A Minecraft Movie
⭐️ ⭐️ (out of 5 stars)
For all of the world's sceptics who wonder why Minecraft is being made into a movie, all you have to do is look at the numbers for your answer. This procedurally generated, three-dimensional world has become the best-selling video game ever. A big statement that all game developers wish could be said of their game, but with over 300 million copies sold to back up their claim that Minecraft rules the gaming world.
To make a film about this virtual infinite terrain existence makes sense when you look into the numbers. Still, the creative practicalities may prove to be more of a challenge. In the hands of Napoleon Dynamite director, Jared Hess, there may be something worth discovering by fans and those who have never ventured into this cubical realm. Originally discovered by expert crafter and miner, Steve (Jack Black), this world of building voxels (blocks) becomes a dream world for the man searching for his identity outside the real world. When his dream world comes under threat by Malgosha (Rachel House) and her minions, he sends his trusty wolf, Dennis, off to hide the power that will keep his nemesis from taking over his world. Unwittingly, Steve has put in motion the actions that will bring together Garrett "The Garbage Man" Garrison (Jason Momoa), Henry (Sebastian Hansen), Natalie (Emma Myers) and Dawn (Danielle Brooks), who must help to protect Steve’s world and their own from disaster.
Three elements of this film become apparent within moments of Jack Black coming on screen that will determine if people will desire to see the unfolding of this story. First, viewers must know the game to engage with what unfolds within this convoluted storyline. As llamas, pigs, sheep, zombies and villagers walk through the fields, only those connected with the gaming platform can appreciate the humour or building blocks of the screenplay. The second prominent aspect that all must be ready to accept is that the Kung Fu Panda actor will take over the next 100 minutes of your life. Granted, Jason Momoa does his best to command the attention of all involved. Still, the reality is that this is Jack Black’s film, and his pint-sized, bearded personality will be the focus of all that is familiar with his talents.
As the building blocks of this review are stacked up, the third piece of this puzzle may not be as apparent. Yet, it is likely the most essential ingredient for audiences to accept and truly embrace this bizarre journey into a square reality beyond their own. This is the Jared Hess factor. For fans of Napoleon Dynamite and Nacho Libre, the quirky and unique comedy styles that include tater tots (potato gems) and a fascination with 80’s fashion will make this palatable. Those souls willing to embrace this cinematic trifecta should ready themselves for a whimsical journey into this fantasy geometric world. Still, suppose any of these components fail to square with your movie-going preferences. In that case, A Minecraft Movie may not be the welcomed entertainment portal you seek to enter. On the other hand, these might be the very building blocks to pleasure you seek, making this Jack Black film your dream movie.
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REEL DIALOGUE: Should we build into our dreams?
A Minecraft Movie may have limited appeal to the devoted fans of the game or Nacho Libre. Yet, this story builds on the idea of how our dreams shape our lives. As audiences see someone overcoming odds, digging into their imaginations, and achieving their dreams, it does have a profound effect on the spirit of individuals. Even though most of us may never have wanted to play Minecraft, this should not dissuade people from pursuing their dreams.
From a Christian position, goals and dreams are not merely for the individual. The actual source for these pursuits finds its roots in God and his purposes for life. In scriptures like Psalm 139, we are fearfully and wonderfully made by God, which moves our lives from ordinary to extraordinary—not because of who we are but because of God, the author and director of our lives.
A question that may arise from this film may be about your dreams and pursuits, but how do we discern their origin? The best place to start building the answer is to ask these questions of God through prayer and engaging with the Bible.
If you would like to discuss topics from this film and the Bible. Reach out to us at Third Space. We would love to chat about this and more.
