Watch Dinosaur 13

Dinosaur 13 is a riveting documentary film that follows the discovery of the world's most complete Tyrannosaurus Rex, Sue, in the Badlands of South Dakota back in 1990. The film focuses on the legal battle between the US government and Peter Larson, a paleontologist and president of the Black Hills Institute of Geological Research, who found Sue on a private ranch and subsequently acquired the specimen through trade.

The documentary features interviews with key players in the case, including Peter Larson, government officials, FBI agents, and the Native American tribe whose land Sue was found on. It also features stunning footage of the excavation process and the laborious task of piecing together the 65 million-year-old bones.

The film examines the question of who owns dinosaur fossils and the complex legal issues surrounding their excavation and sale. The discovery of Sue brought legitimacy to the field of paleontology and generated significant interest in dinosaur remains, making them highly valuable commodities. However, as paleontologists like Peter Larson discovered, the legal framework surrounding the discovery and ownership of fossils was murky at best.

The documentary also delves into the personal toll the legal battle took on Peter Larson, his employees, and his family. The US government seized Sue and her bones under the pretext that Larson had violated federal fossil laws, ultimately charging him and several of his employees with conspiracy, theft, and mishandling of federal property. The trial became an emotional rollercoaster for Larson and his team, who were facing the possibility of jail time and significant fines.

Overall, Dinosaur 13 is a fascinating documentary that sheds light on the intersection of science, politics, and the law. The film raises important questions about the ownership of natural history specimens and the preservation of scientific discoveries for future generations. Featuring a cast of compelling characters and stunning visuals, Dinosaur 13 is a must-watch for anyone interested in the fascinating world of paleontology.