When a moviegoer gets the impression that a film is considered a "Stephen King movie," they already know what to expect and what conditions are met. That is how Stephen King has become an established figure in the horror film industry. To celebrate his birthday on September 21, here is a list of the few most recognizable movies inspired by books written by the "King of Horror" himself.
It (1990)
This is a miniseries made for TV and was based on the author's novel of the same name in 1986. The story is about a monster who can transform based on the prey's worst fear. It mostly takes the form of a devilish clown named Pennywise. It was adopted recently into two films, with Bill Skarsgård playing the grim character.
Pet Sematary (1989)
This was considered one of King's scariest novels, so it was no surprise that it got a film adaptation. The story was about a father who wanted to resurrect the loved ones he lost using an ancient burial ritual. This premise was not only terrifying, but it was also a sad way of dealing with loss.
Firestarter (1984)
The book was one of Stephen King's bestsellers, and it featured many of the author's established tropes. This includes secret agents, kids with telepathic powers, dysfunctional families, and many more. It features a young Drew Barrymore whose flame-controlling powers were unleashed after an experiment.
The Mist (2007)
The ending of this movie is widely recognized as one of the bleakest there is. For that reason, it became a cult classic several years after its initial release. The story revolves around strangers trapped in a supermarket as the mist outside reveals strange creatures of mysterious origins.
Children of the Corn (1984)
As the name suggests, the movie is about a murderous cult of children that hide behind their angelic innocence. It combines the elements of zombie brainwashed individuals as well as the creepiness of religious zealots. The film presents varying and conflicting American communities that lead to some true-to-life cultural tensions.
The Shawshank Redemption (1994)
While the novella and the film do not fall under the horror category, this was still one of the King of Horror's most celebrated work. During its initial theater release, it did not make much noise, but regular airings on cable exposed it to more people, and it later became a venerated movie.
The Shining (1980)
Though it is one of the most iconic horror movies of all time, Stephen King did not like director Stanley Kubrick's interpretation of the book. Some reviewers also agree with the author as the movie feels like someone just skimmed through the novel.
Carrie (1976)
While Kubrick's version was not to the point, Brian De Palma's interpretation of King's novel was considered a masterpiece by many. Not only is it unsettling, but it was also a movie where the audience cannot help but sympathize with the tortured teenager, played by Sissy Spacek. It was later adapted to a more modern version with Chloe Grace Moretz playing as the lead.
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