June 11: Jurassic Park (1993)

Milestone Years

• 35th Anniversary: June 11, 2028
• 40th Anniversary: June 11, 2033
• 50th Anniversary: June 11, 2043

Inspiration Behind the Movie

Michael Crichton’s fascination with genetic engineering and paleontology led him to write a screenplay in 1983 about cloning a pterodactyl from fossil DNA. Finding the story unconvincing, he reimagined it as a novel set in a theme park filled with cloned dinosaurs. This concept became the 1990 novel “Jurassic Park,” which Steven Spielberg adapted into the 1993 film.

You Might Not Know

• The film’s groundbreaking visual effects combined animatronics and CGI, setting new industry standards.
• Jurassic Park was the first film to use DTS (Digital Theater Systems) for digital surround sound.
• Hurricane Iniki struck Kauai during filming, causing delays and forcing the crew to take shelter.
• The iconic water ripple effect was created by plucking guitar strings attached to the dashboard.
• Michael Crichton only wrote the sequel novel, “The Lost World,” after pressure from fans and Spielberg.

Food Ideas

• Dino Nuggets: A fun nod to the film’s prehistoric stars.
• Jello Cups: Inspired by the memorable scene with the shaking dessert.
• Amber Rock Candy: Mimic the mosquito-in-amber concept with golden candies.
• Raptor Claw Cookies: Shaped like the infamous velociraptor claws.
• Jungle Juice: A tropical punch to transport you to Isla Nublar.

Ways to Celebrate

• Dress Up: Don khaki outfits and explorer hats to channel your inner paleontologist.
• Trivia Night: Test your knowledge with Jurassic Park-themed questions.
• DIY Fossil Dig: Create a sandbox dig site for a fun, interactive activity.
• Soundtrack Session: Listen to John Williams’ iconic score to relive the adventure.
• Movie Marathon: Watch the original film followed by its sequels for a full dino experience.

Filming Locations

Kauai and Oahu, Hawaii: The lush landscapes of these islands served as the backdrop for Isla Nublar. Notable sites include the Allerton Garden and Manawaiopuna Falls.

Red Rock Canyon, California: Used for the Montana dig site scenes at the film’s beginning.

Universal Studios, Los Angeles: Interior scenes and animatronic sequences were filmed on soundstages here.