Minecraft’s Jack Black and Jason Momoa Reveal Which Video Games They’ve Played the Most

In an exclusive ComicBook interview, it was revealed that the stars of the upcoming “Minecraft” movie, Jack Black and Jason Momoa, have quite distinct backgrounds with video games. The film, a collaboration between Warner Bros. and Legendary Pictures, is an adaptation of the world’s top-selling video game, set to release in 2025. This adventure comedy tells the tale of four ordinary individuals who are inexplicably transported into the pixelated “Overworld” of Minecraft through a secret portal. There, they meet Steve, a skilled craftsman portrayed by Jack Black, who aids them in navigating this peculiar new world as they embark on a journey to uncover their unique traits and find a way back home. After going through various directors, including Shawn Levy and Rob McElhenney, the film is now under the direction of Jared Hess.

During an interview, the actor shared his experience playing “Red Dead Redemption 2” during the pandemic period. He emphasized that it wasn’t just a game for him; instead, it felt like a way of life. He spent around 400 hours on it and wouldn’t trade any of that time because it was an enjoyable experience. He also praised the stunning world created by Rockstar Games, describing it as beautiful and incredible.

The actor’s heartfelt praise for this critically acclaimed open-world western game underscored his admiration for immersive gaming experiences. When Momoa confessed he hadn’t heard of it, Black showed surprise but then passionately recommended the game. “Dude, you never knew about Rockstar Games? They are the artists. You must play it; it will transform your life. If you choose to play one game, make it that one,” Black urged.

As a gamer myself, I’ve got to admit – I’m prone to getting hooked. That’s why I try to keep my gaming time in check, or else I might just vanish into the virtual world! Jason agreed, mentioning that it could be easy to lose track of time when you’re engrossed in a game. We even joked about me being lost somewhere, with him asking, “Where’s Aquaman? Oh, he’s not at the pub? Nah, he’s probably still playing Red Dead Redemption.”

Despite not having too much experience under my belt, I do have a soft spot for two characters from Capcom’s Street Fighter series – Ryu and Blanka. They’re my go-to guys whenever I need to unleash some fighting spirit!

The Long Journey to A Minecraft Movie

A “Minecraft” film has had a difficult, ten-year journey to production, finally reaching screens in 2024. Initially announced in February 2014 when Mojang started negotiations with Warner Bros., the movie was initially set for release in May 2019 with an initial budget of $150 million. The project changed hands through various directors, gradually losing steam. Delays due to COVID-19 in 2020 caused it to be removed from all release schedules until Legendary Entertainment took over in April 2022, bringing Jared Hess on board as director and Jason Momoa in discussions for a role. Principal photography finally commenced in Auckland, New Zealand in January 2024, following delays due to the 2023 SAG-AFTRA strike, and was completed in mid-April 2024. The finished product will showcase live-action performances combined with visual effects, converting the game’s distinctive pixelated style into what preliminary marketing materials describe as “strikingly realistic.

The film project strengthened a strong friendship between Black and Momoa, leading to discussions about potential future projects together. As Momoa put it, “We’re bonded for life now,” with Black echoing his sentiments, saying “Indeed, we are! We’re like brothers forever.” At promotional events, they were often spotted wearing identical knitted sweaters and spoke of making films together even as they grow older, despite their busy individual careers. Currently, Black is involved in the remake of Anaconda, while Momoa balances his roles, such as playing Lobo in the DCU and wrapping up the final installment of the Fast & Furious series.

A Minecraft Movie arrives in theaters on April 4, 2025.

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2025-03-25 13:09