Jack – Page 20 – Jurassic Outpost

A Trip to Isla Nublar – Visiting the Islands of Oahu and Kauai, Hawaii

Posted on 20th September 201620th September 2016 by Jack

A week ago I returned from a vacation to the islands of Hawaii where we were lucky enough to visit numerous locations from the Jurassic Park movies and the television show Lost, as well as a handful of others.

The islands of both Oahu and Kauai have been used extensively for film and TV productions over the years but I would say that the islands are most recognizable as both Isla Nublar and Isla Sorna.

Visiting the islands has been a lifelong dream – as it is for many fans – and standing on the many locations where the cast and crew of the movies stood can get fairly surreal. Seeing the mountains, valleys, and film sets in person is nothing short of awe-inspiring.

I wanted to share some photos from my trip, as well as describe the Kualoa Ranch tour (famous for the Gallimimus sequence, I-Rex Paddock, Gyrosphere Station) and the Jurassic Falls tour (landing at the famous waterfall) which I highly recommend to all fans who are lucky enough to visit the islands! I have already shared some photos from the trip on Instagram:

I was lucky enough to be shown around by my friend Sean from Reel News Hawaii, who knows the island of Oahu like the back of his hand. Leaving out the many locations we hit for Lost, we started off with the pier where the Isla Nublar ferry arrives at Jurassic World! The pier is naturally exactly as it was seen on screen, but you’ll notice the flag poles and CGI monorail aren’t to be seen.

We visited the Hawaii Convention Center which stood in for the Isla Nublar Hilton, as well as the car park in Jurassic World where workers are panicking and Owen and Claire leave on the ATV:

The Jurassic Park 3 landing strip was up next, which is at Dillingham Airfield. It was interesting to learn that a lot of foliage was added to the sides of the landing strip, and the small shack/building was also added. I had always just assumed it was always like this! Our website designer had some fun with the photo:

This was always one of my favourite scenes in Jurassic Park 3, so it was pretty cool to stand and explore this landing strip.

The first official tour we took was the Premier Movie Sites Tour at the Kualoa Ranch. It is the only tour that takes place in an air conditioned Mercedes Sprinter van and the tour is incredibly in-depth, playing scenes on monitors from various movies as you drive past, and in some cases, stop at famous movie sites. Our tour guide was called Stephanie and I’d highly recommend her! She was brilliant, knew as much about the Jurassic movies as any fan, and really has a passion for movies and the locations in which they filmed. She was joined by trainee Melani who will no doubt make an great tour guide herself. The famous Gallimimus scenes takes place right next to Hurley’s Golf Course in Lost, and while they don’t sign post the Gallimimus hill, a log sits roughly where the original log sat.

There are many other locations at the Kualoa Ranch, mostly from Jurassic World. The Helipad, the I-Rex Paddock, the Mosasaurus lagoon, the Gyrosphere Station and the “Jurassic Park” gate were all constructed here and in some cases, they remain. Check out the gallery below!

And obviously we had to recreate some photos too! Credit to Reel News Hawaii for some of the featured photos and the I-Rex poster below!

It’s pretty safe to say this tour is a must do for any Jurassic Park fan. The Kualoa Ranch have done an outstanding job of restoring many of the Jurassic World sets, and they ensure you have the best experience while touring the property. The property itself really shows off Hawaii’s natural beauty; I often found myself gazing at my surroundings, taking it all in.

If you take the Premier Movie Sites Tour – which I recommend – then you are given 10% off at the gift shop too. What I did find strange however, is that there is not a single piece of Jurassic merchandise to be found. After asking around, it seems that Universal Pictures have not provided the rights for the Kualoa Ranch to sell merchandise, which is just downright bizarre. After visiting the Jurassic Park filming locations, doesn’t everybody want to buy a shirt? It seems like one of the most logical places to actually sell merchandise, yet there is none to be found. Even the staff found it odd.

Aside from that, the Kualoa Ranch is a must-see on the island of Oahu!

