Hidden Jurassic Park: 30 Facts That Might Surprise You


Updated on November 29, 2023
Jurassic Park Gate

If you’re a fan of stomping T-rex footprints, genetically engineered dinosaur DNA, and the ever-irresistible Jeff Goldblum, then buckle up for a wild ride! We’re about to take you on a journey to the land of unextinct dinosaurs with these Jurassic Park fun facts. Yes, that’s right! We’re serving up some amusing trivia that will make you roar with laughter. So, grab your explorer hat, and let’s delve into the wacky world of Jurassic Park!

1. Dino-Director Dual Role

Remember those gut-wrenching roars of the T-Rex that sent chills down your spine? You can thank director Steven Spielberg for that terror. Spielberg provided the roars for the T-Rex! Yes, that’s right. He got behind the microphone and bellowed out the primal sounds that were then modified to create the infamous T-Rex roars. So next time you’re cowering behind your popcorn, remember – it’s Spielberg you should be thanking for those nightmares! It’s a hilarious reminder of the lengths directors go to bring their vision to life. Who knew directing involved dino-roaring?

2. The Mystery of the Dinosaur Input Device

In one scene, we see a character using a peculiar device to interact with the park’s computer system. It’s actually a disguised Super Nintendo game controller! Who knew you could operate a dinosaur theme park with a gaming console? It just goes to show that sometimes, the world of cinema and gaming can overlap in the most unexpected ways. It’s a fun piece of trivia that adds a dash of gaming nostalgia to the thrilling world of Jurassic Park. So, next time you’re gaming, just imagine – you could be controlling a dinosaur theme park!

3. Dinosaur Kingdom

Dinosaur kingdom

It seems that the dinosaur kingdom is not only confined to the Jurassic period. In the movie, we see dinosaurs from different geological periods, including the Cretaceous and Triassic periods. Imagine the chaos of a high school reunion, but with dinosaurs from millions of years apart. Now that’s a party I would want to attend! It’s an amusing bit of artistic license that brings together a diverse cast of dinosaur characters, making Jurassic Park a real melting pot of prehistoric life. So, next time you’re watching, remember – it’s not just a Jurassic world, it’s a dinosaur kingdom!

4. A Handful of Reptiles

Did you know that the movie, famous for its dinosaur cast, actually features fewer than 15 minutes of dinosaur screen time? That’s less than 10% of the entire film! It’s amazing how a few minutes can leave such a lasting impression and shape our perception of a movie. It’s a testament to the power of effective storytelling and skillful cinematography. So, next time you’re watching Jurassic Park and marveling at the dinosaurs, remember – sometimes, less is more!

5. T-Rex Tooth Fairy

During the production of Jurassic Park, over 12,000 teeth were made for the T-Rex alone! That’s a lot of toothbrushes! This amusing fact shows the level of detail that goes into creating cinematic creatures. Each tooth was meticulously crafted to give the T-Rex its terrifying grin. So, next time you’re brushing your teeth, spare a thought for the poor prop team that had to create thousands of dino-teeth!

6. Water Cup Ripples

Water cup ripples

One of the most iconic scenes in Jurassic Park is when the T-Rex’s footsteps cause ripples in a water cup. This memorable moment, which signaled the arrival of the ferocious T-Rex, was surprisingly difficult to film. In fact, it was achieved by plucking a guitar string that ran through the car, under the cup! Talk about an innovative use of musical instruments. So next time you’re strumming your guitar, remember – you might just be creating the next iconic cinematic moment!

7. Not-so-fierce Raptors

While the velociraptors in Jurassic Park are depicted as fearsome predators, in reality, they were about the size of a turkey. Yes, a turkey! In fact, the movie’s raptors were modeled after the larger Deinonychus. Now that’s what I call a prehistoric identity crisis! It’s an amusing bit of Hollywood exaggeration that adds to the allure and thrill of the movie. So next time you’re carving a turkey, just imagine a pack of hungry raptors instead!

8. The Silent T-Rex

Despite their fearsome reputation, T-Rexes in real life may not have been able to roar at all. Recent research suggests they might have communicated with deep, bird-like sounds or even silently! Spielberg might have taken some creative liberties with the roaring, but can you imagine a silent T-Rex? It’s a fun fact that adds a touch of real-world science to the fantastic world of Jurassic Park. So next time you hear a T-Rex roar, just remember – in reality, they might have been the silent types!

9. Size Matters, But Not To Spielberg

Dilophosaurus from Jurassic Park

In reality, the Dilophosaurus was much larger than the small, frilled creature we see in Jurassic Park. Spielberg shrank it for dramatic effect. Because who wouldn’t be scared of a cute, frilled creature that spits venom? This amusing fact is a testament to Spielberg’s genius, using unexpected elements to create suspense and horror. So next time you see a small dinosaur, remember – it might just be a shrunken Dilophosaurus!

