There is nothing like leaving the theater after an action-packed film that leaves you feeling high on the joy of a movie well-done. I was sure that a nostalgic, Steven Spielberg directed story of adventure and overcoming evil would do just that but Ready Player One left me feeling underwhelmed.
Based on the best-selling book, Ready Player One takes place in 2045, after the world has gone to crap. Our protagonist is an orphaned teen named Wade Watts (Tye Sheridan) who escapes to the OASIS, just like everyone else in the world, to become whoever and do whatever he wants inside this virtual reality universe.
After the creator of the OASIS dies (Academy Award winner, Mark Rylance), it is revealed that he has placed a virtual Easter egg somewhere inside this universe and that if found, the winner will receive an immense fortune and the ownership of the entire OASIS. This sparks a competition that grips the entire world and people will do just about anything to win. Wade, or Parzival in the OASIS, finds friends, love and trouble while doing all that he can to find that Easter egg.
Overall, this film has everything going for it. Big actors, an amazing director, a brilliant storyline and a fun, universal concept. I really enjoyed watching it and found myself trying to figure out where the Easter egg could be. If you are into video games and ANYTHING 80’s nostalgia (including Back to the Future and Star Wars references), this film is for you.
I will warn you not to get a large soda at the concession stand – this film rounds out at 2 hours and 20 minutes. With that being said, this film is visually stunning and very entertaining but if you are one of those people who can’t sit still, I’d recommend waiting till this is available on iTunes or DVD.
Click here to listen to my podcast with Montez on 96.1 KISS FM! Ready Player One is in theaters now.
Great movie. It covered gamers completely. Easy to relate for the gaming generation.