"Jurassic Park" takes audiences on a thrilling, dangerous journey of Dr. Ellie Sattler (by Laura Dern), a paleobotanist, and Dr. Alan Grant (by Sam Neill), a paleontologist, who are invited by eccentric billionaire John Hammond (Richard Attenborough) to visit Jurassic Park.The park is populated with cloned dinosaurs brought back to life using advanced genetic engineering.

However, their excitement soon turns to terror as a catastrophic power failure allows the park's security systems to shut down, leaving the dinosaurs free to roam and wreak havoc. The group must fight for their survival as they are hunted by the intelligent and lethal Velociraptors and face deadly encounters with other dinosaurs.

As one of the best dinosaur movies, "Jurassic Park" is praised for its groundbreaking visual effects that bought the dinosaurs to life with astonishing realism - along with its seamless combination of animatronics, puppetry, and computer-generated imagery (CGI). The film remains a landmark film that has left an indelible mark on popular culture, and its cautionary tale about the potential perils of scientific ambition serves as a reminder that nature cannot be controlled or contained.

Release: 1993

Stars: Sam Neill, Laura Dern, Jeff Goldblum

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 91%

"King Kong" (2005), a remake of the 1933 film of the same name, follows the story of a colossal ape named Kong. The aspiring filmmaker Carl Denham (Jack Black) is in search of a mythical creature on a mysterious and uncharted island. He assembles a crew, including actress Ann Darrow (Naomi Watts) and playwright Jack Driscoll (Adrien Brody), and sets sail on the ship Venture.

After a treacherous journey, they arrive at Skull Island, a hidden and dangerous place inhabited by prehistoric creatures (like dinosaurs) and indigenous tribes. The crew encounters hostile natives, who kidnap Ann and offer her as a sacrifice to their god, Kong, a massive gorilla-like creature.

Kong emerges from the jungle, captivated by Ann's beauty, and carries her deep into the heart of the island. As Ann's captors pursue them, Carl, Jack, and the surviving crew members embark on a perilous rescue mission to save her and capture Kong.

"King Kong" wows every audience withs its stunning visual effects, bringing the larger-than-life creature to vivid and emotional life on the screen. Through these stunning shots, the movie dives deep into its exploration of of love, sacrifice, and the clash between civilization and the wild - while also paying homage to the original 1933 film.

Release: 2005

Stars: Naomi Watts, Jack Black, Adrien Brody

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 84%

"The Valley of Gwangi" follows Tuck Kirby (James Franciscus), a cowboy and former rodeo champion who stumbles upon a hidden valley in Mexico called the Forbidden Valley. Tuck's discovery sparks the interest of a traveling circus led by the ruthless and ambitious T.J. Breckenridge (Gila Golan). Seeing the potential to profit from the prehistoric creatures rumored to reside in the valley, Breckenridge convinces Tuck to help him capture them and bring them back to the circus as sensational attractions.

As Tuck and the circus crew venture into the Forbidden Valley, they encounter a variety of monstrous creatures, including dinosaurs and a fearsome Allosaurus named Gwangi. The valley becomes a battleground as the humans struggle to survive and outwit these creatures.

Lauded as one of the best dinosaur movies, "The Valley of Gwangi" tactfully weaves together elements of adventure, romance, and creature feature genres, blending Wild West with ancient creatures to offer a unique twist on both genres. Aided by the impressive showcase of stop-motion animation by Ray Harryhausen, the film's visual effects bring the prehistoric creatures to life and add a sense of awe and excitement to the film.

Release: 1969

Stars: James Franciscus, Gila Golan, Richard Carlson

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 80%

"A Journey to the Beginning of Time" is a Czechoslovakian adventure film released in 1955 that takes viewers on an extraordinary journey through time. Four young boys set out on a boat trip along a river; as they float downstream, they encounter various geological formations and fossils, sparking their curiosity about the origins of life on Earth. Intrigued, they embark on a magical adventure to explore the past.

Suddenly, their boat travels through a time vortex, transporting them back in time to the prehistoric era. The boys find themselves surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, encountering ancient creatures such as dinosaurs, prehistoric plants, and other long-extinct animals.

