, starring Cooper Hoffman and Mark Hamill. A chilling adaptation of Stephen King’s novel, directed by Francis Lawrence. Coming to theaters September 12.){kind=link}
Directed by: Francis Lawrence
Release Date: September 12, 2025
Distributed by: Lionsgate
The Long Walk (2025), directed by Francis Lawrence, is a gripping dystopian thriller adapted from Stephen King’s 1979 novel written under his pseudonym Richard Bachman.
Set in a totalitarian United States, the film revolves around a brutal, annual endurance contest where 100 teenage boys must maintain a steady pace of 3 mph without stopping — failure means immediate execution.
The last survivor claims victory, but the cost is far greater than any prize.
The story follows Ray Garraty (Cooper Hoffman) and his fellow contestants as they embark on this grueling journey.
As the miles stretch on, tensions rise, alliances form, and the harsh realities of the contest reveal the characters’ vulnerabilities and strengths.
The film explores intense themes of survival, human endurance, camaraderie, and the psychological toll of such a merciless competition.
The cast delivers powerful performances, with Cooper Hoffman leading a strong ensemble including David Jonsson, Garrett Wareing, and Roman Griffin Davis.
Supporting roles by Judy Greer and Mark Hamill add depth and gravitas to the storyline.
The actors vividly convey the physical exhaustion and emotional strain their characters endure.
Visually, cinematographer Jo Willems creates a bleak and immersive atmosphere that enhances the dystopian tone.
Francis Lawrence’s direction keeps the narrative tense and engaging, balancing moments of quiet introspection with high-stakes drama.
The pacing maintains suspense throughout the film’s runtime, making it a compelling watch.
Overall, The Long Walk is a faithful and fresh adaptation that honors Stephen King’s original novel.
It offers a thought-provoking look at the price of survival and the resilience of the human spirit.
Scheduled for release on September 12, 2025, by Lionsgate, it is a must-watch for fans of dystopian thrillers.