“Jumanji: The Next Level” starts with Bethany Walker (Madison Iseman) sending a text message in the group, followed up by Martha Kaply (Morgan Turner) and Anthony “Fridge” Johnson (Ser’Darius Blain) discussing a reunion during holidays and brunch at ‘Nora’s’ earlier called ‘Milo and Eddie’s’ after the name of Milo Walker (Danny Glover) the friend of Spencer Gilpin’s (Alex Wolff) grandfather Eddie or Edward Gilpin (Danny DeVito).
Spencer is not so keen on this reunion because his ex-girlfriend Martha is also going to be present and they are taking a break in their relationship. Nevertheless, he wants to give it a try. But he finds his life is purposeless until he realizes that it was meaningful back there in the game. So he goes back to see the broken video-game system and tries to repair it. Only to know later that he has now returned to the game. The fun begins thereafter, his friends look out for him and they too join Spencer in the game.
Due to the malfunctioning, all of them except Bethany get to the desired spot in the game but with different avatars. Bethany contacts an alumnus of Jumanji Alex Vreeke, and both of them get into the game. The fascinating characteristic about this part is each of the avatars have their weaknesses and strengths. When they meet dangers and fight troubles they learn to stand by each other and support each other. The end which is happy is perceivable. But the infusion of life into these otherwise dead avatars is brilliantly sketched.
I am not a lover of video games, but this movie gave me a reason why I ought to respect and love these video game creators. The culture and love with which each of these characters is made are commendable.
Kevin Hart, Dwayne Johnson, Karen Gillan, and Jack Black in a scene from “Jumani: The Next Level” (Sony, 2019).
Edward Gilpin, who is a funny and unapologetic person not favouring getting old says, “Getting Old Sucks. Don’t let anybody tell you any different.” Comically he and his friend also get into the game accidentally. The game Jumanji in one sense gives new life to each of the characters. They are vibrant and futuristic. They have a certain amount of life during which they need to achieve their goal.
Apart from the lifeless characters getting a life, their pointless life is invigorated. Eddie admits that he forgets that “getting old is a gift.” After having won the game Jumanji they have won self-respect for each other. They have won and understood that life is beautiful and we ought to cherish it dearly.
“Jumanji: The Next Level” is not the end—a sequel is sure to come. All of the prequels that went by have taught us how important it is to stick together and finish the game. Starting and finishing although is an archetype, our life starts and it ends. The video games that are created by human beings have got a starting with all its adventures and has an end after having accomplished the task. Life is a rollercoaster ride and everything that comes our way teaches us to be stronger together. “Jumanji: The Next Level” is fun, watching lifeless avatars made alive by the likes of Dwayne Johnson as Dr. Bravestone, Jack Black as Professor Sheldon, Kevin Hart as Franklin, Karen Gillan as Ruby Roundhouse, Nick Jonas as Jefferson, and Awkwafina as Ming Fleetfoot.
