In 2025, the year begins with an exciting lineup of movies. How to Train Your Dragon and Lilo and Stitch excite Disney fanatics and kids across the nation as childhoods come to life.  This year holds a place in the hearts of those who grew up watching classic animated movies as the live-action versions are coming out. Whether good or bad, publicity is being gained from the new releases. To add to this pile of controversy, A Minecraft Movie came out in theatres April 4, 2025, leading a record of both equal love and hate for the new film.

“It was the best and worst movie of the year.”

A vast majority of the viewers did not come to simply watch the movie but also to see their gaming experience brought to life. Many played Minecraft growing up, stating it was one of the most memorable experiences that was the staple of their childhood. Not only did prior experience with the game draw viewers in, but the social media influence circulating with trends such as throwing popcorn in theaters and even bringing live chickens to the film. The public, specifically Gen Z and Gen A,  went crazy at scenes related to the meme “chicken jockey” or “I am Steve.” However, Despite the exciting energy the viewers  seemed to bring to the theaters, many walked into the movie expecting the worst. The trailers left many disappointed and seemingly everyone refused to buy tickets. It wasn't until the chaotic trends following the movie circulated, that people finally decided to experience the film themselves. When Tyler Stinson, Coleman Perkins, Landon Sheffield, and Ryan Kuhl were interviewed, it was most stated that the CGI was the determining factor that led the film to be considered a flop deterring people away. However, fans still left the movie saying it was both the worst and best movie they saw released all year. When asked the question, “what would you rate the movie out of five stars,” the majority said between four to five stars. However, when asked, “if the theatre experience had been taken away from the film altogether would the rating be as high as before?” The answer was decidedly “not at all.” Repeatedly the CGI was brought up as “too much” or “cheesy.” Few stated it was better than the trailer. “The film was great but Cinematically terrible.” as stated by those who saw the movie. While complaints continued about A Minecraft Movie’s  filming, numerous sources said “There's no other way I could have imagined it done.”  Almost everyone said the experience made the movie as good as it was. In regards to the plot, it felt choppy with lack of direction. As quoted by Ryan Kuhl, “They didn't even make it to the end or fight the dragon.” With a lack of direction or wow factor, social media trends and the fanbase held A Minecraft Movie together and kept the movie from turning into a flop.