Podcast Summary: The Big Picture Episode – ‘Jurassic World Rebirth’ Does Not Find a Way. Plus: Nolan’s ‘The Odyssey’ Is Coming!
Release Date: July 2, 2025
Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Featuring: Chris Ryan and Ava Victor
Introduction
In this episode of The Big Picture, hosts Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins delve deep into the latest installment of the Jurassic franchise, Jurassic World Rebirth, while also building anticipation for Christopher Nolan’s upcoming film, The Odyssey. The episode features insights from Ringer colleagues Chris Ryan and special guest Ava Victor, a Sundance prize-winning first-time writer and director.
Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey Teaser Trailer
Sean Fennessey begins by sharing his and Chris Ryan’s experience attending an unexpected early morning screening of Jurassic World Rebirth. This spontaneous opportunity allowed them to watch the highly anticipated teaser trailer for The Odyssey before its official release.
- Sean Fennessey [01:20]: “We have just returned from an 8am screening of Jurassic World Rebirth. ... But it worked out well because this gave us an opportunity to see on the big screen the trailer for Christopher Nolan's the Odyssey.”
Amanda Dobbins expresses her excitement for experiencing the trailer in Dolby quality:
- Amanda Dobbins [02:02]: “I was saving it for my Dolby experience. ... I can go see it on the biggest screen possible. As Christopher Nolan intended.”
The hosts and Chris Ryan discuss the visual elements and narrative hints present in the teaser, noting Nolan’s signature use of IMAX cameras and 65mm film to create an immersive experience.
- Chris Ryan [04:07]: “I think that was Christian Bale doing the VO in the beginning. Or is that... It’s John Leguizamo.”
They analyze the film’s thematic direction, comparing it to classic epic tragedies and praising the production design.
- Amanda Dobbins [07:03]: “He is honoring them. And that is just still one of the funniest things that happened on a podcast.”
Jurassic World Rebirth Review
After discussing The Odyssey, the conversation shifts to their experience watching Jurassic World Rebirth. The movie marks the seventh entry in the Jurassic series and the fourth without Steven Spielberg’s direct involvement, though he remains a producer.
Sean Fennessey provides an overview of the film’s background and key contributors:
- Sean Fennessey [10:01]: “This movie is the seventh film in the Jurassic series. ... directed by Gareth Edwards, a filmmaker who I think at least Chris and I have a lot of admiration for.”
The hosts critique various aspects of the movie, highlighting both its strengths and shortcomings. They praise the cinematography and CGI but criticize the screenplay for its plot inconsistencies and character development.
- Amanda Dobbins [11:01]: “I think you guys both need to learn how to have fun again. ... I don't care. And I think that you should open your heart and learn to have fun.”
Chris Ryan echoes these sentiments, appreciating the visual spectacle but questioning the narrative choices:
- Chris Ryan [12:35]: “Two movies in this movie. Yeah, I kind of enjoyed both of those two movies until the two movies became united.”
The discussion includes specific scenes that worked well, such as the T. Rex sequence, and those that fell flat, like the introduction of certain characters and redundant plotlines.
- Sean Fennessy [34:18]: “But Gareth Edwards has the juice when it comes to this kind of action staging. And the CGI looks really good in this movie for the most part.”
They debate the film’s potential box office performance, considering its reception and the franchise’s history.
- Sean Fennessy [46:51]: “It's at 53%. ... I don't think the word of mouth is going to be super strong.”
Conversation with Ava Victor – Sorry Baby
The latter part of the episode features an in-depth conversation with Ava Victor, the director and writer of her debut film, Sorry Baby. Ava shares her journey from acting and playwriting to filmmaking, detailing the challenges and triumphs of creating her first feature.
Ava Victor discusses her inspiration and the personal nature of her work:
- Ava Victor [59:35]: “I was looking for companionship in film, and it sort of let me feel a lot, but in the company of the film.”
Sean Fennessey inquires about her creative process and the balance between personal storytelling and broader appeal.
- Sean Fennessey [63:03]: “You just brought it up though. What was it about?”
Ava elaborates on her unconventional narrative structure and her resistance to traditional storytelling methods:
- Ava Victor [66:11]: “It's like, we are in present day, then we go back four years and then work our way back to the present, skipping over the one we missed.”
She also touches on the experience of pitching her film and navigating the pressures of the film industry without compromising her artistic vision.
- Ava Victor [71:58]: “I was writing this kind of three act structure Thing that was supposed to be this big thing. ... and I just felt like there's something.”
The conversation highlights Ava’s passion for filmmaking and her commitment to creating authentic, personal narratives despite industry challenges.
Concluding Thoughts
As the episode wraps up, Sean, Amanda, and Chris reflect on the themes discussed and express their support for Ava Victor’s burgeoning career. They also share personal anecdotes and lighter moments, maintaining the engaging and conversational tone that listeners appreciate.
- Sean Fennessey [89:29]: “Chris Ryan: No, I agree with the people. ... Ava Victor: They're so good.”
The hosts encourage listeners to watch Jurassic World Rebirth and Ava Victor’s Sorry Baby, promising more insightful discussions in future episodes.
Notable Quotes
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Sean Fennessey [01:20]: “We have just returned from an 8am screening of Jurassic World Rebirth. ... But it worked out well because this gave us an opportunity to see on the big screen the trailer for Christopher Nolan's the Odyssey.”
-
Amanda Dobbins [02:02]: “I was saving it for my Dolby experience. ... I can go see it on the biggest screen possible. As Christopher Nolan intended.”
-
Chris Ryan [12:35]: “Two movies in this movie. Yeah, I kind of enjoyed both of those two movies until the two movies became united.”
-
Ava Victor [66:11]: “It's like, we are in present day, then we go back four years and then work our way back to the present, skipping over the one we missed.”
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Ava Victor [80:59]: “I want a big teddy bear for the movie. That's true. That's true.”
This episode of The Big Picture offers a comprehensive look at the current state of the Jurassic franchise, the excitement surrounding Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey, and an inspiring conversation with an emerging filmmaker. Whether you're a die-hard dinosaur enthusiast or a cinephile looking for fresh voices, this episode delivers engaging content and thoughtful analysis.