A Minecraft Movie ★★★

Released: 4th April 2025

Director: Jared Hess

Starring: Jack Black, Jason Momoa, Danielle Brooks

It’s no shocking non-knowledge that I have never played Minecraft, despite its massive influence on the gaming world. I’ve heard plenty about it from the gaming community—how it’s a sandbox phenomenon where players build, craft, and survive in blocky landscapes—but I walked into The Minecraft Movie with a refreshing sense of unpredictability. Not knowing what to expect turned out to be one of the film’s greatest strengths for me.

However, one thing I did expect was Jack Black’s energy. If you’ve seen any of his previous performances, you know the man is a force of nature. Hyperactive, larger than life, and capable of chewing scenery like it’s his morning cereal. Given his casting as Steve, an “expert crafter,” I assumed there would be an over-the-top performance waiting for me, and I wasn’t disappointed. He brings his usual infectious energy, and whether you love or hate his style, there’s no denying that he fully commits to the madness.

The film follows four misfits—Garrett “The Garbage Man” Garrison (Jason Momoa), Henry (Sebastian Eugene Hansen), Natalie (Emma Myers), and Dawn (Danielle Brooks)—who are struggling with their ordinary, mundane lives when they are suddenly pulled through a mysterious portal into the Minecraft Overworld. This bizarre, cubic wonderland thrives on imagination, but it’s also full of dangers, from the aggressive Piglins to the ever-looming threat of Zombies.

As they try to make sense of their new surroundings, they meet Steve (Jack Black), an eccentric and highly skilled builder who becomes their reluctant guide. If they want to find their way home, they’ll have to master the rules of this world—crafting weapons, building shelters, and learning how to survive. But their adventure quickly escalates into something much bigger when they realize the Overworld itself is under threat. If they fail, it won’t just mean they’re stuck in this strange new world forever—it could mean the end of the Overworld as they know it.

For a film based on an open-ended video game with no strict narrative, A Minecraft Movie does a commendable job of creating a structured, entertaining adventure. It embraces the spirit of the game, delivering a colourful, fast-paced experience that never takes itself too seriously.

The first half of the movie is a blast. Its fish-out-of-water comedy lands well, with the characters hilariously fumbling through Minecraft’s mechanics, making it easy for newcomers (like myself) to follow along. Jack Black’s Steve is a highlight—equal parts mentor and maniac, his unpredictable energy injects life into every scene he’s in. There are also some genuinely creative action sequences, making clever use of the game’s building and survival mechanics.

While the first half is engaging, the film starts to lose momentum around the midpoint. It’s as if the filmmakers burned through their best ideas early on, leaving the middle section feeling repetitive and meandering. Think a kid high on jellybeans—excited, energetic, but eventually crashing hard.

Thankfully, the final quarter picks up steam again, diving into a chaotic climax that will no doubt leave fans grinning. The action sequences become more inventive, the humour lands better, and the film finds a second wind just in time to leave a positive final impression.

This non-fan found it entertaining in parts and from a fan’s standpoint, I believe the Minecraft community will appreciate this film, offering plenty of in-jokes, references, and nods to the game’s mechanics that will reward long-time players.

Is it ground-breaking cinema? Absolutely not. Is it a fun, disposable adventure that does exactly what it sets out to do? Without a doubt. This film is almost certain to do exceptionally well when it hits cinemas, and while it’s not perfect, I have to admit—I kinda have a soft spot.