One of the most anticipated movies of the 21st century, “A Minecraft Movie,” released in theaters on Friday. Because it is directed by Jared Hess and stars A-list comedy actors — like Jack Black, Jason Momoa and Jennifer Coolidge — the thought of this movie excited all, causing an internet takeover and sending many original Minecraft players back to their roots.
Set in Chuglass, Idaho, “A Minecraft Movie” follows the story of the young and creative Henry played by Sebastian Eugene. Henry has problems fitting in at school, ultimately leading to him meeting Garett, played by Jason Momoa.
Together, the pair discover a strange illuminated orb — in reality it is a cube — that leads them to an abandoned mineshaft. There they discover a blocky portal. Henry’s sister, Natalie, played by Emma Myers, and her friend, Dawn, played by Danielle Brooks, arrive in search of Henry. Once reunited, the group is sucked into the cube-shaped portal, teleporting them to “Minecraft’s” overworld.
Once transported to the overworld, a wave of nostalgia brushed over the audience when a track from the original game, aptly named “Minecraft” by the artist C418, played in the background.
Contrary to the calming music, the transition to the cube-shaped world baffles the group of characters. Nightfall quickly arrives in the world, allowing mobs of zombies, skeletons and creepers to spawn. The group of four quickly gather knowledge about the new world to defend themselves.
Thankfully, they are graciously rescued by Jack Black’s character, introducing himself with his now iconic line “I am Steve.”
The group embark on an adventure to save their home from the threat of the evil empress Malgosha, played by Rachel House, and her Piglin army from the Nether.
For die-hard “Minecraft” fans and newcomers alike, this movie entertains through a perfect blend of comedy, adventure and emotion. Cameos from famous “Minecraft” Youtubers, such as Aphmau, DanTDM, LDShadowLady, as well as a reference to the late Technoblade, are incorporated into “A Minecraft Movie,” which showcases Minecraft’s culture and nostalgia.
The concept of this beloved game moving to the big screen and the chance to see what it would really be like to live in this fantasy world is executed marvelously. This movie did not stray far from the games originality, leaving fans pleased.
The characters are brought to life by their actors, and the constant comedic moments allow for a carefree tone and a sense of childhood. For many movies, nonsense and quirks are usually what cause bad ratings, but in this case, it enhances “A Minecraft Movie.”
The actual script of this movie follows similar tropes to many other game adaption movies, like “The Super Mario Bros. Movie,” causing the storyline to feel repetitive and basic.
Although the plot lacks in some areas, the constant simulation of wondrous moments and the b-plot help distract from this flaw. Examples of this are the brewing romance between the vice principal played by Jennifer Coolidge and a nitwit “Minecraft” villager as well as insight into the villain’s daily life and motivations. These additions distract from the film’s sub-par plot and promote watchers to focus on other aspects of the movie.
“A Minecraft Movie” is an imaginative journey and enjoyable for fans of both movies and video games. For a game that takes weeks or even months to fully explore, this movie displays the best aspects of Minecraft in just one hour and 40 minutes. This movie is now playing in theaters such as Santikos Palladium, Cinemark, and Regal for those seeking a digital escape.
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