Review by Jon Donnis
A Minecraft Movie, the 2025 American fantasy adventure comedy, successfully brings the beloved 2011 video game by Mojang Studios to the big screen, offering a surprisingly fun experience that is likely to appeal to its intended audience.. While some aspects may not resonate with those unfamiliar with the game, it provides an engaging journey for fans and young viewers.
The film introduces a quartet of misfits: Garrett "The Garbage Man" Garrison (Jason Momoa), a struggling video game store owner; Henry (Sebastian Eugene Hansen), a creative but accident-prone youngster; his caring older sister Natalie (Emma Myers); and Dawn (Danielle Brooks), a real estate agent with a mobile petting zoo. Their ordinary lives take an extraordinary turn when they are unexpectedly transported to the Overworld, a bizarre, cubic wonderland where imagination is key to survival. Here, they encounter Steve (Jack Black), an unexpected expert crafter who joins them on their quest to return home and protect the Overworld from menacing Piglins and Zombies.
The narrative begins with Steve, a former doorknob salesman, fulfilling a childhood dream by breaking into a mine, where he unearths the Orb of Dominance and the Earth Crystal. These artefacts, when combined, open a portal to the Overworld. After establishing his own paradise, Steve ventures into the Nether, a hellish dimension ruled by the creativity-averse Piglin leader, Malgosha. Imprisoned, Steve manages to send the Orb and Crystal to the real world with his loyal dog, Dennis.
Years later, Garrett, a former video game champion, discovers Steve's old belongings, including the Orb and Crystal, amongst the contents of a storage auction. Meanwhile, Henry, now residing in Chuglass, Idaho, with Natalie, accidentally activates the Orb and Crystal, leading him and Garrett into Steve's mine. Natalie and Dawn track them down, and all four are drawn into the portal, arriving in the Overworld. Malgosha, sensing the Orb's return, releases Steve from the Nether, tasking him with its retrieval, holding Dennis hostage.
The film is full of in-game references and phrases, providing a visually interesting and familiar experience for those acquainted with the Minecraft universe. From the iconic block manipulation to the appearances of various creatures and environments, the film authentically captures the essence of the game. Jason Momoa delivers a standout performance as Garrett "The Garbage Man" Garrison, adding a significant layer of enjoyment to the film. While the overall narrative may not be groundbreaking, it consistently offers a fun time for viewers.
However, the film's appeal is somewhat niche. Its reliance on Minecraft lore and visual style means it will primarily resonate with either hardcore fans of the source material or very young children who are captivated by the vibrant animations and exaggerated performances. Those unfamiliar with the game may find themselves less invested in the story and its intricate details.
Ultimately, A Minecraft Movie is a film that understands its audience. It successfully translates the imaginative spirit of the game into a coherent and entertaining adventure. While perhaps not a cinematic masterpiece for all ages, it undeniably hits the mark for the legions of young Minecraft enthusiasts, offering a colourful, action-packed journey into a world where creativity truly is essential.
I score A Minecraft Movie a fair 7 out of 10.
Out on Digital now at
and
