Island: Both groups find themselves marooned on a previously undisclosed island that once served as a secret research facility for the original Jurassic Park. The island is teeming with a diverse array of dinosaur species.
New Threats and Old Secrets: As they navigate the perilous terrain, facing relentless dinosaur attacks, they stumble upon a sinister discovery: a dark secret connected to the original "Jurassic" legacy that has been hidden for decades, adding another layer of danger and ethical dilemma.
Survival Against All Odds: The combined group must work together, despite their differing motivations and backgrounds, to survive the dinosaur threats and uncover the truth behind the island's hidden past.
A Primal Fight for Life: The film focuses on intense, suspenseful sequences of human vulnerability against the primal force of the dinosaurs, aiming to rekindle the horror elements of the original.
Director's Vision: Gareth Edwards' Return to Primal Spielbergian Terror
Gareth Edwards' vision for "Jurassic World: Rebirth" is a clear and deliberate effort to reconnect with the core essence of Steven Spielberg's original "Jurassic Park", emphasizing suspense, awe, and genuine terror over pure spectacle.
Return to Horror Roots: Edwards explicitly stated his desire to revitalize the franchise's "horror" elements. He views the original "Jurassic Park" as "a horror film in the witness protection program" and aims to bring back that primal fear of being prey to superior creatures.
"Love Letter to Steven Spielberg": A key part of his vision was to evoke the feeling of Spielberg's original work. This is evident in his decision to shoot on 35mm film, a practical choice to achieve a "naturalistic, cinematic quality" that he believes captures the classic film aesthetic.
"Trapped in Their Environment": Edwards, along with screenwriter David Koepp, aimed to shift the focus back to humans being at the mercy of dinosaurs within the creatures' domain, rather than the dinosaurs invading human spaces. This creates a more immediate and intense sense of vulnerability.
Character-Driven Dynamic: He envisioned the core trio (Johansson, Ali, Bailey) having a "Jaws"-like dynamic – a "Brody-Hooper-Quint triangle" of competitive yet collaborative survivalists. This emphasizes character interaction and individual responses to extreme pressure.
Authenticity over Animation: Edwards pushed for the visual effects to feel as grounded and "natural history" as possible, avoiding anthropomorphizing the dinosaurs. He aimed to build a "massive catalogue of natural history" where every dinosaur shot is based on real animal behavior, working with VFX veteran David Vickery.
Awe and Wonder, Balanced with Scares: While emphasizing terror, Edwards also wants to retain the sense of awe and wonder that the original film evoked, creating a balanced emotional experience for the audience.
Themes: Echoes of Humanity
Survival Against Nature's Primal Force: The central theme of humans as vulnerable prey against apex predators, returning to the core conflict of the original "Jurassic Park."
Ethical Implications of Scientific Hubris: Despite the "life-saving drug" premise, the film still touches on the consequences of tampering with nature and the hidden dangers of scientific ambition (the "sinister discovery").
Redemption and Second Chances: While not explicitly a core character arc in the same way as "F1," characters may find redemption or new purpose through their struggle for survival.
The Fragility of Control: Humanity's constant struggle to control nature, and how those attempts invariably lead to catastrophic unforeseen consequences.
The Nature of Fear: Exploring the innate, primal fear that humans, as mammals, have towards larger predators, a concept Edwards directly references in his vision.
Legacy and Uncovering the Past: The presence of a hidden research facility and a "decades-old" secret ties directly into the franchise's history and the enduring repercussions of its origins.
Key Success Factors: Ingredients for Triumph
Gareth Edwards' Vision: His clear desire to return to the original "Jurassic Park" horror/suspense roots and his strong visual style are significant draws.
A-List Cast: The star power of Scarlett Johansson, Mahershala Ali, and Jonathan Bailey brings fresh faces and acting prowess to the franchise.
Return of David Koepp: The original "Jurassic Park" screenwriter's involvement signals a strong connection to the franchise's origins and a return to a more focused narrative.
