It’s wise to keep your expectations in check regarding the first teaser for the Until Dawn movie. The teaser attempts to justify how the film diverges from the original game, though it doesn’t reveal too much.
Since the movie was announced last year, it’s been shrouded in mystery. However, last week brought a little more clarity, indicating that the film will introduce all-new characters and a unique storyline. Of course, this direction might disappoint fans of the original game, as it seems the filmmakers are aiming for something that embodies the spirit and name of Until Dawn rather than directly translating it to screen. Still, Peter Stormare reprising his role as Dr. Hill is sure to be a nostalgic nod for fans. Earlier today, Sony released what they’re calling a teaser, featuring select clips and shedding some light on how this adaptation will differ from the game.
In the teaser, director David F. Sandberg discusses a creative element that the game executed well: allowing players to make different choices, resulting in various character deaths. “The movie integrates this mechanism,” Sandberg states, explaining that events restart, allowing characters another chance each time. With each rebirth, they find themselves in a different horror genre. To make it, they must survive until dawn. Pretty clever, right? Although those hoping for a straightforward adaptation might find it lacking, it raises the question: how do you adapt a game known for its branching pathways and multiple endings?
If you’re still on the fence, there’s a bit of hope; Sony has promised a full trailer “coming soon.” Given the release date is just around the corner on April 25, “soon” better mean imminent! Let’s keep our fingers crossed that we don’t find ourselves trapped in a timeloop like the film’s concept in the meantime.