In a remarkable narrative that intertwines personal passion with professional ambition, the journey of A Minecraft Movie has reached a significant milestone, surpassing 0 million at the box office. This cinematic venture traces its roots back to a mother’s deep affection for her son, sparked by his enthusiasm for the beloved block-building game.
From Inspiration to Action
Back in 2011, Jill Messick, a seasoned producer known for her work on films such as Baby Mama and Mean Girls, found herself between projects. Like many parents of the millennial generation, she observed her 11-year-old son, Jackson, immersed in the pixelated universe of Minecraft. Recognizing the potential of this cultural phenomenon, Messick took the bold step of reaching out to Mojang Studios in Stockholm, Sweden, to inquire about acquiring the film rights.
Her determination led her to book a flight and pitch the concept to Markus Persson, the founder of Mojang. At that time, the indie studio was cautious about Hollywood’s intentions, wary of the potential pitfalls that could accompany a film adaptation of their successful game. The landscape of video game adaptations was fraught with failures, and the stakes were high.
However, Messick’s pitch resonated with the Mojang team. Upon her return to Hollywood, she connected with Gregory McKnight of CAA, who introduced her to agents Jay Baker and Micah Green. Their shared experience as parents of Minecraft enthusiasts created an immediate bond, leading to a collaborative effort that would see Mojang sign with CAA.
Messick’s indie background appealed to Mojang, as it reassured them that their vision would be respected and that they would retain ownership of the project. “The idea of a movie was really early in the process at the time, but when Jill told our son Jackson that she was landing the film rights to Minecraft, he was excited about what his mom might do with the movie,” reflected her former husband, producer Kevin Messick.
Collaborative Pursuits
As Messick was navigating her path with Mojang, producer Roy Lee and Warner Bros. Production Chief Greg Silverman were also pursuing the rights to Minecraft, driven by their own familial connections to the game. Their efforts unfolded over five years, characterized by numerous meetings and engaging presentations, including appearances at San Diego Comic-Con. When CAA learned of Lee’s interest, they suggested a partnership with Messick.
Warner Bros. and the producers assured Mojang that the film would be a live-action adaptation, distinguishing it from the animated success of The Lego Movie. The deal was finalized in February 2014, just as The Lego Movie was gaining traction. Shortly thereafter, Mojang was sold to Microsoft for .5 billion, prompting further negotiations regarding the film rights.
The development of Minecraft spanned a decade, involving numerous writers and filmmakers. Throughout this period, Jesse Ehrman, a constant presence at Warner Bros., navigated various leadership changes within the studio. Legendary’s Mary Parent, known for her work on fan-favorite properties, was brought on board to elevate the project further.
A Lasting Legacy
Tragically, Jill Messick’s life was cut short in February 2018, yet her legacy continues to resonate within the film. In a poignant tribute, Warner Bros. and Legendary honored her contributions by inviting her husband, Kevin, and their children, Jackson and Ava, to the world premiere in London on March 30, coinciding with Mother’s Day in the U.K.
In an industry where success is often attributed to many, the story of Jill Messick and the triumph of A Minecraft Movie serves as a heartfelt reminder that Hollywood can indeed embrace compassion and recognition when it matters most.
