Directed by Jared Hess. Rated PG. Running time: 1 hr 41 min

The Minecraft Movie, released on April 4, 2025, showcases the creativity that players are given within the video game. The film centers on Steve, played by the famous actor, musician, and comedian Jack Black. During the movie, Black performs two songs — “I Feel Alive” and “Steve’s Lava Chicken” — both of which highlight the fun characteristics of the characters in the film.

Jason Momoa takes on the role of Garett Garrison, a character who has no friends and is close to losing his business. Emma Myers plays Natalie, who cares for her younger brother, Henry (Sebastian Eugene Hansen), after the passing of their parents. Jennifer Coolidge rounds out the cast as the Vice Principal at the school Henry attends after the family relocates to Chuglass, Idaho.

The movie focuses on a group of misfits trying to find their place. At the start of the story, Steve protects a powerful orb to shield his Minecraft world from destruction at the hands of evil piglins. After the orb is lost, the characters attempt to reclaim it. Along their journey, they come to understand that they do not have to hide who they really are before facing their enemies.

This theme underscores the film’s broader message — that players can let their imagination wander to show how creative they are. Henry, in particular, uses his skills to create innovative items that help defeat the evil piglin, Malgosha. The characters try to take back control of the orb after losing it to the piglins.

The movie includes many jokes that have since become popular memes. However, the visual design may surprise longtime fans. While viewers might expect the characters to resemble their blocky, pixelated counterparts from the game, the film instead opts for a more realistic look. This creative decision, along with a fast-paced plot, makes the movie feel more confusing than cohesive.

After careful consideration, I would rate the movie a four out of ten.