"Jurassic World Rebirth" may very well be the seventh installment in the storied Jurassic franchise, yet Steven Spielberg's hands-on involvement remains steadfast, an astonishing 32 years after the release of his groundbreaking original film. At Monday's New York premiere, director Gareth Edwards revealed that when collaborating with the legendary filmmaker, who served as an executive producer on the latest installment, Spielberg's engagement was unparalleled. "Steven was intricately involved in the film," Edwards emphasized. "He collaborated with [writer] David [Koepp] to craft the entire narrative, contributing just as significantly as I did from the inception."
As production commenced, Edwards recounted a pivotal moment: "Steven felt he had laid a solid foundation and entrusted me with the reins, saying, 'Gareth, go make your movie; it's all yours now.' The weight of such freedom bestowed by a luminary like him was immense, for he is the very reason I became a filmmaker."
Starring Scarlett Johansson, Jonathan Bailey, and Mahershala Ali, "Rebirth" picks up five years after the events of "Jurassic World Dominion," following an extraction team racing to the most perilous locale on Earth—an island research facility housing the original Jurassic Park. "Filming amidst the awareness that Steven Spielberg was scrutinizing every move was daunting," Edwards continued. "Yet, receiving a text praising yesterday's dailies brought immense relief. We'd share these uplifting messages with the cast, indulging in high-fives and hugs, rejuvenated and ready to press on."
Co-star Rupert Friend added his perspective on the film, stating, "In many respects, this is a tonal return to the first movie, a heartfelt tribute to Spielberg. We shot on 35mm, and our director, Gareth, drew inspiration from virtually every Spielberg film ever made."
"Jurassic World Rebirth" roars into theaters on July 2.
