A Story About a Game: How Tetris Conquered the World.

Image: Courtesy of Apple TV+

The 2023 film Tetris is a captivating dramatization of one of the most iconic video games ever created. Directed by Jon S. Baird and starring Taron Egerton, the movie isn’t just about the puzzle game that became a worldwide sensation. Instead, it dives into the tumultuous story of its licensing rights, blending the frenetic energy of 1980s Cold War politics with the enthusiasm of an underdog story.

Tetris follows Henk Rogers portrayed by Taron Egerton, a Dutch American entrepreneur who discovers the game at a trade show and becomes determined to secure the worldwide rights. The plot escalates as Henk navigates a maze of corporate greed, espionage, and political intrigue in Soviet Russia. Alongside Alexey Pajitnov played by Nikita Efremov, the creator of Tetris, Henk battles against a backdrop of KGB surveillance, corrupt businessmen, and cultural barriers to ensure the game's global release.

The stakes feel surprisingly high for a movie about a video game. Rogers’ unyielding optimism, contrasted with the grim realities of the Soviet regime, keeps the audience invested in every twist and turn. The film does an excellent job of explaining the complex legal and political wrangling without bogging down the pace.

Taron Egerton shines as Henk Rogers, portraying him with infectious charm and a never-say-die spirit. Egerton brings a perfect blend of humour, intensity, and heart to the role, making Rogers a protagonist you can root for. Nikita Efremov, as Alexey Pajitnov, adds depth to the story with his reserved yet earnest portrayal of a man who just wants to see his creation flourish despite living under an oppressive regime. Their unlikely friendship serves as the emotional backbone of the film.

Supporting performances, including Roger Allam as media mogul Robert Maxwell and Anthony Boyle as his son Kevin, add layers of corporate drama and villainy. These characters are larger-than-life, but their motivations feel grounded in the era's high-stakes business culture.

Jon S. Baird infuses the film with a kinetic energy that mirrors the addictive gameplay of Tetris itself. The movie uses retro video game-inspired visuals to break down legal battles and business negotiations, making potentially dry sequences feel dynamic and engaging. These moments not only pay homage to the game’s roots but also underline the thematic parallels between the game’s simplicity and the complexities of the real-world drama.

The 1980s setting is vividly realized, with neon-soaked aesthetics and a pulsating synth-driven score that immerses viewers in the era. The contrast between the bright optimism of Henk’s vision and the grey, oppressive atmosphere of Soviet Russia is particularly striking.

Henk Rogers embodies the idea that visionaries can achieve the impossible. His relentless drive to bring Tetris to the world showcases how passion, creativity, and persistence can overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles. This theme resonates beyond the gaming industry, serving as an inspiring metaphor for innovation and entrepreneurship.

The film juxtaposes the freedom of creative expression with the restrictive environment of the Soviet Union. Alexey Pajitnov’s situation highlights the stifling effects of state control on individual creativity. Despite inventing a game that captivated millions, he was initially unable to profit or even claim ownership of his creation. The movie subtly critiques systems that prioritize control over empowerment.

Tetris explores the cultural and political clashes between the capitalist West and the communist East during the Cold War. While the Soviet characters are portrayed with nuance, the film doesn’t shy away from showing the ideological and bureaucratic barriers that nearly prevented Tetris the game from reaching the global stage. However, the friendship between Henk and Alexey underscores the potential for collaboration and mutual respect to bridge divides.

At its core, Tetris is a game that transcends boundaries—anyone can understand and enjoy it. This universality is a recurring motif in the film, symbolizing the ability of art and technology to unite people. By showing how the game captivated players across the globe, the movie emphasizes the shared human experience of joy and creativity.

The film reaches its emotional and narrative peak when Henk ventures into Soviet Russia to negotiate directly with the authorities. The atmosphere in these scenes is tense, with grey, foreboding landscapes underscoring the dangers of his mission. The interrogation scene, where Henk faces the KGB, is a nerve-wracking highlight. It exemplifies his determination and unrelenting optimism, even in the face of real danger.

One of the film’s most touching aspects is the bond between Henk and Alexey. A standout scene is when Alexey invites Henk to his modest Soviet apartment. It’s a rare moment of warmth amidst the tension, showing Alexey’s passion for his creation and his quiet resignation to the constraints of his life in the USSR. Their shared love for Tetris transcends political and cultural divides, making this relationship the heart of the film.

While Tetris is undeniably entertaining, it occasionally takes liberties with historical accuracy for dramatic effect. Some of the more action-heavy sequences, while exciting, may feel overly dramatized for viewers familiar with the real events. Additionally, the film leans heavily on its nostalgic appeal, which might not resonate as strongly with those less familiar with the game’s legacy.

Tetris is a surprisingly thrilling biographical drama that turns the story of a video game into a high-stakes geopolitical caper. Anchored by a stellar performance from Taron Egerton and a creative visual style, the film successfully captures the spirit of its subject while delivering a poignant message about resilience and innovation. Whether you’re a gaming enthusiast or a fan of gripping historical dramas, Tetris is well worth your time.

Catch this gaming thriller streaming on Apple TV+