Don’t expect the Death Stranding movie to retell the story of the games, as its director says the film will be set in his ‘own corner of the world’

The cinematic adaptation of the acclaimed video game, Death Stranding, has been in the works since its announcement in 2022. This timeline may have serendipitously aligned with a burgeoning trend in successful video game film adaptations. Currently, the project remains in its formative stages, with key details still being refined. However, director Michael Sarnoski has recently shed light on an important aspect of the film: it will not merely replicate Hideo Kojima’s original narrative of the scenic delivery simulator.

Progress and Insights from the Director

During a recent conversation with IGN, while promoting his upcoming film, The Death of Robin Hood, Sarnoski shared insights into the development of the Death Stranding script. “I’m writing the script right now, and [I am] hopefully almost done with that and really excited to dive into it,” he remarked. Sarnoski, who previously garnered acclaim for directing A Quiet Place: Day One, is clearly enthusiastic about the project.

A24, the production company behind the film, appears to be equally optimistic about the direction of the project. “They’ve read a draft. We’re working on some revisions together, and they all seem super excited and happy with it,” Sarnoski noted. This collaborative spirit suggests a strong partnership that could lead to a compelling adaptation.

Perhaps most telling is Kojima’s reaction to Sarnoski’s script. The director expressed admiration for Kojima’s cinematic knowledge, recounting how the game designer recognized various film references within the script without needing any explanation. “He was like, ‘Oh, you’re doing a Come and See reference there. I see that. I like that.’ He just knows movies incredibly well,” Sarnoski shared, highlighting the depth of their creative collaboration.

In related news, the film adaptation of Elden Ring is currently underway, with an anticipated release in 2028. Recent leaks from the set have surfaced, showcasing what appears to be Conwy Castle in North Wales, likely serving as a stand-in for the iconic Stormveil Castle from the game.