The 90s movie about tiny dinosaurs is Prehysteria!, a charming family adventure film that captivated audiences with its miniature prehistoric creatures. Released in 1993, this movie, along with its sequels, became a notable part of 90s children's entertainment, focusing on the discovery and care of a group of pint-sized dinosaurs.
Discovering Prehysteria!
Prehysteria! centers on the Taylor family, who run a struggling raisin farm. Their lives take an unexpected turn when their dog, a talented scavenger, unearths a cluster of mysterious, glowing eggs. These aren't just any eggs; they hatch into six adorable, palm-sized dinosaurs, each representing a different species, including a mini Tyrannosaurus Rex and a baby Brachiosaurus. The family, particularly the children, quickly bond with these unique pets, leading to a series of comedic and heartwarming adventures as they try to keep their extraordinary secret.
The film's appeal lay in its whimsical concept of tiny, friendly dinosaurs, offering a more lighthearted alternative to the blockbuster dinosaur films of the era. It showcased the imaginative possibilities of what would happen if dinosaurs were not only alive but also perfectly suited for household companionship.
Key Details of the Film Series
The success of the original film led to a trilogy, expanding the adventures of the miniature dinosaurs and their human friends. All films were distributed by Paramount Home Video, making them easily accessible for family viewing during the 90s.
Here's a quick overview of the Prehysteria! series:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Distributed by | Paramount Home Video |
| Release Dates | 1993–1995 (across the three films) |
| Running Time | Approximately 250 minutes (for all 3 films) |
| Country | United States |
| Genre | Family, Adventure, Comedy, Fantasy |
The Miniature Dinosaurs
A key element of the Prehysteria! films was the distinct personalities and characteristics of each tiny dinosaur. While not scientifically accurate in scale, their unique traits made them endearing to viewers. The group typically included:
- Pterodactyl: Often the most mischievous, capable of flight.
- Brachiosaurus: The gentle giant, despite its small size.
- Tyrannosaurus Rex: The smallest but often the most boisterous.
- Triceratops: Known for its playful nature.
- Stegosaurus: A calm and steady presence.
- Protoceratops: Another memorable addition to the miniature menagerie.
These pint-sized creatures often found themselves in humorous predicaments, from hiding in cereal boxes to causing chaos in the kitchen, always with the underlying theme of friendship and family.
Legacy and Appeal
Prehysteria! remains a nostalgic piece of 90s cinema for many who grew up watching it. Its blend of fantasy, family values, and creature-based comedy made it a popular choice for home video rentals and purchases. The film's simple yet engaging premise of ordinary kids discovering extraordinary pets resonated with its target audience, solidifying its place as a memorable movie about tiny dinosaurs from the 1990s.
