After teasing a potential break from directing, Alex Garland, famous for films like Ex Machina, Annihilation, and this year’s Civil War—has made a surprising announcement. Garland is teaming up with A24 to direct a film adaptation of the highly acclaimed video game Elden Ring, with production set to begin in 2026.
The film will be the first feature adaptation of a From Software game, marking a significant shift in both the gaming and cinematic worlds. Though the report has since been removed from Nexus Point News, it aligns with previous rumors suggesting an Elden Ring film was in the works.
A Fantasy World Worthy of the Big Screen
Released in February 2022, Elden Ring quickly became a global sensation. Developed by Hidetaka Miyazaki, known for Dark Souls, and enriched by lore from George R. R. Martin, the game immerses players in the eerie and brutal world of the Lands Between. 
The game follows the journey of the Tarnished, exiled warriors tasked with reassembling the shattered Elden Ring and battling corrupted demigods to become the Elden Lord. With its vast open world, towering bosses, haunting landscapes, and intricate lore, Elden Ring is a perfect fit for Garland’s cerebral and visually captivating storytelling style.
While no details have been confirmed regarding the film’s plot, fans are speculating whether the story will follow the game’s protagonist, the Tarnished, or if Garland will create a new narrative within the Elden Ring universe. Given Garland’s previous work, it’s likely that the film will maintain the same depth and complexity that the game’s world offers.
Garland’s Expanding Creative Slate
Garland’s decision to take on such a massive, lore-heavy project is a bit of a surprise, especially after he hinted at stepping away from directing following Civil War. Instead, he’s diving into one of the most complex and beloved fantasy worlds in modern gaming.
In addition to Elden Ring, Garland is also involved in producing two sequels to 28 Days Later—28 Years Later and The Bone Temple—indicating that he’s far from slowing down creatively.
At this time, there’s no official statement from A24 or From Software, and while George R. R. Martin has distanced himself from any deep involvement due to his work on The Winds of Winter, the excitement from fans continues to grow.
As a long-time fan of both Garland and Elden Ring, I’m cautiously optimistic. Garland’s mastery of atmosphere and intellectual storytelling could elevate this adaptation beyond typical video game films. But the pressure to please a passionate fanbase is undoubtedly high. However, if anyone can take the cryptic and player-driven world of Elden Ring and turn it into cinematic gold, it’s Garland. Here’s hoping for a mind-blowing trailer soon.
