The first Minecraft movie has been released, and I think the Borderlands film may not be the worst thing that happens to cinema in 2024.

The first trailer of the Jason Momoa-starring Minecraft film is here. My immediate reaction is bafflement - absolute wonderment, in fact - that 2025 could bring us an even worse videogame movie disaster than 2024's Borderlands movie - and that both feature Jack Black.

Black plays Steve, the Minecraft main character in the teal shirt that was previously rumored Pedro Pascal. It is beyond me how a casting director could have gotten Pedro Pascal to Jack Black. However, I am not a high-paid Warner Bros executive and I will not comment further. I can only say that it reminds me of Schwarzenegger vs Stallone in Stop or My Mom will Shoot. I'm sure Pedro is having a great laugh this morning.

As for the trailer: I'm no big Minecraft fan, so I won't be able to point out any hidden details or Easter eggs. And even if I was in a position to do so, I would not, because my attention is thoroughly focused on other things--specifically, what the hell is going on with Jason Momoa here?

Even though I can't pinpoint what exactly thing it is, I give him props for doing his thing. He's come a long, long way since Ronon Dex.

The rest of the trailer is a pastiche consisting of bemused looks and dismissive asides. It also features CGI and Jack Black as Jack Black. If that sounds like Borderlands and all it entails--minus the guns, of course- you're not the only one. I thought that my reaction to the Minecraft teaser was due to a lack in knowledge or because I don't generally like things, but the reactions on YouTube aren't exactly positive either.

• I am feeling a range of emotions, but disappointment is what I feel most.
• Why does Jason Momoa appear to be cosplaying Dora the Explorer in this picture?
• Finally, a movie that I can write off on my taxes.
• After seeing the sheep, all my excitement for this film has been shattered.
• Please return this to the crafting table.
• Words cannot describe the confusion, fear and disappointment I feel right now
• Borderlands Movie : "Guess that I am the worst gaming film adaptation ..." Minecraft Movie : "The worst gaming film adaptation so far"
• Is is too late to bully theSonic movies ?

It goes on for a long time. It's not bad, but it is mostly bad. The majority of complaints are about the live-action part of the film. It is generally agreed that it would be better as an animated project. However, the overall feeling is that the entire thing doesn't look great, no matter how hard you try. It's important to remember that this is only a teaser and not a trailer. A more comprehensive look will likely boost the mood. But maybe not.

Here's a quick summary of the narrative, courtesy of the YouTube description:

Welcome to Minecraft, a world where creativity is not only important for crafting, but also essential for survival. Four misfits, Garrett "The Garbageman" Garrison (Momoa), Henry Hansen (Hansen), Natalie Myers (Brooks), and Dawn Brooks (Brooks), find themselves struggling with everyday problems when they are suddenly drawn through a mysterious portal to the Overworld. A bizarre, cubic wonderland which thrives on imagination. Steve (Black) is an unexpected expert craftsman who will help them on a magical journey to return home. They'll need to master the Overworld (and protect it against evil things such as Zombies and Piglins). Together, they will be challenged to be bold, and to reconnect to the qualities that make them each uniquely creative...the skills they need to thrive in the real world.

There are also a few references in the comments to Jumanji. In case you forgot, it also featured Jack Black.

The official title of the movie is A Minecraft Movie. (And why "A Minecraft Movie?" Why not "The Minecraft Movie?" How many of these are they planning on making? It is scheduled to be released in 2025. We are all looking forward to Joshua Wolens watching it.