SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4) — Jared Hess, the quirky mind behind “Napoleon Dynamite” and a proud son of Utah’s indie film scene, is trading tots for torches in his latest project, “A Minecraft Movie.” Hess, known for his unique comedic style, brings the beloved video game to the big screen, promising a blend of humor and adventure that fans of the game and his previous works will appreciate.
In an exclusive interview, ABC4 film critic Patrick Beatty caught up with Hess to discuss his journey into the Minecraft universe, the casting of Jack Black as Steve, and the film's comedic elements that echo his earlier works. Hess expressed his excitement about the project, saying, “I’m such a huge fan of the game. When it came out, my kids and I would play it, and it was such a ridiculously good time. It was the perfect place to set an epic, hilarious adventure film, so it was kind of a dream come true for me.”
Hess's comedic touch is evident in the film, where he infuses his signature humor into a big-budget production. “I made a movie with Jack Black almost 20 years ago called ‘Nacho Libre,’” Hess recalled. “Since then, we’ve tried to work together again, and finally, the stars aligned to be able to work with him on ‘A Minecraft Movie.'” The film also features Jason Momoa in a role that flips the script on his usual tough-guy persona, showcasing him as a character who is often getting his butt kicked rather than dishing it out.
Notably, the film includes a diverse cast of characters, including Jennifer Coolidge, Danielle Brooks, and Jemaine Clement, each bringing their comedic flair to the project. Hess remarked on the joy of working with such talented actors, stating, “When you’re working with Danielle Brooks or Jennifer Coolidge or Jack or Jason, it’s so much fun. The outtakes we had with Jennifer Coolidge could have made a whole other film; she is so funny.”
The film, titled “A Minecraft Movie,” is not just a simple adaptation of the game but a creative endeavor that seeks to capture the spirit of Minecraft’s vast, open world. It’s the first feature film based on Mojang Studios’ Minecraft, which has sold over 300 million copies worldwide. While the game itself lacks a traditional narrative, Hess and his team have crafted a story that utilizes familiar cinematic tropes and beloved characters.
In the movie, Jack Black voices Steve, the character who embarks on an adventure through a magical portal into the pixelated world of Minecraft. Hess explains the choice of Black for the role: “Jack being Steve was the number one choice. He’s such a big fan of the game and a big kid at heart. The energy and passion he brings make it perfect for a character like Steve.”
Alongside Black, the film introduces a cast of misfit characters, including young orphaned Henry (Sebastian Hansen), his older sister Natalie (Emma Myers), animal caretaker Dawn (Danielle Brooks), and Garrett Garrison (Jason Momoa), a washed-out kidult. Together, they navigate the challenges presented by the villain Malgosha (Rachel House), who threatens to crush creativity and imagination with a mysterious artifact.
As the film unfolds, it showcases a colorful adventure filled with humor and heart, appealing to both children and adults. Critics have noted that it cleverly combines elements from classic films like “Jason and the Argonauts” and “Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom,” offering a nostalgic yet fresh experience for viewers.
As anticipation builds for the film’s release, early indicators suggest that “A Minecraft Movie” is poised for commercial success. The film grossed $10.55 million in Thursday previews, setting a record for the highest Thursday preview earnings for a video game adaptation. Warner Bros. is cautiously optimistic, projecting a domestic opening weekend gross between $65 million and $90 million, with an additional $60 million expected from international markets, potentially bringing its global total to $150 million.
This marks a significant moment for Warner Bros., who are looking for a hit following a series of underperforming releases. The film’s $150 million budget, coupled with its marketing costs, means that a strong opening weekend is crucial for its financial viability.
Despite the excitement surrounding its release, early reviews have been mixed, with the film earning a 49% critical rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Some audience members have expressed dissatisfaction with the trailers, criticizing the visuals and suggesting that Jack Black's performance feels more like himself than a character. Nevertheless, Hess remains optimistic about the film’s reception, emphasizing the fun and creativity that went into its making.
As “A Minecraft Movie” hits theaters across North America this weekend, it promises to deliver a blend of nostalgia, humor, and adventure that resonates with both fans of the game and those unfamiliar with its world. Hess's unique comedic style, combined with a talented cast and the expansive universe of Minecraft, sets the stage for what could be a new franchise in the making.
With the film's release, audiences are invited to step into a world where imagination reigns supreme, and the possibilities are as limitless as the game itself. As Hess succinctly puts it, “It’s such a strange obsession to have.” The journey into the Minecraft universe is set to be a memorable one, filled with laughter, adventure, and perhaps a few surprises along the way.
