THE LONG WALK – Review by Susan Kamyab
Stephen King’s newest adaptation, The Long Walk is not for the faint of heart. It’s a chilling and intense thriller grounded by the emotional depth of its relatable characters and the choices they make.
Based on King’s first-written novel, the film is set in a dystopian future where a group of teenage boys compete to win a life-changing prize in an annual contest known as The Long Walk, where they must maintain a certain walking speed or get shot. It is as stressful as it sounds, pushing horror boundaries that are equally terrifying, thought-provoking and emotional. The film is directed by Francis Lawrence, who ironically enough directed several of the Hunger Games movies, which plot wise feel eerily related. Lawrence masterfully captures the tension and anxiety these boys are feeling with every step they take. As soon as the walk begins, audiences will be on edge waiting for the inevitable demise of 49 walkers.
It is a difficult watch but if you can power through the unsettling images, you will be blown away by some early Oscar-worthy performances by Cooper Hoffman and David Jonsson. Hoffman shines as the endearing heart of this story, while Jonsson shines a little brighter as the backbone and comic relief. Both actors deserve recognition during the coming award season. However, every cast member plays a valuable part in this heart-breaking, cautionary tale, including a villainous Mark Hamill as the cold-blooded Major who is leading the walk. But all is not miserable during this rapid stroll. Screener writer JT Mollner weaves in a beautiful bond that is formed between the boys. Though they are competing, they choose to build friendships, help each other survive and push through. No matter what happens to each of them, this kind of care and support shows they are never alone during this lonely challenge.
The Long Walk is an unforgettable and haunting premise that challenges you to question how far you could go? And what you truly value even in the darkest times. The film may be tough to endure, but it is worth every minute.
