Parents' Guide to Jurassic World Rebirth

This entertaining but run-of-the-mill franchise entry pairs a predictable plot with some high-octane dino thrills. If all you expect—or want—is tension-filled action between dinosaurs and plucky human characters, then Jurassic World Rebirth delivers. There are plenty of close calls in which main characters, protected by "plot armor" (i.e., the script's requirement that they live through an otherwise deadly encounter), survive a dinosaur attack, but some of those life-and-death moments are truly terrifying, especially the ones involving young, wide-eyed Isabella (Audrina Miranda). And, of course, the more violent sequences include the sort of horrific deaths in which people (some significant side characters, some background folks whose names you won't remember) are chomped on, swallowed, or dismembered (in one case, a severed limb—an obvious callback to the original Jurassic Park—makes an appearance). Still, the tropical setting, new species, and updated tech give the action scenes a slick look, even if their outcomes are rarely surprising.

And the acting ensemble is talented and charismatic, despite the fact that their character arcs feel underdeveloped. Friend has perfected the art of playing appealing yet sleazy villains, channeling the same energy he brought to Wickham in Pride and Prejudice. Mahershala Ali, always a standout, brings gravitas to the role of a weary captain with a tragic backstory; he's the film's most compelling supporting character. Manuel Garcia-Rulfo is believable as a protective but overwhelmed father who gets in over his head on a family sailing trip gone wrong. Meanwhile, stars Johansson and Bailey are reliably charming and expressive. But the screenplay, written by franchise veteran David Koepp, mainly functions as connective tissue between chase scenes and attacks. Comic relief comes in the form of an endearing Aquilops named Dolores that's befriended by Isabella, as well as her teen sister's hilariously lazy boyfriend, Xavier (David Iacono), who earns redemption by the final act. Bottom line? Thrill-seekers will be satisfied, but character-driven fans may come away less impressed.