The Long Walk (2025) - Film Review

      The Long Walk, 2025.

      Directed by Francis Lawrence

      Starring Cooper Hoffman, David Jonsson, Garrett Wareing, Tut Nyuot, Charlie Plummer, Ben Wang, Roman Griffin Davis, Jordan Gonzalez, Josh Hamilton, Judy Greer, and Mark Hamill.

      SYNOPSIS:

      A group of teenage boys take part in an annual event called “The Long Walk,” where they must keep a certain pace while walking, or face execution.

      Director Francis Lawrence, known for The Hunger Games, tackles another life-or-death endurance scenario, drawing inspiration from Stephen King’s work for The Long Walk, a gripping narrative supported by an outstanding performance from David Jonsson.

      Cooper Hoffman (Liquorice Pizza), who plays our main character, keeps pace with Jonsson’s delivery. As Raymond Garraty, or contestant #47, the story unfolds through his perspective. He is dropped off at the starting line by his worried mother (the always impressive Judy Greer). Garraty's friendly demeanor allows him to bond with those positioned at the forefront of the competition; Jonsson’s Peter McVries #23, Ben Wang’s Hank Olsen #46, and Tut Nyuot’s Arthur Baker #6.

      If they represent the film's equivalent of Stand by Me's group, then Garrett Wareing’s callous Stebbins #38 and Charlie Plummer’s irritating Gary Barkovitch #5 embody the typical King characters, accompanied by numerous other characters who serve as the background to The Long Walk.

      The methods of eliminating the participants, directed by Mark Hamill’s stern and somewhat exaggerated Major, serve as the film’s initial intrigue. The sight of a sprained ankle or a loose shoelace evokes a similar sense of dread due to the looming sense of doom faced by each character. Mortality strikes from cramps or mishaps, yet Lawrence presents these incidents in a manner that instills discomfort in the audience. The rhythmic progression of the walkers creates an emotionally draining viewing experience.

      However, as the distance increases, The Long Walk shifts its focus away from merely shocking the audience with creative deaths, instead urging viewers to connect with these doomed individuals as the numbers decrease. Even characters who were initially unsympathetic are developed to challenge viewers’ moral perspectives.

      The narrative remains primarily fixated on the young men advancing toward the camera, with only a few brief flashbacks providing relief; Hoffman and Jonsson dominate the frame, propelling each other and the film toward a harrowing conclusion. Hoffman’s character is relatable from the outset, an everyman supported by the sparse spectators grimly lining the road. Hoffman brings an underlying complexity to his character that enriches both his motivations and questions about his limits.

      This dynamic is enhanced by Jonsson, who truly carries the film with one of the most impactful performances of the year, attracting attention through his mix of humor, fascination, and deep empathy. The final twenty minutes are agonizingly poignant, a testament to this captivating young actor's abilities.

      As in the best horror films, the socio-political themes are evident, yet Lawrence and screenwriter JT Mollner handle them with subtlety, effectively balancing societal commentary with the unfolding grim drama. The score by Jeremiah Fraites also deserves a nod, complementing the film’s escalating emotional moments perfectly.

      A standout adaptation of Stephen King, The Long Walk emerges as one of 2025’s most significant revelations, enhanced by a Stand By Me-caliber performance from David Jonsson.

      Flickering Myth Rating – Film ★ ★ ★ ★/ Movie ★ ★ ★ ★

      Matt Rodgers – Follow me on Twitter