Back to "Trapped on the Island" Premise: This widely beloved aspect of the early films is expected to resonate with long-time fans and new audiences alike.
Global Brand Power: The "Jurassic" franchise remains incredibly popular worldwide, ensuring a significant built-in audience.
Practicality and Film Aesthetic: Edwards' choice to shoot on 35mm film and focus on authentic creature portrayal could distinguish it visually and viscerally.
Awards and Nominations: Emerging Recognition
As of late June 2025, "Jurassic World: Rebirth" has just begun its global theatrical release (from July 1st/2nd onwards). While major awards season is still months away, early buzz and technical achievements suggest potential for nominations in categories like:
Visual Effects: Given Edwards' commitment to realistic dinosaur portrayal and the film's budget, this is a strong possibility.
Sound Mixing and Editing: To capture the visceral impact of the dinosaurs and the suspenseful atmosphere.
Cinematography: Edwards' choice to shoot on 35mm film and his visual style could garner attention.
Early critical reactions are mixed, but positive mentions of the dinosaurs and general improvement over recent installments may help its standing.
Critics Reception: A Glimmer of Hope, But Familiar Roars
Early critical reception for "Jurassic World: Rebirth" is mixed, but with a notable sentiment that it is an improvement over the latter "Jurassic World" trilogy entries and a step in the right direction for the franchise.
Positive Aspects Highlighted by Critics:
Return to Primal Scares: Many reviewers praise Edwards' successful attempt to bring back the "horror" and "suspense" of the original "Jurassic Park," making the dinosaurs genuinely terrifying again. Sequences like the T. rex river raft scene are singled out for their suspense.
Visuals and Atmosphere: The choice to shoot on film and Edwards' distinctive visual style are appreciated, creating a more "naturalistic" and immersive environment for the dinosaurs. Reviewers note the "immersive" and "grounded" feel.
Compelling New Cast: The performances of Scarlett Johansson, Mahershala Ali, and Jonathan Bailey are generally well-received, providing a strong human anchor for the terror. Their character dynamics are noted as a strength.
Dinosaur Portrayals: Critics often praise the execution of the dinosaurs themselves, noting that they feel impactful and terrifying, particularly new designs for creatures like the Spinosaurus and the use of the Mosasaurus.
Improved Over Previous Entries: A common sentiment is that "Rebirth" is "better than the last few installments" of the series, suggesting a welcome course correction.
Common Criticisms or Observations:
"Mixed Bag" of Reviews: While some are very positive, others find it "forgettable" or that "the series has run its course."
Familiar Narrative Beats: Despite the new cast and director, some critics find that the plot still adheres to recognizable "Jurassic" tropes, without entirely breaking new ground.
Pacing Issues: Some reviewers might find that the build-up of suspense, while intended, occasionally leads to lulls in the action.
High Expectations: The film carried significant hype due to its creative team, and some reviews suggest it might fall "short of expectations."
Overall Critics Reception Summary:
"Jurassic World: Rebirth" is emerging as a polarizing but often praised entry in the long-running franchise. Critics are commending Gareth Edwards' success in re-injecting primal terror and suspense, recalling the spirit of the original "Jurassic Park." The stunning visuals, effective dinosaur portrayals, and the strong new cast are frequently highlighted as the film's greatest strengths. While some reviewers find the narrative too familiar or the overall impact less groundbreaking than hoped, "Rebirth" is largely seen as a positive and much-needed step forward for the "Jurassic" universe, particularly for fans craving a return to its horror roots. It's expected to be a major box office success, even with mixed critical reception, due to its global brand appeal and spectacular visuals.
Box Office: A Roaring Start, But Long-Term Outlook Key
"Jurassic World: Rebirth" is launching globally, with international releases beginning on July 1, 2025, and North America following on July 2, 2025 (a Wednesday opening).
Budget: The film has a reported production budget of $180 million, a more modest figure compared to some of the previous "Jurassic World" films (e.g., "Dominion" at $265M, "Fallen Kingdom" at $432M). However, factoring in marketing, the actual cost could range from $330 million to $400 million.
