Common Sense Media Review
By Jennifer Borget
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Exciting animated dinosaur tale has some peril, violence.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 6+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
I Am T-Rex
What's the Story?
In the ancient Cretaceous period, I AM T-REX features a Tyrannosaurus king named Logan (Ben Balmaceda) who reigns as the powerful leader of Green Valley. Meanwhile, his timid son, Jarrett (Josh Grelle), follows him and talks about his hope of remaining under his father's protection forever. During a routine hunt for food, Logan and Jarrett stumble upon three raptors menacing a mother dinosaur and her offspring, ready to make them their next meal. Though Logan successfully drives the predators away, he realizes that an outsider named T-Rex Fang (Christopher Gurrero) has challenged his rule, causing a mass exodus of dinosaurs from Green Valley. In a fateful encounter with Fang and his crew, Logan dies, leaving Jarrett devastated and forced to venture out on his own. Struggling to survive with inadequate hunting and survival skills, Jarrett accepts the reluctant assistance of Lucas, a larger dinosaur. Lucas trains Jarrett to become strong like his father. Determined to reclaim Green Valley from Fang, Jarrett prepares for the day when he'll return home to restore peace and secure his place as the Valley's rightful leader.
Is It Any Good?
I Am T-Rex takes audiences on an exciting hero's journey that goes beyond its prehistoric setting. While dinosaurs serve as the central characters, the story's themes of personal growth and inner strength could be applied to the young audience. Jarrett, initially weak and dependent on his father, undergoes a life-changing experience when he's forced to navigate the world alone. Through a series of training montages and encounters with newfound friends, Jarrett embarks on a path of self-discovery, ultimately fulfilling his father's hopes and becoming a formidable dinosaur.
This animated film caters primarily to younger audiences but offers enjoyment for viewers of all ages. The movie balances humor, particularly Jarrett's interactions with his toucan companion, Cai, with tense and action-packed sequences when characters are in real peril. The realistic animation style and beautiful background offer an interesting contrast to the talking dinosaurs. The story doesn't feel completely original and oftentimes feels like a less compelling version of The Lion King, but with dinosaurs. Still, the movie's message of triumph against adversity shines through, making it a fine watch for families to view together.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the themes of self-discovery and resilience. How did the movie portray the journey of Jarrett from a timid and dependent character to a strong and courageous leader? What key moments contributed to his growth? How can these lessons be applied to real-life situations?
Think about the portrayal of carnivorous (meat-eating) dinosaurs as protectors of the valley who also hunt for food. Did you notice what boundaries they set for hunting? Did it bother you to see dinosaurs eating other dinosaurs? Why, or why not?
Discuss the importance of friendship and teamwork in Jarrett's journey. Which characters played significant roles in supporting Jarrett on his journey? How did they contribute to his growth?
Think back on how the movie showed conflict. How did the characters handle challenging situations? Did they rely on violence or find alternative ways to resolve conflicts? Discuss the impact of these choices on the overall story.
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming : June 20, 2023
- Cast : Yi Nuo , Lin Lang , Wen Chi Yu , Zhao Fu Gang , Li Xin , Ben Balmaceda , Christopher Guerrero , Josh Grelle
- Directors : Cai Shangming , Chen Silin
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s) , Transgender Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Well Go USA
- Genre : Family and Kids
- Topics : Animals ( Dinosaurs )
- Run time : 81 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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