Contains SPOILERS for the post-credit scenes of A Minecraft Movie.
A Minecraft Movie is infused with nods to its extensive player base, embracing the legacy of one of the best-selling video games of all time. The film is steeped in significant expectations to engage fans, and it rises to the occasion with various inclusions that resonate with audiences. Notably, the soundtrack features popular tracks such as “Pigstep”and selections from the original game, ensuring that the musical backdrop aligns seamlessly with the beloved source material while also enhancing the film’s unique narrative.
The film showcases a star-studded cast led by Jack Black and Jason Momoa, with direction from Jared Hess, known for his work on Nacho Libre. While one might anticipate an action-packed adventure, A Minecraft Movie deftly intertwines numerous Minecraft references, cultural allusions, and rich cinematic callbacks, making it a layered experience that goes beyond surface enjoyment. Cameos from renowned personalities, including key individuals associated with Minecraft’s development, add an extraordinary essence to the viewing.
A Cameo from One of Minecraft’s Creators
Jens Bergensten, A.K.A. “Jeb”, Appears Briefly
In the gaming community, the creative geniuses behind Minecraft are affectionately known as Notch and Jeb. Their real identities are Markus Persson and Jens Bergensten. Following the sale of Mojang to Microsoft in 2014 for $2.5 billion, Bergensten succeeded Persson as the company’s chief creative officer. His influence remains significant in the ongoing development of Minecraft, earning him a discreet cameo appearance within the film.
In a charming subplot, the character played by Jennifer Coolidge experiences a romantic connection with a Villager who ventures into the real world from the game. During their first date at a restaurant, Bergensten makes a brief background appearance, humorously coinciding with a gag where Coolidge’s character mistakenly believes the Villager is Swedish—an inside joke that nods to the roots of Minecraft’s creators.
Torfi Frans Ólafsson, Creative Director at Mojang, Surfaces at the Movie’s End
Torfi Frans Ólafsson Makes a Cameo
Occupying the role of Senior Creative Director at Microsoft, Torfi Frans Ólafsson has been with the company since 2018, where he has played pivotal roles in projects such as Minecraft Earth. For A Minecraft Movie, he served as a key liaison between the game’s developers and the film production team, ensuring authenticity in portraying the game’s essence. In a delightful cameo during the film’s conclusion, Ólafsson appears as a student in a self-defense class led by one of the main characters.
Matt Berry Becomes a Villager in the Mid-Credits Scene
Matt Berry’s Voice Cameo
Acclaimed actor and comedian Matt Berry, known for his work in British comedy series such as The IT Crowd, brings his talent to a minor yet impactful role in A Minecraft Movie. Infusing humor into the film, Berry lends his voice to a Villager in the amusing mid-credits scene, where the character unexpectedly articulates dialogue, upending the typical representation of Minecraft villagers.
As he adopts a refined British accent, this clever twist plays on the longstanding comedic motif surrounding Villager communications, adding levity to the narrative. Additionally, viewers enjoy watching Jennifer Coolidge attempt to replicate Villager sounds, emphasizing the playful collaboration between their characters.
An Uncredited Voice Role for Kate McKinnon
Kate McKinnon Features in the After-Credits Scene
In the expansive world of Minecraft, Alex serves as a vital character alongside Steve, and her significance is beautifully acknowledged in the film’s post-credits sequence. As Jack Black’s character, Steve, returns to his childhood home, he is introduced to Alex, a development that has delighted fans and set the stage for potential future installments of the franchise.
The voice of Alex is brought to life by none other than actress and comedian Kate McKinnon, known for her standout performances on Saturday Night Live and in the Barbie movie. McKinnon’s contribution not only breathes life into this iconic character but also hints at the exciting possibilities for a sequel to A Minecraft Movie, with fans eagerly anticipating her full portrayal in a future narrative.