Breakeven Point: With a $180 million production budget, the film would generally need to gross around $450 million worldwide to break even and become profitable (this often assumes 2.5x the production budget). This is a significantly lower target than previous billion-dollar "Jurassic World" entries.
Opening Weekend Projections (5-day for North America):
Early tracking suggests a domestic (North America) 5-day opening (Wednesday-Sunday) in the range of $165 million to $185 million. Some other tracking services are slightly less optimistic, with 5-day projections around $116 million - $135 million.
3-day weekend (July 4th-6th) is projected around $100 million if those higher 5-day numbers hold, or $75 million from lower estimates.
International Performance: China pre-sales started earlier than usual but are currently lagging behind major Hollywood releases like "Aquaman 2" and "Deadpool 3," with only $133K after three days (for July 2-6). However, there are still days for pre-sales to pick up and more screenings to be made available. The global appeal of the franchise is expected to ensure strong international numbers despite initial slow China pre-sales.
Overall Outlook: The reduced budget, coupled with the franchise's historically strong box office performance (three consecutive billion-dollar hits for the "Jurassic World" trilogy), means "Rebirth" has a lower target to hit profitability and is virtually guaranteed to be a financial success, even if it doesn't reach the billion-dollar mark.
"Jurassic World: Rebirth" is positioned as a major summer tentpole and is expected to have a very strong opening, aiming to prove that the franchise can continue to thrive with a fresh creative direction and a new cast.
Production Summary: Global Scope, Technical Detail
"Jurassic World: Rebirth" is a 2025 American science fiction action film with a runtime of 134 minutes (2 hours 14 minutes).
Directed by: Gareth Edwards
Screenplay by: David Koepp
Based on characters created by: Michael Crichton
Produced by: Frank Marshall, Patrick Crowley
Executive Producers: Steven Spielberg, Denis L. Stewart, Jim Spencer
Starring:
Scarlett Johansson as Zora Bennett
Mahershala Ali as Duncan Kincaid
Jonathan Bailey as Dr. Henry Loomis
Rupert Friend as Martin Krebs
Manuel Garcia-Rulfo as Reuben Delgado
Luna Blaise as Reuben's eldest daughter
David Iacono as Reuben's son
Audrina Miranda as Reuben's youngest daughter
Philippine Velge
Bechir Sylvain as Leclerc
Ed Skrein as Bobby Atwater
Cinematography: (Not widely specified, but known to be shot on 35mm film with Panavision anamorphic lenses)
Edited by: (Specific editors not widely detailed)
Music by: Alexandre Desplat (incorporating themes by John Williams)
Production Companies: Amblin Entertainment, The Kennedy/Marshall Company
Distributed by: Universal Pictures
Country of Origin: United States
Language: English
Budget: $180 million (production budget)
MPA Rating: PG-13 for intense sequences of violence/action, bloody images, some suggestive references, language and a drug reference (Rating bulletin 2883 (cert #55488), 4/30/2025).
Filming Locations: Principal photography took place across various international locations, including:
Thailand: Hat Chao Mai National Park (Trang), Ao Phang Nga National Park (Phang Nga), Khao Phanom Bencha National Park (Krabi), Sunset Beach on Ko Kradan.
Malta
England
New York, NY (United States)
Key Production Notes: Filming began in June 2024 and wrapped in October 2024. Gareth Edwards insisted on shooting on 35mm film to capture a classic cinematic look. The film features a blend of animatronics, practical effects, and CGI for the dinosaurs.
Release Dates: The Gates Are Open!
International Theatrical Release: Beginning July 1, 2025 (in select markets like Hong Kong, China, Egypt, Finland, France, etc.)
North American Theatrical Release: July 2, 2025 (USA, Canada - Wednesday opening)
Why to Recommend Movie: A Cinematic Invitation
For Fans Who Miss the Original's Terror: If you loved the suspense, horror, and awe of the first "Jurassic Park" film and want to see the franchise return to its roots.
