Warning: This article contains spoilers for A Minecraft Movie
A Minecraft Movie: A Cinematic Blockbuster Breaks Records
Recently released in theaters, A Minecraft Movie has rapidly established itself as one of the year’s highest-grossing films. It shattered records by achieving the largest opening weekend for any film based on a video game, while also delighting fans with a celebrated recast of characters. The film boasts an impressive ensemble cast, with Jack Black leading the way as the iconic character Steve, serving as a guide through the expansive Minecraft universe. Notably, while Black’s performance received praise, another actor, Matt Berry, brought unexpected humor to the screen despite his limited role.
Intriguing Cameo: Matt Berry as the Nitwit
Berry’s Voice Role in the Post-Credits Scene
Matt Berry’s involvement in A Minecraft Movie was keenly anticipated prior to its premiere, as he had been cast in a mysterious, undisclosed role. At the conclusion of the film, it was unveiled that he lent his voice to the Nitwit villager who develops an amusing romantic plotline with Jennifer Coolidge’s character. While the central narrative focused on the hero’s adventures, Berry’s subplot stood out for its comedic value.
Known for his unparalleled comedic timing, Berry’s portrayal of the Nitwit offered a memorable twist, especially considering he communicated mostly in the indecipherable language typical to villagers throughout the film. The revelation of his vocal performance during the post-credits scene caught many by surprise, showcasing his signature comedic style with a delightful monologue.
Berry’s Original Casting as Steve
Departure from the Role During Development
The journey of A Minecraft Movie spanned over a decade, with its initial announcement dating back to 2014. The project encountered various directors and shifts in cast members, with Rob McElhenney and Peter Sollett leading the film at different phases before Jared Hess took the reins in 2022. Jack Black’s casting came relatively late in January 2024, filling the shoes of a role that Matt Berry was originally set to play.
Initially intended for a smaller role as a pig, Black was soon elevated to the central role of Steve, and Berry’s exit, attributed to scheduling conflicts with the final season of What We Do in the Shadows, paved the way for this change. Berry’s casting remained undisclosed until after the film’s release to prevent any comparisons between him and Black.
Speculating on Berry’s Potential as Steve
Unique Performance Properties
Warner Bros. was likely keen to sidestep the potential comparisons that would arise between Berry and Black, yet the intrigue surrounding Berry’s hypothetical performance as Steve has sparked considerable speculation. His cameo as the Nitwit offered a tantalizing insight into his comedic style, suggesting that he would’ve been an excellent choice for the lead role. Both actors share a distinct comedic flair, likely leading to a unique portrayal of Steve, tailored to Berry’s mannerisms.
While Berry’s Nitwit performance showcased a vastly different context than what he would have brought to Steve, it provides an entertaining glimpse into his skills and creativity. Should Berry have voiced the iconic character, it is conceivable that he would have infused Steve with the same buoyant energy and distinctive cadence he is known for. As the project progressed, modifications to the original character would likely have aligned Steve closer to the Nitwit representation, maintaining his quirky essence while introducing Berry’s humor.