Josh Kirby: Time Warrior! Chap. 1: Planet of the Dino-Knights

Josh Kirby: Time Warrior! Chap. 1: Planet of the Dino-Knights is a home video science fiction adventure movie, first in a series of six, which was directed by Ernest D. Farino. The film, released in 1995, features Corbin Allred, Jennifer Burns, Derek Webster, and Barrie Ingham. This family-oriented adventure movie showcases an interesting mix of time travel, dinosaurs, knights, and teen bravado.

The plot revolves around the young protagonist, Josh Kirby, played by Corbin Allred. Josh is your typical, everyday American teenager; not exactly a jock, and not exactly a nerd either, but an earnest and spunky young man who winds up on an epic adventure right from his own backyard. His life takes a turn when, while working on a school science project, he is caught up in a freak accident. He suddenly finds himself transported back in time to the age of dinosaurs after an experiment initiated by the eccentric Dr. Irwin 1138 (Barrie Ingham), goes awry.

The scientist, Dr. Irwin 1138, invents a powerful device named the NULLIFIER. In the wrong hands, this device has the potential to annihilate entire universes. Ironically, fearing its misuse, Irwin dismantles it into six pieces, only for these parts to be scattered across time and space as an unexpected consequence of his experiment.

Josh Kirby’s adventure becomes truly deeper and more dangerous when he is tasked with finding the pieces of this Nullifier, before it gets into the wrong hands. He is accompanied through his time-hopping adventures by Azabeth Siege, played by Jennifer Burns, a warrior from the 25th century with a complex backstory and a personal stake in their mission. Their antagonist is the evil Dr. Zoetrope (Derek Webster), a menacing figure set on getting the Nullifier pieces for his own sinister motives.

In the first chapter of this series, 'Planet of the Dino-Knights', Josh lands in a feudal world where armored knights ride dinosaurs into battle. This unique cinematic universe, where prehistoric dinosaurs cohabit with classic medieval elements, sets an interesting premise for the time-travel saga to unfold. Here, amidst dangerous battles between knights and breathtaking chase sequences on dinosaur-backs, Josh learns to navigate within the treacherous terrain, all while grappling with an approaching deadline and trying to find the first piece of the Nullifier.

As the conversion of time and space turns dinosaurs into battle-beasts and knights into time-crusading soldiers, the film emphasizes the character growth of Josh Kirby, who learns quickly to adapt to his new surroundings, question everything, and approach the dire situations bravely. As he journeyed through this alien time and space, he also developed a deeper understanding of companionship, sacrifice, and responsibility.

Corbin Allred does a commendable job of embodying the confused yet brave Josh Kirby, making his journey relatable and engaging. Jennifer Burns as Azabeth brings a compelling depth and gravitas to her role, playing an essential part in the mission and introducing an interesting dynamic into the growing bond between her and Kirby. Derek Webster creates an ominous and threatening figure as the villainous Dr. Zoetrope, while Barrie Ingham as Dr. Irwin 1138 brings an unforgettable eccentricity to the storyline.

This endlessly exciting saga fuses genres and time-pockets, from science fiction and adventure to historical elements. The film's script keeps the audience on their toes with well-placed parts of humor, heart, and surprises, making it a fantastic movie for families to watch.

Visually, the film is filled with vibrant and expansive prehistoric landscapes, sprawling castles, and stunning special effects that hold up well, considering the time of its release in 1995.

In summary, Josh Kirby: Time Warrior! Chap. 1: Planet of the Dino-Knights is a testament to the adventurous spirit of young heroes. With its mix of time-travel, dinosaurs, and knights, not to mention a daring rescue mission across galaxies, it sets a tantalizing stage for the rest of the Josh Kirby saga. All in all, it promises a thrilling ride for the young and the old, who still possess a piece of their adventurous childhood in their hearts.