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The Minecraft Movie, starring Jack Black and Jason Momoa, feels like a warm hug for long-time fans of the game. It's packed to the brim with fan service-so much so that at times, I felt more like I was watching the audience's reaction rather than the movie itself. The kids and teens in the theater were clearly having a blast, especially during moments like the appearance of the chicken jockey (yep, I had to Google that afterward).

As someone who's not deeply immersed in the Minecraft universe, I found myself a bit lost in translation. The film assumes a lot of familiarity, and if you're not already in on the lore, you'll likely spend time playing catch-up after the credits roll.

Story-wise, there's not much to chew on-it's a straightforward journey that promotes creativity, teamwork, and embracing one's uniqueness. It's less about what happens and more about the colorful and chaotic way it happens.

The performances? Pretty basic overall. But Jack Black, as expected, injects the film with his usual chaotic charm, while Jason Momoa surprisingly dials down his usual alpha energy to match the lighter tone. Their commitment helps carry scenes that otherwise might've fallen flat.

In the end, this one's clearly made with the fans in mind. If you've built pixelated worlds block by block, you'll probably have a great time. If not, well... you might just enjoy watching how happy it makes everyone else.

Jumbo, directed by Ryan Adriandhy, is a charming adventure about a parentless child, wrapped in Disney-like fantasy and local Indonesian flavor. The protagonist's journey is rooted in themes of integrity and the importance of keeping promises-wrapped in childlike wonder and emotional maturity.

Meri, the ghostly figure Jumbo (or Don) wants to help, evokes memories of Casper-gentle, lonely, and longing for connection. Her presence gives the story both heart and a sense of innocent mystique. The film blends light-hearted humor with emotional undertones, allowing audiences of all ages to find something meaningful.

There's clear inspiration from Monsters Inc. And The Prestige, especially in the sap sap sap scene-a nod to the three stages of a magic trick, offering misdirection and surprise. While the film leans into sci-fi, it stays grounded, like using a radio to communicate with "the other realm," creating a fantastical yet relatable world.

German culture appears subtly through Meri's family, primarily in a brief yet impactful dialogue with her mother. A standout comedic moment comes when the villain is apprehended not by global forces or the FBI-but by a humble local security officer (hansip), delivering a punchline that's uniquely Indonesian.

Playful nods to Dr. Stone and Avengers are cleverly embedded, making the film feel like a love letter to modern pop culture fans. The final emotional exchange between Don and Papa Don is reminiscent of Naruto's farewell to Yondaime-bringing unexpected emotional depth to this seemingly light tale.

With smart references, grounded storytelling, and a magical tone, Jumbo is more than a children's film. It's a warm, imaginative story for anyone who has ever loved, lost, or believed in second chances.

Pichaya Jarusboonpracha's 404 Sukeenirun... Run Run is a refreshing take on ambition, love, and the absurd lengths people go to for happiness. Set against the backdrop of southern Thailand's lesser-seen locales, the film offers an authentic portrayal of the region, steering clear of the overused Bangkok setting often seen in Thai cinema.

At its core is Nakrob, a struggling real estate swindler with a singular mission: to secure enough money for his wedding. His target? The Sukhee Nirun Hotel, a colonial-style architectural marvel with classic European interiors. The hotel isn't just a property-it's the legacy of a wealthy daughter and her metropolitan lover whose star-crossed romance was met with family disapproval. The stakes are immense, not just for Nakrob but for what the hotel symbolizes: dreams, ambition, and unresolved emotions.

The film masterfully balances heartfelt moments with dark comedy. One standout sequence involves a hilariously failed exorcism by a bhikkhu (monk), which takes an unexpected turn with the introduction of Dr. John, a "white exorcist." This character not only adds comedic flair with his bad hearing and constant misunderstandings but also subtly critiques societal tendencies to look to Western figures for solutions to local problems. The humor is absurd yet meaningful, inviting laughter while sparking reflection.

Nakrob's relentless pursuit of his goal leads to some truly bizarre situations, including attempting to negotiate with supernatural entities. Yet amidst the absurdity, the film finds moments of profound emotional resonance, such as an awkward yet touching contemplation of letting go of someone who was once deeply loved. This theme ties into the film's central message: that happiness in relationships requires mutual understanding, and sometimes, walking away is the best path forward.

Visually, the film is a treat. The southern Thai setting feels fresh and vibrant, while the Sukhee Nirun Hotel's grandeur adds a sense of stakes and history. The story uses these elements to create a world that feels real yet slightly offbeat-a perfect match for its absurd tone.