5 Ways ‘Jurassic Park’ Aged Poorly (And 5 Ways It Aged Masterfully)

Jurassic Park (1993) is a landmark film that thrilled audiences with its groundbreaking visuals and gripping story. Decades later, it remains a beloved classic, but time has revealed both flaws and strengths that stand out on rewatch.

Some elements feel dated or problematic by today’s standards, while others shine even brighter with age. Let’s dive into five ways the movie hasn’t held up and five ways it’s still a masterpiece.

Dated CGI (Aged Poorly)

The CGI in Jurassic Park was revolutionary for its time, but some shots now look rough. Early computer-generated dinosaurs, like the Brachiosaurus in wide shots, appear flat and lack the detail modern audiences expect.

Today’s CGI has raised the bar with hyper-realistic textures and lighting. While the film’s practical effects still impress, the dated digital work can pull viewers out of the experience.

Timeless Practical Effects (Aged Masterfully)

The practical effects, like the animatronic T-Rex and Velociraptors, remain stunning. These physical models bring a tangible realism that holds up against even the best modern CGI.

The close-up scenes, like the T-Rex breakout, feel raw and intense. The craftsmanship behind these effects keeps them convincing and immersive decades later.

Stereotypical Characters (Aged Poorly)

Some characters lean heavily on stereotypes that feel outdated. The “hacker” kid, Lex, and the cowardly lawyer, Gennaro, come off as one-dimensional tropes.

Modern audiences often crave more nuanced characters. These caricatures, while functional for the plot, can seem shallow compared to today’s complex storytelling.

Thrilling Suspense (Aged Masterfully)

The film’s ability to build tension is as effective now as it was then. Scenes like the Velociraptor kitchen chase keep viewers on edge with tight pacing and clever camera work.

Spielberg’s knack for suspense transcends time. The fear and excitement still hit hard, making every close call feel real.

Questionable Science (Aged Poorly)

The movie’s science, like extracting dino DNA from amber, was always a stretch and feels even shakier now. Advances in genetics show how implausible the premise is.

While it’s sci-fi, the outdated science can break immersion for viewers familiar with modern discoveries. The gaps in logic are more noticeable today.

Iconic Visual Storytelling (Aged Masterfully)

Spielberg’s visual storytelling remains a masterclass in filmmaking. Moments like the first T-Rex reveal or the rippling water cup are unforgettable and instantly recognizable.

These images are etched into pop culture. Their simplicity and impact make them as powerful now as they were in theaters.

Limited Female Roles (Aged Poorly)

The film’s female characters, like Ellie Sattler, are often sidelined or underdeveloped. Ellie is capable but gets fewer heroic moments compared to her male counterparts.

Modern films strive for stronger, more balanced representation. This lack of depth in female roles feels like a missed opportunity by today’s standards.

Universal Themes (Aged Masterfully)

The story’s core themes—humanity’s hubris and nature’s power—are timeless. The warning about tampering with nature resonates even more in an era of ethical debates about technology.

These ideas keep the film relevant. They spark reflection and discussion, grounding the spectacle in something deeper.

Clunky Dialogue (Aged Poorly)

Some dialogue feels stiff and expository, especially in technical scenes. Lines like “life finds a way” are iconic but can sound forced in context.

Today’s audiences often prefer natural, subtle dialogue. The heavy-handed exposition can feel awkward compared to smoother modern scripts.

Enduring Sense of Wonder (Aged Masterfully)

The film captures a sense of awe that still captivates. From the first dinosaur reveal to the island’s lush landscapes, it sparks childlike wonder.

This emotional pull doesn’t fade. It’s a testament to the movie’s ability to make audiences feel the magic of discovery, no matter the era.

What’s your take on how Jurassic Park holds up today—share your thoughts in the comments!