In a recent interview with ComicBook, Jack Black and Jason Momoa, the stars of the upcoming A Minecraft Movie, shared their contrasting experiences with video games, shedding light on their personal journeys in the gaming world. The film, a collaboration between Warner Bros. and Legendary Pictures, is set to transport audiences into the blocky universe of Minecraft, where four ordinary individuals find themselves navigating a new reality guided by Black’s character, the expert crafter Steve.
Gaming Experiences
Black, known for his enthusiasm, recounted his immersive experience with Red Dead Redemption Part Two, stating, “It was over pandemic times. I played it, and I lived in it.” Clocking in an impressive 400 hours, he described the game as more than just entertainment; it became a way of life for him. His fervor for Rockstar Games’ creation was palpable as he urged Momoa to try it, expressing disbelief that his co-star had never heard of it. “Dude, you have to play it, it’ll change your life,” Black insisted, showcasing his passion for the artistry behind the game.
Momoa, on the other hand, approached gaming with caution, admitting, “I got a pretty addictive personality. That’s why I stay away from that.” His self-awareness about the potential for gaming to consume his time was evident, leading to light-hearted banter between the two actors about the possibility of Momoa disappearing into the gaming world. Despite his limited gaming background, he did share fond memories of playing Street Fighter, citing Ryu and Blanka as his favorite characters.
The Long Journey to A Minecraft Movie
The path to bringing A Minecraft Movie to life has been anything but straightforward. Initially announced in February 2014, the film faced numerous challenges, including changes in directors and production delays. Originally slated for a May 2019 release with a budget of 0 million, the project struggled to maintain momentum, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, which further postponed its timeline.
After a decade of development, the film found new energy when Legendary Entertainment stepped in, securing Jared Hess as the director and bringing Momoa on board. Principal photography finally commenced in Auckland, New Zealand, in January 2024, following delays from the 2023 SAG-AFTRA strike. The film aims to blend live-action performances with cutting-edge visual effects, promising to transform Minecraft’s iconic pixelated aesthetic into a “freakishly realistic” experience.
The production process fostered a strong bond between Black and Momoa, leading to speculation about future collaborations. “Yeah, we’re together for life now,” Momoa remarked, with Black enthusiastically affirming their newfound friendship. The duo has been seen promoting the film in matching knit cardigans, hinting at a lasting partnership in the industry. As they navigate their individual careers, with Black working on an Anaconda remake and Momoa balancing roles in the DC Universe and the Fast & Furious franchise, their camaraderie remains a highlight of their journey.
With A Minecraft Movie set to hit theaters on April 4, 2025, anticipation continues to build for this unique cinematic adventure.
