Jurassic World: A Reboot or a Sequel?

Understanding the relationship between Jurassic World and the Jurassic Park franchise is crucial for fans and critics alike. Jurassic World presents a unique scenario, combining the characteristics of both a reboot and a sequel. This article explores how the film fits into the broader narrative of the franchise while discussing the implications of its hybrid nature.

Soft Reboot Analysis

In the entertainment industry, a soft reboot is a strategy where creators refresh a franchise without completely starting over. They build on existing elements while introducing new ideas and perspectives, essentially giving the franchise a new coat of paint. Jurassic World is a prime example of this approach.

Jurassic Park Trilogy Refresher

Jurassic World is both a sequel to and a soft reboot of the Jurassic Park trilogy. While it serves as a direct sequel to the original film, Jurassic Park III and The Lost World are considered canonical within the main storyline of Jurassic World. This means that the events of the latter two films continue to influence the events in the new film.

Direct Sequel to the Original

It is clear that Jurassic Park Part 1 (JP1) remains a part of the Jurassic World universe. Numerous references to the original park, such as the goggles, gas jeep, and dialogue, preserve the continuity. This makes it plausible that the events of The Lost World (TLW) and Jurassic Park III (JP3) are not considered to have happened, as they wouldn't affect the main storyline of Jurassic World. The absence of key plot points that would have been affected by these earlier films suggests a break in the timeline.

Reboot Elements and Themes

Reboot-cum-sequel, Jurassic World introduces several new concepts to the franchise, while also maintaining the classic elements. New elements include:

Hybrid dinosaurs The fully functional and tourist-friendly park Mosasaurus Tamed raptors

At the same time, the film retains key themes present in the original Jurassic Park: The basic plot structure Two kids being attacked while touring the park The flare scene Gallimimus running around

Character Origin and Continuity

While most characters in Jurassic World are of new origin, a few minor supporting characters return. The prominent stars from the original trilogy, such as Jeff Goldblum, Sam Neill, Laura Dern, Tea Leoni, and William H. Macy, do not appear. However, the film emphasizes meticulous continuity with the four films of the series. The time interval between Jurassic World and its predecessor is greater than that between the first three films, allowing for a fresh perspective without completely diverging from the franchise's core.

Conclusion

Jurassic World stands as a complex blend of both reboot and sequel, providing a rich narrative tapestry that honors the legacy of Jurassic Park while engaging with modern storytelling elements. Whether it is a reboot or a sequel, Jurassic World successfully reintroduces and enhances the franchise, making it a compelling addition to the series.