What’s worse than dying in Minecraft’s Hardcore mode? “A Minecraft Movie.” For a game that has sold over 300 million units and has been nominated for a BAFTA, Minecraft set a high bar for its adaptation; however, the product was lackluster and poorly executed. Even those who enter the movie theater with the assumption that the film is bad will be disappointed with just how low quality it is.
The movie is reminiscent of “Jumanji,” following four oddballs who are struggling in the real world when they are suddenly pulled into the game and try to return back to earth. This plotline is overused and has been badly implemented enough times to make it boring.
Besides an unoriginal plot, the movie is riddled with dialogue that is simultaneously dull and a cheap grab at meme potential, such as “CHICKEN JOCKEY!” “I AM STEVE,” and “Let’s Minecraft!” Throughout the movie, there are constant references to Minecraft pop culture, such as the late YouTuber Technoblade, streamer LDShadowLady, and the lead designer of Minecraft himself, Jeb. However, the wholesome cameos don’t balance out the poor quality of the movie.
Even though the acting was acceptable, it was overshadowed by the total lack of effort put in all other aspects of the production.
“A Minecraft Movie” has sparked a trend of teenagers watching the film to make fun of it, but it doesn’t even deserve that much—nevertheless, it’s reached an astounding $163 million during its opening weekend.
All and all, the production focused more on nostalgia than plot. Still, it achieved some degree of success, and despite its shortcomings, Warner Bros. teased a second movie, seemingly milking the IP for all that it is worth.
This piece was originally published in Zephyrus’ print edition on May 8, 2025
