Dolores Claiborne - Movie Review

[@SparingPolymath]

Kathy Bates is a goddamn national treasure. Her work in this film was gorgeous

[@avanishdutta2658]

Uh, remember, Kathy bates was in Misery. She obviously is very sinister and unhinged in that. Underrated actress.

[@JenniferMcMahonhawaii78]

I think Dolores Claiborne is definitely one of those underrated Stephen King movies!

[@orlando5789]

And one of his most underrated books

[@katierojas8066]

This is one of my favorite movies. Hands down

[@marklovell8430]

Most definitely. Criminally underrated.

[@anthonyfrascella4598]

Thank you! This is my favorite. But you forgot to mention Vera Donovan - Judy Parfitt was incredible.

[@rumblefish9]

The scene where Vera goes "an accident, Dolores, can be an unhappy woman's bestfriend" gives me the chills every time. The dynamic between Dolores and Vera is equally fascinating as Dolores and her daughter. A criminally underrated film.

[@zanna90]

Vera was the true KILLER/SUPPORT of this movie! Her performance is so underrated!!

[@necrographical]

Agreed. Just Parfitt is amazing in this - every bit as good as everyone else.

[@bill61570]

I was obsessed with July Parfitt after seeing this film. She was magnetic to watch on film

[@Analysis_Paralysis]

Yes... The decline of Vera, it was so shocking and terrifying! You really lose all your grace when you age. Watching this movie, I realized I never want to become an old woman, I'd rather die early... 😨 It was such a realistic portrayal of old age. And the actress was so damn good in her role...

[@whutzat]

This film contains one of the best cinematic insults ever when Dolores calls Christopher Plummer "Mr.Grand High Poobah of Upper Buttcrack"

[@Marchant2]

Or, "If you say you're sorry one more time, I'm going to kick your butt so high you'll look like a hunchback." -- that's probably not the exact wording, but the sentiment is identical.

[@GullibleTarget]

Aaaaaaah!!!! I was waiting for this! I'm dutch and hardly ever speak english but, memorized that line. Accent and all.

[@cathyaudette1060]

I still use that one whenever I am upset! LOL!!!

[@williammoore3044]

This is actually one of my favorite Stephen King novels and adaptations. Criminally neglected on both counts.

[@nicoledenel]

I have always loved the fact that SK wrote two books with the same subject matter, occurring in the same day and how it affected the people involved. Dolores Claiborne and Gerald's Game are a scary reality.

[@MidnightsEdgeAfterDark]

Love this movie, great adaptation, well casted, very under-rated

[@slonekettering25]

Thanks for reviewing this Chris. This is my 2nd favorite movie of all time. Your shirt is my #1. I couldn't believe Bates didn't win an Oscar for it. It was a perfect performance.

[@jnewmark41]

I AGREE

[@RocketRoketto]

What's the first

[@slonekettering25]

@@RocketRoketto Empire Strikes Back

[@clearitup677]

Such a tragically underrated movie. This should be a STAPLE in American Cinema just as Misery is. She did these movies in THE SAME YEAR. Good Lord Kathy Bates is UNREAL when it comes to acting. Probably my favorite actor of all time.

[@Analysis_Paralysis]

Her acting was flawless!

[@santos8468]

She did them in the same decade (more or less), but not the same year.

[@CrashedIntoTheCineplex]

Thanks for this Chris :) Dolores Claiborne is one of my favorite movies and NO ONE EVER talks about it :) Great review :)

[@megaoldskool76]

I agree👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾

[@Cerulean0987]

I grew up in Maine and I actually remember the eclipse. It happened in the mid 70s, I was in fifth grade at the time. It was a huge event and I remember in class making pin hole viewers so that we could see the eclipse. Loved this movie, especially Vera.

[@Analysis_Paralysis]

So the eclipse really happened? Wow! It was also such a great metaphor in the film...

[@jehenisus]

I had similar problems as the daughter in this movie so I watched it many times as a teenager. I feel her anger. The difference is that the mom here took care of the issue. What a great mom

[@Analysis_Paralysis]

Yes, I was so touched at the end. That's what a true mother is supposed to do... Protect her child. I really fell in love with Kathy Bates as a person... You could see that she was feeling what the character was feeling.

[@rachaelmitchell9005]

"You listen to me, Mr. Grand High Poobah of Upper Butt Crack..." Best line in the movie. Maybe the best insult of all time

[@berliozophile]

My favorite Kathy Bates movie, seriously if you want to see a master class in acting this is perfect to pull from. Her character arc has such highs and lows. Pulling that off effectively requires some pretty dedicated chops, Bates nails it.

[@Analysis_Paralysis]

Yes, at the beginning of the movie I really thought she's evil and toxic, but in reality she was a silent hero!

[@daytripperhd]

yes. the lady who played Vera was up to the task as well

[@berliozophile]

@@daytripperhd YES! Heck of a lot of gravitas between the two in, what I think is the scene you're referring to.

