Pixels (2015)

Pixels is a sci-fi action-comedy directed by Chris Columbus, blending nostalgia, video game culture, and explosive action into a fun and visually vibrant adventure. The film is inspired by the 2010 short film of the same name and features a star-studded cast including Adam Sandler, Kevin James, Josh Gad, and Peter Dinklage.
The story begins when an alien race misinterprets a series of 1980s video game footage, believing it to be a declaration of war. In response, the aliens send massive pixelated versions of classic arcade game characters to Earth to destroy major cities. In order to combat this unexpected invasion, the U.S. government turns to a group of former arcade game champions from the ’80s, including Sam Brenner (Adam Sandler), who is now a down-on-his-luck electronics installer.
He teams up with his childhood friends, Ludlow (Josh Gad) and Eddie (Kevin James), and a military strategist played by Michelle Monaghan, to fight off the giant video game invaders.
As the team faces off against enormous, pixelated versions of characters from iconic arcade games like Pac-Man, Donkey Kong, Centipede, and Space Invaders, they must use their video game skills to save the world. With the fate of Earth in their hands, the group embarks on an epic, action-packed mission filled with humor, heart, and plenty of video game-inspired chaos.
Pixels combines vibrant CGI with ’80s nostalgia, offering a quirky and light-hearted take on the classic alien invasion genre. Though the film leans heavily on its comedic elements and the star power of its leads, it’s also a visual feast for fans of retro gaming, delivering larger-than-life battles between humans and digital monsters. While the plot might not be groundbreaking, the film offers a fun and action-filled ride for anyone looking to relive their love for arcade games and enjoy a family-friendly adventure.