The Decision Behind the Title of Jurassic World: Dominion

When the third installment of the Jurassic World franchise was released, it bore the title Jurassic World: Dominion. This title has since been a subject of debate, with many questioning its origins and the motivations behind the choice. However, the decision to title the film as such was made long before any political accusations or public scrutiny.

The Origins of the Title

The film Jurassic World: Dominion began its planning process well before the accusations that dominated public discourse at the time. The initial decision to title the movie as “Dominion” came from deep within the creative and production processes of the franchise. The film has been in development since 2014, and the creative team behind the franchise made conscious choices about the story and direction long before any political overtones.

Understanding 'Dominion'

The term “dominion” is derived from the Latin word dominus, and carries multiple meanings. In a biblical context, dominion can refer to rule, sovereignty, or control. This meaning is relevant to the plot of Jurassic World: Dominion, where loose and released dinosaurs pose a significant threat to human civilization. The term suggests that the dinosaurs have gained a form of dominion over human life, as control and governance have shifted from human to beast.

The Strategic Importance of the Title

The strategic importance of the title extends beyond its thematic elements. The word “dominion” evokes a sense of epic scale and grandeur, fitting for a franchise that has consistently aimed to captivate and entertain audiences with cinematic spectacle. Additionally, the term has historical and symbolic significance, allowing for a deeper layer of meaning and intrigue within the story.

Evolution of the Title

While the title was chosen with care and intention, the journey to its final form was not without its challenges. In an interview with Empire magazine, Colin Trevorrow, the director of Black Panther and the third installment of the franchise, explained the decision-making behind the title:

"So, we wanted to do something big that would tie thematically to the idea of a power shift. We wanted to create a sense of finality to suggest this is the end, but it's also a new beginning. The whole thing was very much in line with the film's theme of modernity and the future."

This reflects the franchise's ongoing exploration of the intersection of science, ethics, and human responsibility in the face of unprecedented technological and natural forces.

Public Perception and Reaction

Interestingly, the public perception of the title has been shaped largely by context rather than the original intentions. In a time when political discourse was highly charged, even a seemingly neutral title like “Dominion” took on new meanings. Critics and audiences alike were quick to interpret the title through a political lens, highlighting the tension between humans and nature that the film explores.

Rebutting Political Accusations

Despite the political undertones, it's essential to maintain perspective and not to conflate the creative choices with political statements. As Trevorrow noted, “Not every damn thing is about politics.” The decision to title the film as "Dominion" was rooted in the thematic and conceptual framework of the story, rather than any external pressures or political ideologies.

Conclusion

The title “Jurassic World: Dominion” stands as a testament to the creative vision of the film's makers, capturing the essence of the franchise's evolution towards a more nuanced exploration of human-fod nature interfaces. While the public may have seen political undertones, the original intention was to create a powerful and thematic title that would resonate with audiences on a deeper level.

The journey behind the title “Dominion” serves as a reminder of the complexity of creative endeavors in the media industry, where context, audience perception, and thematic consistency intersect to shape the final product.