Alex Garland, director of the highly anticipated Elden Ring film adaptation, has completed seven playthroughs of FromSoftware's acclaimed fantasy RPG and revealed his most challenging foe - Malenia, Blade of Miquella.
During an interview with IGN promoting 28 Years Later (his latest zombie apocalypse film addressing the franchise 23 years after its inception), the visionary behind Ex Machina and Civil War shared his gaming struggles:
"Malenia remains the ultimate challenge," Garland admitted. "After completing seven playthroughs, I've leveled up significantly and acquired powerful weapons, yet victory still requires relentless perseverance."
"This approach mirrors my Dark Souls strategy," he continued. "Success isn't about skill improvement - it's statistical probability through repetition. Eventually, persistence pays off."
Surprisingly, Garland found Starscourge Radahn significantly easier, offering practical advice:
"Radahn becomes manageable once you utilize the assisting NPC summons around the battlefield," Garland explained. "They substantially weaken him before you deliver the finishing blows. The key is activating all summoning signs."
Regarding potential boss inclusions in A24's Elden Ring adaptation, Garland remained characteristically guarded. Currently, the only confirmed details involve:
- Garland serving as writer/director
- Bandai Namco and A24 co-producing
- George R.R. Martin and Vince Gerardis as producers
- Peter Rice, Andrew Macdonald, and Allon Reich producing for DNA
The involvement of FromSoftware or creative director Hidetaka Miyazaki remains undisclosed.
What narrative direction should the film pursue? Personally, I believe exploring The Shattering's events as a prequel would prove more effective than adapting the game's main story directly. Share your perspective in the comments!
