After making the error of thinking too hard during the last kids' movie I saw (The Last Jedi) I was determined to avoid making the same mistake twice. Therefore, before Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle began, I switched off my cellphone... and my brain. I prepared myself for some mindless and silly fun.
However I did not prepare myself for this much fun. My entire family had a blast!
If there is a child left in you, I think you will too.
Although I thought it was going to be a complete reboot, Jumanji:Welcome to the Jungle is a sequel to the 1995 movie of the same name. There were just enough connections to the first film to give the audience a feeling of nostalgia. The first Jumanji was just "ok". My kids enjoyed it a little bit the one and only time they saw it. I have a strong feeling my children will love watching the sequel repeatedly.
The movie is based on a perfect premise for a kids' movie today. Have you ever imagined what would happen if the kids in John Hughes' The Breakfast Club had been sucked into a video game while serving their detention? Well you don't have to wonder anymore. That is exactly what happens in Jumanji:Welcome to the Jungle.
Now imagine if some giant tarantulas dropped from the ceiling. How much better would this scene have been?
In this take on the teenage classic, Kevin Hart plays the jock, Karen Gillan is the "emo" girl, Dwayne "the Rock" Johnson is the geek, and Jack Black is... the pretty girl. (That is not a typo and it is fantastic!)
By casting two comedians in main roles, it was impossible for the movie to ever take itself too seriously. It was a brilliant move that paid HUGE dividends. Nearly everything Hart or Black does causes a laugh. At least ten times the entire theater was laughing so loudly that we missed a line of dialogue. That is a nice problem to have. I have always been impressed with Dwayne Johnson's ability to pull off comedic scenes. He is able to do that when called upon in this movie. Even Karen Gillan (who also happens to play Nebula in Guardians of the Galaxy) pulls off some very funny physical comedy.
I can't even... explain how funny Jack Black was in this movie.
The movie has a very simple premise, teenagers get sucked into a video game and need to beat every level in order to get back to their reality. They each only have three "lives" to spare along the way. Writers Chris McKenna and Erik Sommers apparently know two things very well: video games and fun. Although they included some really funny video game details for serious fans, they weren't so obscure that non-gamers would be lost.
This movie is fun. The writers kept it simple. Put the teenagers in exciting or funny video game situations for 80 minutes and have them talk for 20. That was a perfect balance. I don't think anyone in the audience was ever bored.
The acting was surprisingly good. As mentioned earlier, the casting of two legit comedians was brilliant! While Hart played up his character's change in stature, Jack Black appeared to have a riot while accentuating his character's change in gender... and age. I felt the jokes poking fun at middle aged men were dead on. The only problem I had was with the casting of Nick Jonas in ... anything. He simply is not and actor. He has ruined every scene I have ever watched him in. However, for this movie I will make an exception. I was having too much fun to care. There was also one very important reason he was cast in this film. The three tween girls behind me summed it up during the credits. As soon as the credits began, one of them said, "We know who the real star of this movie is." When Nick Jonas' name appeared, they all squealed in delight. Its tough to get upset about a kids movie making children so happy. So I let it go.
Despite his complete inability to act, the tweens behind us thought Nick Jonas was the real star of the movie. My wife thought it was that guy on the left.
It has become expected that today's special effects will be perfect. The only time they seem to draw any attention is when they are flawed like in The Justice League. Jumanji's effects are flawless. In fact, I saw a couple of new effects that I have not seen before. A couple of the action sequences (which could only possibly work in The Matrix or in a video game) were spectacular.
There is plenty of action. In fact, the vast majority of the time there is either something exciting or hilarious being portrayed on the screen. I was very impressed with the pace of the film. It was one fun scene after another.
Just to give you an idea on how much you will need to suspend your disbelief. That is Dwayne Johnson, on a motorcycle, with a flame thrower. (Not pictured 100 Jaguars). Sounds like a recipe for fun to me.
Although this is clearly a mindless movie aimed at 12 to 15 year olds, it is not completely vapid. This movie could be a little deeper if you allow it to be. There is a very simple lesson about making the most of the one life we all have. However, there can be more. Many of the jokes could lead to deeper conversations about stereo types. Although I didn't go full "teacher mode" on the ride home, the movie did spark a couple of quick lectures on how beauty is not the only measure of a female's worth and how geeks can be strong and brave too. Both of these hit home with my very intelligent daughter and my super geeky son.
Now a warning. This movie seems to be aimed at young teens and their adult parents. Therefore, the characters use the minor swear words many times. There are also a couple of sexual based jokes that seemed to go over my ten year old daughter's head. My 12 year old son laughed. In addition, it is a video game so there are also many "deaths". Although these "deaths" are very unrealistic, I would imagine very young children might be scared.
Based on the reactions of the packed theater in which I saw this movie, kids and the adults who are able to think like kids for 100 minutes will definitely enjoy Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle.
