The Case for ‘The Lost World: Jurassic Park’ as the Best Sequel to ‘Jurassic Park’

This is a matter of analysis and opinion. To me, the Jurassic Park series should have ended with The Lost World in 1997. The dinosaurs were at peace, and it was self-contained. But sadly, greed and capitalism led to the series continuing, and the films from there on out declined in quality. This includes not only the villains but also the corporate greed of Universal and the Hollywood addiction to franchises that will milk them until they have nothing left.

The Lost World: Jurassic Park

The Lost World stands as the standout sequel in the series. It features a couple of truly brilliant scenes, intriguing characters, and a memorable soundtrack. The movie was relatively poorly received at the time due to some admitted faults, such as pacing issues and the casting of certain characters who made things worse. However, after reflecting on the series' trajectory, especially the two Jurassic World movies, it's clear that The Lost World today feels like a masterpiece. Its one major flaw is that it wasn't the grand opening of the Jurassic Park universe that the original film was, but that's perfectly acceptable.

Islands of Action and Subplots

The bulk of the storyline in The Lost World revolves around a volcanic island and a search for dinosaurs. This unique setting provides a fresh environment for the dinosaurs to explore, and the island's volcanic activity adds a layer of unpredictability and danger. The plot is filled with rugged landscapes and thrilling action sequences. Unlike the Jurassic Park series, which focuses more on a single, large-scale adventure, The Lost World delves into multiple subplots and character arcs, making it more engaging and dynamic.

Character Development and Chemistry

The characters in The Lost World are more diverse and developed than those in Jurassic Park. Ian Malcolm, as played by Jeff Goldblum, remains a beloved figure, but his role in the story is more prominent and crucial. The addition of these characters, such as Richard Attley (played by Peter Stormare) and the InGen employees, adds texture and depth to the narrative. The chemistry between the characters is stronger, making the interactions more believable and enjoyable. Even the villains are introduced as three-dimensional, with motivations that make them more compelling than the one-dimensional antagonists in Jurassic Park.

Thematic Depth and Maturity

While the first film was more focused on action and thrills, The Lost World explores deeper themes. The movie tackles more mature issues, such as the ethics of genetic engineering and the unintended consequences of scientific endeavors. The screenplay delves into these themes through various character interactions, making the film both entertaining and thought-provoking. The maturity of the characters and the complexity of the plot make The Lost World a more sophisticated entry in the series, elevating it above its predecessors.

Jurassic World: A Missed Opportunity

Jurassic World in 2015, Michael Crichton’s legacy and the profit motives of Universal Studios overshadowed the storytelling. It’s filled with breathtaking visuals and impressive action sequences, but its core narrative lacks the nuance and complexity that distinguished The Lost World. The focus is more on spectacle and appeasing the fans, rather than deepening the story. The characters in Jurassic World are cardboard cutouts, and the conflicts are often resolved in too convenient or illogical fashions.

While The Lost World and Jurassic World both attempt to navigate the complex world of genetics and natural disaster, The Lost World does so with a more balanced and mature approach. It offers a mix of family-friendly adventure with enough depth to satisfy both casual viewers and those seeking more meaningful content. This balanced approach, combined with strong performances and a well-crafted storyline, makes The Lost World the superior sequel to Jurassic Park.