While there are many locations to be found on the island of Oahu, the island of Kauai is where a large chunk of Jurassic Park was filmed. We only had the day on Kauai so we did not get to see much, but two minutes from the airport is the Island Helicopters office – the only helicopter company that land at the Manawaiopuna Falls, the waterfall from Jurassic Park!

This was the most surreal of it all. As you approach the waterfall, they play the Jurassic Park theme through your headphones – icing on the cake. It really places you there. Our pilot told me that some of the original pieces of the landing pad had been left on the other side of the plunge pool but I couldn’t quite make anything out in particular.

Once you have gazed in awe at the waterfall the Helicopter tour continues, taking you around the beautiful island of Kauai and showing you the Nā Pali coast, hidden beaches and much more. It’s a great tour, the whole island looks like Isla Nublar. Our waterfall experience was amazing, and we even got to witness a wedding proposal – congratulations to Marissa and her partner! What a great place to have proposed.

It’s hard, if not impossible to say which location was my favourite to visit but the waterfall does comes close. The whole trip was absolutely wonderful and I’m so grateful to have seen the islands. It’s something I have wanted to do since as early as I can remember and this trip ticked all the boxes. I finally got to visit Jurassic Park. Hands down the best vacation I have had.

I want to thank Sean for showing us so much on the island of Oahu! The Reel News Hawaii/Jurassic Outpost meetup finally happened!

If you are lucky enough to take a vacation to Hawaii then be sure to check out the Kualoa Ranch website for more information on the tours they offer, and the Island Helicopters website for information on the waterfall tour!

I hope you have enjoyed this write-up and the photos too! This trip was filled with great memories that I’ll never forget. Have you been to the islands? Be sure to share your stories and photos with us in the comments section below!

Sam Neill: “I don’t know where Alan Grant is now”

Posted on 18th September 2016 by Jack

The character of Dr Alan Grant has not been seen on screen since 2001’s Jurassic Park 3, and while many were expecting some form of cameo or reappearance in the long-awaited sequel Jurassic World, none of the original cast members showed their face – excluding Dr Wu.

But that doesn’t mean the man who played him has not been busy – New Zealand actor Sam Neill has starred in a number of television series and movies over the past few years, and is currently traveling to promote one of his latest projects, Hunt for the Wilderpeople, which opened two days ago in UK cinemas.

In a recent interview with Yahoo! Movies, the interviewer asked the actor about Alan Grant and whether or not we will see him again. While the clickbait title of the original article will have you think Sam Neill outright said the character is dead, that’s not entirely true. After a slight pause, Sam Neill responded:

“I don’t know where Alan Grant is now. He might have died. He could have a new career as an accountant. He could be running for President of the United States, in a parallel universe. I don’t know where he is. I don’t know if anyone could find him, he’s disappeared.”

As the Yahoo! article states, while promoting movies actors have to sit in the same chair for hours while various journalists ask the same questions over and over, so it’s natural for the actor to start having a bit of fun.

However, Jurassic World made the choice to not include any of the original cast members in the movie, except of course Dr Wu. Some were expecting Ian Malcolm or Alan Grant in a cameo perhaps at the end of the film, but the filmmakers made a bold choice to not include them. That’s not to say some of the original cast members won’t return for a future sequel as some have expressed their interest, but at this point it is seeming unlikely.

Where do you think Dr Alan Grant is now? How would you like to see him return in a sequel? Let us know in the comments section below!

Source: Yahoo!, John Toner

Two New Interviews with Jurassic Park Arcade Developers!

Posted on 15th September 201615th September 2016 by Jack

Over the past few weeks, contributor Joshua Malone has been speaking with two developers from Raw Thrills about their latest arcade game Jurassic Park, which was released at the end of last year. The game was received incredibly well by fans and gamers alike, providing an interesting story between Jurassic Park 3 and leading up to Jurassic World.

