I daresay nobody was more surprised that Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle (2017) was as good as it is than me; I didn’t like the original Jumanji (1995) very much, but the reboot was both visually exciting and dramatically sound and meaningful. This next adventure follows the same path forward; it isn’t as fresh or original, but it delivers thrills, laughs and many memorable moments.

Jake Kasdan’s film takes place a few years later, with young adult friends who have lost touch with Spencer (Alex Wolff). Disappointed with his life, Spencer enters the live action video game again, so his friends follow to try to save him. Only this time a couple of other companions appear, and most people get different avatars. The greatest joy of this concept, at least for me, is watching actors like Dwayne Johnson, Jack Black, Kevin Hart and Karen Gillan channel other personalities. Last time out it was Jack Black who excelled; this time it is Kevin Hart, who perfectly channels Danny Glover.

The adventure itself is a bit strange, and would probably appeal more to a younger audience more versed in the video game world. But this team of filmmakers mines laughs where they can find them, and does so with real authority. It’s a fun movie, even as it revels in its close-to-death moments. It brings back memories of Indiana Jones journeys while throwing in some cool Lara Croft action (courtesy of Karen Gillan, who is terrific) and then delivering great humor.

I often rail against stupid modern movies that offer limited ambition and crude humor; it is a pleasure to watch a movie like this that tries to be clever and fun, and succeeds because of the talent involved. Even though I didn’t care for the 1995 film, I highly appreciate that the filmmakers have developed a premise that works, and that the cast seems to be having a great time playing multiple personalities. ☆ ☆ ☆. 7 February 2020.