Kojima Praises Underrated Stephen King Film That Flopped
The legendary Metal Gear creator shares his thoughts on a 2025 Stephen King adaptation that didn't get the recognition it deserved, despite earning the author's rare approval.
Legendary game developer Hideo Kojima recently shared his enthusiasm for a 2025 Stephen King adaptation that he believes didn't receive the attention it deserved. The creator behind Metal Gear Solid and Death Stranding is known for his thoughtful takes on cinema, and his latest commentary focuses on "The Long Walk," directed by Francis Lawrence.
After watching the movie during a flight, Kojima took to social media to express his admiration. "I watched The Long Walk on the plane. It was great. Director Francis Lawrence is clever. It's a meta, philosophical film about friendship and growth and also a declaration of war against the adults," he wrote.
King's Rare Approval Despite Major Changes
What makes this adaptation particularly noteworthy is Stephen King's positive reaction to the film, even though Lawrence significantly altered the original ending. The author, who typically struggles with Hollywood interpretations of his work, gave his blessing to the director's vision.
The story follows participants in a deadly competition where they must keep walking or face elimination. In King's novel, the conclusion was deliberately bleak and ambiguous, with the survivor continuing to walk without realizing he had won. Lawrence's version shifted toward themes of human connection and sacrifice, a change that could have easily backfired.
"Luckily, he [Stephen King] really liked the ending, I think, because we stayed true to its spirit. I think he was willing to go for it," Lawrence explained to Entertainment Weekly. This approval from King is particularly significant given his history of mixed feelings about film adaptations of his novels.
Commercial Success But Limited Recognition
Despite earning over $62 million worldwide against a $20 million budget, "The Long Walk" failed to capture mainstream attention. The film's intense subject matter and relentless pacing created an emotionally demanding viewing experience that may have limited its broader appeal.
Lawrence's directorial approach kept the camera constantly moving alongside the teenage participants, creating an uncomfortable but immersive experience. This technique, while effective for the story's themes, made for challenging viewing that never allowed audiences to relax.
The movie features David Jonsson, Cooper Hoffman, and Mark Hamill in key roles, with Hamill playing a particularly memorable supporting character. Critics responded favorably, with the film earning an 88% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a 6.8/10 on IMDb.