The Minecraft Movie Team Had a Private Server They Played On and Jack Black Even Built His Own Mansion

The new A Minecraft Movie is now captivating audiences in theaters, and the film's creators took an innovative approach to ensure authenticity by setting up their own private Minecraft server. This server was not only accessible to the entire cast and crew but also became a vibrant hub for creativity and collaboration. Jack Black, who portrays Steve in the movie, fully embraced the Minecraft experience, aiming to prove his credentials as a "real Minecrafter." He ambitiously constructed a sprawling mansion atop the highest mountain in the server world, complete with a unique basement art gallery.

The availability of Minecraft significantly aided the filmmakers in crafting A Minecraft Movie. Producer Torfi Frans Ólafsson shared with IGN that the server fostered a dynamic environment reminiscent of an indie game studio, buzzing with ideas and creativity. Although not all concepts could be integrated due to the project's momentum, the server allowed the team to infuse the film with extra flair, ensuring it remained faithful to the essence of the game.

Director Jared Hess highlighted Jack Black's deep engagement with Minecraft, describing how Black's method acting extended to the game. "Jack was super-weirdly method with the game," Hess remarked, noting Black's dedication to harvesting resources like lapis lazuli and constantly building within the game. Black's enthusiasm translated into a continuous flow of fresh ideas for the film.

Jack Black himself, with a playful nod to his craft, stated, "I had an Xbox in my trailer and I did play because an actor prepares." He spent countless hours on the server, surrounded by props from various departments, driven to create something remarkable. His goal was to stand out among the cast and crew by building an impressive mansion on the highest peak, featuring a stairway to Steve and an art gallery in the basement.

A Minecraft Movie Gallery

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Ólafsson confirmed that Black's mansion is still standing on the server, which he extended for a year. Recently, he discovered two security guards from the set still actively using the server, warmly welcoming him back. This ongoing engagement highlights the lasting impact of the server on the team.

While the fate of Jack Black's 'Real Minecrafter' Mansion remains uncertain, the behind-the-scenes stories offer a fascinating glimpse into the creative process of bringing the beloved game to the big screen. For more insights, don't miss our review of A Minecraft Movie, an explanation of the film's ending and post-credits scene, and how it achieved the largest domestic box office debut for a video game adaptation to date.