22 years ago an enterprising billionaire attempted to open a theme park with living biological attractions that would capture the imagination of the entire planet. Unfortunately for him the park itself never got off the ground, but the film telling this tale was a global phenomenom and is probably responsible for a lot of young adults lifelong obsession with dinosaurs.


Following two lacklustre sequels there was a hiatus of 14 years before the gates of Jurassic Park were once again re-opened, this time re-branded Jurassic World.


Colin Trevorrow takes the helm, having directed 2012's delightful comedy Safety Not Guaranteed, with franchise originator Steven Spielberg on executive producer duties.


Now the park is fully operational and seemingly has been for quite some time, Claire Dearing (Bryce Dallas Howard) is the operations manager, looking after the day-to-day goings on under the auspices of Mr. Masrani (Irrfan Khan). Whilst she's expecting a meeting from corporate sponsors with regards to a new exhibit, her nephews Zach (Nick Robinson) and Gray (Ty Simpkins) are also en route for a long overdue visit.


Under the guidance of Dr. Henry Wu (B.D. Wong - the only returning cast member from the original film, though there a few cheeky and respectful nods to others here and there), the scientists at Jurassic World have been putting together a brand new attraction, a new species of dinosaur.


Mr. Masrani recommends that Claire gets their raptor handler Owen Grady (Chris Pratt) to inspect this new beast's enclosure, as he's been making incredible progress attempting to tame a pack of raptors that he's been rearing since birth. A move which has pricked up the ears of head of security Vic Hoskins (Vincent D'Onofrio) who sees military potential for them.


Meanwhile, upon inspection of this new dinosaur's compound Owen notices something amiss and things go from bad to worse pretty quickly.


As a piece of popcorn entertainment Jurassic World trounces its two predecessors, however that's not exactly the highest compliment, and this film only serves to highlight everything that the 1993 original film got so right.


Primarily it's the original's ensemble cast that shone so brightly, that within a short space of time a motley collection of characters are established, a variety of conflicts set-up and throughout the film they're paid off nicely in moments of wonder, humour and terror.


Whilst there are nods within this film to James Cameron's Aliens, this sequel lacks the depth of primary characterisation that made that film such a success (it's often overlooked that Sigourney Weaver was nominated for Best Actress for Aliens), for example Claire is unfairly judged by characters within the film and - one feels - by the film itself for being organised, career-orientated and not particularly interested in starting a family. She's portrayed as "cold", especially when it comes to Owen's rough-and-ready flirtation which is meant to be humourous and charming, it's a hackneyed character and nothing new is brought to her development other than a smartphone.


Meanwhile, the kids in peril occasionally mention various bits of backstory that either serve no purpose - especially with regards their parents - or arrive to conveniently get them out of a tight spot - an implausible moment with an old jeep.


The best character development belongs to the dinosaurs, though some of the twists and turns taken don't quite have the impact one might hope for, and a little bit of tinkering in the film's early stages would have helped sell some closing moments for the better.


As far as set-pieces go though, Trevorrow does have some fun, an attack on the park's main street by various flying dinosaurs is a highlight, and there are some neat ideas in amongst the now operational attractions - specifically a dinosaur petting zoo.


However, the film is ultimately a forgettable experience, either ironically or otherwise it's everything the character's seem to be against; glossy, slick, corporate, a genetic-hyrbid of other better things mashed together in the hopes of making something that'll bring in the bucks - and, as this weekend's box office receipts have proved - in that regard the film has been a success. Unfortunately, it's not a patch on the original.