Overview

• The film premiered in theaters on Sept. 12, directed by Francis Lawrence and led by Cooper Hoffman and David Jonsson for Lionsgate.
• Early reception is highly positive, with a Rotten Tomatoes score around 91% and praise for the leads’ performances and the ensemble.
• Domestic box office projections point to about $10 million for the first three days, including roughly $5 million on opening day.
• The adaptation makes deliberate changes to Stephen King’s 1979 novel, including a smaller field of contestants and a reworked finale, without detailing outcomes.
• Coverage emphasizes the movie’s graphic, consequential depiction of violence and growing awards conversation centered on its cast and casting.