‘A Minecraft Movie’ Divides Critics and Audiences With Goofy Humor and Blocky Charm

The live-action adaptation of Minecraft, directed by Jared Hess (Napoleon Dynamite), has sparked polarized reactions since its April 2025 release. While critics label it as formulaic and underdeveloped, audiences—particularly families—are embracing its slapstick comedy and nostalgic nods to the iconic sandbox game.

Critical Reception: Predictable but Energetic Early reviews highlight a stark divide. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a tepid 47% Tomatometer score from critics but an 83% audience approval rating. Described as “a breezy, passable adaptation” by The Only Critic, the movie leans heavily on Jack Black’s eccentric performance as Steve, a miner-turned-hero who belts out songs and chops cubic blocks with manic enthusiasm. Jason Momoa’s portrayal of Garrett, a washed-up gamer seeking redemption, adds self-aware humor, though his arc—and those of supporting characters—are criticized as thinly written.

Critics acknowledge the film’s adherence to Minecraft’s blocky aesthetic, with Grant Major’s production design and Dan Lemmon’s visual effects creating a vibrant Overworld. Yet, many argue the story lacks the depth of recent video game adaptations like The Super Mario Bros. Movie or Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves. Variety bluntly states it “isn’t nearly as good” as those predecessors, while Screen Rant calls it “a chore to get through”.

Audience Appeal: A Family-Friendly Hit Despite critical reservations, the film thrives as a crowd-pleaser for younger viewers. Parents report sold-out screenings filled with laughter, particularly during Black’s musical numbers and Momoa’s over-the-top antics. Jennifer Coolidge’s subplot as a real estate agent-turned-adventurer, though underdeveloped, delivers quirky humor that resonates with older audiences. The Overworld’s whimsical design—complete with Creepers, Villagers, and the menacing Piglin Queen—captures the game’s spirit, even if the plot relies on predictable tropes.

Debating Legacy: Fun vs. Formula The film’s success hinges on its embrace of absurdity. Black’s fourth-wall-breaking jokes and Momoa’s parody of action-hero bravado keep the tone lighthearted, while a retro synth soundtrack and 1980s-inspired portal sequences add nostalgic flair. However, deeper themes about creativity and loss—such as Steve’s backstory involving childhood mining trauma—are glossed over.

As The National’s William Mullally admits, “I actually liked A Minecraft Movie. I’m as surprised as you are”. The divide underscores Hollywood’s ongoing struggle to balance artistic ambition with IP-driven entertainment. While critics lament a missed opportunity to elevate the source material, the box office may prove that for its target audience, “stupidly hilarious” is enough.

With discussions of a sequel already brewing, A Minecraft Movie cements itself as a divisive yet culturally resonant entry in the video game adaptation genre—a blocky, chaotic adventure that prioritizes fun over finesse.