Studios have rolled the dice multiple times in hopes of landing a successful Dungeons and Dragons film. It’s no small feat to wield the fantastical world and create an adventure that isn’t, in a word, corny. But it seems like the franchise finally has its dragon masters in Jonathan Goldstein and John Francis Daley.
A charming thief, Edgin (Chris Pine), and his band of unlikely heroes embark on a journey to retrieve a lost relic. When things go awry, Edgin must find a way to win back his family and defeat a powerful enemy. Though it may seem simple, the story takes about 40 different turns. The complexity of the script is what allows the jokes to land. Sure, there are easter eggs for die-hard fans, but it doesn’t make the audience feel dumb for not knowing them. In fact, they did an incredible job of explaining the world to newcomers.
The script is witty. And, yes, there are a few hokey jokes that could not have landed, but that is where the cast comes in. Chris Pine has proven to be a fantastic character actor. He puts his skills to use playing Edgin. The whole cast looks like they’re having a blast creating this world, and each one is at the top of their game.
The world-building is top-notch. From the set design to the wardrobe, everything looks stunning. There is a perfect mixture of practical and CGI effects that bring a quirky lightheartedness to scenes.
The run-time is long, but you’re having so much fun you barely notice it. While this is being billed as a family film, it may not retain the attention of a younger audience. As I said, the story is complex, often too much. Yes, the jokes play into it, but keeping track of what’s happening is hard.
Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves is like Game of Thrones, and Monty Python and the Holy Grail has a high-fantasy baby. There is an evident love of the popular role-playing game sprinkled throughout every frame of the film. The story may have a few bumps, but it’s a fun time with a fantastic group of characters.
Review - Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves
Score
Review Nation Score
Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves is like Game of Thrones, and History of the World has a high-fantasy baby. There is an evident love of the popular role-playing game sprinkled throughout every frame of the film. The story may have a few bumps, but it's a fun time with a fantastic group of characters.