[@needfulthings6603]

im pleased chris is FINALLY reviewing this, one of my favourites

[@Kotten84]

I remember seeing this movie a long time ago and I loved it. This movie and Misery made Kathy Bates one of my favourite actresses. She's amazing in both and I'm really surprised that neither she nor any of the other actors and actresses in this movie were nominated.

[@rumblefish9]

This movie is just criminally underrated. Every actor in this was brilliant. From Christopher Plummer to Judy Parfitt who played Vera to David Strathairn to Jennifer Jason Leigh and of course Kathy Bates. Dolores Claiborne is the most unStephen King book and movie you'll see. One of the things that the movie did was have this feeling of uneasiness throughout it. Its unsettling but its also really about two women - the relationship and dynamic between mother and daughter. This movie is subtle and yes gets very depressing but very worth the watch.

[@Suse715]

I adore this movie. Way too underrated. Kathy Bates definitely delivered Oscar-calibre work here, and the supporting cast is excellent all the way around.

[@fitnessfirstcpt391]

It is so satisfying watching two brilliant actresses literally going through the arc of acting effortlessly. I stumbled into this gem by accident. Since then, became my go to movie whenever I crave near perfect acting.

[@Pyongie]

Finally, someone who appreciates this movie!

[@VarinderBhandal]

Chris for the love of God, review the Shining already.

[@theboss297]

Varinder Bhandal I want an analysis video of it

[@bigbubba6935]

Varinder Bhandal and "it"

[@moviemastervevo1848]

Varinder Bhandal No No No we all know that good I want Stand By Me!!!!! Give me Stand by me damn it!!!!

[@vcabrera5396]

Varinder Bhandal Thank you

[@marktuovinen3888]

Varinder Bhandal He's needs to do every Kubrick Film.

[@kathleenmcgimpsey7855]

I watched this for the first time a few nights ago. Wow what a story ! Now I want to read the book as well. Great review.

[@amandareynolds-gregg5962]

I agree. Such a fabulous and underrated film

[@rapidreaders7741]

On a completely different topic, Guillermo del Toro's _Shape of Water_ was great. I was lucky enough to see it in Venice. If you liked _Pan's Labyrinth_ and _Hellboy,_ you'll absolutely LOVE this one.

[@KhaledAlfaris]

Ok, since everyone else is requesting movies to be reviewed, I would love to hear your thoughts on The Straight Story 1999. Thanks.

[@HydraxSly202]

Completely agree with your sentiments. Definitely one of his most underrated adapted films and of her roles. Dolores Claiborne deserves far more attention and praise. This film has always chilled me given the subject matter and the truths that slowly come out. And those performances! Ah

[@mikeyirish1967]

The acting in this film is of the very highest caliber. Kathy Bates is absolutely magnificent.

[@Zero_Fawkes]

i LOVED this movie growing up. it came out when i was 10 and i identified with so much in this movie even as a child. i dont think i need to get into what that means. this movie is a masterpiece!

[@AaronStarks]

This is one of the few times that I read a book before the filmed adaptation was released so I went to see it opening weekend back then. I remember marveling at how awesomely they brought those characters to life. There was no "the book was better" complaining. Loved that movie!

[@adamdarbyshire517]

You're the reason I want to get involved in the film industry. You've released a passion in me that I've never really known I had. Thank you.

[@songsayswhat]

Saw this with my mom in an empty theater (it had been out for awhile) and was blown away. People don't talk about it, and I wonder if that's partly due to the uncomfortable subject matter revealed. Too bad, excellent performances. I highly recommend it.

[@jimjimmyjames59]

I'm really glad you liked this movie and gave it a great rating, but I think you have to mention Judy Parfitt's chemistry with Kathy Bates. They are brilliant film actresses at their best in this.

[@Analysis_Paralysis]

Yes, it's the kind of bond women really do feel in real life as they try to survive in a patriarchal world.

[@yo2825]

Review the Shining and the original IT pleaseeeeeee!!!

[@slickwillie9526]

Having watched this movie 30+ times...I have to agree with everything you said. All the actors were perfect and was like watching an orchestra interact with their music.

[@redyayhole1644]

Talented Mr Ripley movie review? Probably one of the most underrated mystery suspense movies of all time. PLEASE!!

[@kid100music3]

Jonny Son My favorite Matt Damon performance...

[@redyayhole1644]

Milton Lane completely agree. Definetly his best performance.

[@gojewla]

You are kidding me, right? That film had so much hype.

[@larrykenshalo8564]

Hilariocity review of MAXIMUM OVERDRIVE

[@meanangel8114]

Absolute gem. Kathy Bates and the rest of the cast are brilliant.

[@thatsmallgrl]

Thank you so much. Not enough people talk about this movie. I believe it was not only one the best King adaptations, but an amazing movie on it's own merit. I appreciate you taking the time to talk about it.