Without spoiling the game, it involves the “clean-up” of Isla Nublar that happened before Jurassic World construction began, so it gives us a look at an abandoned island that many fans have wanted to see for quite some time.

Like traditional arcade games it is eccentric, colourful and ridiculous – and that’s what makes it fun. Aside from that, the art direction alone feels very “Jurassic Park”, mixing the deep Nublar jungles with InGen’s concrete buildings and facilities. The dinosaurs are very hybrid-esque with colourful skin patterns and wild behavior, and the game itself flows very nicely. It’s a perfect two player game.

The first interview is with John Scott who was the Lead Programmer for the game:

What new ideas did you try to incorporate into the game that people haven’t seen in previous Jurassic titles? (be it games, books, or the films)
The movies mostly focus on the chaos of dinosaurs getting out. But someone had to get them back to safety! That’s the adventure we wanted to present to players. Something that still shows the incredible danger of these dinosaurs but where they could still feel the accomplishment of bringing them back under control.

And the second was with Nate Vanderkamp, who was the Lead Artist and a Primary Game Designer:

Was there a reason RAW Thrills wanted this game to take place on Nublar (the first JP island) and not Sorna (Site B?)
I think that it just had more of the iconic locations from the original film (Visitor Center, Jungle Waterfall, Kitchen, Entrance Gate). Many people have nostalgia when thinking back to JP and we hoped to connect with players on that level.

The interviews are rich with new information and a great behind the scenes look at the game itself. Check out John Scott’s interview here, and the interview with Nate Vanderkamp here!

If you can find this game in your local arcade then make sure you play it! Huge thanks to Josh for speaking with these two talented developers from Raw Thrills and for coming to us with the interviews! Be sure to check out our interviews page for more interviews we have published over the past few years.

Location Scouting for Jurassic World sequel set to start in Hawaii this November!

Posted on 10th August 201610th August 2016 by Jack

As we previously revealed, the untitled Jurassic World sequel (working title: Ancient Futures) is set to return to Hawaii with filming set to start on February 27th, 2017.

It was unclear which islands specifically the film crew will utilise (with both Oahu and Kauai being used in the past) but we have now learned that the production crew will head to the islands in November of this year, to scout locations for the sequel.

Both Jurassic Park and Jurassic World filmed at the Kualoa Ranch on Oahu, so it’s possible the iconic location will see a return, as well as many others.

Considering all four movies have been filmed on the islands they may already have specific locations in mind, with this “scout” being more of a chance to director J.A. Bayona and his team to plan out scenes. However, it could also allow for them to decide where crucial sets will be built – providing any will be.

The Jurassic World sequel will film in Hawaii, London and rumours of Beacons Beach in Wales have also been heard. The story is currently unknown.

Thanks to Reel News Hawaii and Nublar7 for first reporting this news!

Now that we know the sequel will return to the islands, what are you hoping to see? Nublar, Sorna, or something new entirely? Be sure to let us know in the comments section below!

Source: BizJournals

New Michael Crichton novel ‘Dragon Teeth’ will be published next May

Posted on 29th July 2016 by Jack

HarperCollins have acquired the rights to publish Michael Crichton’s third posthumous novel – entitled ‘Dragon Teeth’ in May. According to Variety, who first reported the news, Dragon Teeth is described as a “fictional recounting of the actual rivalry between paleontologists Edward Drinker Cope and Othniel Charles Marsh during “The Bone Wars” of the 1870s.”

“The story unfolds through the adventures of a young fictional character named William Johnson who is apprenticed first to one, then to the other and not only makes discoveries of historic proportion, but transforms into an inspiring hero only Crichton could have imagined,” the publisher said.

“Known for his meticulous research, Crichton uses Marsh and Copes’ heated competition during the ‘Bone Wars’ — the golden age of American fossil hunting — as the basis for a thrilling story set in the wilds of the American West.”

