Background

Minecraft has been one of the most popular games since being developed and published by Mojang Studios in 2011. Where players can craft, mine, and build to their heart’s content, much like director Jared Hess tried to reflect in the movie.

“A Minecraft Movie” follows a set of four people (Jason Momoa, Emma Myers, Danielle Brooks, and Sebastian Hansen) from the real world that get sucked into the Overworld where they meet Steve (Jack Black). 

Steve needs the orb of dominance to save his dog Dennis from the bad guys, but it’s broken, so they journey on to find the missing piece. They explore this blocky world whilst fighting off their foes from the nether (who also want the orb). This movie also includes a subplot where Vice Principal Marlene (Jennifer Coolidge) falls in love with a villager who comes to the real world. 

Experience

Initially, I was captivated by the clever opening Minecraft sequence when seated at the theater. The rest of the experience consisted of people shouting out random lines they had seen from the tailor, like “Chicken Jockey,” or clapping when certain lines were said, but I thought it was funny.

Stephen Carew, an English teacher at Colonia Highschool describes his experience as, “probably the loudest movie theater I’ve ever been in for a show, which I personally didn’t enjoy, but I appreciate the energy that a lot of the audience had for the performance and story.”

Ashley Faunlaugi, a 17-year-old student from Spotswood also shares how the theatre in menlo was packed and there was a lot of ruckus during the film.

The same goes for other people on social media sharing their experiences with people throwing things and having no movie etiquette. Which is the downside when coming to see a massively hyped movie.

Movie Elements

I think it does a good job of catering to all ages with a family-friendly feel to it. Although I do feel there is room for improvement in the dialogue because it feels a bit robotic at times, even if it is a kids’ movie.

Besides that, the CGI was impressive and showcased how far technology has come. It honestly felt realistic, but also like how the Minecraft game would be. 

I loved how they added in little cameos from Minecraft YouTubers as well, especially the honorable mention of Technoblade, the legend. As well as the shocking end credit scenes, which I believe were a good move.

Ratings

One review from John Clyde for KSL.com notes, “The storyline is as simple as they come, the characters aren’t exactly breaking new ground, and the depth of the narrative is fairly shallow. But none of that matters. The filmmakers weren’t aiming for anything more than a good time, and that’s exactly what they delivered.”

It was definitely a massive success regardless, earning “over $300 million during its opening weekend and now, after just two weeks in theaters, A Minecraft Movie has added another $250 million to its impressive box office haul,” according to Kotaku.com

Conclusion

Personally, I enjoy sensible humor and lighthearted plots if done well, like ‘The LEGO Movie’ or ‘Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle’ – which Jack Black was also in. But realistically, I’d only watch “A Minecraft Movie” again for the experience and lively environment the theater brings.

I believe Minecraft fans will appreciate the references and world-building. Young viewers will enjoy the action and humor. Overall, it’s a mixed bowl of entertainment and comedy, enough to keep you watching.