Jurassic World Rebirth’s director, Gareth Edwards, expressed concern that one of the film’s most thrilling scenes might seem more suited to the Indiana Jones series. While Edwards has drawn inspiration from Spielberg in many of his past blockbusters, Jurassic World Rebirth presented him with the unique opportunity to take on a franchise originally created by the iconic director.
Approximately midway through the film, the characters in Jurassic World Rebirth must obtain DNA from a Quetzalcoatlus, the largest flying dinosaur. This task necessitates climbing a colossal cliff that seems to have been the dwelling of a long-lost civilization.
In a discussion with Vanity Fair, Edwards expressed his concern that the remnants of the civilization might evoke memories of Raiders of the Lost Ark and other Indiana Jones films.
According to Gareth Edwards, “I struggled to come up with an impressive set piece on the cliff’s edge because it seemed like there wasn’t much space to work with. If the [dinosaur] returns, I can’t imagine how we could conceal ourselves. I considered the possibility of incorporating a cave or perhaps carving into the cliffside, suggesting that an ancient civilization once inhabited this area. Being in Central America implies it must be an Inca civilization. However, as soon as you begin to include Inca symbols, you realize, ‘Wait a second. This is reminiscent of Raiders of the Lost Ark.’“
In the same interview, Edwards disclosed that Frank Marshall, the producer of both Jurassic World Rebirth and Raiders of the Lost Ark, quickly recognized the parallels. Nevertheless, the whole crew appreciated the set, and the traces of the ancient civilization were preserved in the film.
As per Gareth Edwards, “He stepped onto the set and remarked, ‘Oh, yes, this feels quite familiar.’ I was uncertain whether this was a positive or negative sign, but as I glanced at the crew’s faces, they were all smiling brightly. I found myself anticipating someone to say, ‘No, please don’t do that.'”
Jurassic World Rebirth Pays Tribute To Steven Spielberg
From start to finish, Jurassic World Rebirth clearly shows that Edwards drew significant inspiration not just from the original Jurassic Park film, but also from other works by Spielberg. Besides the Quetzalcoatlus scene, the Mosasaurus scene in Rebirth instantly evokes memories of Jaws, yet another classic from Spielberg.
The character’s meeting with the Mosasaurus and the Quetzalcoatlus creates two of the most thrilling moments in Jurassic World Rebirth. Thus, while the Quetzalcoatlus scene may remind viewers of Raiders of the Lost Ark, this should not be viewed negatively. On the contrary, the hints of an ancient civilization enhance the intrigue of the island in Jurassic World Rebirth.
Jurassic Park & Indiana Jones Are Both Fantastic Franchises
Jurassic Park and Indiana Jones stand out as two of the most successful franchises in cinematic history. In many respects, these franchises share similarities as they both pay tribute to the rich history of our world.
The Indiana Jones series focuses on uncovering hidden artifacts and exploring ancient civilizations, while the Jurassic Park series prominently features dinosaurs, creatures that roamed the Earth long before humanity appeared.
Considering the two franchises from this perspective, it truly makes sense for Jurassic World Rebirth to honor Raiders of the Lost Ark and the Indiana Jones series. Thus, we are pleased that Edwards and the entire production team behind Jurassic World Rebirth decided to retain this thrilling sequence in the film.