10. Spielberg’s Prehistoric Pet

Spielberg, a known dog lover, used his own pet Labrador to model the Gallimimus flock’s movements. Who knew that man’s best friend could also serve as a prehistoric puppet? This fun fact adds a touch of warmth and personal touch to the exciting dinosaur chase scenes in the movie. So next time you’re out walking your dog, just imagine it’s a Gallimimus in disguise!

11. The Dinosaur Auction

In Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom, we see an auction for dinosaurs. In real life, dinosaur fossils do get auctioned off, but the prices are somewhat more modest. A T-Rex skeleton, for instance, went for $8.36 million – quite a bargain compared to the $28 million Indominus Rex from the movie. It’s an amusing comparison that adds a pinch of reality to the film’s extraordinary premise. So next time you’re out shopping, remember – a dinosaur skeleton might just be in your price range!

12. The Soggy T-Rex

Wet T-Rex

The T-Rex animatronic used in Jurassic Park became heavier when it got wet, causing it to shake and shudder uncontrollably. This ‘dino malfunction’ caused some laughter (and maybe a bit of panic) behind the scenes. So if you ever see a T-Rex trembling in the rain, remember – it might just be having a case of the water-weights! This fun fact adds a touch of humor to the formidable T-Rex and is a nod to the challenges of bringing dinosaurs to life on the big screen.

13. Spielberg’s ‘Dino’ Obsession

The ‘Jurassic Park’ project wasn’t Spielberg’s first dinosaur-themed idea. He previously produced the animated series ‘Land Before Time.’ From cartoons to blockbuster films, it seems Spielberg has a real fondness for these prehistoric creatures. It’s an amusing connection that adds depth to Spielberg’s oeuvre and shows that our passions can lead us to great success. So, next time you’re watching ‘Land Before Time,’ remember – it’s all part of Spielberg’s dino obsession!

14. Triceratops Poop

Dinosaur poop

Remember the giant pile of dinosaur dung in Jurassic Park? It was actually made from clay, mud, and straw. Talk about creative use of craft materials! This hilarious behind-the-scenes fact shows the magic of movie making, where even the most unsavory elements are meticulously crafted to add authenticity to the film. So next time you’re working on a clay project, just remember – it could be the next big pile of dino-dung on the silver screen!

15. Jurassic Park Language

The computers in Jurassic Park used lines of code from an actual Apple Macintosh system. But in one of the movie’s funniest oversights, they were supposedly running a UNIX system. It’s a charmingly nerdy fact that reminds us that even in the most thrilling action films, there’s room for a little tech humor. So next time you’re at your computer, just imagine – you might be running Jurassic Park!

16. High-Flying Security

Did you ever wonder what keeps those massive, meat-eating dinos within their confines at Jurassic Park? It turns out it’s nothing more than a series of electric fences charged with a whopping 10,000 volts. Now that’s what I call a shocking experience! However, while the park spared no expense in creating high-flying security measures for the dinosaurs, they seemed to neglect the human element. Their lack of a robust IT department led to the nefarious actions of one Dennis Nedry, proving that your greatest threat can come from inside the house… or, in this case, the park! It’s a fun reminder that sometimes, it’s not the big, scary dinosaurs you need to watch out for – it’s the humans!

17. Ancient Art Imitation

If you’ve ever marveled at the beautiful dinosaur murals decorating the park, you might be interested to know they were actually inspired by the work of Charles R. Knight, a renowned paleoartist known for his captivating and scientifically accurate representations of prehistoric life. Knight’s work has been influential in shaping our understanding and perception of dinosaurs, and it’s fascinating to see his influence in Jurassic Park’s aesthetic. So, next time you’re watching the movie, take a moment to appreciate the ancient art imitation on the walls. It’s a testament to the film’s attention to detail and commitment to creating a visually stunning, immersive environment.

18. Spielberg’s Shadow

In one of the most thrilling scenes of Jurassic Park, where Muldoon meets his untimely end at the hands (or should I say, claws) of a raptor, eagle-eyed viewers might spot an extra shadow cast on the leaves. That shadow isn’t an extra dinosaur lurking in the foliage, but director Spielberg himself! Yes, the mastermind behind the magic was caught on film while giving instructions to actor Bob Peck. It’s a hilarious reminder that making movie magic often involves sneaky behind-the-scenes moments.

