Rex: A Dinosaur’s Story

The events unfold in contemporary times, with modern laboratories, television production, and public interest in Rex. Holiday-time tension builds as Christmas Eve drives the chase to keep Rex safe. The narrative juxtaposes cutting-edge science with ancient myth connected to Mu and Jōmon-era artifacts, all within a clearly modern context.

The story centers around a remote cave in Tokachi, Hokkaido, where Mu-era relics and a glowing golden dinosaur idol are found. It also follows the characters back to Akira’s home laboratory and Naomi’s New York connections, including a future dinosaur museum. Key settings include a snowbound town with snowmobiles and an igloo, and the cave’s Mu temple remains that hint at ancient mysteries.

👪 Family

Chie’s longing for her mother anchors the film and motivates the journey. The narrative explores forgiveness, reconciliation, and the enduring bonds between parent and child. Family decisions shape Rex’s fate and test the characters’ loyalty to one another. The story ultimately circles back to the importance of chosen family and care.

🧭 Adventure

The trio’s quest to reunite Rex with his mother spurs a perilous journey across snowy towns, caves, and open skies. The pursuit is punctuated by dramatic escapes from the museum director, using snowmobiles and a hot air balloon. The film emphasizes curiosity, risk, and the thrill of discovery in unknown places.

🗿 Ancients

Ainu-guided explorations and Mu-related artifacts connect the present to an ancient mythic lineage. The cave, Mu temple remains, and a crystal skull symbolize a lost civilization that still exerts influence on the living. Language clues and artifacts tie modern science to ancient mystery, driving the central puzzle.

🐾 Ethics

Rex’s exploitation as a TV icon raises questions about animal welfare and the price of fame. The characters resist overworking the infant dinosaur and choose a path toward his natural life and eventual reunion with his mother. The narrative weighs entertainment against responsibility, emphasizing compassionate care for a sentient creature.