This week marks a significant moment in entertainment as the highly anticipated A Minecraft Movie finally makes its debut on Friday. After numerous delays, this cinematic adaptation of the beloved video game is set to captivate audiences with its star-studded cast, including Jason Momoa, Jack Black, and Jennifer Coolidge. The film follows four misfits who are unexpectedly transported through a mysterious portal into the Overworld, the iconic realm where players begin their Minecraft adventures. Given the game’s status as one of the best-selling video games globally, expectations are high, with fans eagerly awaiting a faithful and engaging representation of their cherished blocky universe. Jack Black emphasized the film’s significance, stating, “This game has been loved by millions and millions all over the world for years now, and I think this movie is a big deal for a lot of people, because now it’s generational.” While the history of video game adaptations has been fraught with failures, successful examples like Sonic give Warner Bros. hope for a triumphant release.
Mining for big screen success
In the realm of music, American actor Joe Keery, widely recognized for his role as Steve Harrington in Stranger Things, is making waves under his musical alias, Djo. Initially adopting this pseudonym to separate his music career from his acting fame, Keery has since embraced the spotlight following the viral success of his single, End of Beginning. This synth-heavy track became a TikTok sensation, often accompanying videos about winning the lottery. With his latest album, The Crux, released on Friday, Keery has transitioned from DIY recordings to a polished production at New York’s renowned Electric Lady studios. The album showcases a diverse array of influences, from Electric Light Orchestra to Bruce Springsteen, and features standout tracks like Gap Toothed Smile and Link. Each song is crafted as a narrative of guests at a hotel, each facing their own emotional crossroads, reflecting Keery’s artistic vision.
Djo know what I mean?
Meanwhile, the theatrical sensation SIX The Musical is stepping off the stage and into cinemas. This filmed stage production, featuring the original West End cast, will be released on Sunday. The musical, which tells the stories of the six wives of Henry VIII as they reclaim their narratives, promises to offer more than just a live capture of the stage performance. Creators Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss have described it as an immersive pop-concert experience, allowing audiences to appreciate the intricate details and dynamic visuals that enhance the storytelling. “You get to witness the incredible performances up close – noticing little details and subtleties you might miss in the theatre,” they noted, hinting at the exciting visuals that will accompany the musical numbers.
The Queens on screen
In the tech world, anticipation is building for the upcoming announcement regarding the Switch 2, the much-awaited successor to the Nintendo Switch. This week has been marked on the calendars of gaming enthusiasts as they await news about the console’s price and launch date, expected to be revealed on Wednesday. Speculation abounds regarding potential game releases, with fans eager for updates on franchises like Mario, Zelda, and Pokémon. While July 2025 seems a plausible launch window, the possibility of a December release lingers in the air. As gamers ponder the potential enhancements—be it improved graphics, a high-quality screen, or extended battery life—the excitement continues to mount. One thing is certain: the gaming community will be counting down the days until the console’s eventual release.
It’s the big Switch 2 reveal
Other highlights this week
- Eid Live and Celebrity Eid will be broadcast on BBC One and iPlayer on Monday.
- The creator of Minecraft will appear on the Good, Bad Billionaire podcast on Monday.
- London Games Festival 2025 kicks off on Wednesday.
- South of Midnight will be available for early access on Thursday.
- Elton John and Brandi Carlile will release their new album Who Believes In Angels? on Friday.
- Black Country, New Road’s new album Forever Howlong drops on Friday.
