We are well and truly in the era of the massive video game adaptation. A24—known for clever and arty fare—recently announced that it plans to expand into more commercial and action films, and now they’re taking the next step in that direction. With Kojima Productions, A24 is developing a feature film adaptation of the popular video game Death Stranding.
In a statement, game creator Hideo Kojima said, “There are a lot of ‘game adaptation films’ out there but what we are creating is not just a direct translation of the game. The intention is that our audience will not only be fans of the games, but our film will be for anyone who loves cinema. We are creating a Death Stranding universe that has never been seen before, achievable only through the medium of film, it will be born.”
The game is set in a post-apocalyptic United States after an event called the “Death Stranding” leads to “Beached Things” appearing on the earth. These creatures—which have something to do with the afterlife, and the dead—create real big explosions when they eat people. (They also make rain that ages you? This game sounds wild.) Humanity is living in colonies; outside their walls there are, of course, terrible people preying on anyone who tries to move from one place to another, and couriers who brave all these deadly elements to deliver supplies. (I’m not getting into the part with the psychic fetuses. I’m just not. Wikipedia can help if you would like to know more on that front.)
Norman Reedus is the main character in the game, which also stars Mads Mikkelsen and Léa Seydoux. It remains to be seen if any of the game actors appear in the film. [ed note: ALSO CONAN IS IN IT AND SHOULD BE IN THE MOVIE HE SHOULD BE IN EVERY MOVIE.]
Does it sound like this could be cinematic and gripping? Sure does. Also terrifying.
A different adaptation was announced last year, but presumably that one is no longer moving forward.
The scary-ass future will come to screens near you at some not-yet-announced date.
