‘Jurassic World Rebirth’ Almost Took a Dark Turn

If you think you know how ‘Jurassic World: Rebirth’ ends, think again! Director Gareth Edwards reveals that a major character was originally set to meet a tragic fate—until studio executives turned the tide.

Set five years after the chaos of ‘Jurassic World Dominion,’ the film follows a perilous mission led by mercenaries Scarlett Johansson and Mahershala Ali, along with a team of scientists, to the abandoned Saint-Hubert Island that was once home to dinosaur cloning labs. Their objective? To find dinosaur DNA that could cure heart disease. Things heat up when they encounter the Delgado family, who are rescued from a dinosaur attack at sea.

A Nail-Biting Climax!

In a gripping finale, the crew faces their deadliest foe yet: the vicious Distortus rex. Ali's character, Duncan, dramatically sacrifices himself to save the others, causing viewers to brace for heartbreak. Just when it seems all hope is lost, a flare reveals that Duncan has survived, shocking audiences and bringing the house down with applause.

The Original Idea Was Much Darker

But it wasn't always sunshine and rescue. Initially, Duncan’s character was meant to die—a fate both Edwards and Ali favored. ‘The draft I first read had him dead,’ recalls Edwards. However, when Ali came on board, he made a poignant suggestion: to let Duncan live.

Against the directors’ wishes, the studio and test audiences eventually persuaded them to go with the happier ending. Edwards describes the moment at a New York screening when the audience erupted into cheers upon Duncan's survival as a defining moment for the film.

Honoring the Masters of Cinema

Throughout ‘Rebirth,’ Easter eggs from iconic films—including nods to Spielberg classics like ‘Jaws’ and ‘E.T.’—are woven in seamlessly. Collaborating with composer Alexandre Desplat, Edwards fought to include the original ‘Jurassic Park’ score.

What Lies Ahead?

Despite the film's success, there's no word yet on a sequel. Edwards expresses feelings of satisfaction with the project as it stands, humorously referring to his string of blockbuster successes as ‘greed they warned us about in the Bible.’ Still, he's open to continuing this thrilling journey if the stars align.

With its mix of nostalgia, new threats, and nail-biting suspense, ‘Jurassic World: Rebirth’ may just be the blockbuster that brings fans back for more dinosaur adventures!