‘Like Lego Only On Shrooms.’ Critics Have Seen A Minecraft Movie, And Their Opinions Of The Video Game Flick Are Split

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Previously, Jack Black was part of one of the top video game adaptations in 2023’s “The Super Mario Bros. Movie”. Now, he aims to duplicate that success with another franchise. The much-anticipated “A Minecraft Movie” is scheduled for release on April 4, 2025, exciting fans of the popular block building game. Critics have already previewed the film and are voicing their thoughts on this upcoming family-friendly production.

Accompanying Jack Black is the star-studded cast of “A Minecraft Movie,” which includes Jason Momoa, Sebastian Hansen, Emma Myers, and Danielle Brooks portraying four unlikely heroes who find themselves transported into the peculiar blocky realm known as the Overworld. In order to return home, they must learn the intricacies of the game, with expert crafter Steve (Black) guiding them. The initial reviews called the movie “stupid,” but is that a compliment or an insult? Gather your “Minecraft” popcorn, and let’s delve into what the critics have to say. Jesse Hassenger of IGN assigns it an “Acceptable” 6 out of 10, remarking:

In the big-screen adaptation of a highly successful video game, titled “A Minecraft Movie,” the director’s unique personality is remarkably evident. Jared Hess, known for directing “Napoleon Dynamite,” infuses humor into the narrative, creating laugh-out-loud moments amidst his epic Overworld tale. However, as the story progresses into a CG-driven fantasy adventure, it adheres to its obligations. The film’s underlying message is that the world can be shaped by us, but Jack Black and Jason Momoa deliver this idea with infectious comic energy.

According to Mark Kennedy from AP, the movie receives 2.5 stars out of 4. He finds Jason Momoa’s performance humorous and compares the world portrayed to one that resembles Legos under the influence of psychedelic mushrooms. The film is praised for staying true to the game by long-time fans, but newcomers to the franchise might struggle to follow along. In simpler terms, Kennedy’s review suggests that Jason Momoa delivers a funny performance and the movie’s world is like playing with Legos while tripping on shrooms, but those unfamiliar with the series may find it confusing.

This action-adventure film directed by Jared Hess skillfully balances entertaining young video game enthusiasts while ensuring adults stay engaged. It’s a quirky take, veering off into unusual territories such as turquoise blouses and tater tot pizzas. Jennifer Coolidge delivers a classic Jennifer Coolidge performance. Is that not enough?

According to Owen Gleiberman from Variety, Jack Black delivers an outstanding performance throughout the movie, with a rating of 11. Additionally, Jason Momoa’s acting is a pleasant surprise. Overall, he describes the film as a lighthearted, fun-filled quest comedy with minimal high-stakes action, which isn’t meant to be derogatory.

In a fun and relaxed way, Hess contributes an endearing vibe to a Minecraft Film. He’s a friendly satirist with a knack for playfully not being serious, yet maintaining it with a laid-back authenticity. A Minecraft Film consistently pokes fun at itself, which is quite engaging. While Jack Black was instrumental in creating the genre of lighthearted silliness enclosed by air quotes, what’s striking about A Minecraft Film is how well Jason Momoa adapts to the self-deprecating, kitschy style.

As a dedicated fan, I find myself echoing Jacob Oller’s sentiments from AV Club. He gives the upcoming video game movie a C-, suggesting that despite glimpses of unique personality, these elements are overshadowed by the film’s commitment to a conventional blockbuster format. In his words, it’s a “recipe that falls short, yet is generously seasoned.

The Minecraft Movie lacks the depth of imaginative storytelling, instead resembling an amateur’s initial in-game project. It features common elements infused with unique quirks, thrown together carelessly like a child might build. This results in a movie that is both disappointingly predictable and arguably as chaotic as the live-action video game adaptations since the first Super Mario Bros. film ventured into Dinohattan.

According to David Ehrlich from IndieWire, the Minecraft movie is seen as “unoriginal,” which is quite surprising considering the game’s limitless possibilities for creativity. The film shines brightest when it embraces its Jared Hess-like qualities, primarily before the characters are drawn into the Overworld that serves as the basis for the predictable storyline. Ehrlich assigns it a grade of C, expressing this in his review:

The lively tempo, bright hues, and catchy Mark Mothersbaugh soundtrack attempt to mask the film’s manufactured feel, however, even children – particularly children – will detect the inconsistency between what they can create in Minecraft (endless possibilities) and what Hess has produced from Minecraft (nothing new or original). The storyline progresses without any sense of novelty, as the group encounters Steve and embarks on an energetic journey to find the MacGuffin item needed for their return home or some other purpose.

It appears that critics find A Minecraft Movie underwhelming since they feel it doesn’t capitalize on the boundless creative opportunities offered by the game to its players. However, Jason Momoa and Jack Blek are garnering some favorable comments. Admittedly, the trailer’s negative response made Black anxious about audience reception, and with its upcoming release, the film has a 53% rating from critics on Rotten Tomatoes.

If you’re eager to watch the latest video game turned movie, mark your calendars! The much-anticipated “A Minecraft Movie” hits theaters on April 4, this coming Friday.

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2025-04-03 20:38