Danielle Brooks recently unveiled the thoughtful symbolism behind her vibrant jumpsuit in the much-anticipated “A Minecraft Movie,” set to hit theaters on April 4. In an engaging conversation with TODAY.com, the Oscar-nominated actress shared intriguing insights about her role in this family-friendly adventure comedy, which contrasts with her more dramatic performances in acclaimed works like “The Color Purple” and “Orange Is the New Black.”
Costume Design with a Purpose
In “A Minecraft Movie,” Brooks takes on the character of Dawn, one of four misfits who find themselves transported to the Overworld through a mysterious portal. Her costume, a striking blend of orange and purple, serves as a heartfelt tribute to her past roles. “What was cool is our costume designer, Amanda (Neale), she, I think, was very intentional about having orange and purple in my outfit,” Brooks explained. “So I thought that was pretty cool.”
Brooks expressed her appreciation for Neale’s choice of colors, recognizing their significance in her career. “I was like, ‘You realize this is, like, the height of my career? These two colors, orange and purple?’ She was like, ‘Yes, I know.’ I loved it,” she shared, highlighting the personal connection she feels to the hues.
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<span class="captioncontainer” data-testid=”captioncontainer”>Sebastian Hansen as Henry, Danielle Brooks as Dawn and Emma Myers as Natalie in Warner Bros. Pictures’ and Legendary Pictures’ “A Minecraft Movie.”
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Brooks also mentioned that her co-star Jason Momoa was equally enamored with the colorful ensemble. “Jason loved it even more,” she noted, revealing that he requested a similar jumpsuit for himself. Although Momoa intended to showcase the outfit at a film premiere, it unfortunately did not arrive in time.
Looking ahead, Brooks playfully suggested a creative direction for their characters’ styling in a potential sequel. “If we get a sequel, I think we should really think of some fun, funky hair,” she proposed, referencing Momoa’s iconic locks and his recent mullet hairstyle.
Alongside Brooks and Momoa, the film features a star-studded cast, including Jack Black, Jennifer Coolidge, and Emma Myers. Brooks expressed her eagerness for audiences to experience the film, which draws inspiration from the popular “Minecraft” video game. “I’m just really excited for people to watch it, and I hope that it reminds you to dance a little bit longer,” she said. “And, maybe, you know, pop the champagne after you’ve shaken it up a little bit. I just want people to live as free as they possibly can.”
Among those eagerly awaiting the film’s release is Brooks’ 5-year-old daughter, Freeya, whom she shares with her husband, Dennis Gelin. “I’m going to take her as soon as I get home. I’m doing a private screening in Georgia and so I get to take her, and I cannot wait to pick our seat out, me, her and her dad. We are going to go watch the movie with a room full of family and friends,” Brooks shared, capturing the excitement of sharing this cinematic experience with her loved ones.