By Ben Wright (@iamzavagno | www.xgeeks.co.uk)
This review is spoiler-free.
Before getting into the review for Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves, I’m just going to say I have never played D&D and I only have a very basic understanding in terms of character roles and the general premise. So this review will not discuss amazing Easter Eggs or anything specifically related to the tabletop game. I’m reviewing this solely as a fantasy action-adventure movie. So let’s get to it!
Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves is a thrilling and engaging cinematic experience, with plenty of wonderful fantasy action that offers a true sense of adventure. The overall narrative is engaging, with plenty of interest and intrigue along the way. The comedy element was the most surprising factor in this movie, as there are some genuine laugh-out-loud moments and I’ve not heard a cinema audience laugh like that in a long time! The action sequences are expertly choreographed and executed, adding to the excitement and tension of the film. The world-building was brilliant and this very much felt like the step into a much larger world. As for the visual effects, they were pretty impressive, on the whole, a few moments were a little rough and ready, but never enough to take you out of the enjoyment of the movie.
In terms of the cast, the characters are well-written and well-acted, with solid performances from the entire cast. Chris Pine’s (Edgin) charisma and charm were perfect for the role, as was the power and deadpan delivery of Michelle Rodriquez (Holga). Rege-Jean Page (Xenk) was overflowing with confidence, sex appeal and subtle humour that really worked well during his scenes. For the magic users, Justice Smith (Simon) and Sophia Lillis (Doric) were perfectly cast, offering quirkiness and awareness, which worked really well concerning their individual arcs. As for the grandad of the group, Hugh Grant (Forge) has gone through a real resurgence over recent years and this continues here! He could not have been better cast!
After doing some research after watching the movie, I feel that Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves is, overall, pretty faithful to the Dungeons & Dragons universe. The film is filled with references and nods to the game and tabletop world that I am sure will please even the most die-hard players. But maybe I’m wrong, having not been schooled in the world of D&D – let me know in the comments! One Easter Egg I did catch was a nod to an earlier, and cartoon, adaption of D&D, which was a nice touch!
Do I want more from these characters and this world? Absolutely! So I hope that the film performs well enough to receive another outing, as I’d definitely be back to see this incredible troupe set off on another adventure!
Overall, Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves is an incredibly enjoyable fantasy adventure, overflowing with quippy charm and fantastical characters. Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves is a positive example of how to adapt a beloved property for the big screen.
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