Dinosaurs!

This movie embodies what it's like to give a presentation while having adhd.

This claymation-live action mix casts Fred Savage as a boy writing a report on dinosaurs. The best parts are of course the scenes of the dinosaurs, all done in claymation. I really liked the "Rex and Herb" scene. "Dinosaurs!" shows that - contrary to the shorts on "Mystery Science Theater 3000" - educational films do not have to be boring. Of course, I wouldn't expect Will Vinton to make a boring movie. It's the perfect balance between silly and informative, with a lot of clever stuff. It's too bad that Will Vinton eventually got fired from his own studio after Nike's Phil Knight took it over.

So yes, do some detective work.

I'll admit my nostalgia filter is working at full steam, but this obscure delight is worth watching for any Dinosaur or stop motion animation fan. With bright colors, prime Fred Savage likability, and bright fascinating art and models by Will Vinton it's a must for 80/90s kids and modern kids alike.

I loved this early Will Vinton claymation piece as a kid, and it seems to have only gotten better with age. I can still remember how utterly hilarious we all thought it was when we first saw it. Even after 20 plus years it appears to be universally admired by all who see it. It uses both "Chalkboard animation" (complete with student comments in the background) and the "claymation" style of animation for which Vinton is now famous. This piece seems to have broad appeal, both because of its popular subject and creative style. I still think this is Vinton's greatest work.