The opinions expressed in this article are the writer’s own and do not reflect the views of Her Campus. This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at West Chester chapter.
A Minecraft Movie graced theaters on April 4th, eliciting a spectrum of responses from audiences and critics alike. With a score of 46% on Rotten Tomatoes, the film has sparked a lively discussion, particularly among female viewers who have raised concerns regarding the portrayal of its female characters.
What could this movie possibly be about?
At its core, A Minecraft Movie is a celebration of creativity. The narrative follows Henry, portrayed by Sebastian Hansen, who inadvertently opens a portal to the “overworld,” a vibrant and cubic realm reminiscent of the beloved game. Joined by Jack Black’s character, Steve, Henry embarks on a whimsical quest that encourages adaptability and imaginative thinking. The film features a colorful cast, including Jennifer Coolidge as the comically inept school principal, alongside two pivotal female characters: Henry’s sister Natalie, played by Emma Myers, and their real estate agent Dawn, portrayed by Danielle Brooks.
The film embraces a lighthearted tone, with numerous moments seemingly crafted for the purpose of becoming viral memes. One such scene, featuring a “Chicken Jockey,” has reportedly become a source of frustration for movie theater employees. Despite its playful premise, the film has drawn criticism for its representation of female characters. Natalie assumes the role of the nurturing sister, while Dawn juggles her real estate career with a side venture as a traveling petting zoo operator. Both characters initially appear to be struggling, and upon entering the “overworld,” they find themselves separated from the main group. Their journey leads them to construct a charming mushroom house, which ultimately aids Henry and his companions upon their reunion. However, the narrative has been scrutinized for reinforcing stereotypes about women in gaming.
Harmful stereotypes
The film inadvertently perpetuates the well-known stereotype that girls are inept at video games. In a game like Minecraft, where success is subjective and creativity reigns, this stereotype manifests as the notion that female characters can only contribute aesthetically rather than strategically. Throughout the film, both Natalie and Dawn struggle to make meaningful contributions to the quest, relying on Steve’s dog to navigate their way back to the group after getting lost in the woods.
Moreover, A Minecraft Movie does not pass the Bechdel test—a measure of female representation in media established by cartoonist Alison Bechdel. The test stipulates that a film must feature at least two women who engage in conversation about something other than a man. While Natalie and Dawn do converse, their discussions predominantly revolve around Henry, thus falling short of the test’s criteria.
So what?
Some may argue that these concerns are trivial, and there is merit to that perspective. Many viewers, including myself, did not approach A Minecraft Movie expecting a groundbreaking feminist narrative. Given the film’s self-aware humor, it may be wise to adopt a similar lighthearted approach. Nevertheless, it remains crucial to acknowledge and critique the harmful stereotypes that persist in media, regardless of the film’s overall tone.
