DVD Review: 65 Million Years In The Making

The Movie: Michael Crichton's dinosaurs come to life in Steven Speilberg's Jurassic Park. John Hammond (Richard Attenborough), a wealthy entrepreneur, has created a wildlife preserve unlike any in history and he is seeking the blessing of scientists specially suited for the job. Paleontologist, Dr. Alan Grant (Sam Neill) and Paleobotanist, Dr. Ellie Sattler (Laura Dern) come to an island full of genetically engineered dinosaurs. Also in attendance is Dr. Ian Malcom (Jeff Goldblum) who has serious doubts about the project. As a storm heads toward the island, the guests are treated to a tour of the facility with the grandchildren of Mr. Hammond. As the storm arrives an act of sabotage inadvertently releases the dinosaurs to wreak havoc on the people left on the island. Hilarity ensues.

The DVD: I have the collector's edition of Jurassic Park. There is a very good making of feature that explains the process of creating the amazing dinosaurs who are the true stars of this movie. There is also an encyclopedia of dinosaurs included, but there is no commentary.

The Experience: My brother and I attended the Thursday midnight showing of Jurassic Park on the day it opened. The theater was packed and we ended up sitting on the front row. That did not lessen the thrill of what unfolded on the screen. By the end of the film when Steven Speilberg's name appeared, the crowd applauded (a first for me).

The Aftermath: Although not the first movie to use computer generated characters, Jurassic Park became the first movie to use characters that are so realistic and has led to today's movie special effects. The Lost World brought back Dr. Ian Malcom to the secondary facility. More hilarity ensues included a Tyrannosaurus Rex stalking the street of San Diego. Jurassic Park III brings back Dr. Alan Grant. Some hilarity ensues.

The Score: 7 out of 10 dino bones, what do you think?