Top 13 Stephen King movie adaptations ever made
Tons of movies have been adapted from Stephen King books and stories over the years, and today we’re picking the thirteen best ones of them all.
We’re looking at the cream of the crop from Stephen King‘s huge movie line-up. Which ones are the best? You be the judge…
Read on for the full list!
IT (2017)
One of the finest frightful Stephen King books was beautifully adapted for the big screen in 2017. Any horror tale involving childrens’ worst nightmares allows the special effects teams tons of room to play. With the new CGI (computer-generated imagery) available, what better character to do this with than an evil clown.
1922 (2017)
Many may not agree with me on this pick, as it was a quiet, unassuming film. The story is set in 1922, about a farmer comfortable in his life, and a wife who is not. When things go sideways, and madness seeps in, the creep factor deepens. Thomas Jane was a perfect fit for this character.
1408 (2007)
Get some good genuine frights with this film, about a haunted hotel room. They cast John Cusack for the role of Mike Enslin, a skeptical writer of supernatural phenomena, another excellent choice. Once he’s locked into the room, he can’t seem to leave. Puts me in mind of a famous song with the same theme – I wonder if that’s where King got his idea? Well regardless, a scary movie that’s worth watching.
Secret Window (2004)
When a bitter writer takes to a cabin in the woods for peace, he ends up with more than he bargained for, when a stranger begins to hound him about plagiarism. Then people start to die. What possibly could a simple writer have done to deserve such hell? Perhaps there is more to the story? Want some good ole who-done-it horror, this one is for you.
The Green Mile (1999)
Bring Tom Hanks into the picture, and you already have a winner. In fact, the entire cast of this movie was spot on, bringing in award after award. King creates a gentle giant with the undertones of Frankenstein stereotypes, who is wrongfully accused of a heinous crime for which he will be executed. This is one hell of an emotional rollercoaster ride, and worthy of keeping in your King collection.
The Shawshank Redemption (1994)
Even King haters love this movie! A true human-interest drama about an innocent man imprisoned for life (who doesn’t have that nightmare.) With again a stellar cast, Tim Robbin and Morgan Freeman breathing the characters to life and the hell they must survive daily.
Misery (1990)
Misery gave us new meaning to “I’m your number one fan.” Kathy Bates portrays the lonely lady we all see at the market, or bank, and pay no mind too – until she locks a writer in her house and starts breaking their bones that is. If you think you have one of these crazy neighbors, watch for all the signs in this film.
Pet Sematary (1989)
A unique, scary movie in its time, and still a classic. We’re all anxiously awaiting the new version to release in 2019 to be able to compare. Watch the original while it’s still good.
Stand by Me (1986)
The best boys coming of age movie in history!
Maximum Overdrive (1986)
Okay not everyone will agree with me on this pick. But I loved it! The campy humor and killer goblin trucks, what can go wrong. Pump up the volume to the ’80s tunes and have fun.
Silver Bullet (1985)
Your traditional werewolf tale where only the kids know the truth, and the adults think there’s a wild dog lose. This is a true horror film with built up suspense and young heroes. A must see on all horror fans’ lists.
The Dead Zone (1983)
This was one of King’s first adaptations that wasn’t deep horror, but more delving into the evils of man. Christopher Walken makes the watcher believe the angst and pain of the character. Another true classic to horde.
The Shining (1980)
Hate it or love it! The hauntings are scary, the gore is inviting and watching Jack Nicholson is compelling. Regardless of how King feels about this film, us die-hard fans will always poke our heads through any crack and call out, “Here’s Johnny!”
Next: Laurie Strode is worse than her brother
I think I may have missed a few, but it was a tough list to narrow down. What are your favorite Stephen King works? Let us know below!