The Return of the Dystopian Genre

In an era where popular franchises like “Divergent” and “The Maze Runner” feel like a distant memory, the release of any dystopian film gains the attention of watchers almost immediately. 

On Sept. 12, “The Long Walk” made its way to the big screen. This film is based on the 1979 novel by Stephen King and immerses watchers into a nightmarish society.

The Long Walk

This film is set in a dystopian past, where watchers are placed into a society that has been controlled by a totalitarian military regime. It follows the lives of 50 boys who are faced with the controlling and unforgivable nature of this civilization.

With a note similar to the plot of “The Hunger Games,” the main characters of this film are randomly selected to participate in “the long walk.” Through this competition, these characters have the chance to completely change their lives with wealth and stability, but equally face the risk of death.

The challenge itself is a walking marathon, where each participant is made to walk at least three miles each hour. Falling behind has one immediate effect: death.

The film follows the challenges each participant encounters during this deadly experience, utilizing the concept of “the long walk” to cultivate commentary on greater societal issues. In exploring broader topics like economic disparity, dehumanization and the general desensitization to war and death, this film serves as a reflection on the world we currently live in. 

Dystopia as a Reality

The dystopian genre is one that has infiltrated the pages and screens of media consumers consistently encounter. In providing a window to live in a world that isn’t our own, this genre continues to fascinate readers and watchers through its immersive context.

At a time in which the line between reality and dystopia are gradually becoming more difficult to pinpoint, the dystopian genre becomes more difficult to portray. 

Totalitarianism, dehumanization and economic disparity are elements that many experience in present day society. Extreme versions of these ideas are found within the dystopian genre, yet are becoming more difficult for readers and watchers to find satisfaction within.

As a result, franchises like “The Hunger Games” continue to resurrect elements of a well-loved and positively perceived dystopia without facing the risk of desensitizing a reality many experience.

“The Long Walk” is a film that has been well received by the public as it is reminiscent of a genre so well perceived in the past. Yet, many viewers are left wondering if this genre is one that can be appropriately portrayed in a society that shares frightening similarities to a seemingly implausible fictional one.

Did you watch “The Long Walk”? Tag @VALLEYMag on Instagram and share your thoughts!

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