Dungeons and Dragons: Honor Among Thieves

release year: 2023
genre: fantasy adventure
viewing setting: theater 4/2/23

synopsis: A group of friends or allies bands together to stop an evil ruler from consolidating power.

impressions: This was so much better than the 2000 misfire. It had a coherent plot that moved along and didn't rely too much on any one character, or any one thing. There was a good variety of heroes who all had to work together, each bringing some talent to the table in support of the overall mission...much like the game which this movie is based on. There were not only spells and monsters, but plenty of action and special effects. There were also a number of easter eggs, nods to the history of the game; I'll definitely need to have a pause-able version of this to catch them all in the future.

acting: Chris Pine is the bard, who plans and jokes a lot and fights (and sings) a little. Michelle Rodriguez is the barbarian, who's fierce in combat and loyal to her friends. Justice Smith is the wizard, who lacks confidence and apparently competence. Sophia Lills is a woodland being who can change shape into animals. Rege-Jean Page is a noble, honorable paladin who helps the group. Hugh Grant is a scheming rogue who assumes power and wants to keep it. Daisy Head is a quiet, grim sorceress of significant power.

final word: A D&D adaptation done right; it could become the core of a good franchise.

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