“It’s Really Dark!”: New Stephen King Adaptation’s Book Accuracy & Setting Teased By The Long Walk Star

Judy Greer, who stars in the upcoming Stephen King adaptation The Long Walk, shares insight into the film’s dark themes. Based on King’s 1979 novel, The Long Walk is a dystopian thriller following 100 teenage boys forced into a brutal endurance competition: walking U.S. Highway 1, facing the threat of soldiers if they fall behind. Directed by Hunger Games veteran Francis Lawrence, the adaptation stars young talents Cooper Hoffman and David Jonsson in lead roles, supported by an ensemble cast with Halloween’s Greer and Star Wars icon Mark Hamill. A release date has yet to be announced.

In an interview with Collider, Greer spoke about her experience on the set of The Long Walk and the adaptation’s faithfulness to King’s novel. She further related the impact of watching young actors on set, noting how refreshing it was to work alongside the young men whose performances enhance the grim storyline. Read the full quote here:

Yeah, it’s called The Long Walk. It’s based on a novel Stephen King wrote in 1979. It was in response to the Vietnam War. Our movie kind of takes place again in sort of like a timeless place. Like there’s some technology, but then there’s a lot of throwback elements to the script. Francis Lawrence directed it, and Cooper Hoffman is the star. There are so many great young actors in this movie. I’m excited for all the talent that’s going to emerge. It’s a really, really, really dark story, and it’ll probably be perfect for when it comes out. My husband just read the book, and every night in bed, he’d be just turning a page going like, “Oh my God, oh my God.” [Laughs] I’m like, “I know. I was telling you every day when I was shooting.” He’s like, “Yeah, but it’s really dark!” Personally, it’s so nice sometimes to see movies cast with people I don’t already know because I can still lose myself in the story, you know? Not like I watched the movie, and I’m like, ‘Oh, I need to call her.’ [Laughs] I’m like, ‘I don’t know who they are, and they’re amazing.’ That’s kind of how I felt when I was on set. These young guys are just incredible.”

The Actor’s Thoughts Set The Tone For King’s Dystopian Tale

Greer’s interview sheds light on the adaptation’s dedication to capturing the intense atmosphere and social commentary present in King’s original work. The Long Walk, written as a reflection of the Vietnam War era, faces what it means to survive under a totalitarian government where the threat of death is constantly present. Greer’s emphasis on the film’s “timeless” quality and mix of technology with retro elements suggests that Lawrence’s adaptation may remain close to the novel’s tone, yet bring in modern elements to resonate with social anxieties of today.

Greer’s praise for the young cast implies that these emerging actors, such as Jojo Rabbit‘s Roman Griffin Davis, will be stand-out additions as well. The combination of Lawrence’s experience with dystopian young adult narratives and King’s signature horror elements positions The Long Walk to be a standout in the King adaptation lineup. With a story that’s heavy on psychological horror and socio-political strain, the film’s adherence to the novel’s gritty tone may provide an experience unlike traditional horror films, reimagining the 1979 novel into a tense, provocative atmosphere for the 21st century.

Greer’s Praise For The Cast Adds To The Long-time Anticipation

Greer’s enthusiasm for The Long Walk gives reason for audiences to be excited, especially those who have long awaited an adaptation of King’s dystopian fiction, which has stayed in production hell for several decades. Her appreciation for the young cast and the timeless quality of the setting adds hope that the adaptation will bring something fresh yet true to the original book’s dark and difficult themes. King’s work isn’t easily digestible material, and Greer’s remarks about the intensity suggest that Lawrence’s The Long Walk won’t shy away from the novel’s brutal elements.

Source: Collider

The Long Walk (2025)

In a dystopian future, “The Long Walk” follows the harrowing journey of one hundred teenage boys who are forced to participate in a grueling annual event orchestrated by a totalitarian government. The rules are simple yet deadly: maintain a walking speed of four miles per hour without stopping, or face lethal consequences. The film centers on Ray Garraty, a determined young participant who navigates the psychological and physical challenges of the walk. As the relentless march progresses, Ray forms fragile alliances and faces off against bitter rivals, all while grappling with the ever-present threat of death.

Director

Francis Lawrence

Main Genre

Sci-Fi