It didn't have an awful lot of momentum in a first act that was just setting things up and took too long to do so, was awkward at times in the writing and the acting was far more comfortable and interesting once we got to Jumanji. Didn't care for the first twenty minutes or so in the real world.
Can see definitely why it won't appeal, and hasn't appealed to (though on the most part have seen more positivity than negativity), some. Do prefer the earlier film but other than the title and the basic premise 'Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle' to me seemed like its own take and should stand on its own.
It may not be a masterpiece or great, but it clearly strived to be glossy escapist fun and succeeded very well in that. 'Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle' turned to be much better and far more enjoyable than expected. Saw it anyway being someone who wanted to see as many 2017 films as possible, who has seen their fair share and likes films intended to be escapist fun, who loves the Jumanji premise and who has fondness for the Robin Williams film. The advertising didn't have me completely sold, was worried as to whether it would be fun or turn into puerile immaturity and wasn't sure about the cast entirely. Reviewed by TheLittleSongbird 7 / 10 Worth escaping to
