Game on: 5 screen adaptations that levelled up from console to classic

With a stellar box office performance—but mixed reviews—emerging for 'A Minecraft Movie' directed by 'Napoleon Dynamite' fame Jared Hess and featuring a powerhouse duo of Jason Momoa and Jack Black, here are five great films and TV series adapted from video games:

Arcane (2021-24)

Based on the globally-popular multiplayer battle arena video game 'League of Legends', steampunk-style Arcane turned heads with its fantastic writing and faithfulness to the game, but disappeared as quickly as it came when Netflix cancelled it after just a second season. The showrunners later revealed alternate plans to continue related storylines in the future.

The Last of Us (2023-present)

What made the 2013 video game so popular was not just the terrifying inspiration from the real-life Cordyceps, but also the game's manipulation of the player's free will, making the player more like a powerless spectator at points. HBO's TV series brilliantly uses the narrative power of the already-cinematic game to create a tightly-paced gem with brilliant visual metaphors and solid emotional power.

The Witcher (2019-present)

Adapted from the legendary video game that was itself adapted from a series of novels, this TV series was famed for its impressive performances, especially Henry Cavill's portrayal of Geralt of Rivia, for which he was said to have undergone rigorous physical training. Cavill was later replaced by Liam Hemsworth for the upcoming fourth and fifth seasons.

The Super Mario Bros. Movie (2023)

Boasting an incredible voice cast of Anya Taylor-Joy, Chris Pratt, Jack Black and Seth Rogen in the lead roles, this is an energetic animated film that keeps things interesting, with occasional bouts of slapstick humour that fit the tone of the film. This film was also the origin of Jack Black's quirky song 'Peaches', which won a Golden Globe nomination, but was snubbed by the Oscars.

Sonic the Hedgehog (2020)

Although this film's release sparked a digital outcry over the terrible CGI and the lack of resemblance to the titular character, it went on to perform decently at the box office after a major CGI revision, primarily because it perfectly utilised Jim Carrey's acting prowess for the villain, Dr. Eggman. The film franchise saw two more additions over the years, which collectively grossed $1 billion in total box office receipts worldwide.

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