The recently released *A Minecraft Movie* has brought an exciting twist to its production process. To ensure authenticity, the film's team established a private Minecraft server, which was accessible to the entire cast and crew. This initiative not only helped in crafting a movie true to the game's spirit but also fostered a creative environment reminiscent of an indie game studio. Producer Torfi Frans Ólafsson shared with IGN that the server allowed for a dynamic exchange of ideas, although not all could be implemented as the project was already in motion. However, it did enable the filmmakers to add unique touches that enriched the film's authenticity.
Director Jared Hess highlighted Jack Black's dedication, who portrayed Steve in the movie. Black immersed himself deeply into Minecraft, even spending time in his trailer harvesting resources and constructing various builds. His enthusiasm was infectious, contributing to a collaborative atmosphere where everyone brought their own flair to the project.
"It was so much fun," Hess remarked. "Jack was super-weirdly method with the game. He was in his trailer harvesting lapis lazuli and always building stuff. [He] was geeking out on the game and would come back with ideas. It was a constantly evolving thing where everybody was contributing in their own fun, unique way."
Jack Black, embodying the role of Steve, playfully explained his commitment: "I had an Xbox in my trailer and I did play because *an actor prepares,*" he said with a grin. "So I got as many hours as I could on this Minecraft server, which had tons of props from all the different departments. The cast and crew on the server were building some insane structures and I wanted to stand out. I wanted everyone to know that I was *a real Minecrafter,* so I said I was going to find the biggest, highest mountain in this world and build a stairway to Steve and a mansion up on top of that hill. I had a basement in there with an art gallery and... I don't even know if it's still there!"
A Minecraft Movie Gallery
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Producer Ólafsson confirmed the enduring presence of Black's creation, stating, "It's up! I kept it up and I extended it for a year. I popped up in there a couple days ago and I said, 'Wait, there's somebody online!' I went in, and there were these two security guards who worked the gate on set and they're like, 'Hey, welcome!' I said, 'You guys are still in here?' and they said, 'Oh, yeah!' "
While it remains uncertain if audiences will ever see Jack Black's 'Real Minecrafter' Mansion on screen, the behind-the-scenes stories provide a fascinating glimpse into the filmmaking process and the lengths taken to bring the beloved game to life on the big screen.
For more insights, be sure to read our review of *A Minecraft Movie*, our explanation of the film's ending and post-credits scene, and learn how it achieved the largest domestic box office debut for a video game adaptation in history last weekend.
