Based on the novel of the same name by Ernest Cline, Ready Player One, directed by Steven Spielberg, stuns the viewer with dazzling visual effects and a realistic yet dystopian plot line that satisfies readers and non-readers alike.

Set in the year 2045, with reality practically destroyed, young and old journey to the virtual realm of OASIS, a program designed by James Halliday (Mark Rylance) in order to escape the chaos of their everyday lives, and become who they want to be. After Halliday’s death, an Easter egg is revealed in OASIS that would allow the person who collects his three keys using a trail of clues based on his life, to inherit his fortune and control of the program.

The story follows the journey of Wade Watts (Tye Sheridan), a young teen living in the slums of the fast-growing Ohio, five years after Halliday’s death. Watts is a gunter, or someone searching for the keys left by Halliday along with his friend AECH, though no one has made progress in the past years. He spends his time studying Halliday’s life in reality and OASIS, however, his luck changes when he finds himself winning the first challenge, putting a target on his back by individuals and companies alike who’d love Halliday’s fortune for themselves.

The characters in Ready Player One captivate the audience with relatability and visible development, particularly with Watts and Art3mis (Olivia Cooke). However, the relationship between the two protagonists seemed rather forced and crammed, which was likely due to trying to force a 400 page book into a two-hour movie. Nevertheless, their relationship was a bit unrealistic, and could have been portrayed better.

Another place this rush could be seen is the lack of time the characters spent in the real world, when they cut out portions of the novel. Large plot changes such as removal of characters, places, and the addition of other scenes would irritate most of the books fanatics, however, those who have not read the books will admire the fluidity of the film. Beyond the fast-paced nature of the film, the suspense built from these changes and unpredictability added a thrilling effect.

One of the most pleasing parts of the film is in the beautiful graphics in OASIS, and the exceptional visual effects. Movement and the kaleidoscope colors of the virtual reality portions were stunning and flawless, helping audiences identify with the desire to remain in that world.

The acting of James Halliday’s projections, however, was one of the most well-done pieces of the film. The awkward, nerdy, and antisocial form of the genius founder of the world’s most popular product created a spectacular, realistic performance.

Although the many alterations of the books plot may prevent die-hard readers from fully accepting the film, Steven Spielberg still successfully captured the feel of ’80s nostalgia and the need to escape reality in a film that everyone can enjoy. For this reason, the film earns four out of five stars.