"A Journey to the Beginning of Time" sparks the imagination and encourages a deeper appreciation for the Earth's history and the wonders of nature. Its narrative not only entertains but also educates viewers about prehistoric life and the science of paleontology, conveying a message of curiosity and exploration through imaginative storytelling and stunning visuals.

Release: 1955

Stars: Vladimír Bejval, Petr Herrman, Zdenek Hustak

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 76%

"The Good Dinosaur" presents a unique twist on the age-old question: What if dinosaurs never became extinct? Set in a world where dinosaurs still roam the Earth, it follows the journey of a young Apatosaurus named Arlo and his unlikely friendship with a human caveboy named Spot.

Arlo (voiced by Raymond Ochoa) is a young and timid Apatosaurus who lives on a farm with his family. He struggles with fear and lacks the confidence to make his mark on the world. One day, while trying to prove himself, Arlo gets separated from his family during a storm and finds himself far away from home. Desperate to return, he embarks on a treacherous journey through a harsh and unfamiliar landscape.

During his journey, Arlo encounters a wild and feral human caveboy named Spot (voiced by Jack Bright). Initially, Arlo sees Spot as a threat, but over time, they develop a bond and become unlikely friends. Together, they navigate through dangerous terrains, face natural disasters, and encounter various creatures, both friendly and hostile.

Heartfelt and visually stuning, "The Good Dinosaur" offers a touching story on friendship and self-discovery. Aside from the reminder of the power of companionship and the unbreakable bond between unlikely companions, the movie also shines through gorgeous animation that showcases the breathtaking landscapes and diverse ecosystems in all their glory.

Release: 2015

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 75%

"Kong: Skull Island" serves as a reboot and part of the larger MonsterVerse franchise and explores the origins of the iconic giant ape, King Kong.

In 1973, amidst the backdrop of the Vietnam War, an eccentric government agent named Bill Randa (John Goodman) leads an expedition to the mysterious Skull Island, an uncharted island shrouded in secrecy and surrounded by perpetual storms. Accompanying him are a team of scientists, including geologist Houston Brooks (Corey Hawkins) and biologist San Lin (Jing Tian), as well as a group of military personnel led by Lieutenant Colonel Preston Packard (Samuel L. Jackson).

As they arrive on Skull Island, they encounter an enormous ape known as Kong, who fiercely defends the island from intruders. Oher monstrous creatures - such as giant spiders, vicious pterosaurs, and colossal water buffalo - also get in the way and destroy the team's helicopters. Separated and facing imminent danger, they must find a way to survive and reunite to escape.

Amidst the chaos and battles for survival, "Kong: Sull Island" also explores the complex dynamics between the characters. Lieutenant Colonel Packard becomes consumed with vengeance against Kong, seeing him as the embodiment of the enemy he fought in Vietnam. Meanwhile, oher characters, such as photojournalist Mason Weaver (Brie Larson) and former British Special Air Service Captain James Conrad (Tom Hiddleston), develop an odd understanding and empathy towards the monster.

Release: 2017

Stars: Tom Hiddleston, Samuel L. Jackson, Brie Larson

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 75%

"Jurassic World," the direct sequel to the original "Jurassic Park" trilogy, takes place 22 years after the events of the first film and introduces audiences to a fully functioning dinosaur theme park called Jurassic World. Similar to Jurassic Park, the Jurassic World has also become a popular and successful attraction, owned by the Masrani Corporation and managed by Claire Dearing (played Bryce Dallas Howard).

The park's main attraction is a genetically modified hybrid dinosaur called Indominus rex, created to captivate visitors and boost ticket sales. When the Indominus rex escapes from its enclosure, chaos ensues. Claire, desperate to locate her two nephews, Zach (Nick Robinson) and Gray (Ty Simpkins), enlists the help of Owen Grady (Chris Pratt), a skilled Velociraptor trainer. Owen and Claire lead a team to track down the deadly creature and rescue the visitors trapped in the park.