19. Scream Queen Lex

Scream Queen Lex

Ariana Richards, the actress who played Lex, didn’t win her role through a conventional audition. Rather, her blood-curdling, glass-shattering scream sealed the deal for Spielberg. It turns out, being able to scream at just the right pitch and volume is a highly valued skill in the dinosaur-filled world of Jurassic Park. So, next time you watch the film and hear Lex’s impressive shrieks, remember – it’s all thanks to Richards’ unique talent. I guess it pays to be loud sometimes!

20. Dino Sounds in Your Home

What’s the sound of a baby raptor hatching? If you’re thinking of some exotic animal or rare bird, you’d be far off the mark. The sounds used in the movie for the baby raptors emerging from their eggs are nothing more than ice cream cones being twisted! It’s amazing how everyday objects can be used to create such unique and memorable sounds. So next time you’re enjoying a sundae, remember – you’re just a twist away from creating your very own Jurassic soundtrack!

21. Humble Beginnings

T-Rex from Jurassic Park

Even the mightiest T-Rex has humble beginnings. The fearsome T-Rex we’ve all come to love and fear started as nothing more than a small clay model. This model was then digitized and turned into the thunderous beast that’s been giving us nightmares since ’93. It’s an amazing reminder of how movie magic can transform the smallest of things into the most significant, unforgettable creatures. So the next time you’re sculpting a T-Rex out of clay with your kids, remember – you’re just one digitizing process away from creating your own Jurassic monster!

22. Mistaken Identity

When Spielberg first got his hands on Michael Crichton’s Jurassic Park novel, he made a bit of a blunder. He originally thought the book was a screenplay, thanks to its relentless, non-stop action. And when he realized it was a novel? Well, he dubbed it “the best damn storyboards” he’d ever read! This fun fact goes to show that even the best of us can mix things up sometimes, and sometimes those mix-ups can lead to some of the greatest cinematic masterpieces!

23. Crichton’s Cut

Would you sell your dinosaur-themed novel to be turned into a movie? And if so, for how much? Michael Crichton reportedly demanded a cool $1.5 million and a generous percentage of the gross to sell the rights to his book. And why not? After all, where else are you going to get a story filled with DNA-spliced dinosaurs, theme park chaos, and high-voltage fence mishaps? It’s a reminder that sometimes, your wildest ideas can be worth more than you think!

24. The Kitchen Nightmare

The Kitchen Nightmare

That heart-stopping kitchen scene, where the kids narrowly escape becoming raptor lunch? It took an entire week to shoot. Imagine spending a week in a kitchen, not to bake cookies or prepare a gourmet meal, but to film a life-or-death chase scene with some of the most intelligent and deadly predators in the history of cinema. It’s a fun insight into the hard work and time that goes into creating our favorite movie moments!

25. Goldblum’s Love Triangle

Romance wasn’t only in the air for the dinosaurs in Jurassic Park. Co-stars Laura Dern and Jeff Goldblum began dating during the filming of the movie. However, their love story didn’t end in marriage. Dern later married musician Ben Harper, while Goldblum found love with Emilie Livingston. A sweet and surprising fun fact that adds a touch of real-life romance to the dinosaur-filled action of Jurassic Park!

26. Iguanodon Mix-Up

It seems that Jurassic Park could have used a paleontologist on their graphics team. The Iguanodon image used in the park’s computer system is actually a mislabeled depiction of a Raptor. We know dinosaurs are old, but one would think that over millions of years, we would have sorted out which one is which. This funny goof is a nod to the various inaccuracies and misconceptions about dinosaurs that have persisted in popular culture. Next time you see an Iguanodon in a book, just remember to double-check whether it’s not a raptor in disguise!

27. Nedry’s Hawaiian Shirts

Nedry's Hawaiian Shirts

Dennis Nedry, the devious character who sabotages Jurassic Park’s security, has quite a colorful wardrobe. His flamboyant Hawaiian shirts are actually a nod to the Hawaiian location where much of the movie was filmed. Perhaps he was trying to bring a bit of that aloha spirit into the park, or maybe he was just a fan of tropical fashion. Either way, it’s a delightful and amusing detail that adds a layer of fun to Nedry’s otherwise nefarious character. Who knew that amidst the tension and terror, Jurassic Park was also setting fashion trends?

28. The Apatosaurus Incident

The Apatosaurus, a gentle herbivore, is mentioned in the first Jurassic Park movie but doesn’t make an appearance until Jurassic World. Talk about playing hard to get! I guess they were just being fashionably late to the party. It’s a humorous insight into the various dinosaur species featured throughout the Jurassic series, and a reminder that not all our prehistoric pals are as punctual as we’d like them to be. So if you’re ever watching Jurassic Park and find yourself asking, “Where’s the Apatosaurus?” Just remember – good things come to those who wait!

