Video game adaptations are dominating entertainment right now. This month alone brings us The Minecraft Movie, the Devil May Cry anime series, and the continuing second season of The Last of Us. Adding to this lineup is the new film adaptation of Sony's acclaimed 2015 survival horror game Until Dawn.
I recall Until Dawn launching during the peak of YouTube's "Let's Play" trend - it was equally entertaining to play as it was to watch others experience. With cinematic visuals, impactful branching narratives, and expertly crafted jump scares, the game became an instant favorite.
While the film borrows the original title, it largely carves its own path. As noted in IGN's review of the game, the movie "shares its name and select elements with its source material while charting an independent course - with varying success." Still, as a horror enthusiast, my curiosity remains piqued.
For those planning to catch Until Dawn in cinemas or wondering about its streaming debut, here's everything you need to know.
The Until Dawn film premiered in theaters nationwide on Friday, April 25. Check these major theater chains for local screenings:
FandangoRegal TheatersAMC TheatersCinemark TheatersAlamo Drafthouse
Sony Pictures Entertainment has an existing deal with Netflix for streaming rights. Following the studio's recent pattern (as seen with Venom: The Last Dance and Saturday Night), expect Until Dawn to hit Netflix approximately August 25 - four months after theatrical release.
Platforms like Prime Video will offer Until Dawn for digital purchase before its Netflix debut. While VOD timing depends on box office performance, the film will likely become available for rental by late May.
The film presents an original narrative while drawing thematic inspiration from the 2014 game. According to the official synopsis:
"A year after her sister's disappearance, Clover organizes a trip to the remote valley where she vanished. When she and her friends explore an abandoned visitor center, a masked killer begins hunting them. The group soon discovers they're trapped in a nightmarish time loop, forced to relive their terrifying ordeal repeatedly."
Excerpt From IGN's Until Dawn Game Review:
"Until Dawn shines as a spirited love letter to horror cinema, crafted by developers who genuinely cherish the genre. While its storyline occasionally falters, the game's innovative decision system and playful embrace of horror tropes create a uniquely entertaining experience."

The film credits include director David F. Sandberg (Annabelle: Creation) and screenwriters Gary Dauberman and Blair Butler. Key cast members:
Ella Rubinas CloverMichael Cimino as MaxOdessa A'zion as NinaJi-young Yoo as MeganBelmont Cameli as AbelMaia Mitchell as MelaniePeter Stormare as Hill
Until Dawn carries an R rating for graphic violence, disturbing imagery, strong language, and sexual content. Runtime: 1 hour 43 minutes.