If You Appreciate Visual Storytelling: Gareth Edwards' distinct directorial style and his commitment to 35mm film promise a visually immersive and impressive experience.
For a Fresh Take on the Franchise: With a new cast and a "rebirth" in its approach, it offers a compelling entry point for both long-time fans and newcomers.
To See A-List Talent in a Thrilling Setting: Scarlett Johansson, Mahershala Ali, and Jonathan Bailey lead a strong ensemble cast.
For Stunning Dinosaur Action: The film is poised to deliver incredibly realistic and terrifying dinosaur encounters, enhanced by practical effects and detailed VFX.
Why to Watch Movie: The Power of Presence
Experience Primal Fear on the Big Screen: Feel the suspense and terror as humans become prey in a world dominated by dinosaurs, in a way the recent films haven't always delivered.
Witness Breathtaking Cinematography: The choice to shoot on 35mm film will give the visuals a unique texture and depth, especially in a grand theatrical setting.
Engage with a High-Stakes Survival Story: Get swept into the desperate struggle of a diverse group of characters trapped in a deadly environment.
See the Return of a Legendary Screenwriter: David Koepp's involvement promises a narrative that honors the franchise's origins while moving it forward.
Discover Hidden Lore: Uncover a sinister secret from the original Jurassic Park's past, adding new layers to the beloved franchise.
Movie Trend: Following the Current
"Jurassic World: Rebirth" is a prime example of the "Legacy Franchise Reinvigoration" trend, where long-running cinematic series attempt to breathe new life into their formula by bringing in fresh directorial talent (Gareth Edwards), a new lead cast, and explicitly returning to the tone or themes of beloved early installments. It also taps into the "Back to Practicality" movement within blockbusters, emphasizing practical effects, on-location shooting, and traditional film stock to create a more grounded and visceral experience. Furthermore, it exemplifies the "Sci-Fi Horror Hybrid" trend, aiming to deepen the horror elements within a science fiction premise, appealing to audiences who crave more scares alongside their spectacle.
Social Trend: Confronting Unintended Consequences and the Unyielding Wild
"Jurassic World: Rebirth" taps into the pervasive social trend of humanity's reckoning with unintended consequences, particularly in the face of scientific overreach and the enduring power of nature. In a world increasingly shaped by technology and human intervention, there's a growing public discourse about the ethical boundaries of scientific innovation, especially when it involves genetic manipulation or altering ecosystems. The film directly mirrors this anxiety by showcasing a situation where dinosaurs, a result of past hubris, now present a primal and untamed force. It speaks to a deeper societal fascination with survivalism and the unpredictable forces of the wild, offering a visceral escape into a scenario where human technological prowess is utterly dwarfed by prehistoric might. The narrative of an elite team and a civilian family forced to confront a hidden, dangerous past also resonates with a collective awareness of historical burdens and the secrets that often lie beneath the surface of progress, feeding a persistent curiosity about the wild that humanity can never truly tame.
Final Verdict: "Jurassic World: Rebirth": A Roaring Return to Primal Terror
"Jurassic World: Rebirth" represents a resounding success in revitalizing the venerable franchise, effectively steering it back to the suspense and primal horror that defined its origins. Director Gareth Edwards, with David Koepp's screenplay, delivers a viscerally immersive experience that truly makes the dinosaurs terrifying once more. The film’s commitment to shooting on 35mm film, coupled with a masterful blend of practical effects and CGI, imbues the prehistoric creatures with a tangible, awe-inspiring presence. Scarlett Johansson, Mahershala Ali, and Jonathan Bailey lead a compelling new ensemble, providing a human core to the escalating terror. While the narrative doesn't reinvent the wheel, its focus on a contained, survival-driven plot on a forbidden island is a welcome return to form. "Rebirth" isn't just an improvement over recent installments; it's a powerful, suspenseful, and visually stunning cinematic event that stands as a true successor to the original, proving that even after decades, the raw fear of dinosaurs can still captivate and terrify on the biggest screen.
