By Samantha Ofole-Prince
The Sudanese British actor, Tut Nyuot, whose credits include the television series “The Witcher: Blood Origin” and “Small Axe” was recently in California to promote his latest film “The Long Walk.”
A horror film based on Stephen King’s 1979 novel, it follows a group of teenage boys who participate in a grueling walking contest known as the Long Walk. 50 boys must keep a steady pace of 3 miles per hour day and night, without ever stopping. The winner gets “The Prize”—anything he wants for the rest of his life. But the rules of the Long Walk are brutal, and the stakes are high. There is no finish line—the winner is the last man standing. Slow down under the speed limit and you’re given a warning. Three warnings and you’re out of the game—forever. The film, like the book, explores themes of survival, endurance, and the brutal nature of the competition.
“My feet are still recovering and physically it was a lot,” shared Nyuot. “It’s been such a journey and we have worked so hard and are finally excited to show the world what we have been working on,” adds the actor who plays Arthur Baker, a character who is more than ready to undergo the punishing demands of The Long Walk for a lifetime of riches, and the fulfillment of his wish: to travel to the moon in a space rocket. His drive to win is grounded by his gentle manner and religious conviction.
“He grew up dirt-poor in Baton Rouge and money is the motivator factor to participate in the walk,” Nyuot explains. “When I first read the script, I felt a range of emotions and I wanted to do the story justice and being a part of this was wonderful.”
Directed by Francis Lawrence, known for “The Hunger Games” series, Lionsgate will release the dystopian horror film in U.S. theaters on September 12.
Samantha Ofole-Prince is a journalist and movie critic who covers industry-specific news that includes television and film. She serves as the U.S. Entertainment Correspondent for Ovation Magazine.
Photo Credit Vivien Killilea