The recently released *A Minecraft Movie* has taken an innovative approach to authenticity by creating a private Minecraft server accessible to its entire cast and crew. This immersive experience allowed them to fully embrace the spirit of the game, resulting in a film that resonates deeply with fans. Notably, Jack Black, who portrays Steve in the movie, showcased his dedication by constructing a grand mansion on the highest mountain within the server, complete with an art gallery in the basement.
According to producer Torfi Frans Ólafsson, the availability of Minecraft fostered a collaborative atmosphere akin to that of an indie game studio. "It was like being in an indie game studio, where things are jamming and ideas are floating around everywhere," Ólafsson told IGN. While not all ideas could be incorporated due to the project's momentum, the server enabled the team to add unique touches that enhanced the film's authenticity.
Director Jared Hess praised Black's commitment to the role, noting his deep engagement with the game. "Jack was super-weirdly method with the game," Hess said. "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 himself embraced the preparation, saying, "I had an Xbox in my trailer and I did play because *an actor prepares.* 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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Ólafsson confirmed the longevity of Black's creation, saying, "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's uncertain if audiences will ever see Jack Black's 'Real Minecrafter' Mansion on screen, the behind-the-scenes stories offer a delightful glimpse into the creative process of bringing the beloved game to life in *A Minecraft Movie*.
For more insights, check out our review of *A Minecraft Movie*, an explainer of the film's ending and post-credits scene, and discover how it achieved the biggest domestic box office debut in history for a video game adaptation last weekend.
