In a fascinating glimpse into the creative process behind the upcoming live-action Minecraft film, director Jared Hess has shared insights into the remarkable dedication of lead actor Jack Black. Described as “method as it gets,” Black has fully embraced his role as the iconic character Steve, immersing himself in the world of the beloved video game at every opportunity.
Jack Black’s Immersive Approach
According to Hess, Black transformed his trailer into a personal gaming sanctuary. “He was in his trailer anytime he had a break; he was just slaying it in the Overworld,” he revealed. The film’s producer, Torfi Frans Olafsson, even arranged for a special server tailored for the crew, allowing Black to dive deeper into the game’s mechanics.
“Jack got obsessed with searching for lapis lazuli, as he calls it,” Hess continued. “Every day, I’d pop in there to go over the scene in the morning, and he would be dressed as Steve playing the game. It was kind of a surreal thing to behold.”
Olafsson added to the conversation, describing Black as “like an empty page you write your story on.” He noted that casting Black as Steve might not have been the initial vision for the character, but it has evolved into something uniquely fitting. “This is the Steve who is Jack Black,” he explained. “For him, we felt that he should have the joy, curiosity, fun, and humour that we have seen in the Minecraft community over the years, like through YouTube videos and all of their creations.”
The excitement surrounding the film is palpable, especially with the release of its first trailer in September. Alongside Black, the cast includes notable names such as Jason Momoa, Emma Myers, Danielle Brooks, Sebastian Eugene Hansen, and Jennifer Coolidge. The film’s synopsis hints at an adventurous narrative: “Four misfits are suddenly pulled through a mysterious portal into the Overworld: a bizarre, cubic wonderland that thrives on imagination.”
To return home, these characters must master this enchanting realm while defending it against threats like Piglins and Zombies, all while embarking on a magical quest with the unexpected help of Steve.
Fans can look forward to experiencing this imaginative journey when the film hits cinemas on April 4, 2025.
