Why Jurassic Park Not Named Cretaceous Park?

When discussing the iconic 1993 film Jurassic Park, many dinosaur enthusiasts and casual viewers alike often wonder why the title of the movie is not Cretaceous Park despite the dinosaurs in the movie being predominantly from the Cretaceous period. This article delves into the reasons behind this seemingly puzzling decision, providing a deeper understanding of the historical, literary, and marketing factors that influenced the final choice.

The Jurassic Connection

The name "Jurassic" carries a certain historical and cultural significance, being deeply associated with some of the most iconic dinosaurs. Species like Brachiosaurus and Stegosaurus are often linked with the Jurassic period due to numerous popular depictions in museums, books, and media. This period, part of the Mesozoic era, was also a time of significant evolutionary development for dinosaurs, marking a crucial phase in their evolution and diversity.

The Literary License and Marketing

Michael Crichton chose "Jurassic Park" for his novel, and subsequent 1993 film, not just based on historical accuracy but also on literary and marketing considerations. Names like "Cretaceous Park" have a discordant rhythm and sound awkward, whereas "Jurassic Park" has a sonorous quality that is more appealing and memorable.

Technical Inconsistencies

It is indeed true that several anachronisms exist in the movie, considering the biological timeframe. Mosquitoes and amber dates do not align with the Cretaceous period accurately, as they didn't evolve and fossilize until the late Cretaceous period. Thus, the dinosaur species featured in the film, such as Stegosaurus, Ceratosaurus, and pterosaurs, present a challenge to the timeline. The film portrays historical inaccuracies but prioritized narrative and entertainment value over strict scientific precision.

The Source Novel

The movie is an adaptation of Michael Crichton's 1990 novel of the same name, and the discrepancy was acknowledged in the novel as well. Despite this, the name "Jurassic Park" was maintained in the film adaptation because it had a better flow and rolled off the tongue more easily. Crichton, in an interview, explained that the term "Jurassic" resonated more with the audience and conveyed a sense of scale and significance that "Cretaceous Park" lacked. This decision reflects a conscious choice to prioritize audience reception and marketability over strict adherence to geological accuracy.

Marketing and Branding

The choice of "Jurassic Park" also played to the marketing strategies and brand development. The term "Jurassic" already had established recognition, being linked to primal and epic imagery, which aligned perfectly with the thrilling concept of bringing dinosaurs back to life. This marketing strategy helped build a powerful and memorable brand, making "Jurassic Park" synonymous with the concept of resurrected dinosaurs and thrilling adventures.

Conclusion

In summary, while Jurassic Park is not technically a "Cretaceous Park," the choice of name was influenced by multiple factors, including the cultural significance of the term, the rhythm and flow of the title, and the strategic marketing decisions that aimed to capture the public's imagination. The film successfully balances historical accuracy with entertainment value, making it a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences worldwide.