Overview

• The social‑media embargo lifted this week, and first reactions describe Francis Lawrence’s film as harrowing, soul‑wrenching, and emotionally devastating.
• Multiple critics single out Cooper Hoffman and David Jonsson for powerhouse performances that some say merit Oscar consideration.
• Lionsgate will release the R‑rated, 108‑minute feature on September 12 following an advance screening hosted by Collider on August 26 in Los Angeles.
• JT Mollner adapts King’s 1979 novel about a lethal state‑run walking contest, with Mark Hamill playing the menacing military official overseeing the event.
• Several early viewers call it one of 2025’s best films and among the strongest Stephen King adaptations in recent years.