Invasion Of The Robot Dinosaurs

Given the overwhelming popularity of anything featuring dinosaurs, it's unfortunate that this often entertaining half-hour program is hampered by a ridiculous framing device. Written and directed by Jonathan Ayre, the story follows a young school boy's visit to a museum, where an extensive exhibit of robotic dinosaurs are on display (the Dinamation tour is currently making the rounds in museums across the country). Viewers witness the natural movements of such legendary dinos as Tyrannosaurus rex, Triceratops, Apatasaurus, and Pteranodon, while also learning about their eating habits and general lifestyle. Limited special effects recreate the popular theories of why the dinosaurs became extinct, examine the history of paleontology, and demonstrate the basics of bone excavation. Interspersed throughout is a sappy "story" about the boy's interest in a bully's girlfriend. This story is told MTV-style with synthesizer music laid over long meaningful looks that pass between the three principals. Twin Tower's Dinosaurs, Dinosaurs, Dinosaurs and More Dinosaurs ($14.95 each) are better choices. Not recommended. (Available from most distributors.)