Feature Film
A Minecraft Movie
2025
Filmed In
Auckland · Waikato
Towns & Areas
Auckland Film Studios · Helensville, Auckland · Huntly, Waikato
The Story
The blocky, pixelated universe of the world's best-selling video game comes to life in a fun, live-action cinematic adventure. A group of misfits is pulled through a mysterious portal into the Overworld and must master crafting to protect it from Piglins.
The Stars
Jack Black (as Steve), Jason Momoa, and Jennifer Coolidge. Their chemistry as a mismatched group anchors the film's blend of comedy and large-scale spectacle, much of it built on New Zealand soundstages.
Behind the Lens
Jared Hess (Napoleon Dynamite). Hess is best known for his earlier comedy work, and brought that same off-beat sensibility to this adaptation.
Why NZ?
The production crew fell in love with Auckland's top-tier studio infrastructure and local creative talent. The cubic biomes were built practically inside Auckland Film Studios, while locations like Huntly in the Waikato and the historic Settlers Country Manor in West Auckland added real-world texture. It's a reminder that even a film built around a blocky, digital world still leans on real studio craft and real New Zealand towns for texture.
On Set
Jack Black was gifted a pounamu (NZ greenstone) by the film's stunt team during production — a traditionally significant gesture in New Zealand. Jason Momoa was outspoken about his time in the country, posting "AOTEAROA New Zealand you are magical," and has since gone on to co-own a production company with local ties.
Legacy
Based on the world's best-selling video game, the film became one of the biggest box office openings of its year on release.
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