Estimated read time: 4-5 minutes

I think your enjoyment or displeasure with a movie can often have a lot to do with your headspace when you see the movie.

This last week was a stressful one and was a bit tough on the Clyde household. Thankfully, everything is just fine and I’m just a complainer more than anything. But I bring it up not for sympathy, but because that was my headspace going into “A Minecraft Movie.”

I wasn’t sure what to expect from the movie. I know the game, but I haven’t really played it. I think Jared Hess and his writing team churn out some fun movies, but video game movies haven’t had the greatest track record. So, I went into the movie with an open mind and an overstressed psyche.

Turns out “A Minecraft Movie” is just what I needed.

Let’s be honest: “A Minecraft Movie” isn’t going to win any Oscars. It’s not a deep exploration of human nature or a masterclass in filmmaking. But what it is, is one heck of a good time. This movie wants to entertain you for 90 minutes, make you laugh, and bring some joy to your life, and in that, it succeeds wholeheartedly.

Director Jared Hess’s quirky humor is on display, and he delivers a film that is both absurd and endearing. The storyline is as simple as they come, the characters aren’t exactly breaking new ground, and the depth of the narrative is fairly shallow. But none of that matters. The filmmakers weren’t aiming for anything more than a good time, and that’s exactly what they delivered.

Jason Momoa and Jack Black are my new favorite bromance

If there’s one thing that elevates this film, it’s the chemistry between Jason Momoa and Jack Black. These two have an undeniable bromance that lights up the screen, and it’s genuinely a joy to watch.

Black, as expected, brings his signature over-the-top energy, but it works. Most of the time, his wild antics are a perfect fit for the tone of the movie, and it’s hard not to laugh out loud at his physical comedy. He’s the kind of character who isn’t afraid to push boundaries and go big, and that’s exactly what you want in a movie like this.

Momoa, on the other hand, is a perfect fit for this role. His character is frustratingly lovable. He’s the kind of person you can’t help but root for, even as he drives you crazy. Momoa brings his signature charm and humor to the role, making it clear that he’s having the time of his life on set.

Together, the two of them are a blast to watch.

The simplicity works

At its core, Minecraft is a simple game; build, explore, survive. The movie takes the same approach with its storyline. There’s no complex plot twists or deep character arcs here; it’s just a straightforward adventure with a lot of fun, creative moments. And honestly, that’s what this movie needed.

It’s not trying to be the next “Inception,” it’s trying to be a light-hearted, enjoyable ride that kids and parents can enjoy together. And on that front, it delivers.

The movie embraces its absurdity. From slapstick humor to wild action sequences, it’s clear the filmmakers wanted to create a fun, zany world in which fans of the game, as well as newcomers, could lose themselves. The pacing is quick, the jokes come fast, and there’s never a dull moment.

What parents should know

“A Minecraft Movie” is rated PG and that rating feels just right. There’s no language to worry about, the violence is slapstick and cartoonish and the jokes are innocent but still land with a good punch.

The film does a great job of keeping things light and fun without getting bogged down in anything inappropriate for kids. It’s the kind of movie parents can feel comfortable watching with their children, and it might even inspire a little creativity and kindness along the way.

Conclusion

If you’re expecting “A Minecraft Movie” to be the next big thing in cinema, you might be disappointed. But if you’re looking for a fun, light-hearted movie that doesn’t take itself too seriously, this is definitely worth your time. It’s not a masterpiece, but it doesn’t need to be. It’s a movie that knows exactly what it is: a fun, 90-minute adventure that’s easy to enjoy and hard not to laugh at.

Even if you’re not a Minecraft player (like me), you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. The world-building is accessible, and while die-hard fans of the game will undoubtedly catch more Easter eggs and references, non-gamers can still jump right in without feeling lost. “A Minecraft Movie” isn’t trying to be a deep exploration of the game’s world, it’s just here to make you laugh.

So, grab some popcorn, sit back, turn your brain off, and let “A Minecraft Movie” do its job: keep you and the family entertained for a while.