Michael Crichton, who wrote Jurassic Park, The Lost World, Prey, Congo, Sphere, passed away in 2008. After his unfortunate passing, a number of manuscripts were discovered on his computer, the first being ‘Pirate Latitudes’, which was published in 2009. The second was ‘Micro’, which was finished by Richard Preston and released in 2011.

This is the third manuscript to be discovered and was found by his widow, Sherri, who said:

“When I came across the ‘Dragon Teeth’ manuscript in the files, I was immediately captivated. It has Michael’s voice, his love of history, research and science all dynamically woven into an epic tale.”

There is no official date set for publication, but HarperCollins announced that it was hit the shelves in May of 2017.

It is interesting to note that another manuscript was found, with the potential for more. It makes you wonder if Crichton ever dabbled with something in the universe of Jurassic Park. A potential sequel to The Lost World… one can dream. I do recall an old video interview where he mentioned a novel he was writing, which “Jurassic” fans would enjoy. That very likely became Dragon Teeth, but again, one can dream. If anybody recalls that interview or even has it – please get in touch!

It’s great that Michael Crichton’s work continues to entertain and thrill readers, and that there is more to come! His writing is incredibly detailed, unique, and most of all entertaining. His work continues to inspire, and we really have him to thank for opening up the world of Jurassic Park.

Have you read any of Michael Crichton’s novels aside from Jurassic Park and The Lost World? I personally loved Prey, and Micro was thrilling. Sphere was also great. Be sure to let us know in the comments section below and as always, make sure you’re following our Twitter and Facebook pages for super speedy news.

Source: Variety

Artist Spotlight: Anson Aguirre – Dinosaur and Comic Book Prints

Posted on 25th July 201625th July 2016 by Jack

When I began this website, it was always my intention to help promote artists and creatives alike who I’ve met through the fandom. There is a huge number of talented individuals in this community that all share the same story – Jurassic Park was a huge influence in their life and has helped them pursue their career.

I recently received a number of art prints from Anson Aguirre, a Finland based artist who is currently raising funds to debut his art at Stan Lee’s Comikaze in Los Angeles this October. And after receiving some of his work, I can honestly say that he really deserves to be there. And seeing it in person made me want to write this article, not to urge you into donating, but to highlight the art itself.

Talent comes in many forms, and Anson has managed to capture the Jurassic Park dinosaur style with every single piece he has made. All of the pieces I have seen look like they have come straight out of an art book for one of the Jurassic movies.

Getting into an industry like this is no easy feat, and more recently crowdfunding has helped independent filmmakers show their vision, artists open galleries, musicians fund their albums, and of course, random dudes make potato salad.

Anson has launched an IndieGoGo campaign to help him fund his trip to Los Angeles to debut his art and showcase it to the right audience. I have donated, and if you are an aspiring artist yourself, a creative, or just a fan of art and Jurassic Park in general, then do check out his campaign. Either way, I do hope Anson makes it to Stan Lee’s Comikaze and is able to showcase his work!

It really did blow me away when I opened the package – firstly because I had no idea what it was, but mainly because of just how impressive it is! These are Jurassic Park dinosaurs.

Best of luck Anson, and if you have made some Jurassic related art then be sure to submit it to our ‘fan work‘ section of our forum!

Jurassic World 2 is in full-bore pre-production!

Posted on 22nd July 201622nd July 2016 by Jack

Earlier today we learned that the Jurassic World sequel – working title: Ancient Futures – will begin production on February 27th, 2017 in Hawaii. While we are unsure of the plot, the production team is hard at work prepping the film for production, as confirmed by producer Frank Marshall who recently spoke with Collider’s Steve Weintraub:

“We’re in pre-production. In fact I just got back from London meeting with Juan Antonio and the production designer, we’re designing, he’s doing storyboards. We’re in full-boar pre-production to start shooting sometime early next Spring.”

“As a director Bayona has his input, but Colin and Derek are writing the script. So there have been numerous meetings, and we have the template for the movie. Of course he’s putting in his own ideas and taking ownership of it, but it’s pretty much the original story they came up with.”

