This article contains spoilers for the third season of Jurassic World: Chaos Theory, now available for streaming on Netflix.
Jurassic World: Chaos Theory introduces one of the most captivating yet terrifying characters within the franchise: the Handler. Traditionally, the Jurassic Park and Jurassic World series focus on humans navigating the perilous chaos unleashed by dinosaurs. Characters often fall into two categories: those realistically grappling with the awe and terror of their situation and manipulators attempting to bend nature to their will—usually with fatal consequences. Season 3 continues this trend, delivering unsettling outcomes.
The Handler: The Franchise’s Most Terrifying Human
Chaos Theory’s Handler: An Exceptional Villain
In its third season, Jurassic World: Chaos Theory reintroduces the Handler with a surprisingly emotional arc, while reinforcing her status as the most daunting human figure in the saga. Introduced in the first season as a cold assassin, she commands a pack of lethal Atrociraptors using only a whistle. Throughout Chaos Theory, she exhibits a chilling demeanor that poses immense danger to the main characters, especially the Nublar Six.
Even as Brooklynn temporarily allies with the Handler during undercover operations in Santos’ dinosaur black market, the tension between them remains palpable. This tension peaks in the episode “Decisions, Decisions…”when the Handler confronts Brooklynn directly. In a gripping display, she stalks her prey in the catacombs, nearly killing Brooklynn with her bare hands, only to be persuaded to collaborate. This encounter positions the Handler more as a horror villain, amplifying the impact of her hidden humanity.
Season 3 Unveils a Complex Emotional Arc for the Handler
The Handler’s Love for Her Atrociraptors
While initially only hinted at in Season 1, the Handler’s emotional depth is further explored in Season 3, revealing her genuine affection for her Atrociraptors. She previously refrained from attacking the Nublar Six, prioritizing the safety of her trained predators. This bond is explicitly threatened by Santos, who plans to sell the dangerous creatures to the highest bidder.
This scenario triggers a pivotal moment for the Handler, as her loyalty to her dinosaurs ignites a fierce rebellion against Santos. This juxtaposition of her cold-hearted professionalism in her missions and her warm connection to her Atrociraptors enhances her character complexity, revealing the duality of her nature.
The Handler as an Antithesis to Owen Grady
Owen Grady and the Handler: Contrasting Approaches to Dinosaurs
The Handler serves as a striking foil to Owen Grady, portrayed by Chris Pratt, who embodies the heroic side of dinosaur training. While Owen nurtures a deep bond with his raptors and advocates for peaceful coexistence, the Handler’s relationship with her Atrociraptors is predicated on control and violence. Owen’s sociable nature sharply contrasts with the Handler’s cold silence, emphasizing her ruthlessness.
Though both characters share a connection with their dinosaurs, the Handler’s approach starkly highlights that emotional connections can exist even among individuals with malevolent intentions. This complex portrayal reinforces the notion that both friendships and rivalries can flourish within the dinosaur world.
The Handler’s Fate: A Significant Revelation About the Franchise
A Grim Fate that Resonates
The Handler’s abrupt fate in Season 3 becomes a pivotal plot twist that stays true to the franchise’s themes. In a critical moment during a battle against Santos, her bond with her raptors proves profound, yet ultimately, she is betrayed by her own Carnotaurus, ending her life in a shocking instant.
This death serves as a harsh reminder within the Jurassic World narrative that humans are not the apex predators. Regardless of their lethal capabilities, even the most adept characters can swiftly fall victim to the chaos that dinosaurs present. As Jurassic World: Chaos Theory gears up for an anticipated fourth season, the Handler’s demise underscores the unpredictability of survival in a world ruled by prehistoric giants.