Loud reactions, viral trends and warnings from cinema chains follow the film’s energetic debut across the UK

The UK cinema scene has erupted with excitement and occasional disruption following the release of A Minecraft Movie, as animated fan reactions sweep across screenings nationwide.

Starring Jason Momoa, Jack Black, and Jennifer Coolidge, the film has become a cultural moment, drawing large crowds—particularly of younger viewers—who are energetically engaging with the movie in real time.

According to the UK Cinema Association, audience response has been “extraordinary”, with cheers, clapping and quoting lines out loud becoming common occurrences during screenings. In particular, the appearance of beloved characters like the Chicken Jockey has triggered vocal celebrations, spawning a wave of TikTok trends and memes.

However, several cinema chains have responded with concern. Signs posted at venues warn against “anti-social behaviour” such as shouting, clapping or loud reactions that could disturb other guests. Reel Cinemas, which operates 16 branches, even stated that disruptive attendees risk being removed, with police involvement if necessary.

Cineworld locations in Oxfordshire and Glasgow have also introduced strict policies, reiterating that anyone disturbing others would be ejected without a refund. One such warning notice stated plainly that loud behaviour would “not be tolerated”.

Despite this, many filmgoers have embraced the enthusiastic atmosphere. Comedian Sam Avery, who watched the film with his young sons, described the experience as “the most joyous” he’s ever had at the cinema. He likened the communal energy to cult classic screenings like The Rocky Horror Picture Show, saying the crowd erupted in applause when characters like Steve appeared on screen.

“It went from complete silence to wild celebration in seconds,” Avery said. “Lines from the trailer were shouted in unison. It was electric.” He added that his family enjoyed it so much, they plan to see it again—and hope for a similarly rowdy crowd next time.

The film, based on the globally popular video game Minecraft, follows four misfits who are pulled into the game’s Overworld. Though critics have given it a lukewarm reception, its opening weekend was a box office triumph, pulling in an estimated $300 million (£233 million) worldwide.

The UK Cinema Association’s chief executive, Phil Clapp, acknowledged the disruptive trend but also saw a silver lining. “It’s encouraging to witness such enthusiasm from young audiences. At a time when many say cinemas are losing relevance, this shows how much the communal experience still matters,” he said.

Nevertheless, Clapp urged fans to remain considerate: “Please enjoy yourselves, but don’t make the experience unpleasant for others—or leave extra mess for staff.”

To meet demand for interactive screenings, Cineworld has now designated 13 April as the date for “Chicken Jockey Screenings” in 4DX format. These special showings will invite fans to fully immerse themselves in the film’s wild energy—with dressing up, cheering, and general merrymaking encouraged.

From spontaneous applause to popcorn showers, A Minecraft Movie has become far more than a children’s adventure film—it’s a cinema spectacle, transforming theatres into interactive arenas.