Apple is moving forward with a big-budget adaptation of the classic educational game The Oregon Trail, as reported by The Hollywood Reporter. The film is currently in early development, having just received approval after being pitched to the company.
Directing and producing the project will be Will Speck and Josh Gordon, known for their work in comedies such as Blades of Glory and Office Christmas Party. Their involvement indicates that the film will likely take a comedic rather than a serious historical approach to the story of pioneers traveling westward.
Interestingly, this adaptation will not only be a comedy but also a musical. Sources have indicated that the film will feature original musical numbers in a style similar to that of the recent hit Barbie.
The music for the film will be crafted by the talented duo Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, who are EGOT winners. This musical aspect adds an exciting dimension to the adaptation, suggesting a lively and entertaining reinterpretation of the original game.
Apple Plans Musical Comedy Adaptation of The Oregon Trail with Will Speck and Josh Gordon Directing
The screenplay will be written by Kenneth and Keith Lucas, who are best known for their work on the acclaimed drama Judas and the Black Messiah, for which they received an Oscar nomination. This combination of comedic direction and serious writing talent hints that the film might blend humor with thoughtful storytelling, creating a unique narrative experience.
The original Oregon Trail game is a significant cultural touchstone, especially for those who played it during the 1970s through the 1990s. It has been an educational tool for generations and is particularly nostalgic for people born in the early 1980s, leading to the label “The Oregon Trail Generation.” The game’s dark humor, including the infamous phrase “You have died of dysentery,” has contributed to its lasting appeal and recognition.
Although the film has received the green light from Apple, details regarding its release date and cast remain uncertain. It is expected to debut on the Apple TV+ streaming service, and fans of the original game, as well as new audiences, are eagerly awaiting its arrival. With a blend of nostalgia, humor, and musical elements, this adaptation promises to offer a fresh and entertaining take on a beloved classic in gaming history.
