Definitely one of my favourites, possibly my number one

Rating: 10/10 (14 April 2010)

I adore this movie. Considering it came out only a year after I was born, I never had the privilege of seeing it in the cinema, but even when your first viewing is several years late and on TV, it's still such an incredible film you can't fail to be impressed with it. Even now, about sixteen years after the film's release, the CGI and animatronics look good. Although dinosaurs are only on screen for a relatively small portion of the film, they make up for this with amazing presence and spectacular entrances (think the T.Rex breakout, raptor kitchen scene and the first brachiosaur). I think Spielberg followed his effective formula from 'Jaws'; he knows that build-up and off-screen drama can create a much more impressive persona for a creature than full-on violent attacks left, right and centre. Not seeing the dinosaurs much makes us appreciate them more when they're on screen. One thing I really love about this movie is the sense of mystery it creates; it is so strong, so well executed, that it really does leave that question of 'what if?' hanging there. It is easy for a child to enjoy fantasies of cloning dinosaurs after seeing this, and I must confess that I rather hoped it was possible myself at first. The science behind the dino's creation is complex enough to be believable, but presented in a cute little cartoon that children will be able to follow and enjoy. The characters are also excellently portrayed by some extremely talented actors; for some, like young Joseph Mazzello, Jurassic Park was the breakout role, and one for which they will be remembered for generations. John Hammond is easily my favourite; his lovable, quirky behaviour and almost child-like dreams brought to life by ambition, imagination (and money) make him an endearing and well-liked character that will have both kids and adults in stitches at times. Alan Grant's hard, brusque exterior hides a good heart, and the audience will be pleased with the way he gradually warms to the children over time. Speaking of the children, they deliver some really knock-out performances, most notably in the car and kitchen scenes - they let you experience the whole thing through a child's eyes. Their trust in their grandpa, and their terror when the dream becomes a nightmare - all of it is just so real, so intense. The action is never overdone, and delivered sparingly, with good doses of calmer, soft-paced moments to even things out. This movie truly is a classic; from the director of so many great movies, it's hardly surprising. If you haven't seen this, I highly recommend you do so, and invite anybody else you know who has yet to enjoy this masterpiece of a film. You will not be disappointed.