Tetris (2023) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
The 2023 film Tetris tells the thrilling and unlikely true story behind one of the most iconic video games ever created. Directed by Jon S. Baird and starring Taron Egerton, this biographical drama captures the high-stakes legal and political battle over the rights to Tetris during the Cold War era. More than just a game, Tetris became a global sensation, but its journey to the masses was anything but straightforward.
In this review, we’ll delve into the film’s plot, performances, historical accuracy, and where you can stream or rent Tetris online.
Tetris (2023) Synopsis
Set in the late 1980s, Tetris focuses on Henk Rogers (played by Taron Egerton), a Dutch video game entrepreneur living in Japan. Rogers stumbles upon Tetris, a simple yet addictive game developed by a Soviet programmer named Alexey Pajitnov (played by Nikita Efremov). Realizing its potential, Rogers sets out to secure worldwide licensing rights, but what seems like a straightforward business deal soon turns into a tense international conflict.
The movie skillfully captures the complex geopolitical environment of the time, with Rogers navigating the murky waters of Soviet bureaucracy, KGB interference, and Western corporate greed. What begins as a game about falling blocks becomes a high-stakes thriller, as Rogers tries to outmaneuver competing interests from Nintendo, Sega, and the Soviet Union, all while befriending Pajitnov and risking his life to bring Tetris to the world.
A Story of Friendship, Politics, and Risk
Unlike many video game adaptations that focus on fictionalized narratives, Tetris (2023) stands out as a biographical drama rooted in real-world events. The film balances intense legal battles and corporate maneuvering with the personal relationship between Henk Rogers and Alexey Pajitnov, highlighting their mutual respect and determination to share Tetris with the world.
One of the strengths of the movie is its portrayal of the East vs. West tension during the Cold War, especially in the Soviet Union. Rogers’ journey into Moscow is filled with danger, paranoia, and uncertainty. At the same time, the film doesn’t shy away from the shady business tactics employed by Western corporations eager to profit from the game. This combination of political intrigue, corporate espionage, and personal stakes makes Tetris more than just a simple biopic — it’s a gripping thriller.
Taron Egerton’s Stellar Performance
Taron Egerton delivers a dynamic and engaging performance as Henk Rogers. Known for his roles in Rocketman and the Kingsman series, Egerton once again proves his versatility as an actor, portraying Rogers as a charming, determined, and sometimes reckless protagonist. His on-screen chemistry with Nikita Efremov, who plays Alexey Pajitnov, brings emotional depth to the film, turning what could have been a dry legal drama into a story of friendship and shared passion.
Egerton captures the highs and lows of Rogers’ journey, from his initial excitement over the game to his frustration with the Soviet system and the cutthroat business tactics of his rivals. His performance elevates the tension and drama, making the audience root for his success despite the odds stacked against him.
Historical Accuracy: How True is Tetris?
While Tetris is based on real events, like many Hollywood biopics, it takes some creative liberties for dramatic effect. The core story of Henk Rogers’ fight to secure the rights to Tetris is accurate, including his dealings with the Soviet government and companies like Nintendo. However, certain characters and events are fictionalized or exaggerated for narrative purposes.
The film captures the essence of the Cold War-era political tensions, showing how even something as seemingly apolitical as a video game could become a battleground for corporate and governmental interests. However, viewers should keep in mind that some of the more dramatic elements, particularly the life-threatening scenarios Rogers faces, are likely heightened for the sake of storytelling.
The Visuals: A Retro Aesthetic with a Modern Twist
One of the standout aspects of Tetris is its visual style. The film cleverly incorporates 8-bit graphics and retro video game aesthetics to enhance key scenes, giving it a unique flair that pays homage to the era in which the events took place. These visual elements are woven into the storytelling, adding a playful yet effective layer to the film, especially during moments of high tension.
The cinematography, combined with a fitting 1980s-inspired score, creates a nostalgic atmosphere for anyone familiar with the original Tetris game. Yet, it remains accessible to audiences unfamiliar with the game’s history, thanks to its well-paced plot and engaging character dynamics.
Where to Watch Tetris Online
As a relatively recent release, Tetris (2023) is available on multiple streaming platforms. Here’s where you can find it in the United States:
Streaming Services
- Apple TV+: Tetris is available exclusively on Apple TV+ as part of their original content lineup. Subscribers to Apple TV+ can watch it without additional costs. Apple TV+ offers a free trial for new subscribers, making it an easy way to check out the movie if you’re not already subscribed.
Rental and Purchase Options
While Tetris is currently exclusive to Apple TV+, there’s always a chance it may become available for rent or purchase on other platforms in the future. However, as of now, it’s best to subscribe or use Apple TV+ to access the film.
Why Tetris (2023) Is Worth Watching
What makes Tetris stand out among other biopics is its ability to take a seemingly mundane story — the licensing of a video game — and turn it into a suspenseful, entertaining thriller. The film successfully blends real-world historical drama with personal stakes, delivering a narrative that is both informative and emotionally engaging.
Fans of video games, especially those who grew up with Tetris, will enjoy learning about the complex history behind the game’s worldwide success. Meanwhile, viewers who aren’t gamers will still find plenty to enjoy in the movie’s exploration of Cold War politics, corporate rivalry, and the unyielding determination of its protagonists.
Final Thoughts
Tetris (2023) is a fascinating biographical drama that sheds light on the complex and dangerous journey to bring one of the world’s most beloved games to the masses. With Taron Egerton’s strong performance, gripping storytelling, and a nostalgic yet fresh visual style, the film is a must-watch for anyone interested in the intersection of technology, politics, and human ingenuity.
If you’re looking for an engaging, fast-paced drama with real historical stakes, Tetris is well worth your time. And with its exclusive release on Apple TV+, it’s easy to access and stream today.
By knowing where to stream and what to expect, you’ll be ready to dive into this unique story about one of the most famous video games ever made.