Recommendations for Filmmakers: Mastering the Art of Primal Fear
Embrace the "Less is More" Philosophy for Terror: Filmmakers should learn from "Rebirth"'s success in making dinosaurs terrifying again by focusing on suspense and the unseen threat rather than constant spectacle. Building tension through atmosphere, sound design, and strategic reveals can create more profound and lasting fear than an endless parade of CGI creatures. Edwards' approach proves that the suggestion of danger can be more potent than its full revelation.
Prioritize Practicality for Authenticity: Wherever possible, utilize practical effects, animatronics, and real-world filming locations to ground your fantastical elements. The decision to shoot on 35mm film in "Rebirth" gave the dinosaurs a tangible, almost tactile quality. This commitment to practical methods adds a layer of authenticity that even the most advanced CGI struggles to replicate, enhancing immersion and the audience's sense of realism.
Anchor Spectacle with Strong Human Stories: Even in creature features or large-scale blockbusters, compelling character dynamics and relatable human stakes are crucial. The "Brody-Hooper-Quint" triangle Edwards aimed for, with a fresh cast, highlights how a strong human element can elevate the entire film, making the audience care about who lives and who dies, thereby intensifying the terror.
Study the Classics for Enduring Lessons: Edwards openly acknowledges his "love letter to Steven Spielberg." Filmmakers should look to the masters of their genre, not to copy, but to understand the fundamental principles of tension, awe, and character development that make classic films timeless. Reinterpreting these lessons for a contemporary audience can lead to fresh, yet resonant, results.
Recommendations for Movie Industry: Breathing New Life into Legacy Franchises
Invest in "Rebirths" Over Direct Continuations: The industry should carefully assess when a long-running franchise benefits more from a "rebirth" with a fresh cast and a new creative vision (like Edwards and Koepp for "Jurassic World") rather than simply a direct continuation of an aging narrative or character set. This can re-energize the brand and attract new generations of viewers while satisfying loyal fans.
Trust Auteur Directors with Established IP: Granting directors with a strong artistic voice and a proven track record (like Gareth Edwards with "Godzilla" and "Rogue One") the creative freedom to interpret major intellectual property can lead to fresh, critically acclaimed, and financially successful results. Their unique vision can elevate a franchise beyond mere corporate product.
Embrace Nostalgia Through Tone, Not Just Callbacks: Instead of relying heavily on explicit callbacks or cameo appearances, the industry should focus on recapturing the spirit and tone of beloved original films when revitalizing franchises. "Rebirth" succeeds by returning to the primal horror and suspense of "Jurassic Park," proving that a shared feeling is more impactful than mere fan service.
Strategically Manage Budgets for Franchise Sustainability: While "Jurassic World" sequels often soared past $200M, "Rebirth" comes in at a more modest $180M. This demonstrates that strategic budgeting, coupled with strong creative vision, can lead to highly profitable and critically well-received blockbusters without the pressure of billion-dollar gross targets, ensuring the long-term viability of beloved IPs.
Final Conclusions: "Jurassic World: Rebirth": A Masterclass in Resurrecting Cinematic Roars
"Jurassic World: Rebirth" stands as a pivotal and triumphant moment for the enduring "Jurassic" franchise, proving that even decades later, the primal terror of dinosaurs can be revitalized for a new generation. Gareth Edwards, with screenwriter David Koepp, has delivered a masterclass in suspenseful, awe-inspiring horror, successfully stripping away the excess of recent installments to return to the core elements that made "Jurassic Park" an instant classic: human vulnerability, awe-inspiring creatures, and a relentless sense of dread. The film’s commitment to authentic, practical filmmaking and its strong new ensemble cast breathe fresh life into the narrative, creating a visceral and unforgettable theatrical experience. "Rebirth" is not just a commercial success; it's a critical reclamation for the franchise, demonstrating that a focused vision, a return to foundational principles, and a willingness to truly make the monsters terrifying again can indeed lead to a powerful, terrifying, and ultimately exhilarating cinematic rebirth. The roar is back, and it's louder and more terrifying than ever.
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