While Michael Sarnoski is now confirmed as the director for the upcoming live-action Death Stranding movie, it has come to light that the project`s original game creator, Hideo Kojima, was first approached for the role. Noah Sacco, head of films at A24, disclosed in a recent interview that he had initially offered the directorial position to Kojima.
Sacco recalled his direct question to Kojima, saying, “Are you sure you don`t want to direct?” The full context of their discussion and Kojima`s specific response remain unknown, but it is clear that Kojima ultimately declined the opportunity to direct the film.
Sarnoski has garnered significant praise for his previous directorial efforts, including the critically acclaimed Nicolas Cage film Pig, and the 2024 release A Quiet Place: Day One. His future commitments also include directing The Death of Robin Hood, which will star Hugh Jackman in the titular role, alongside his work on the Death Stranding adaptation.
In addition to directing, Sarnoski is also penning the screenplay for the Death Stranding movie. Although Hideo Kojima will not be at the helm as director or writer, his company, Kojima Productions, is actively involved in the film`s production.
Kojima has previously stated that the film will not be a straightforward, direct adaptation of the game`s narrative. Instead, the movie aims to resonate with both dedicated fans of the game and a wider audience who appreciate compelling cinematic experiences.
The Death Stranding movie is still in its preliminary stages, with no official announcements regarding cast members or a release date. However, Norman Reedus, known for his portrayal of the main character Sam Porter Bridges in the video games, has expressed an interest in reprising his role for the film. Furthermore, reports indicate that an animated movie, expanding the broader Death Stranding universe, is also in development.
On the gaming front, Death Stranding 2: On the Beach was released in June. While Kojima possesses ideas for a potential Death Stranding 3, he has indicated that he does not plan to develop it himself. Currently, he is focused on his other highly anticipated game projects, OD and Physint.
A24 is also venturing into another significant video game adaptation: the Elden Ring movie, directed by Oscar-nominated filmmaker Alex Garland. Sacco lauded Garland`s exceptional enthusiasm for the project, noting that Garland arrived with a comprehensive 160-page script draft, complemented by an additional 40 pages of visual concepts. When Sacco proposed the directorial role for the Elden Ring movie, Garland`s immediate and fervent response was reportedly, “F**k yeah.”
Hideo Kojima, the acclaimed creator of Death Stranding.