Dinosaurs hit cinema screens again!

Islamabad
A good film should not only be applauded by the audiences (box office), but it must also win critical acclaim. Rarely, a sequel has been better than the original. 'Godfather-II' and 'Godfather-III' were an exception. For some, these sequels were at par and for others even better than the original.
'Jurassic Park' (1993) and its two squeals are still remembered with fondness. In 22 years, we aged and children got smarter.
'Jurassic World' (2D and 3D) was released on June 12. Based on the bestseller, we have not been through three full episodes. How many of us still like watching wild dinosaurs raising hell in the lush green surroundings. Steven Spielberg, director of the first two episodes, is executive producer of 'Jurassic World,' but he has managed to be at the helm of affairs in this movie too. Directed by Colin Trevorrow ('Safety Not Guaranteed'), this one pretty much looks like what we have already seen.
'Jurassic World' is a calculated attempt to carry all box office formulas and gimmicks -- nothing more, nothing less. It is far from human dramas but remains imprisoned with the ancient animal-raising havoc with the help of computer-generated visual effects. The events take place on an island full of tourists enjoying absolute luxuries. The three scientists from the earlier versions have now been replaced with animal expert and a woman who must run from the wild dinosaurs in her 'terrible' heels. Later, she must also take up the gun.
The release of 'Jurassic World' by Universal Pictures in June was pretty much calculated to win the school and college students. Their bet has paid and Universal Pictures managed to get the biggest weekend last week in the United States and the highest grossing opening in the international market (eat your heart out 'The Avengers' and 'Harry Potter'). Over $560 million -- just on the opening weekend.
Chris Pratt, Bryce Dallas Howard, Ty Simpkins and Irfan Khan are in leads. The film is absolutely rich in its brilliant visuals but a powerful dramatic script is another matter. The film is entertaining but great expression is missing. The film comes with a big budget with faster pace and heavy sound (digital, of course) and it is fun while it lasts. Bu then dinosaur is not sufficient to sustain our interest for two hours and ten minutes. A good film today must come with not just strong storytelling but with emotions and visuals. "This one," a critic points out "roars but without bite".
The author can be reached at aijazzgul@gmail.com