Stephen King’s The Long Walk, known for its bleak and intense narrative, is scheduled for theatrical release next month. The film adaptation follows a group of young men forced into a deadly contest where they must maintain a walking pace of at least four miles per hour; failing to do so results in immediate execution. With only one survivor allowed, the winner claims a prize of their choosing. Despite its dystopian setting, one of the film’s stars emphasizes that the story remains relevant today, reflecting ongoing tensions between individuals and the structures of power.
David Jonsson Shares Insights on the Story’s Enduring Relevance
David Jonsson, who plays a leading role in the film, recently spoke to Empire Magazine about his career and upcoming projects, including this adaptation. Jonsson, who gained recognition for his role as the synthetic Andy in the 2024 sci-fi film Alien: Romulus directed by Fede Álvarez, highlighted how The Long Walk was originally published during the Vietnam War era. The novel has long been interpreted as a reflection of the anxieties from that period, but Jonsson believes its core message transcends time.
Jonsson expressed that the story’s commentary on power and resistance will remain pertinent as long as governing authorities exist:
“I knew while I was doing it that this was something that would feel relevant, and draw some form of parallel to the world that we’re living in. I knew that was there, but I had no idea how relevant it was going to be. It feels really, really, timely. It’s a people piece, man. I think that Stephen King knew that this would always be about the people [versus the state], and as long as we have a state, this story will always be relevant”
—David Jonsson, Actor
The Emotional Impact This Story Aims to Deliver
The Long Walk’s narrative is unapologetically dark, emphasizing the tragic loss of youth, who symbolically represent the future of a nation. The novel’s themes resonate especially strongly in today’s turbulent political and social environment, marked by uncertainty and public outcry visible across social media and daily life. Jonsson believes audiences will connect deeply with the film’s message and emotional weight:
people are really going to feel something, and that’s all you really want when you make movies. I always say, I’m not political, but the work is.
—David Jonsson, Actor
Francis Lawrence directs the film, bringing his experience with young adult dystopian adaptations to the project. Lawrence is well known for directing four movies in The Hunger Games series and is involved with the upcoming Sunrise on the Reaping. The Long Walk boasts a strong ensemble cast including Cooper Hoffman, Mark Hamill, Garrett Wareing, Ben Wang, Charlie Plummer, and Joshua Odjick, all contributing to bringing Stephen King’s chilling vision to the screen.
David Jonsson’s Upcoming Work Beyond The Long Walk
In addition to his role in The Long Walk, David Jonsson has several projects lined up. He is set to star in Scandalous!, which is directed by Colman Domingo, and an upcoming, untitled film directed by musician and filmmaker Frank Ocean. Speculation suggests Jonsson may portray a version of Frank Ocean in this mysterious project, further showcasing the actor’s growing presence in diverse and high-profile productions.
