6 Best Video Game Movies
Adapting video games to the big screen has proved to be a hard task in Hollywood, with many entries being poorly received by both video game fans and moviegoers. Playing video games is something that all cultures and countries have in common; they have united the world, unlike anything else. This genre of movie was once synonymous with low budgets and poorly written scripts. However, in recent years, there have been many stronger video game movies. If done correctly, video game movies have proven to be as impactful and as entertaining as any other genre. Video game movies can be as varied as the numbers on a roulette wheel. Some resonate strongly with audiences and critics, while others fail to connect. Here are six of the best video game-based movies that stood out for their creativity, success, and fan reception.
The Super Mario Bros. Movie (2023)
Super Mario Bros. is one of the most iconic video game series of all time. It makes sense that if there was going to be a movie based on a game that it would be Mario. However, in the past, there have been very poor attempts at making a Mario movie, and this meant that for a long time, no directors wanted to attempt another one. 2023 saw the release of the animated version of The Super Mario Bros. Movie, starring Chris Pratt as the voice of Mario. This movie revitalised interest in animated game adaptations because it embraced everything that made Mario so well-loved. Developed by Illumination in partnership with Nintendo, the film reimagines the Mushroom Kingdom with modern animation, energetic storytelling, and widespread appeal. As well as Pratt, the voice acting performances of Anya Taylor-Joy as Princess Peach and Jack Black as Bowser added brilliant humour to the movie.
Sonic the Hedgehog 2 (2022)
The second entry into the Sonic the Hedgehog movie series brilliantly expanded on the groundwork laid out by its predecessor. The film delves deeper into the Sonic universe, introducing fan favourite characters like Tails and Knuckles to the big screen. The sequel beautifully captures the spirit of the games with fast-paced action, humour, and heartfelt moments. Ben Schwartz continued to voice Sonic with great charisma and charm, while Idris Elba’s portrayal of Knuckles brought some added depth that was missing in the first movie. Jim Carrey continues to steal the show with his performance as Dr. Robotnik, bringing the trademark chaotic energy that any Jim Carrey role brings. The film balances humour with adventure and introduces character arcs that resonate with both children and adult viewers. Its ability to tell a story with a blend of nostalgia makes this a movie that is suitable for both young and older audiences.
Detective Pikachu (2019)
Detective Pikachu takes the Pokémon universe in a new direction by combining the storytelling of a detective movie with the fun and dynamic world of Pokémon. Starring Justice Smith and Ryan Reynolds as the voice of Pikachu, the film tells the story of a young man searching for his missing father in a city where humans and Pokémon coexist. The visual effects bring the fan favourite Pikachu to life, as well as plenty of other fun Pokémon characters. The plot of the film not only brings humour, which you tend to expect with an animated feature, but there is a surprise emotional aspect to the film, which adds another layer of depth. Reynolds’ performance as Pikachu feels fresh and strikes perfectly between comedy and sentimentality. When the film was first announced, it had its fair share of critics, but after its release, there has been lots of positive reception from both fans and critics.
Tomb Raider (2018)
A film adaptation of Tomb Raider has been attempted in the past, but the 2018 version took little inspiration from those earlier entries. What this movie does well is that it clearly takes its inspiration from the video games that made Tomb Raider and Lara Croft such an iconic series. Alicia Vikander brought depth and vulnerability to the role. She didn’t make the mistake of the previous film and didn’t attempt to portray Lara as a polished adventurer but as a determined survivor. The narrative centres around Lara’s journey to uncover the truth behind her father’s mysterious disappearance. The tone is more serious and realistic, just like the 2013 game version. The film does have its flaws, but it stands out compared to the previous Tomb Raider movies.
Arcane (2021)
Arcane is the only film on this list that is not a theatrical release, but its quality surpasses many. The film is based on the very popular world of League of Legends. Arcane originally started as an animated TV series created by Riot Games and Fortiche Production. The plot focuses on deeply personal and political storylines of characters like Vi and Jinx, exploring their origins in the twin cities of Piltover and Zaun. With an animation style like no other on this list, Arcane transcended its genre. Its mature tone and storytelling received widespread critical acclaim. Arcane has set the gold standard for video game movies, and it has won an Emmy to back that claim up.
The Angry Birds Movie (2016)
The Angry Birds Movie is a great example of how even the most casual and seemingly plotless games can inspire an entertaining cinematic experience. Exaggerated humour, lively animation, and sharp voice acting make this film a fun watch. The likes of Jason Sudeikis and Bill Hader provide hilarious voice acting roles, which turn a mobile game into a solid comedy film. The film does not rely on cheap jokes, but there is a real backstory behind the plot. The humour is broad enough that both children and adults can find enjoyment. With success at the box office, along with a sequel, confirmed that Angry Birds was a hit amongst viewers.