“We set the bar pretty high. For me, it’s always about story. As long as the action sequences move the story forward, that’s what’s important. I think we’re just having to look and see how we can involve the characters in the story with whatever dinosaurs we have in the action sequences. It’s a challenge, but it’s a healthy challenge.”

We now know that the sequel will feature the islands in some way or another, and it’s good to hear that pre-production is in full swing. Be sure to let us know in the comments section below what you’d like to see in the movie!

Source: Collider

Chronicle Collectibles tease upcoming Night Vision Goggles replica!

Posted on 11th July 201611th July 2016 by Jack

Chronicle Collectibles – who recently acquired the Jurassic Park license – are busy preparing their display of upcoming products for the San Diego Comic Con, which begins on July 21st. The company currently has three Jurassic Park items available to order through their website, the 1/5th scale T-Rex bust from The Lost World, the Stegosaurus from The Lost World, and their latest: a statue of the T-Rex Breakout scene in Jurassic Park!

Chronicle have been teasing a number of their products for the upcoming event later this month, and today they shared a picture of the night vision goggles that Tim uses in Jurassic Park.

In the comments, Chronicle stated: This is a prototype we are borrowing for Comic Con. We are scanning the original goggles and will reproduce them faithfully to the screen accurate pair from JP and JW. This will be a Christmas PO….

The team at Chronicle also revealed their 1:1 scale Compy which has been cast from an original Stan Winston! They are also working on 1:1 Velociraptor head busts, which they also have teased over at their Facebook page.

Which piece are you most excited to see? Have you purchased any of their current products? What would you like to see? Be sure to let us know in the comments section below!

Win a Jurassic World poster SIGNED by Nick Robinson & Ty Simpkins! [CLOSED]

Posted on 7th June 201614th June 2016 by Jack

To celebrate Jurassic June, we are happy to announce our first competition under our new name Jurassic Outpost: Win a Jurassic World poster signed by Nick Robinson and Ty Simpkins themselves, who played Zach and Gray in Jurassic World!

Along with the poster, you could also win a Hasbro Tyrannosaurus Rex, Jurassic World on DVD, a Jurassic World t-shirt (large) and a replica brochure from the first movie!

There are three ways in which you can enter:

1. Retweet this tweet and make sure you are following us on Twitter
2. Like this image on Instagram and comment your favorite quote from the Jurassic Park franchise
3. Like this photo on Facebook and comment your favorite quote from the franchise

We are allowing you to enter via all three options to increase your own chances of winning – but please only answer on each platform once!

The competition is ~~NOW OPEN~~ and will close Saturday 11th June. Winners will be announced Monday 13th June and prizes will be shipped out within 7 working days.

THIS COMPETITION IS NOW CLOSED

WINNERS:
1st Prize – Via Twitter – Electrazahra
2nd Prize – Via Facebook – Jacqui
3rd Prize – Via Instragram – JurassicWill

Reddit’s /r/JurassicPark Gift Exchange!

Posted on 3rd June 20163rd June 2016 by Jack

To honor the anniversary of the original Jurassic Park film’s release, the subreddit dedicated to all things Jurassic Park has announced a subreddit Gift Exchange!

If you’ve not heard of the gift exchanges before, then it’s relatively simple! All you need to do is sign up, and then you are provided with a fellow redditor’s details where you can send them a Jurassic related gift, worth around $15!

Sign ups close on June 10th and you will receive the relevant contact information the follow day, which is the 1993 release date of Jurassic Park in theatres! Gifts should be sent no later than the 25th June, and gifts should have a value of around $15.

The Jurassic Park subreddit is a great side of the fandom and this is really worth getting involved in. The Reddit Gift Exchange is something that has run for years now and has proven to be very successful, not only among redditors but also among celebrities like Bill Gates, Stephen Colbert and many more.

What a great way to celebrate Jurassic June! Will you be getting involved? Let us know in the comments section below and be sure to check out the /r/JurassicPark subreddit if you haven’t already!