Beyond the existing anime, a live-action Death Stranding film is officially in development, helmed by director Michael Sarnoski and produced by A24. Exciting updates were shared during the ‘Beyond the Strand’ event, a celebration marking the 10th anniversary of Kojima Productions, where both Sarnoski and Hideo Kojima himself took the stage.
Hideo Kojima personally hand-picked Sarnoski for the director’s chair, impressed by his work on critically acclaimed films like ‘Pig’ and ‘A Quiet Place: Day One.’ Kojima expressed his belief that Sarnoski was the ‘perfect’ choice to bring the intricate world of Death Stranding to the big screen. During the event, a teaser trailer for the animated film project, codenamed ‘Mosquito,’ was also showcased.
Sarnoski openly admitted to being ‘terrified’ by the immense pressure of adapting such a beloved franchise. However, after discussions with Kojima and A24, he agreed to join the project, assured of the creative freedom he would have to execute his vision.
His primary goal, Sarnoski explained, is to ‘capture the soul and themes of the game’ while simultaneously crafting ‘a story that you haven’t seen in that world and exploring characters you haven’t seen before.’ This indicates a fresh narrative approach.
Indeed, the film will introduce entirely new characters and present ‘another story that you’ve never seen in this same universe.’ Sarnoski emphasized the importance of delivering a ‘human story’ that resonates with both long-time fans and newcomers to the Death Stranding saga.
Interestingly, Kojima himself was initially approached to direct the movie but chose to take on a producer role instead, humorously stating he would ‘start saying a lot of things’ if he were fully in charge. He expressed full confidence in Sarnoski, simply adding, ‘I trust Michael.’
While details like casting and a release date are still under wraps, Norman Reedus, who embodies the iconic character Sam in the games, has expressed his willingness to reprise his role. This live-action project is part of a broader Death Stranding cinematic universe, which also includes an animated film.
Regarding the game series, ‘Death Stranding 2: On the Beach’ launched in June. Although Hideo Kojima has concepts for a potential ‘Death Stranding 3,’ he doesn’t intend to direct it himself. His current focus includes other upcoming game projects like ‘OD’ and ‘Physint.’
A24 is clearly investing in gaming adaptations, also producing the ‘Elden Ring’ movie, with Oscar-nominated Alex Garland at the helm. For more insights into Hideo Kojima’s cinematic tastes, you can explore a gallery of his one-sentence movie reviews.