My long time friend and associate, Scott Gwin, loves sequels; can’t get enough of em. I’m sure he’ll be as giddy as a Japanese school girl with even more rumors about Jurassic Park IV.

The Jurassic Park Trilogy has had its ups and downs. Jurassic Park was one of the most groundbreaking films ever in respect to special effects usage. The acting was top notch and the story was excellent. The Lost World was ok but, frankly, disappointing. The 3rd movie in the series was an entertaining popcorn movie that didn’t waste time on too much backstory. It was your typical summer movie but I wanted more. I wanted the feel of the first movie.

Rumors of Jurassic Park IV have run rampant for a few years now. Last month RopesofSilicon reported that famed paleontologist Dr. Jack Horner confirmed he was again involved with the making of the next Jurassic Park movie. Horner, the Shatner of the Dino-Geek World, was also a technical advisor for the previous three movies. The same site also reports that Bill Monahan completed the script and it involves the Sam Neil’s character, Sir Richard Attenborough’s, the granddaughter, and Vince Vaughn’s character from The Lost World. Most reports say that all of the original cast members for those parts will be back. That would include a now grown up Lex. played by Ariana Richards.

I’m not exactly fond of Richards having a big part though. I’m not convinced she’s a strong enough actress for the part. Her acting drove me nuts in the first movie. However, a long standing rumor involving Keiera Knightley definitely peaks my interest. Knightley, according to rumors, has been in talks of starring in JP4. Most places assume she would be a new character but one unsubstantiated rumor has Knightley taking over the role of Lex from Richards. I’m conflicted on this. For one, Knightley would be a great addition to the cast and add some more star power. However, I kinda feel uneasy about having the hots for Lex. It’s like the feeling you had when you realized Leia French kissed her brother Luke. Icky!

Whatever happens, I just hope the script is damn impressive. The script needs to break out of the friendly formula and go a little edgier. Jurassic Park IV is currently in pre-production but don’t expect to see anything until summer 2006 or 2007. I’m sure Scott is already in line.