The recent revelation by Nintendo about their plans to create a live-action Zelda movie, inspired by the renowned franchise series The Legend of Zelda, has sparked renewed discussions among enthusiasts regarding the adaptation of video games into movies. Indeed, this announcement might have fueled the eagerness of certain enthusiasts to explore some of the previously released video game movies for their enjoyment. Dive into the captivating world of video game adaptations with our curated list of the 5 best must-watch video game movies. From epic adventures to immersive storytelling, these films bring beloved gaming universes to life on the big screen, offering a thrilling cinematic experience for both gaming enthusiasts and movie lovers alike.
What Are the 5 Best Must-Watch Video Game Movies?
1. The Super Mario Bros. Movie
Let’s jump into the list of 5 best must-watch video game movies with the most recent video game movie in this list – The Super Mario Bros. Movie. After the lukewarm reception of the live-action Super Mario Bros. Movie in 1993, featuring Bob Hoskins and John Leguizamo, doubts lingered about Nintendo‘s willingness to revisit a Mario movie. However, 30 years later, the company joined forces with Illumination, the studio behind Minions, to bring Mario to the big screen once more.
Starring Chris Pratt as Mario, Anya Taylor-Joy as Peach, Charlie Day as Luigi, and Jack Black as Bowser, the story begins as Mario, a plumber from Brooklyn embarks on a journey through the Mushroom Kingdom alongside Princess Peach and a sentient mushroom named Toad. Their mission is to locate Mario’s brother, Luigi, and thwart the world-threatening plans of the formidable fire-breathing Koopa, Bowser. The film also features charming characters from the gameplay, including mushrooms and the iconic maze familiar to every Super Mario player, evoking classic vibes on the screen.
Release Date: April 5, 2023 (United States)
Also Read: Finding Every Secret Exit in Super Mario Bros. Wonder
2. Detective Pikachu
Next on the list of the 5 best must-watch video game movies is Detective Pikachu. The Pokémon franchise has consistently been a cornerstone, encompassing cards, TV series, and animated films. Ryan Reynolds, known for his role as Deadpool, is the voice behind the fuzzy yellow adorable character, and that’s the moment many knew that Detective Pikachu would honour the Pokémon brand.
The film centres on Tim Goodman, a 21-year-old on a quest to locate his missing private investigator father, Henry. Along the way, he forms a partnership with Pikachu, leading to an abundance of CGI, heartfelt moments about family, and, crucially, plenty of jokes to amuse even a Snorlax. Guided by director Rob Letterman, known for Goosebumps, the diverse cast includes pop singer Rita Ora, Bill Nighy, Ken Watanabe, and DJ Diplo. However, it’s the evident love and attention given to the Pokémon universe that truly shines. As for 2023, Detective Pikachu 2 is also confirmed in progress.
Release Date: May 10, 2019 (United States)
Also Read: The 10 Most Valuable Pokemon GO Cards
3. Sonic the Hedgehog and Sonic the Hedgehog 2
The initial outlook for the Sonic the Hedgehog movie appeared unfavourable. Fans expressed dissatisfaction with the initial design of the blue character, prompting the filmmakers to revisit the digital rendering. However, upon its release this year, the film garnered audience approval, thanks to Ben Schwartz’s energetic voice acting as Sonic and Jim Carrey‘s lively portrayal of Dr. Robotnik. The storyline follows Sonic and a Montana sheriff as they elude Robotnik and seek out Sonic’s iconic rings.
2 years later, the video game movie continued with the release of Sonic the Hedgehog 2 movie, and the story continues when the energetic Dr. Robotnik makes a return to Earth with a newfound ally, Knuckles the Echidna, which makes Sonic and his companion Tails become the last line of defence against their schemes.
In fact, Sonic the Hedgehog 2 doesn’t match the speed of its predecessor and loses a bit of the wit and charm from the first film. Nevertheless, Ben Schwartz’s delightfully chaotic performance, coupled with the excellent addition of Idris Elba as the echidna Knuckles, solidifies Sonic the Hedgehog 2 as one of the standout films on this list of the 5 best must-watch video game movies. The series is set to continue, with Sonic the Hedgehog 3 scheduled to debut in 2024.
Release Date: February 14, 2020; April 8, 2022 (United States)
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4. Resident Evil
Based on the famous Japanese game franchise series, there’s a total of six movies in the Resident Evil movie franchise, and singling out a definitive entry for this list is challenging. However, the original, and arguably the best, is the one to spotlight. Released in 2002, it takes a streamlined approach, exploring the edges of Resident Evil‘s expansive lore, with a primary focus on action. While some may find the lack of a deep dive into the lore disappointing, this decision ensures a kinetic and highly entertaining experience, especially in comparison to a potential slow-burn through a mansion.
The plot of this series draws inspiration from the video games Resident Evil and Resident Evil 2. This series centres on Alice, an amnesiac protagonist, and a group of Umbrella Corporation commandos. Together, they strive to control the outbreak of the T-virus within a concealed underground facility. Milla Jovovich delivers an exceptional performance as Alice, and the film’s fast-paced set-pieces contribute to its enduring appeal. Notably, it lays the groundwork for sequels and expansive universes, akin to Iron Man setting up the Avengers Initiative. It is definitely one of the 5 best must-watch video game movies.
Here’s a list on all six Resident Evil movies in ascending order with their release dates (United States):
1. Resident Evil (March 15, 2002)
2. Resident Evil: Apocalypse (September 10, 2004)
3. Resident Evil: Extinction (September 21, 2007)
4. Resident Evil: Afterlife (September 10, 2010)
5. Resident Evil: Retribution (September 14, 2012)
6. Resident Evil: The Final Chapter (January 27, 2017)
Also Read: Top 5 Characters in Resident Evil 4 Remake
5. Tomb Raider
Tomb Raider files in the last spot in our list of the 5 best must-watch video game movies. In the wake of the 2013 rebooted game, Tomb Raider makes a return to the silver screen, presenting a revitalised Lara Croft and a film that, while not reaching the pinnacle of all-time great action movies, pays respectful homage to one of its generation’s standout games.
Rather than directly replicating the games, the movie takes inspiration. Alicia Vikander brings to life a vibrant Lara, an intriguing character seemingly more comfortable in London than exploring lost kingdom tombs. Tomb Raider stands out as a significant moment for video game movies, breaking free from the shadows with a compelling entry featuring top-tier talent. This may pave the way for more video game adaptations, but yet, the planned upcoming sequel has been cancelled as it got stuffed by the COVID-19, said Ben Wheatley, director of Tomb Raider.
Release Date: March 16, 2018 (United States)
Also Read: Does the Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft Pay Proper Homage to the Video Games?
Final Say
In the realm where pixels meet popcorn, these 5 best must-watch video game movies stand as testaments to the evolving synergy between gaming and filmmaking. From the high-speed adventures of Sonic the Hedgehog to the archaeological escapades of Tomb Raider, each film on this list brings beloved gaming worlds to life with cinematic flair. As we immerse ourselves in the thrilling narratives and visually stunning adaptations, it’s evident that the bridge between gaming and filmmaking is becoming more traversed and celebrated. So, grab your controller or a bucket of popcorn — these cinematic journeys through pixelated landscapes are not only a nod to gaming nostalgia but a glimpse into the exciting future of video game movies.