Stephen King’s first-written novel is turned into a feature film with talented young cast. Our J.P. gives his take on “The Long Walk,” which co-stars “Star Wars'” legend Mark Hamill as The Major.
The Long Walk
Lionsgate
- Directed by Francis Lawrence
- Screenplay by JT Mollner
- Based on The Long Walk by Stephen King
- Produced by Roy Lee, Steven Schneider, Francis Lawrence, Cameron MacConomy
- Starring Cooper Hoffman, David Jonsson, Garrett Wareing, Tut Nyuot, Charlie Plummer, Ben Wang, Roman Griffin Davis, Jordan Gonzalez, Josh Hamilton, Judy Greer, Mark Hamill
Studio Synopsis:
From the highly anticipated adaptation of master storyteller Stephen King’s first-written novel, and Francis Lawrence, the visionary director of The Hunger Games franchise films (Catching Fire, Mockingjay – Pts. 1 & 2, and The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes), comes THE LONG WALK, an intense, chilling, and emotional thriller that challenges audiences to confront a haunting question: how far could you go?
J.P.’s Take:
When many people think of horror, they automatically resort to the supernatural, the monsters, the gore, ghosts, and things that go bump in the night. Yet, many forget the psychological aspect that drives fear, not that the frightening physical aspects aren’t terrifying enough. Stephen King, the master of horror, knows exactly how to wield these elements to maximum effect, while consistently delivering chilling narratives. “The Long Walk” is an eagerly anticipated psychological horror film that delves into the complexities of the human experience in a uniquely unsettling manner. Given the blessing of Stephen King, of course.
Let me preface this review by saying that for years I’ve read many of Stephen King’s works and have become enraptured by the stories and imagery he paints with each novel. I was shocked that it took decades for studios to grasp the material, until finally consulting King to put his magnum opus on the big screen. Not to mention the subject matter was quite controversial and disturbing at the time.
The story originates from King’s very first novel of the same title, written while he was a freshman at the University of Maine in 1966-67 under the pseudonym of Richard Bachman in the midst of the Vietnam War.
The story is a powerful metaphor for wartime America, following the journey of 20 young men on a 100+ mile trek to freedom. In this frightening tale, we’re thrust into a tormented battle for humanity’s sake, under an authoritarian America, where uncertainty awaits our weary travelers. We’re thrown into a dystopian America where the country has regressed, and you’re unclear of the time period or the location in which this all takes place. The ambiguity of this situation allows viewers to reflect on what’s really at stake, not just the country’s state of being.
King is known for his discerning approach to adapting his novels into films, as he does not support subpar interpretations of his work. His commitment to quality ensures that any cinematic representation aligns with the integrity of his storytelling. Here, he puts his official stamp of approval, becoming executive producer on the project and giving the green light to JT Mollner’s screenplay treatment of his most coveted book.
Metaphorically speaking, “The Long Walk” is an emotionally charged representation of our journey through the unforeseen. It is our worst fears come to life, where we’re under totalitarian rule, and the only way to survive is to walk miles, not only in our own shoes, but others’ as well. The story is built in layers through well-developed characters, who represent the many beliefs, mindsets, and backgrounds of people in our society who are subjected to the harshness of such a regime. And because we don’t walk this life alone, we’re placed in each other’s path, whether we get along with each other or not. What draws out the frights in this outing is when we, the viewers, witness what happens when a crooked society sets the pace, and if you can’t keep up, you’re shot on the spot. It’s the kind of palpable narrative that ratchets up the drama and adrenaline as each character bears their soul and lays everything they have in them on the line for their freedom.
The pacing is perfect, where we’re given time to really sink our teeth into each player, many of whom have dreams / aspirations and personal fears. Some moments are touching, and there are moments of rage …then moments of sheer terror as their lives literally hang in the balance. Once we’ve become invested in the lives of our protagonists, we’re then tormented by their execution as each gunshot scene hits hard, and we’re left heartbroken. Admittedly, I was horrified and trembling with anticipation as to who would be next to fall by the wayside. As the pace quickens and more and more young people are being taken out, we’re left with but a few strong-willed youngsters who are enduring both mental and physical exhaustion. This is where Francis Lawrence’s (“I Am Legend,” “The Hunger Games” sequels) masterful direction truly shines, also giving “The Long Walk” a “Hunger Games”-like sheen, where it almost feels like a side story to that series. That’s not a bad thing.
Despite the film being emotionally heavy at times, it features captivating performances and vibrant characters that feel grounded in reality. I appreciated how each character revealed their true colors when faced with adversity, allowing for a deeper exploration of their thoughts and feelings.
In an unexpected casting, Mark Hamill (“Star Wars”) stars as The Major, the overseer and antagonist of the brutal walking competition. Hamill’s role marks a significant shift from his typically heroic characters, and he has discussed in the press how his portrayal of The Joker in animated series influenced his performance. Some of the actors in the film include Cooper Hoffman (“Saturday Night”) as Raymond Garraty (#47); David Jonsson ( TV’s “Industry”) as Peter McVries (#23); Garrett Wareing (“Ransom Canyon”) as Billy Stebbins (#38); Tut Nyuot (“Steve”) as Arthur Baker (#6); Charlie Plummer (“Lean on Pete”) as Gary Barkovitch (#5); Ben Wang (“Karate Kid: Legends”) as Hank Olson (#46); Jordan Gonzalez (TV’s “Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin”) as Richard Harkness (#49); Joshua Odjick (“Wildhood”) as Collie Parker (#48); Roman Griffin Davis (“Jojo Rabbit”) as Thomas Curley (#7); Judy Greer (2018’s “Halloween,” “Dawn of the Planet of the Apes”) as Mrs. Ginnie Garraty, Raymond’s mother; and Josh Hamilton (“Reality”) as Mr. William Garraty, Raymond’s late father.
Running at 1 hour and 48 minutes, “The Long Walk” felt like a true excursion, yet once you peel back the layers, it’s one that is worth digging through. I’m delighted to say this is indeed one of Stephen King’s pinnacle films, as I sat back and watched in horror as 20 young men took the “long walk” to who knows where.
Official Site: The Long Walk
