Until Dawn, one of the standout games of the PlayStation 4 generation, had its remake pave the way last year for the movie adaptation arriving this April. Directed by David F. Sandberg, the film’s cast includes only one familiar face from the game: Peter Stormare, reprising his role. Up until now, we assumed the characters and story would follow the game’s narrative, given it’s an adaptation. However, both Stormare and a Sony executive have confirmed that the film will feature an entirely new story and characters. This news might disappoint fans who won’t see their favorite characters return. On the flip side, it leaves room for surprises, even for long-time fans.
"I feel lucky to have been part of the Until Dawn franchise from the original game: an incredible and genuinely spine-chilling experience. That’s why I’m thrilled to be in the movie adaptation. It’s a love letter to the horror genre, fully respecting the spirit of the game. However, the film introduces brand-new characters and victims in an entirely fresh storyline packed with twists. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the franchise, prepare for Until Dawn to deliver something you’ve never seen before!"
This statement was made by the actor during a panel discussion at CES 2025. Ashley Brucks, president of Sony’s Screen Gems, the studio producing Until Dawn, also attended and emphasized that while the movie isn’t a classic adaptation, it will honor the game. Brucks described the film as follows:
"We made sure to capture and incorporate everything fans loved about the game and its experience into the movie, while also providing something fresh and exciting to entice newcomers. In adapting Until Dawn, director David F. Sandberg, a huge fan of the acclaimed game, distilled its essence and selected key motifs most important to fans, paying proper tribute to the original work."
Thus, the basic premise will feel familiar: a group of friends finds themselves in a visceral and chilling horror experience, shared with the audience. Whether this can be as engaging in a slasher movie—where we don’t control the characters’ fates—remains to be seen when Until Dawn hits theaters on April 24.