29. The Jurassic Park Theme

Do you ever find yourself humming the iconic Jurassic Park theme? Did you know that it took John Williams just a few hours to compose? The uplifting, adventurous score that has since become synonymous with the awe and wonder of dinosaurs was created in less time than it takes to watch the entire Jurassic series. It’s an amusing testament to Williams’ incredible talent and the powerful impact of music in cinema. So next time the Jurassic Park theme gets stuck in your head, remember – it’s the product of a few hours of creative genius!

30. T-Rex Terror

T-Rex Terror

Last but not least, the mighty T-Rex, king of the dinosaurs and star of the Jurassic series. The thunderous sound of the T-Rex’s footsteps that had us all on the edge of our seats was created using the sound of cut sequoias crashing to the ground. Talk about heavy footsteps! It’s a fun fact that shows the creativity and innovation that goes into making movies, transforming everyday sounds into extraordinary, unforgettable cinematic moments. So, next time you’re out in the woods and hear a tree fall, just imagine a T-Rex is nearby!

Conclusion

From the T-Rex’s diva moments to Goldblum’s persuasive charisma, Jurassic Park continues to captivate us with its blend of humor, adventure, and animatronic dinosaurs. Whether it’s the thought of a dinosaur ballet or a lethal lollipop, these Jurassic Park fun facts prove that this movie has always been more than meets the eye. So, next time you pop in your Jurassic Park DVD, don’t forget to chuckle at these whimsical behind-the-scenes tidbits!

FAQ

What is special about Jurassic Park?

Jurassic Park is a spectacular mashup of science fiction and action-adventure. It brought dinosaurs back to life in a way never seen before, dazzling audiences with its groundbreaking special effects and animatronics. What’s more, it’s packed with fun behind-the-scenes tidbits, like Spielberg providing the roars for the T-Rex and a Super Nintendo controller being used as a computer input device! It’s a movie that truly encapsulates the magic of cinema.

What are some fun facts about Jurassic Park 1993?

The original Jurassic Park is overflowing with amusing trivia! For instance, the iconic water cup ripple effect was achieved using a guitar string. The velociraptors, while depicted as fearsome, were actually about the size of a turkey. Even the giant pile of dinosaur dung had its own amusing backstory, made from clay, mud, and straw. The movie is a treasure trove of fun facts that add a new layer of enjoyment to the viewing experience.

What is a fun fact about Jurassic World Dominion?

One amusing tidbit about Jurassic World Dominion is that the Indominus Rex, a hybrid dinosaur created in the movie, was sold at an auction for $28 million. In reality, a T-Rex fossil sold for a much more modest $8.36 million. This humorous comparison highlights the fantastic extravagance of the Jurassic World universe.

What is interesting about Jurassic World?

Jurassic World, a sequel to the original series, brings a new level of spectacle and grandeur to the franchise. Its depiction of a fully operational dinosaur theme park, filled with thrilling attractions and breathtaking encounters, takes the wonder and terror of Jurassic Park to new heights. It’s also home to amusing trivia, like the exaggerated auction prices for dinosaurs, which adds a touch of humor to the thrilling spectacle.

What are 3 fun facts about the Jurassic period?

While the Jurassic period doesn’t feature heavily in the movie, it’s an essential part of the backstory. The Jurassic period saw the dominance of dinosaurs and the appearance of the first birds and mammals. Interestingly, many of the dinosaurs we see in the movie, like the T-Rex and the Velociraptors, actually lived during the Cretaceous period, not the Jurassic. Also, real T-Rexes might have been silent or communicated with deep, bird-like sounds – quite a contrast to their roaring cinematic counterparts!

Which Jurassic Park is the oldest?

The oldest Jurassic Park movie is the 1993 original, directed by Steven Spielberg. It was the film that started it all, bringing dinosaurs back to life and captivating audiences with its groundbreaking special effects and thrilling storytelling.

What is the most famous scene in Jurassic Park?

While Jurassic Park has many iconic scenes, one of the most memorable is the first T-Rex encounter. The suspenseful buildup, marked by the ripples in the water cup, and the terrifying reveal of the T-Rex is etched into cinematic history. Interestingly, the effect of the water cup ripples was created using a guitar string – a fun fact that adds a touch of humor to this spine-chilling scene.

What is the weird dinosaur from Jurassic Park?

One of the weirdest dinosaurs in Jurassic Park is the Dilophosaurus. In reality, Dilophosaurus was much larger and didn’t have a frill or spit venom. Spielberg shrank it down and added these fantastical elements for dramatic effect, creating one of the most memorable (and weirdest) dinosaurs in the movie. So if you ever see a small, frilled creature in a movie, you might just be looking at a Hollywood-ized Dilophosaurus!

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