Blu-ray Review – Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle

Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle is the sequel to the 1995 movie that was an adaptation of the 1981 book of the same name by Chris Van Allsburg. Okay, it could be said that it is a reboot, but it does follow on from the original film and does reference it so it’s more of a sequel in my mind.

When it was first announced I wasn’t really that bothered about it. I’d enjoyed the first film, but it wasn’t one of those movies that was precious to me (I talk about it more in episode 49 of the After the Ending podcast. You can listen to that here). I liked the cast for the new film – Dwayne Johnson, Karen Gillan, Kevin Hart and Jack Black – so I followed it’s production, but wasn’t in any real rush to see it.

Then the trailer dropped and it did look like a lot of fun. Different than I expected and so my interest slowly grew.

I had intended to go to the cinema with my daughter to see it, but that never happened. Therefore, I only got a chance to see it when I got sent the Blu-ray to review. After watching it I really wish I had seen it in a packed movie house with a big audience as it is the kind of fun, silly, huge movie that I remember going to see back in the 80s when I was a kid. It has that irreverent charm wrapped around a big concept that many of those older films had.

The basic concept for this one is that the Jumanji board game was found. When it realised video games were the main draw for lots of kids, it changed to a plug and play type console and end up drawing in four kids who take on the avatars they chose during character selection. A great way of getting the main actors involved. Along the way, they learn valuable life lessons, have adventures, poke fun at video game tropes and give us all a lot laughs.

All involved do great things with their roles. Dwayne Johnson is his usual charismatic self but the fact he is playing an insecure teenager results in some great moments.

The story follows the main beats of a video game and it’s not too surprising what happens. It is the journey which is important. Along with the laughs we get some delightful character moments and also learn how cake can be a weakness.

I thoroughly enjoyed the film and liked the little nods to the original. It is a well-made family film that all ages will enjoy. One of those ones you can pop on after Sunday lunch is finished and everyone will sit, watch and laugh.

On Digital Download April 14.  On 4K Ultra HD™, 3D Blu-ray™, Blu-ray™ & DVD April 30.

Blu-ray and Digital Bonus Materials Include:

• Gag Reel
• “Jumanji, Jumanji” Music Video by Jack Black and Nick Jonas
• Five Featurettes: “Journey Through The Jungle: The Making of Jumanji,” “Meet the Players: A Heroic Cast,” “Attack of the Rhinos,” “Surviving the Jungle: Spectacular Stunts,” “Book to Board Game to Big Screen & Beyond! Celebrating The Legacy of Jumanji”

DVD Bonus Materials Include:

• Gag Reel
• “Jumanji, Jumanji” Music Video by Jack Black and Nick Jonas
• Three Featurettes:  “Journey Through The Jungle: The Making of Jumanji,” “Meet the Players: A Heroic Cast,” “Attack of the Rhinos!”

4K Ultra HD Bonus Materials Include:

• Feature film presented with Dolby Vision high dynamic range and Dolby Atmos sound
• Also includes the film and special features on the included high-def Blu-ray

JUMANJI: WELCOME TO THE JUNGLE has a run time of approximately 114 mins and is rated 12