The story of how one of the world's most popular video games found its way to players around the globe. Businessman Henk Rogers and Tetris inventor Alexey Pajitnov join forces in the USSR, risking it all to bring Tetris to the masses.
Taron Egerton, Nikita Efremov, Toby Jones, Rick Yune, Oleg Stefan, Roger Allam, Anthony Boyle & Ayane Nagabuchi.
Tetris is Apple TV+ newest feature and is it as engaging as the game the film is based on? Maybe not. But there’s so much works that this will be one of the breeziest watches so far this year.
Taron Egerton is constantly proving to be one of the most exciting and versatile actors in the world right now. Ranging from drama to comedy, he always brings his A-game and this is apparent within the first 5 minutes. These 5 minutes are stylish in editing and hilarious in dialogue and delivery, which was the hope for the rest of the film. And, while this does lose it a little, particularly in the 2nd act that felt rather long and repetitive to hold its own. This style of editing is kept, somewhat consistent throughout the whole film. A needed style to pull audiences in.
The film balances tone quite well, it handles the comedy superbly and thought all comic lines landed and felt natural. Along with its drama that was balanced well with its comedic side. Unfortunately, its thriller approach was rather lost in its uneven tonal balance, especially in the month of Succession. A show that handles its political/economic contract signings in an enthralling yet hilarious manner that keeps you on the edge of your seats.
It has 2 fantastic moments that were by far the highlight of the film, one coming at the end of the first act that is the perfect example of its drama / comedy balance. And another being a needle drop scene in the third act that brought me back into the film after its rather dull second act.
The cinematography and directing was lacking in style, especially contrasting with its awesome animated transitions that the film incorporates. The music, however, boosts the film greatly and especially the pacing. It’s fun and constant, adding a nice rhythm to scenes that may have felt longer if it lacked music. Lorne Balfe loves to rework already composed tracks and he delivers once again here.
The screenplay may not be as engaging as it should be. But the heart, comedy, editing and fantastic performances all come together nicely for an overall lovely watch. While it doesn’t have an overarching theme or message, it’s great to learn of the story of Tetris and it’s rise to fame.
