Jack Black stars as the skilled builder Steve in the teaser for *A Minecraft Movie.

 "You can create anything you can imagine here."

  9/5/2024, 1:17 AM

Minecraft is one of the most successful and influential games of the early 21st century, with over 300 million copies sold and numerous awards since its release in 2011. It was only a matter of time before Hollywood adapted it into a feature film, now titled *A Minecraft Movie*. While some may be cautious about yet another video game adaptation, the film stars Jason Momoa and Jack Black, and the teaser showcases vibrant, candy-colored visuals and clever nods to the game that will likely delight fans.

Within a year of Minecraft’s launch, Mojang Studios received offers from Hollywood producers to develop a TV series, but they held out for the "right idea." A 2014 fan film attempt was blocked by game creator Markus "Notch" Persson, who was already in talks with Warner Bros. about a film adaptation. This marked the beginning of a long, complex journey involving various directors and writers who came and went from the project.

When the dust settled, Jared Hess, who previously collaborated with Jack Black on *Nacho Libre*, was chosen to direct *A Minecraft Movie*. The production faced delays due to the COVID pandemic and the 2023 SAG-AFTRA strike, but filming was completed earlier this year in Auckland, New Zealand. The film is slated for a theatrical release in spring 2025.

According to the official synopsis:

Welcome to the world of Minecraft, where creativity is not just an asset but essential for survival! Four misfits—Garrett “The Garbage Man” Garrison (Jason Momoa), Henry (Sebastian Eugene Hansen), Natalie (Emma Myers), and Dawn (Danielle Brooks)—are grappling with everyday issues when they are suddenly transported through a mysterious portal into the Overworld: a whimsical, cubic realm fueled by imagination. To return home, they must navigate this world, fend off threats like Piglins and Zombies, and embark on a magical quest with the help of an expert crafter named Steve (Jack Black). Their journey will test their courage and help them reconnect with the creativity they need to thrive in their real lives.

Steve, a default character in Minecraft, is portrayed by Jack Black, who makes a memorable entrance in the teaser set to The Beatles' "Magical Mystery Tour." The teaser features a fantastical landscape with cubic elements, including a pink sheep with a cubed head, and showcases Piglins and other creatures. Black’s dramatic introduction, "I... am Steve," adds an extra layer of excitement.

*A Minecraft Movie* hits theaters in April 2025.