In a groundbreaking fusion of entertainment, the worlds of video gaming and cinema are converging like never before. The recent release of Five Nights at Freddy’s is just another movie in a long list of content that aligns with an existing property. Over the years, there have been many attempts to adapt beloved video games into feature films, and more recently, into TV series. With varying levels of success, it can be hard to know if this is a passing fad or a renewed tactic here to stay.
Current Video Game Screen Adaptation Successes
NBCUniversal is spearheading the video game adaptation approach and, frankly, is nailing it. In April of 2023, Universal Pictures released The Super Mario Bros. Movie to unbelievable success. From humble beginnings as a video game in the 1980s, this movie has paved the way for a younger generation to love the characters as much as those who grew up trying to rescue Princess Toadstool.
If you’re into a grittier type of game and content, look no further than Twisted Metal, a series released on Peacock in July 2023. Because the original PlayStation game was simply a vehicle combat game, it left plenty of space for the showrunners to take creative license in the screen adaptation. Incredible writing, harnessing the power of technology, and peppering in plenty of easter eggs made this a hit for fans.
Additionally, the gaming industry isn’t getting any smaller. We’ve overcome the wave of reboots and remasters to now get fresh, innovative content. The intricate plots, well-developed characters, and visually stunning worlds in games have caught the eye of casual gamers, gaming nerds, and filmmakers alike. The video game fanbases have grown to encompass a wide demographic, making adaptations a no-brainer for networks that are looking for an easy win. With the demand for new games not wavering any time soon, that means the well for adaptations will not run dry.
Anthony Mackie and Stephanie Beatriz in the screen adaptation of the video game ‘Twisted Metal’
Struggles Ahead?
However, adapting video games to screen is not without its challenges. Filmmakers face the task of respecting the source material while creating a cinematic experience that appeals to a broad audience. Balancing the expectations of die-hard fans and the general moviegoer poses a considerable creative challenge. One wrong move and you run the risk of alienating a dedicated fanbase or an entire new audience to buy into the property.
The past few years have seen some successful adaptations, indicating a shift in the landscape. Movies like Detective Pikachu and Sonic the Hedgehog and series like The Witcher have proven that a well-executed adaptation can resonate with both gaming enthusiasts and general audiences, paving the way for more ambitious projects. As long as networks invest in dedicated screenwriters and staff who are all dedicated to the fidelity to the original source, we can continue to receive an authentic experience for gamers that still captivates the general audience with great storytelling and high-quality visual effects.
So is using video games as inspiration a creative cop out? No way. These properties are long-standing pillars in the gaming community and we’re now seeing movies and television shows that are strong enough to stand on their own. It’s a brilliant way for platforms to capitalize on an existing audience while still capturing a new one. Plus, viewers are treated to a dose of nostalgia while watching. Fans of the original games may even get extra enjoyment as the networks thoughtfully drop in easter eggs only die-hard fans would catch.
Five Nights at Freddy’s is now streaming on Peacock.