TLDR;
This video reviews "The Long Walk," a thriller adapted from a Stephen King book (published under the name Richard Bachman). The film is set in a dystopian future where young men participate in an annual walking competition with deadly consequences. The review highlights the movie's simple premise, character development, and philosophical themes, while also noting some shortcomings in the ending.
- The film is based on a Stephen King novel written under the pseudonym Richard Bachman.
- The story revolves around a walking competition where participants are shot if they fall behind.
- The movie explores themes of choice, desperation, and the human condition under pressure.
Introduction to The Long Walk [1:03]
"The Long Walk" is a thriller film adapted from a book by Stephen King, originally published under the name Richard Bachman. The story takes place in a post-civil war America, where young men are chosen via lottery to participate in an annual walking competition. The rules are simple: they must keep walking, and if they lag behind, they are shot. The last one standing wins a large sum of money and a wish.
Premise and Characters [1:49]
The reviewer appreciates the movie's simple premise and tight execution, noting that it never overcomplicates itself. The film focuses on Cooper Hoffman's character, Raymond, who forms a bond with a group of guys, including Peter, played by David Johnson. The movie features various Stephen King character archetypes, such as the antagonist, the big guy, and the nerdy guy. The film also addresses practical issues, such as how the walkers handle bodily functions during the long walk.
Mark Hamill's Role and Graphic Content [3:29]
Mark Hamill appears in the movie as the major, in a role that seems like easy money for him. The movie is graphic, and the deaths are unsettling. The reviewer notes that the audience becomes invested in the characters, particularly the main ones, while the rest are essentially fodder for the bullets. The actors effectively convey the unsettling nature of the situation, as most of the characters are portrayed as decent people in a tough spot.
Themes and World-Building [4:37]
The movie is a character-driven story with philosophical debates. The long walk is a televised event that inspires people and boosts their work ethic. However, the film also explores the idea that the participants may not truly have a choice, as the walk is their only way out of their current circumstances. The reviewer finds it odd that most of the walkers don't appear physically fit, considering the nature of the competition.
Pacing and Ending [5:40]
The reviewer appreciates that the movie gets straight to the point, providing necessary background information and then immediately starting the walk. The cut to the title happens after the first person is executed. While the reviewer found the ending to be alright, it wasn't the most fulfilling. However, the journey itself was entertaining, with relatable characters and good banter. The peril felt real, and the world felt gloomy, resulting in a good viewing experience.