"Jurassic World" pays homage to the original "Jurassic Park" while also introducing new elements to the franchise. It showcases the awe-inspiring spectacle of dinosaurs brought to life with cutting-edge CGI technology, and serves as a thrilling continuation of the beloved series. The success of the movie sets the stage for more entries in the future, which continue to explore the dangers of a world where dinosaurs once again walk the Earth.

Release: 2015

Stars: Chris Pratt, Bryce Dallas Howard, Ty Simpkins

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 71%

"One Million Years BC", as the name suggests, is set in a time known as "one million years BC," during the dawn of humanity. It follows the journey of a young caveman named Tumak (played by John Richardson), a member of a primitive Rock Tribe, who is banished from his tribe by his ruthless father due to a clash of power. Left to fend for himself, he embarks on a perilous journey through a harsh and unforgiving prehistoric landscape.

During his travels, Tumak encounters a more advanced Shell Tribe, led by a compassionate woman named Loana (played by Raquel Welch). The Shell Tribe possesses more sophisticated tools and knowledge, making them better equipped to survive in the hostile environment. Captivated by Loana's beauty and the peaceful coexistence of her tribe, Tumak assimilates into the Shell Tribe to experience different ways of life and learn valuable lessons about cooperation, love, and compassion.

The film's spectacular stop-motion special effects (by Ray Harryhausen) bring prehistoric creatures like dinosaurs, giant turtles, and a menacing Allosaurus to life. And aside from its major focus on visual spectacles, "One Million Years BC" also offers a glimpse into a primitive world and the struggles faced by early humans, creating vivid depictions of a harsh and untamed era to celebrate survival instincts and human spirit in a world where danger lurks at every turn.

Release: 1966

Stars: Raquel Welch, John Richardson, Percy Herbert

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 67%

"The Land Before Time" takes place during the late Cretaceous period and centers around Littlefoot, a young and curious Apatosaurus dinosaur. After a catastrophic earthquake separates him from his family, Littlefoot embarks on a treacherous journey to find the Great Valley, a legendary paradise where dinosaurs can thrive and live in peace.

During his journey, Littlefoot encounters other young dinosaurs from different species, each with their unique traits and personalities. He befriends Cera, a headstrong Triceratops; Ducky, a lovable and talkative Saurolophus; Petrie, a timid Pteranodon; and Spike, a gentle and silent Stegosaurus. Together, they form a close-knit group determined to reach the Great Valley.

As their journey progresses, the group faces emotional trials and personal growth. They learn to trust and rely on each other, forming a deep bond that helps them overcome obstacles and persevere in the face of adversity.

"The Land Before Time" delivers stunning animation and breathaking visuals to portray the lush and vibrant prehistoric landscapes. Its musical numbers are also very memorable - especially the track "If We Hold On Together" by Diana Ross - further accenting the film's themes of hope and resilience. With its heartfelt message about friendship and perseverance, the movie continues to resonate with viewers, making it a beloved classic in the animated film genre.

Release: 1988

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 65%

"Journey to the Center of the Earth" revolves around Professor Trevor Anderson (played by Brendan Fraser), a geologist whose research revolves around the theories of his missing brother, Max, regarding a passage to the center of the Earth. Trevor's nephew, Sean (played by Josh Hutcherson), comes to visit him, and during their time together, they stumble upon a hidden message from Max that provides clues to the existence of a mysterious subterranean world.

Intrigued by the discovery, Trevor and Sean embark on a daring adventure to find the entrance to the center of the Earth. They travel to Iceland, where they meet the enthusiastic and daring mountain guide, Hannah Ásgeirsson (played by Anita Briem). With Hannah's assistance, they navigate through treacherous terrains, encounter extreme weather conditions, and face numerous challenges.

"Journey to the Center of the Earth" stir thrilling action, breathtaking visual effects, and a sense of wonder to help viewers explore the dinosaur mysteries. While the film takes liberties with Jules Verne's original novel, it manages to capture the core essence of adventure and discovery nonetheless, reminding us of the vast and unexplored wonders that may exist just beneath our feet.

Release: 2008

Stars: Brendan Fraser, Josh Hutcherson, Aníta Briem

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 61%