The iconic, nostalgic, 3D sandbox video game “Minecraft” was first launched almost 16 years ago in 2011. Over the years, millions of people worldwide have played the game, and it has become one of the most well-known in the history of video games.
Cherished by players of all ages, many can say that it was a significant part of their childhood and still brings them a sense of nostalgia and contentment. Beyond just the blocks of coal, diamonds, and lapis, along with the endless amount of things one can build, Minecraft has mined a way for its players to craft meaningful memories and strengthen bonds with each other, making it a beloved game.
Minecraft, for many years now, could be found in many places, whether it be toys, books, YouTube videos, or even kids’ meals at fast food chains.
In fact, recently on April 4th, a comedic, adventure, and fantasy film based on Minecraft was released in all theaters everywhere: “A Minecraft Movie”. Along with the movie, McDonald’s has introduced a new special edition meal, which features a Minecraft collectible figure inside a box resembling a chest. Both have boomed in popularity worldwide, including on social media and among Maldonians.
“A Minecraft Movie” follows four protagonists who are sucked into a mystical portal, which transports them to an extraordinary utopia resembling Minecraft, the “Overworld”. To get back home, they are forced to embark upon a bizarre, magical quest, guided by a fellow crafter, Steve, who is a default player in Minecraft. Throughout the film, there are countless references to the Minecraft game world, which allowed the audience to connect and feel a sense of familiarity.
Many people thoroughly enjoyed the movie and thought that “there were a lot of funny scenes, which made the vibes so much more enjoyable and fun,” sophomore Ann Nguyen expressed. There were even “moments where everyone in the theater was able to share laughs,” added sophomore Hikaru Tao.
Some favorite moments within the movie among watchers were “seeing all the features like LDshadowlady, DanTD, Aphmau, Technoblade… they’re all such big Minecraft creators and seeing them in the movie was a great tribute,” said sophomore Raquel Ferreira. Sophomore Lillian Fang exclaimed about the infamous “Chicken Jockey” scene where a baby zombie rides a chicken, Lilian Fang exclaimed. The Chicken Jockey scene in particular sparked the beginning of the viral trend where, upon hearing Steve shout out “Chicken Jockey,” an uproar within the audience occurs as popcorn is being thrown around and the same phrase is hollered.
“People would say the line and cheer afterwards.” It was moments such as these that enhanced the energy in the theater, making the experience “more enjoyable,” sophomore Angela Lam remarked.
Other viewers appreciated that the movie “included some key aspects of the game, especially the introduction and some of the music in the background,” Lam claimed. It is the little details such as this that support the quality of the movie, overall adding to the atmosphere the film creates for the audience. “Minecraft music is nostalgic, and it was nice to see that the filmmakers decided to include it,” Lam observed.
In addition to the movie’s release, McDonald’s collaboration with Minecraft has brought a new limited meal to the menu, which has been delectable for many. The meal offers an option of a Big Mac or a ten-piece chicken Mcnuggets, along with medium fries, a soft drink, and a special Minecraft collectible.
McDonald’s new edition of a meal has, in many ways, promoted the new Minecraft movie and the game itself. Most importantly, it is been a delicious and fun way for people to further bond with each other over the game, as various viewers tend to get the meal before or after watching the movie.
“I would definitely recommend the meal for others, just for the experience. It’s the exact same feeling as getting a happy meal as a kid, the nostalgia really hits,” junior Moon To commented.
Overall, the launch of “A Minecraft Movie” and the Minecraft McDonald’s meal have became very well-known on social media. It has gained the attention of countless people in and beyond the Minecraft community and serves as a “lighthearted and fun experience,” Lam commented. A majority of people also found that it was “so much better to go with a bigger group of people,” whether it be with friends or family, Ferreira emphasized.
“A Minecraft Movie” and the Minecraft McDonald’s meal have provided millions of people around the world with a new fun way to connect over a shared appreciation for the Minecraft game.
