Genre: Comedy, adventure, action

Rated: 12

Directed by: Jared Hess

Written by: Chris Bowman, Hubbel Palmer, Neil Widener

Starring: Jason Momoa, Jack Black, Sebastian Hansen

The latest cinematic trend to adapt computer and console games is conquering the industry. It was only a matter of time before the Super Mario Bros and Sonic the Hedgehog movies were followed by Minecraft, which has sold more than 300 million copies since its release in 2011 and is now the best-selling video game in the world. So it’s no surprise that movie studios have seen the fantasy in it.

The story is really just an alibi for spending nearly two hours in the universe of virtual architecture. Steve’s (Jack Black) childhood dream comes true when he discovers mysterious building blocks in a mine that open a portal to the Overworld. In time, he becomes a master builder, moving routinely through the makers’ paradise. The complications begin when he discovers a portal to the Nether. He finds unexpected help from Garrett „The Garbage Man” (Jason Momoa), Dawn, the mobile zoo owner (Danielle Brooks), and Henry and Natalie, a pair of awkward siblings (Sebastian Hansen, Emma Myers). They must defend the Overworld from the unknown threat, supporting each other.

A Minecraft movie has all the must-see visual elements that are typical of the game. Whether it’s different raw materials, plants or mobs. The plot is also rolled forward by the crafting as the most important gameplay component. Some of the jokes can make you laugh, and there are a few well-done gags among them. If we were to make a checklist of what should not be missing, we would not have a sense of lack based on what we saw.

The story and the sketchiness of the characters somewhat spoil our impression of the film. There is no doubt that the visuals are impeccable in recreating the look of the game, but we have the feeling that everything else has been subordinated to this goal. The story is predictable from the first five minutes, with no unexpected twists or even some emotional tension. There are also a lot of exaggerated, not well-written jokes in the film. The cast is not very interesting either. True, they at least meet the expectation of running around on the set. Momoa and Black overact their roles throughout, and you can quickly become bored with them. But the smaller ones in the screening were fun, and that is what counts after all.

How did you like the film? Do you agree with the academy’s decisions? What was your personal favorite? We look forward to your answers in the comments. We’ll be back soon with another recommendation. In the meantime, watch lots of movies and series, and if you like our content, share it with others. In the meantime, if you’re looking for a delicious snack for movie and series nights, POPZ popcorn is the best choice.