Geeky Dad's Movie Guide
Number of times I fell asleep: 0
Number of eye rolls: 0 (It takes place in a vide game. Suspension of disbelief was in full effect.)
Number of face palms: 0
Number of times my kid asked to go to the bathroom or get food out of sheer boredom: 0
Number of times I checked steemit: 0
Number of times I said "That's ridiculous": 2 (But in a good way. There were two action sequences I'd never seen used before.)
Did my kids like it: They LOVED it!
Would I see it without my kids: Yes (But then again, I am a 15 year old at heart)
I like this movie, but may people think it is not good...
Watch jumanji welcome to the jungle full movie HD klik here>>>> http://play.useehd.us/movie/353486/jumanji-welcome-to-the-jungle.html
Watch jumanji welcome to the jungle full movie HD klik here>>>> http://play.useehd.us_2.jpeg)
I love these type of movies to be honest.
Anything with Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson can usually be expected to be good. He is "Franchise Viagra"!!!
yup this movie nice one some comedy i watch this today with my family n enjoy a lot.
I’m gonna check it out next week!
Good to know
"Number of times I checked steemit: 0"
LOL
That was good! :)
very nice review @handshotfirst :) Your post is much better than Jumanji official ads...... I immediately want to watch this movie with my children after I read your post :)
It was a great movie. Nice post.
Watch Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle Full Movies Online Free HD
ᐈᐉ http://moviehbsm.com/?do=watch&id=353486
Thank you hanshotfirst for such a great piece. I haven't watched Jumanji but after reading your post I feel like I will also have blast.
I am going to recommend it to my friends and we will plan to go and watch together so it will be more fun.
If I may ask, which character you liked most or which character made you laugh more?
Watch Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle Full Movies Online Free HD
ᐈᐉ http://moviehbsm.com/?do=watch&id=353486
Watch Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle Full Movies Online Free HD
ᐈᐉ http://moviehbsm.com/?do=watch&id=353486
Watch Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle Full Movies Online Free HD
ᐈᐉ http://moviehbsm.com/?do=watch&id=353486
Thoroughly enjoyed it, went in not expecting too much but came out very happy with the time spent. The 119 minutes went by quickly and my 8 year old son loved it. Highly recommended.
Cool. I hope people see this. I wasn't sure how old a kid had to be for it to be fun.
Woow cool...
@hanshotfirst
Please vote my post
Please 😦
Hmm, the previews didn't look great, but I might have to try it out after reading your review! Thanks!
Yea I wasn't impress from the trailer either, but my friend made me go with her. And I was suprised how much I love the movie, even though I don't watch Fantasy movies.
I really like this movie. I watched this film with my sister and she dont like any sceary movies. The film was surprisingly funny and interest. there is something for everyone.
When I saw that a new Jumanji film is coming , I thought no way I am going to watch it, in general I don't like redo of previous movies especially with my favorite actors in this case with Robin Williams. But after reading your movie-review it sounds that it is a different story, as I have a teenager boy who absolutely fan of computer games and himself taking game programming classes in his school, I believe it would be a right surprise for him to get a ticket for this movie and enjoy a family evening. Also, @hanshotfirst, I would like to thank you for upvoting my last post.
I think your boy will really enjoy it!
Great reference to the Breakfast Club. Memory explosion.
"At least ten times the entire theater was laughing so loudly that we missed a line of dialogue. That is a nice problem to have." That's all I needed to hear. I think you should add this to your ending guidelines "How many times did the audience laugh out loud."
LOL. Thanks!
That is a good tip. I was really surprised at how many laughs there actually worry. But remember, you have to think like a 15 year old to truly enjoy them all.
Awesome review. I was very sceptical about this movie but after reading this I might give it a shot. Love how they didn't go down the same story line as the first one and brought into a modern era.
Jumanji is such a great movie. It was all laughs in the cinema. Kevin Hart didn't disappoint as usual. Loved the part he tested for the number of lives they had, by pushing The Rock off the cliff.
I love this movie, the director managed to combine action, comedy, and adventure. perfect for a new year's holiday.
Jack Black, The Rock and GNR's sountrack..... Count me in!
So I think it’s worth saying that I’m nervous about watching this remake. I am and always have been a HUGE Robin Williams fan. Jumanji was a movie that I adored as a kid and still do as an adult. Though I’m sure this remake will be enjoyable to watch, I hope it pays homage to the late Robin Williams. He was such an amazing actor and his energy fueled his movies. Jumanji was no exception. With that being said, I definitely have a movie on my “to see” list now...
It is definitely a sequel with a few shout outs to the original. You could see this one without having seen the first and still enjoy it. I bet lots of young people will go and rent the Robin Williams one now.
