Content warning: Contains plot details from “The End of Oak Street.”
“The End of Oak Street” has a premise that immediately promises an entertaining trip to the cinema.
At its center is a family living in a suburban neighborhood whose ordinary life is upended by a mysterious cosmic event, leaving them in an unfamiliar world where dinosaurs suddenly roam what was once their normal community.
Directed by David Robert Mitchell and co-produced by J.J. Abrams, the film stars Anne Hathaway, Ewan McGregor, Maisy Stella and Christian Convery as the Platt family. Their suburban life changes completely when Oak Street is transported somewhere unknown, leaving them to figure out how to survive in a world where dinosaurs are now part of the neighborhood.
The dinosaur action is unsurprisingly a highlight of the movie experience with a few well-timed jump scares adding to the tension. But what makes the film even more enjoyable is that it also leaves room for humor. The lighter moments come as a welcome surprise, breaking up the tension and making the overall ride even more entertaining.
At the same time, the story gives attention to the dynamics within the Platt family. Denise (Hathaway) and Greg (McGregor) are a couple trying to keep their family together while dealing with an unimaginable situation. Their struggles add a more personal layer to all the chaos. This makes the story about more than simply escaping dinosaurs.
Of course, the dinosaurs get plenty of time to shine. The action is especially enjoyable in 4DX, where the moving seats and environmental effects make the chase feel more immediate. The 4D experience makes the film’s biggest moments more immersive, particularly during scenes when the dinosaurs are on the attack.
And Starbuck deserves a special mention. The Platts’ dog is easily one of the most lovable parts of the movie and could very well become a favorite character for audiences. With the family’s survival at stake, having Starbuck along makes some of the tense moments feel even more personal and heartwarming.
There’s also a fun little detail involving pizza that viewers may appreciate along the way.
The film is also well suited to the big screen, particularly for viewers who want to get the most out of its dinosaur-filled action. At Ayala Malls Cinemas, audiences can experience the film in 4DX and A-Giant, with the latter offering a much larger screen for the prehistoric creatures and action sequences.
Overall, “The End of Oak Street” is a fun and entertaining mix of dinosaur action, suspense, humor and family drama. The film rounds out the adventure with a playful ending that leaves room for one last smile.
“The End of Oak Street” is now showing in cinemas and IMAX starting today, August 12. The film is rated PG.
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