Primitive War has been winning over viewers with its mix of action, horror, and science fiction. The movie follows a Vietnam War squad facing deadly dinosaurs while searching for a missing platoon. Directed by Luke Sparke, it has earned strong audience praise, especially on Rotten Tomatoes’ Popcornmeter, where it has outpaced Jurassic World Rebirth.
Of course, Jurassic Park remains the gold standard for dinosaur films. Steven Spielberg’s 1993 classic broke ground with its effects and story, becoming a cultural phenomenon that still holds up today. The film launched sequels, earned nearly a billion dollars globally, and set a high bar that few films have matched. Even the recent Jurassic World entries struggled to capture the original magic.
That makes Primitive War’s strong audience reception noteworthy. Since its limited release on August 21, early viewers have given it an 88 percent Popcornmeter score, signaling excitement for a darker, more intense dinosaur experience. Critics’ scores haven’t fully arrived yet, but fans are clearly responding to its raw, brutal approach.
Unlike Jurassic World Rebirth, which relied on big stars and spectacle, Primitive War focuses on concept and tension. Its trailers promise more violence and suspense, appealing to audiences looking for a grittier dinosaur thriller. Early word-of-mouth could easily turn it into a cult hit, even if reviews end up mixed.
If the momentum continues, Luke Sparke could gain the support to expand the story. Primitive War proves that dinosaur movies still have plenty of life beyond the shadow of Jurassic Park, offering audiences a fresh, thrilling take on a beloved genre.