Good to know. I was very suspicious about the movie. But I won't go to see it with my boy. 6 years old is probably too young, and your review seems to confirm this.
Happy new year by the way!
Yeah 6 would be pushing it. Something to rent with him in a couple of years.
Fully agree :)
I was holding out to see what other people had to say about this movie (that I assumed was a reboot). I'm probably gonna try to see it. I can forgive the fact that it is in a video game, because let's face it, when's the last time you have seen a family sit down to play a board game, willingly?
LOL. Actually my daughter loves board games. But video games definitely dominate our society.
That's good to hear! Great review. I didn't like the first Jumanji, but will look forward to seeing this one.
As long as you can turn off your brain, I think you will enjoy it. The first one should have been much better. It's a great idea and the children's book was entertaining.
Love your movie reviews! Thank you for a great post!
Thanks! I have heard you are doing some great things in the humor community. Keep up the good work We need more of that here.
Well you have no idea how inspiring that is, coming from you. Thank you!!!
Your movie guide is exactly the list my husband and I run through after seeing a movie. We both have been a little unsure about this one ... thanks for your humor, your realism and your critique!
Excellent review. I saw the movie myself and was really appreciative of how they kept with the spirit of the OLD JUMANJI and even mentioned Robin Williams' character. They did an excellent job of putting old video game strategy/life into the movie. I feel in LOVE with the characters as teenagers as well as avatars. Those that saw the old JUMANJI will totally enjoy it. Those that have never seen the old movie can go to this movie and still follow and enjoy it. Great for kids . . . but even better for adults. This little movie should get acclaim for delivering the adventure as advertise. Worth the money and time with family.
yeah i yesterday watched this 3d movie
Oh, from your analysis, the movie must be very interesting, i think would have to watch it myself to see how it interesting it is
i love this movies very good
I also enjoyed this movie a lot was very surprised as I don't usually like remakes!
wow ! extraordinary move. i love this Jumanji move.it's really interesting move.thanks for sharing..upvoted
HAPPY NEW YEAR @hanshotfirst . I hope you have done a lot of good day in 2017 and the next new year all days will be a lot better.
Great review @hanshotfirst
I took my family to see this movie and surprisingly was in laughter through alot of it. Very well made and would see it again.
Wonderful movie review. I'm big fan of Rock. Wishing you Happy New Year.
fantastic and interesting move. i like your move post..upoted // resteem.jpg)
happy new year and that 2018 be full of prosperity and success greetings
marvel-made films will leave behind a lot of fun and action in the masterpiece👍
jumanji is the best and more wonderfull movie and i really like it also my daughter like jumaji series they produce it amaizing and incredible and also the different thought give in this movie @hanshotfirst
I also went to this movie, thinking it would be ok. I haven't laughed that hard in a while. Non stop entertainment.
its really fantastic movies, The Rock is my favorite hiro, thanks and Happy new year,
When I first saw the trailer I thought that it was going to be a very lame movie. But a friend wen to see it and said it was very funny. I may wait till it's on Netflix to check it out though. Greeting from Mexico.
I really enjoyed Jack Black's work in this movie. Initially I thought his character was going to be one dimensional; a repeat of the same joke about things being yucky. He however came through with a fully fleshed out character and not just a tired popular girl trope.
Woooooow! wounderful Like this dear keep it up hope for the best happy new year
I have to admit, I did not really want to read your post because I did not want the movie to be spoiled for me since I have not seen it yet. My son went to see it over the weekend and it is all I can do to keep him from spoiling it for me now. I had planned on seeing it but something came up and I could not go yet. I did however read it and I am glad to read that it was a good family movie as I expected. My son really enjoyed it as well, I can't wait to see it. Thanks for adding your thoughts on the movie.
Talk about having a hook at the start. I busted out laughing regarding The Last Jedi comment. I’ve honestly avoided seeing it out of fear of it just being another failure of a reboot that tries to pull on my nostalgia sun glasses in an attempt to profit from it.
Glad to hear they took the full commodity route and did not try to make it a thrill with a couple of lame jokes tossed into. I’ll consider seeing it in a couple of weeks when some family comes to visit. Thank you for changing my mind about this.
fantastic movie..i like this movie..
really awesome..
thnx for share this post
uncommon movie. I cherish this Juryman move.it's extremely fascinating movie.thanks for sharing.
upvote and resteem
This movie looks cool!!
want to see it
Great review. I must admit I did partially fall asleep during the beginning parts. That was only because I had a frozen Jack n Coke right before. But I surely woke up after they got sucked into the game. The best movie of the year IMO. Kevin Hart is usually a hit or miss lately but of course he found his place. The Rock seemed like the leader and star. Jack Black was hilariously taking the place of Kevin Hart getting the spotlight. Overall, A+ movie and you hit it right on the nail.
wonder movie
This is a great review! haven't read a review this good in a while...