Plot: What’s it about?
As I sat and watched I Am T-Rex I did a little bit of soul searching (OK, not really), but I did wonder why I was at all OK with receiving a review copy. To be fair, I saw it was a film featuring Dinosaurs and didn’t read too much into the plot. While certainly not terrible, there are just far better films in this genre of films that it’s hard to recommend it even to the young ones. Viewers should watch the old TV show Dinosaurs or even The Land Before Time before this one. Even Jurassic Park is an option if it isn’t too scary for some. But back to I Am T-Rex, it is at least very pleasing in terms of its visual design. The film is never unpleasant to look at as there is always something here to catch our eye. It’s just the story and voice work (in the English dubbed track) that is taxing.
After a power-hungry dinosaur makes a surprise attack, it’s up to a young T-Rex to challenge the evil Fang and restore peace to his home known as Green Valley. The young dino’s name is Jared and he has the protection of his father named Logan. It’s when Fang attacks that Jared must build the strength to take on Fang and ensure the safety of his home. There’s then the usual antics of seeing our main character and his journey to stand up to the villain and defend his homeland.
Admittedly, the feature does improve a little over time, but damn, is young Jared annoying. I believe even young viewers will grow tired of him and what seems like endless complaining. The parrot who tags along and assists him is at least fun and a good little companion. So, what we have here is a nice-looking feature with an annoying lead character with a story we’ve seen all too often. This one isn’t awful, it’s just far from essential viewing. Proceed with caution.
Video: How’s it look?
We get a wide 2.39:1 transfer that is good because it lets the wider scope take in all the visuals nicely. This CGI film has a lot to look at and the images are all presented in strong detail. Background details are also strong as well. I didn’t love the film, but this transfer satisfies.
Audio: How’s it sound?
We have the option of Mandarin and English dubbed in DTS HD 5.1. It’s up to the viewer if you want to read subtitles or listen in English but have some overly annoying voicework to listen to. The rear channels have a good bit to work with as background noise engages us further.
Supplements: What are the extras?
- Theatrical Trailer
The Bottom Line
While the visuals are great, the story and voice work (on this English language track) aren’t the best. Young ones may enjoy it to an extent, but it’s just too hard to recommend when so much better material is out there, especially in this genre.
