The most fun I’ve had in the cinema for quite a while!
Right off the bat, I’ve never played D&D (though I’d love to learn if anyone is willing to teach me). The reason I’m saying this is because I know there'll be people out there reluctant to see this film because they too have never played. Fear not... as the poster states: No experience necessary!
It was pretty obvious that jokes and call backs were intended for those who frequently roll that 20-sided die – but Dungeons & Dragons: Honour Among Thieves was clearly made with everyone in mind.
The fun-filled fantasy adventure sees Edgin (Star Trek’s Chris Pine) and Holga (Fast & Furious’ Michelle Rodriguez) as two hapless thieves who discover that their old pal Forge (Hugh Grant) has betrayed them in the worst possible ways. His lies include falsely telling Edgin's daughter that she was abandoned by her father for treasure – before taking on the parental role himself.
What follows is an exciting adventure with the intent of putting things right.
On paper, the movie may seem like an odd choice for the Game Night writing/directing duo Jonathan Goldstein and John Francis Daley, but you can actually see their fingerprints all over this. Similarities include great-pacing, perfect comedic-timing and making the most of the on-screen talent.
What we ultimately have here is a truly thrilling cinema experience – regardless of whether you've even heard of the popular game or not.
Think of this as a more playful and family-friendly version of The Lord of the Rings – that is arguably the cinematic surprise of 2023.
ESP Rating: 4/5
Mikey Clarke
Showcase Cinema De Lux Peterborough, Out Now
Cast: Chris Pine, Michelle Rodriguez, Rege-Jean Page, Justice Smith, Sophia Lillis, Chloe Coleman, Hugh Grant & Bradley Cooper
Running Time: 2 Hrs 14 Mins
Directors: Jonathan Goldstein & John Francis Daley
Go to www.showcasecinemas.co.uk for all the latest film information & showtimes at Peterborough’s Showcase Cinema De Lux