Overview

• The Francis Lawrence–directed film, written by J.T. Mollner and led by Cooper Hoffman and David Jonsson, begins its wide rollout Sept. 11–12 with a 108-minute, R-rated cut.
• The story follows a state-run contest where teen boys must keep a 3 mph pace or face execution, with Mark Hamill portraying the authoritarian Major.
• Critics highlight the film’s graphic violence, austere tone, and ensemble performances, with several outlets calling it one of the strongest King adaptations in years.
• Mollner confirms key rule changes from the 1979 novel—50 walkers instead of 100 and a slower mandated pace—with Stephen King’s sign-off.
• Lionsgate says Starz will be the first streaming home after theaters, with no streaming date announced.