A24, known for its critically acclaimed but often modestly budgeted films, is reportedly investing $200 million in its upcoming adaptation of FromSoftware's Elden Ring. This figure would make it the studio's most expensive production to date, significantly surpassing previous high-budget endeavors.
The film, announced last year and helmed by director Alex Garland, known for "Ex Machina" and "Civil War," marks A24's entry into the growing trend of video game adaptations. While details about the movie's approach to the game's lore and expansive world remain scarce, reports suggest the production is sparing no expense, with sources indicating a budget comparable to that of a Marvel film.
Prior to "Elden Ring," A24's most costly film was "Marty Supreme," which reportedly cost $70 million and went on to more than double its investment. The studio's only film to cross the $200 million mark at the box office was the surprise hit "Backrooms," produced on a much smaller budget of $10 million. This makes the $200 million allocated for "Elden Ring" a notable departure from A24's typical financial strategy.
The substantial budget also sets "Elden Ring" apart from many other video game movie adaptations. While some, like "Minecraft," "The Super Mario Bros. Movie," and "Sonic the Hedgehog," have achieved massive box office success, they often cater to a broader, family-friendly audience. The dark and complex nature of Hidetaka Miyazaki and George R.R. Martin's "Elden Ring" presents a less-tested market for a major blockbuster adaptation.
In addition to "Elden Ring," A24 is also developing a film based on Hideo Kojima's "Death Stranding." Given Kojima's projects often involve significant development costs, this second venture into game adaptations also signals a potentially large investment.
A24 has built its reputation on a mix of commercial successes and critically lauded, artistically driven projects, often achieving significant returns on comparatively smaller investments. The $200 million budget for "Elden Ring" represents a significant gamble, but one that aligns with the studio's willingness to take risks on ambitious cinematic endeavors.