Common Sense Media Review
By Jennifer Borget
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Kids save a dinosaur once again; mild scares and peril.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 7+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
The Adventures of Jurassic Pet: Return to the Wild
What's the Story?
In THE ADVENTURES OF JURASSIC PET: RETURN TO THE WILD, young friends Madison (Ava Torres) and Ethan (Kyle Rangel) unexpectedly find themselves caring for a baby dinosaur named Spike, who hatches from a mysterious egg they discover. With the help of Mortimer (Ben Hall), the first person to discover the egg, and Wendy (Sophie Proctor), the daughter of the town's mayor who knows about the portal to a prehistoric world, the kids try to return Spike to his home before he grows too big to hide. However, a documentary film crew has other plans—they want to capture Spike to make money off his discovery. When Spike is captured and put on display for the town, it's up to Madison, Ethan, Mortimer, and Wendy to free him and guide him back to the safety of his world.
Is It Any Good?
The Adventures of Jurassic Pet: Return to the Wild offers a lighthearted and adventurous story. While it doesn't aim to break new ground, the movie offers a cute, wholesome experience that young dinosaur fans will likely enjoy. The characters are endearing, with Madison's calming influence over Spike adding a sweet touch. The tale adds some suspense as the kids race to rescue Spike from a public unveiling at the town theater.
While the story can feel predictable at times, the humor and special effects keep things entertaining. Spike's interactions with the children are charming, and the various chase scenes add enough excitement without being overly intense. Though it's not a masterpiece, the movie knows its audience and delivers a delightful, family-friendly experience.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how the movie has magical elements, like a portal to a dinosaur world and talking about a Jurassic land in the forest. What parts of the movie seem realistic, and what parts are more like a fantasy? Why do you think audiences enjoy movies with fantasy elements?
What do you think makes dinosaurs so appealing? What other dinosaur stories can you name?
How did Madison, Ethan, Wendy, and Mortimer work together to protect Spike? What role did each character play in helping Spike return to his home? How can we use teamwork in our own lives to solve problems?
Some characters, like the filmmakers, started off with selfish intentions but changed their minds in the end. Why is it important to be honest and own up to our mistakes? Can you think of a time when you changed your mind about something?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming : November 1, 2024
- Cast : Ava Torres , Sophie Proctor , Brooks Ryan
- Directors : Ryan Bellgardt , Chris Hoyt
- Studio : Vision Films
- Genre : Family and Kids
- Topics : Animals ( Dinosaurs )
- Run time : 81 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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