Published May 5, 2025
BY LAITH RODRIGUEZ
“A Minecraft Movie” is a crazy mix of nods to the video game franchise, filled with poor plot points and interesting video effects, all the while remaining a record-breaker for the video game movie category in the box office with a $163 million opening weekend.
In the movie based off the hit video game by Mojang Studios, orphans Henry (Sebastian Hansen) and older sister Natalie (Emma Myers) move to Chuglass, Ohio, helped with their move by Dawn (Danielle Brooks), who runs a mobile zoo out of her car. Henry meets town local Garrett (Jason Momoa), who ends up taking him to a mineshaft, where they are tracked by Natalie and Dawn. The four get sucked into the world of Minecraft and meet Steve (Jack Black), a man who got sucked into this world some time prior.
Courtesy of WARNER BROTHERS PICTURES and LEGENDARY PICTURES
The plot of this movie, if not already obvious, is disjointed. There are moments where viewers may question the point of some material’s introduction and the rapid pace and change of setting makes it a confusing and disappointing watch. And why is the movie about the game not just always in the game? There are flashes to the real world about things happening that are totally unnecessary to plot.
The comparison between what the game actually looks like and what ends up being in the film is jarring. Why does everything look hairy or smooth and not block-like and pixelated, like the real deal? Why are infamous monsters of the game franchise hyper-realistic? It’s unsettling and inconsistent.
Jack Black does what Jack Black does best: be goofy. Whether breaking out into song about a chicken or randomly saying the title of tools he’s using in the film, his role is indubitably fundamental to the success at the box office.
Courtesy of WARNER BROTHERS PICTURES and LEGENDARY PICTURES
Something that people have clearly missed is watching movies with other people. Some viewers were clapping or cheering during the duration of the film. There are also many Easter eggs and nods to things important to the game’s past, and those who understand them appreciate them. There’s a certain energy in the air for this movie, which is certainly felt during the viewing experience.
While the film itself leaves a lot to be desired, nods to the game’s history and the atmosphere of watching with friends more than makes up for it.
6/10
