Stephen King is arguably one of the best contemporary horror writers of our time. He has sold more than 350 million books, and many of them have been adapted into movies. He has received countless awards for his works and has developed a loyal following for his dark and inspiring tales. He often even appears in the film adaptations.
I have compiled a list of some of King’s works that have won the hearts of super fans everywhere. There are so many great ones that these are not in any particular order. Let’s see if you agree with these picks!
1. The Shawshank Redemption
A Best Picture nominee, The Shawshank Redemption is often chosen as one of the best pictures of all time. Not typical King horror, but it’s a really fabulous film. I live near the Mansfield Reformatory where the movie was filmed, which is now closed. It is one creepy place!
2. Stand by Me
“I don’t shut up, I grow up, and when I look at you I throw up!” I was the same age as the kids in this story and I remember seeing it in the theater with my friends. The tale of friendship, adventure, and life’s problems made an impact on all of us. Another film that’s not the classic horror that King is known for, it remains a favorite with tons of nostalgia, which we love!
3. The Shining
“Redrum…redrum…” This is one of my personal favorite horror flicks. The Shining brings a classic ’70s vibe from Jack Nicholson. To me, this film is a work of art and brilliance by director Stanley Kubrick, although many disagree, saying it is a poor adaptation of the book. King himself hated the movie.
4. Pet Sematary
This movie is just plain awesome! I still get a little chill down my spine when I come close to my bed, for fear my Achilles tendon will be slashed! Zelda gave me nightmares as a kid and remains one of the creepiest creepers ever. The storyline was unique … I mean, who wouldn’t want to bring their dead pet (or wife) back to life!
5. Christine
Christine brings new meaning to the term “hell on wheels”! A teen’s first car turns out to be possessed, taking control of him and killing for him. The car that never dies is a classic!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O08w8CegEeg
6. It
Ok, this miniseries scared the H-E double hockey sticks out of me! Pennywise the clown is terrifying, with his razor-sharp teeth preying upon our worst fears and phobias. The Loser’s Club discovers Pennywise and sets out to destroy him. It will give you nightmares!
7. The Green Mile
This supernatural story was a very good film and was nominated for four Academy Awards. It was a sad story that tested faith and truth. This film is a must see.
8. Misery
Kathy Bates plays the psychotic super fan, Annie Wilkes, who captures her favorite author and keeps him as her prisoner. The scene where she breaks his ankles with a sledgehammer still makes me cringe just thinking about it. Fabulous movie!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E55ni_xc4ww
9. Carrie
Carrie was one of the most beloved horror films of the ’70s and remains so today. A teenage girl unleashes her wrath on the ones who bully her using her powers. The prom scene remains a cult favorite.
10. Salem’s Lot
“Open the window, Mark. Open the window.” Can you imagine a vampire showing up at your window like the scene in Salem’s Lot? It terrified me as a kid and still does!
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