When I first heard about A Minecraft Movie, I was curious and excited. As someone who has spent countless hours in the blocky world of Minecraft, I couldn’t wait to see how they would bring this beloved game to life on the big screen. But at the same time, I wondered if Hollywood could truly capture the magic of a game. However, they have done a great job. Directed by Jared Hess, this high-budget movie does not disappoint when it comes to screenplay. If you grew up playing Minecraft and loved the game, then this movie does have a lot for you.
The film begins with four strangers—Garrett(Jason Momoa), Natalie(Emma Myers), Dawn(Danielle Brooks), and Henry(Sebastian Hansen)—mysteriously brought into the Minecraft Overworld. Led by Steve(Jack Black), the game’s beloved character, they have to survive in this world of pixels to return home while defeating the evil sorceress Malgosha and her army of Piglins. The story is straightforward but interesting. From the time the characters set foot in the Overworld, the visuals are breathtaking. The blocky environments, pixelated creatures, and classic mobs such as Creepers and Endermen are all recreated using fantastic CGI. It was like entering the game itself, and I couldn’t help but smile at the sense of familiarity.
Jason Momoa as Garrett is a commanding presence in the film. His is a grizzled adventurer who learns to navigate the Overworld challenges. Momoa’s charisma is on full display, and he brings some truly hilarious scenes. Jack Black as Steve is the movie’s emotional center—his timing and energy are contagious. Emma Myers and Danielle Brooks appear young as Natalie and Dawn, but their characters are underwritten. Neither receives much on-screen time to make their presence felt. I enjoyed the thoughtful casting and everybody performs well.
Aside from the wonderful screenplay, visuals, and CGI, editing is top-notch and it feels more than a typical animation film. One of the things I particularly enjoyed was the humor. The movie greatly indulges in awkward comedy and ridiculous situations. There were some of the jokes that left me in stitches. While I liked most of A Minecraft Movie, it is not flawless. The pace rushes along at times—particularly when characters are to bond or develop emotionally at important points. Likewise, Dawn’s history is teased but never developed; we’re informed she has survival skills due to past encounters, but we don’t get to see nearly enough of her. The tone of the film is never steady and the light comedy & serious scenes are jumbled up.
Despite its flaws, it is a great watch for minecraft lovers. I might be biased due to my liking towards the game, but even non-gamers will enjoy the movie. The script and the screenplay are engaging and humorous so you’re never really bored. The casting is also amazing. Although the story might feel a little predictable towards the end, you will still enjoy the climax and feel a sigh of relief. All-in-all, the Minecraft Movie does justice bringing the beloved blocky universe alive on the big screen!