Hey Speilberg, its 2018.

Rating: 6/10 (29 June 2018)

Let me start with no, I did not read the book. However, there is still some tedious flaws in this movie that left me completely disappointed because it had so much potential. There were too many details that weren't followed through. We're introduced to Wade's aunt and then she pretty much just.. dies right after. Samantha had a birthmark on her face that she was insecure about but after they meet it's never talked about again? It was obvious they were plugging things in from the book and it was awkward.
The character development was something we'd see in a movie like this from the 20th century. It's 2018, and I'd really love it if Wade didn't tell Sam he loved her after knowing her for a few days. That is my biggest pet peeve in movies. There's almost nothing that makes me feel attached to any of these characters and quite honestly if they died I wouldn't care. If that is the case for a film, it's not good.
Otherwise, I did enjoy everything else. Yes, even the dozens of pop culture references. Those were actually my favorite part of the film. As a teenager I think it's awesome to see an ode to classic video games especially because I wasn't there to experience them with everyone else. The visuals were great in my book and the overall plot was really interesting. I thought the acting fit the overarching theme that Spielberg was going for even though it was cheesy.
I'd say I would recommend this movie if you can get past the lazy character development.