Alex Garland is stepping into the world of “Elden Ring” for A24. What a weird combination, but one that Garland has apparently been heavily invested in.
The idea of an “Elden Ring” movie seems very pricey. Just imagine the the amount of CGI that will have to be used. The result is what might very well be the most expensive movie A24 has ever made.
Word this morning was that sets are being built, which led me to inquire about the status of production — I’m told cameras are supposed to start rolling on “Elden Ring” next week.
Just a reminder: it’s Garland who went to FromSoftware and Bandai Namco with his pitch for “Elden Ring.” This movie is only happening because of his persistence. Garland aggressively pursued the A24-backed adaptation of the mega-hit game. His pitch? Writing a sprawling 160-page script — plus 40 pages of visuals — entirely on spec. He even flew to Japan himself to pitch the idea directly to Hidetaka Miyazaki, who ultimately gave Garland his blessing.
It’s an unusually hands-on move for a filmmaker of Garland’s stature, and it shows just how determined he is to make the movie. In an era where most video game adaptations are studio-driven IP plays, Garland seems to be treating “Elden Ring” less like a commercial product and more like an artistic obsession. It’s the kind of passion project he’s betting his reputation on.
Casting includes Kit Connor (“Heartstopper”), Ben Whishaw (“Skyfall”), and Cailee Spaeny (“Priscilla,” “Alien: Romulus”), who are all said to have the three lead roles.
Released in 2022 and co-created with George R. R. Martin, “Elden Ring” sold more than 30 million copies worldwide and was crowned Game of the Year. The story follows the Tarnished, a group of outcasts summoned to the mystical Lands Between. Their mission? Reassemble the shattered Elden Ring, defeat a laundry list of grotesque demigods, and ascend to power as the new Elden Lord. Casual stuff.
Garland, known for his cerebral and visually striking work — which includes “Ex Machina,” “Annihilation,” and “Civil War” — had recently hinted at retirement, but he’s clearly not easing back whatsoever. On top of that, he recently revived the “28 Days Later” franchise with “28 Years Later” and its sequel, “The Bone Temple,” both of which he wrote and is producing.