Initial impressions of Tetris, featuring Nikita Efremov and Taron Egerton under the direction of John S. Baird, have been favorable. The piece has drawn early attention through a review cycle that points to a strong reception. A notable aggregator reflects an 83% score, signaling generally positive consensus across critics.
Efremov portrays Soviet software pioneer Alexei Pajitnov, who created the iconic puzzle game that inspired the film. The runtime stretches close to two hours, yet observers find the storytelling brisk, energized by a sense of independence and momentum that keeps it from feeling bloated or overextended, a common pitfall in longer franchises or streaming sagas. The Guardian’s Benjamin Lee remarks on the film’s stamina and its ability to stay fresh, even as it navigates a dense historical backdrop. Lovia Gjarkje of The Hollywood Reporter highlights the director’s choice to center on a complex licensing dispute, arguing that the film builds a robust and at times funny drama about capitalism, intellectual property, and the looming specter of the Soviet Union’s collapse.
IndieWire’s Kate Erbland concedes there are imperfect elements, noting that some puzzle pieces don’t perfectly align and that the tempo doesn’t escalate throughout, though the movie still accomplishes its aims. The film invites audiences to cheer for the protagonists as the narrative gradually scales its challenges and the stakes surrounding the game’s ownership become clearer, even as some cinematic transitions feel tentative.
Having its world premiere at SXSW, Tetris is slated for a digital release on Apple TV+ on March 31, widening access to viewers who enjoy a blend of biographical drama and high-stakes business intrigue. The project also situates itself within a broader trajectory of video game narratives moving toward more grounded, character-driven storytelling while exploring the cultural and political forces that shaped one of the era’s most recognizable cultural artifacts.
Former actor Dmitry Sharakois has stated his involvement in filming the project, underscoring the collaborative nature of the production and the dedication of those who helped bring Pajitnov’s story to the screen. The film’s reception suggests a portrait that, while anchored in real events, emphasizes human drama and strategic decisions that defined a defining chapter in gaming history.