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Forget ‘The Winds of Winter,’ George R. R. Martin’s New Epic Fantasy Is Reportedly A24’s Most Expensive Movie Yet
A24’s planned film adaptation of *Elden Ring*, whose backstory was developed with George R. R. Martin, reportedly has a production budget approaching $200 million. If accurate, it would be the studio’s most expensive film yet, a major investment for a company known for smaller independent productions.
Alex Garland is writing and directing the film, which stars Kit Connor, Cailee Spaeny, Nick Offerman and others. Production began in April and finished on 30 July; A24 has not released an official synopsis. The film is scheduled to reach cinemas on 3 March 2028.
In short
- *Elden Ring* reportedly has a budget nearing $200 million.
- It could be A24’s most expensive film.
- The adaptation is due in cinemas in March 2028.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
A budget approaching $200 million could give the filmmakers room to realise Elden Ring’s vast, visually distinctive world and attract a broad cinema audience. For A24, a major investment may be a reasonable way to expand its reach and pursue a rare large-scale fantasy project, especially if the film can build on the game’s established following.
The case against
A commitment of this size could expose A24 to substantial financial risk, particularly because the reported budget is unusually high for a studio associated with smaller productions. A costly adaptation may also put pressure on the filmmakers to appeal to the widest audience, potentially narrowing the creative freedom and distinctive approach that have helped define the studio.
Explained simply
Elden Ring is a fantasy video game released in 2022, set in a world shaped by a shattered magical ring and a struggle for power. Its story and world were developed by Japanese game studio FromSoftware, working with writer George R. R. Martin, best known for the A Song of Ice and Fire books.
A24 is an independent film company that has become known for films made on smaller budgets, so a production on this scale would be a significant investment for it. Alex Garland, who has written and directed films including Ex Machina, is leading the adaptation, which features Kit Connor, Cailee Spaeny and Nick Offerman.
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