“A Minecraft Movie” is a silly movie about creativity, friendship, and chicken jockeys.
Being able to take a walk down memory lane is an incredible feeling. Looking at old photos, conversing with peers about shared experiences, and pondering on previous times is something most people can agree is a good time. Being able to transport oneself back to their childhood years is extremely comforting. For many, the new “A Minecraft Movie” was a way to achieve this task.
The film focuses on five main characters. There is Steve, played by Jack Black, who has the dream of becoming a miner. As he attempts to follow through with his desires by making his way to the Overworld to find the Orb of Dominance and the Earth Crystal, he is transported to the Nether. While Steve is there, he encounters four others. Jason Mamoa’s character, Garrett, is a video game store owner; real estate agent Dawn, played by Danielle Brooks; and the two siblings, Natalie and Henry, played by Emma Meyer and Sebastian Hansen. These four find themselves in the same position as Steve as they are sucked up by a portal while at Henry’s school. The only way to return to Earth is by finding the Earth Crystal. This task feels impossible as they must surpass dangerous challenges like zombies and other unworldly creatures. Thankfully, they find Steve and start their journey home. This journey, however, does not come easily.
This film was extremely anticipated by a large portion of people. For a children’s movie, the audience was largely teenage boys and grown men. So far, the movie has been extremely successful. Despite its 46% on Rotten Tomatoes, it has been the highest-grossing film of 2025 so far. It had gained $550 million within its first two weeks of being released. Some controversy has come with all of the money as well. With the large fan base of young men, there has been some immature behavior occurring. Most commonly with a scene referencing “chicken jockey.” The clip displays a young zombie riding a square-headed chicken like a horse in a boxing ring, faced up against Mamoa. This prompts Black to yell, “chicken jockey!” Many audiences have been caught erupting into cheers and throwing popcorn in response to the line. Black even had to preface a showing to explain not to participate in these actions. It’s great that people are loving the movie, but it’s also important to remember to stay respectful.
It’s really hard for me to dislike a movie. Whether it’s because of jokes that are so unfunny they’re actually funny, or there is a semi-attractive actor, there is usually something about each film that I enjoy. Maybe it’s because I try to find the good in things, or maybe it’s because I’m easily entertained and humored, but I enjoyed this movie. I don’t think that I was the target demographic they were shooting for as a sixteen-year-old girl, and I know for a fact that I didn’t find as much joy in it as others, but I didn’t dislike it. Would I watch it again? Maybe. If my brother or some friends were deciding to view it sometime, I would join in. It’s definitely not a movie I would choose to watch, mainly because it is not a part of my go-to genre; nonetheless, I did have a good time seeing it.
Overall, I think the nostalgic feel the film gave many of its viewers was great. Life is hard, and sometimes going to the cinema and watching a movie that lets you feel like a little kid again is all one needs to have their day made. It wasn’t the highlight of my week, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be yours. Go see “A Minecraft Movie” for a lighthearted and easy watch.