Welcome to the Jungle works because it updates a classic premise to modern technology while keeping the narrative engine simple: people are changed by extraordinary circumstances and return transformed. The balance of humor, action, and sincere character moments gives it broad appeal and explains its box-office success and franchise continuation.

Four high-schoolers with distinct social identities—Spencer, Fridge, Martha, and Bethany—are sentenced to detention and discover an old video game. When they select avatars, they’re physically transported into the game as their chosen characters: a middle-aged adventurer (Dwayne Johnson), a cartographer and zoologist (Jack Black), a sly explorer (Kevin Hart), and a competent Ruby Roundhouse (Karen Gillan). To escape they must finish the game by returning a jewel and restoring balance, confronting in-game dangers and, crucially, confronting real-life insecurities.

The movie received generally positive reviews from critics and audiences alike. It grossed over $962 million worldwide, making it one of the highest-grossing films of 2017.

The best way to experience the lush visuals and high-octane action of the Jumanji jungle is through official streaming platforms.