Stephen King Slams Superhero Movie Violence as “Pornographic”

Author Stephen King has called modern superhero movies “pornographic.” He made the statement in a recent interview with The Times U.K. King criticized the genre’s sanitized approach to on-screen violence.

His comments came while discussing his new film, The Long Walk. King demanded that its adaptation be brutally violent. He believes movies should show the real consequences of action.

King Demands Realistic Brutality in New Film

King explained his issue with mainstream blockbusters. He cited Marvel and DC movies as key examples. He noted city blocks are destroyed without any visible bloodshed.

This lack of realism feels dishonest to him. King insisted his own film avoid this pitfall. He gave the filmmakers one strict condition for The Long Walk. They had to show the graphic violence from his book.

According to King, the directors listened. He confirmed they made a “pretty brutal movie.” The project is directed by Francis Lawrence. J.T. Mollner wrote the screenplay.

The Long Walk Presents a Dystopian Nightmare

The film is based on King’s 1979 dystopian novel. It follows teenage boys in a deadly annual contest. They must maintain a specific walking speed without stopping.

Anyone who fails is killed immediately. The last walker standing is declared the winner. The story is inherently violent and grim. King’s condition ensured the film matches the book’s tone.

This contrasts sharply with typical superhero fare. Many major studio films tone down violence for a wider audience. They aim for a family-friendly rating.

However, some R-rated superhero films do exist. Movies like Deadpool and The Suicide Squad feature graphic content. But King’s critique targets the more common, bloodless destruction.

Superhero Genre Often Avoids Graphic Realism

The superhero genre frequently minimizes gore. This is a conscious choice to reach younger viewers. Studios want to maximize box office returns.

But King argues this approach is morally questionable. It makes violence seem clean and consequence-free. His new film aims to present a much darker reality.

Stephen King’s critique highlights a major divide in Hollywood. His new movie, The Long Walk, will put his philosophy into brutal practice. It arrives in theaters this September.

Info at your fingertips

What did Stephen King say about superhero movies?

He called their violence “pornographic.” King criticized the destruction of city blocks without any visible blood or realistic consequences for the action.

What is Stephen King’s new movie about?

The Long Walk is based on his 1979 novel. It involves a deadly contest where teenage boys must walk at a specific speed or be killed, with the last one standing winning.

Who is directing The Long Walk movie?

Francis Lawrence is directing the film adaptation. He is known for directing several films in The Hunger Games series.

When will The Long Walk be released?

The film is currently scheduled for release in theaters on September 12 of this year.

Are there any R-rated superhero movies?

Yes, several exist. Prominent examples include the Deadpool films, The Suicide Squad, and Kraven the Hunter. These films do contain graphic violence.

Why did Stephen King want his film to be violent?

He believed it was necessary for the story’s authenticity. King felt showing the brutal consequences was crucial to the dystopian narrative of The Long Walk.

Trusted Sources

The Times U.K.