A Minecraft Movie

It does seem recently that studios have got to grips somewhat with the family film, especially those based on toys or videogames.

For so long consigned to the trash heap, we’re seeing a slow trend in the improving column with some even making it to the very top tier (like The Lego Movie and Barbie).

A Minecraft Movie joins that trend and is a worthy trip to the cinema for the adults as well as the little ‘uns.

It seems one key to that aforementioned formula is simply hiring Jack Black. It worked for the recent Jumanji remakes and The Super Mario Bros. Movie and does so once again here.

Rather like Jim Carrey in the 90’s (himself a key to the recent Sonic films), Jack Black’s full throttle commitment to the bit sells any amount of nonsense exposition or silliness.

This is pitched at super zany to those uninitiated with the franchise (I have no knowledge of the games personally so can’t comment as to the references/quality of it as an adaptation etc) but it works by knowing exactly what it is.

Whilst that means we do have to follow the traditionally lazy ‘item collecting’ formula these films often resort to, it works because of the sheer speed at which it moves.

There’s a rich vein of 1980’s-ness running through this which also serves to lend it authenticity and kudos.

From the outfits to the soundtrack to the visuals and the almost improv’ like comedy, its tone remains consistent throughout and it’s all to easy to just let it sweep you along in its sugar high.

It’s helped as well by the rest of its ensemble. Whilst Jack Black could make the proverbial phonebook fun, an extremely game Jason Momoa is absolutely his equal here.

Throw in some rounded and non-annoying youngsters, Danielle Brooks matching Jack Black’s energy and hilarious cameos from Jennifer Coolidge, Jermaine Clement and [slight spoiler] Matt Berry all knowing exactly what they’ve signed up for.

I counted three Lord of the Rings references as well which is always a tick box.

Sure, it slightly runs out of steam towards the end and its early scene setting ‘real world’ stuff is superior to the sequences in the actual Overworld but, nonetheless, A Minecraft Movie deserves immense credit for meeting its forebears in this genre at this newly set high bar.

Fun for all the family.

⭐️⭐️⭐️