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The Best Underrated Stephen King Adaptations

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The Best Underrated Stephen King Adaptations
written by
Nada Medhat

As one of America’s most prolific and creative writers, with over 64 novels and 11 collections of short stories ranging from horror, supernatural fiction, suspense, and crime, to science-fiction and fantasy works, Stephen King is one of the most adapted authors. On both the small and big screen, Stephen King is the creative mind behind many beloved stories like The Green Mile, Misery, and The Shawshank Redemption. This year, another adaptation of his is hitting the screens; Firestarter, with Zac Efron as the lead. Firestarter reminds us of the tremendous range of stories King has given to cinema. However, because of the quantity (and ranging qualities of the adaptations), some highly enjoyable works go unnoticed, just like the ones in the list we’ve prepared for you!

Stand By Me (1986)

 

The 1986 coming-of-age story is an excellent example of what Stephen King does best: capturing the profound friendships of childhood, the trials of growing up, and the contrast between the charm and the lurking darkness of perfect little American towns. The film adapts King’s 1982 novella The Body and follows four young boys who go on a hike to find the dead body of a missing boy. The film is loved and appreciated by the critics, with strong performances from the young actors, but it can often be forgotten that the story’s origin goes back to King!

1408 (2007)

Based on King’s 1999 short story of the same name, 1408 is a psychological-horror story following an author who rents the titular room 1408 at a New York City hotel. The protagonist usually investigates allegedly haunted houses, but remains sceptical. Inside the room, however, he experiences all sorts of bizarre events that make him question his scepticism.

Christine (1983)

A car that is possessed and formed its own personality is exactly the sort of thing you’d expect from King. Neither his story nor the film disappoints. Falling into the territory of cult, silly horror of the ’80s, appealing to the pop culture of the ’50s, yet with a timeless quality, Christine is a genuine fun watch that you don’t want to miss.

Needful Things (1993)

This horror film adapts one of King’s best stories. The story follows a mysterious new shop and its owner taking a neighbourhood by storm. As the title indicates, everything can be found at this shop, but at a heavy price. It’s not as loved by critics as it is by audiences. But, it at least holds the unanimous opinion of being faithful to the novel. Watch and find out!

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