[@rixx46]

Nice to see I'm not the only one who thought this was one of the best of his adaptations. The blending of the backstory and creative use of flashbacks is something that I show to my screenwriting students to illustrate how a flashback should move the story forward and not stop it cold to spew out easy exposition. I agree as well that it was one of her best performances as was also the case for Jennifer Jason Lee

[@CPTDoom]

You're so right about the performances. My favorite is Jennifer Jason Leigh, who's performance as a character who is very difficult to like comes through at the end, with a mini-courtroom scene that is one of my favorite take-downs of all kind. Also the acting tour-de-force by John C Reilly in that same scene, who has almost no lines, but is on camera for most of it.

[@MANTRAPLAYSGAMES]

I never comment, but THANKS STUCKMAN! You must be more than amused by some popularity and face recognition. LOVE to see you talk with your wife about your channel growing... Just a little outside the box. Maybe HER favorite episodes! Thanks for being a normal human with superhuman abilities of reviewing.

[@bighuge1060]

I watched the movie again tonight and I can't get over how well the script, acting, direction, music score and cinematography were. The acting and relationship between Delores and Vera, the woman she cleans and later takes care of was extremely powerful. It was also nice to hear Shawshank prison mentioned in the dialog. Heck, the Shawshank warden gets reincarnated here as a bank executive; a nice little connection with another King adaptation that was released a year earlier. This movie is definitely worth the watch.

[@gohan881988]

Could you review Stand By Me please

[@TheBlackLodger]

He will, don't worry. It's one of the most notable and best Steve King adaptations, so it's coming.

[@user-yr9ux7jf1y]

Don't forget Green Mile

[@rabrab3]

Thank you for your comments and review. My favorite Bates film and King novel. Agreed!!....the best!!

[@TheStrawberryCloud]

So glad you reviewed this one, it's at the top for me too when it comes to King, in fact I had just got through watching it again after so long before coming across this review. Another top SK movie for me is "Storm of the Century", that is a made for tv miniseries, actually takes place on the same island of Little Tall, Dolores is even briefly brought up in it. Another great one worth watching, highly recommend:)

[@PaperMario64]

As someone who grew up in a home with an abusive parent, I can tell you that this movie is kinda therapeutic. Bates really did put her all into the role.

[@j.dragon651]

I am not fond of some of the subject matter but this is still one of the best movies out there. I beg to differ, it is every bit as good as Shawshank and the Green Mile.

[@tonynussbaum]

This movie is 10/10. There are so many subtleties and intricacies that are only caught on the 2nd or 3rd time watching. Like when she prevents herself from warning her daughter about burning her hand on the stove...just one of the many brilliant details.

[@Analysis_Paralysis]

Wow! I just watched it for the first time... I guess I have to re-watch it some time soon! :) I really loved the story, the characters (actors) and the editing... And I missed the scene you mentioned.

[@PhilChandlerArts]

I'm glad you did a review of this. It's actually one of my favourite flicks. When it came out, people were still associating Kathy Bates with "Misery", and I remember the commercials made it look like a low budget knock-off thriller. So I ignored it at the time. When I finally saw it on video years later I was blown away. I now watch it about once a year. You weren't kidding about David Strathairn... he plays such a messed up disturbing character and his flashbacks towards the end are unsettling. Judy Parfitt is quite wonderful and delivers some amazing lines... one that is still quoted a lot today. ;) Danny Elfman gives a rare, moody low key score that is more subtle than his usual fair. I'd have given it one more notch to an A myself. ;)

[@cb_2887]

I randomly borrowed this movie from the library back when I was in High School and I pretty much cried the whole way through. It was Fantastic! I agree, Kathy Bates was phenomenal as well as Jennifer Jason Leigh. Powerhouse performances and such a tearjerker. Good review!

[@Analysis_Paralysis]

I cried at the end of the movie... 😪 I was so relieved that the creep was gone! Some people really do deserve to be redacted...

[@Cuke-yx5td]

She should have been nominated for this role. She was excellent in this adaptation.

[@apple-guy9394]

Chris where’s our “ IT 2017 “ review...?? I’ve seen a couple already from other people but you’re my favorite movie reviewer so yours i will trust..

[@KupariPlays]

This is one of my favourite King books and movie adaptations as well. Just love everything about it. Kathy Bates is just amazing.

[@ThePetergate]

Thanks for no spoilers, Chris. A film I've been meaning to check out for too long.

[@danielengel4593]

Kathy Bates in Misery and Dolores solidifies the fact, that she is my favorite female actress.

[@brucemonterosso2493]

Fist-pump moment when Kathy named Dolores Claiborne as her favorite role. Always felt it sits on an island all its own in a sea of SK film adaptations. Kathy and Judy especially, but as well David and Jennifer, et al, hit this one out of the park, IMHO 💜👏✌🇺🇸

[@FilmAppreciationSociety]

Dolores Caliborne is an amazing moving, the acting is top notch and it is totally underrated, no one talks about this movie. Just a great drama/thriller.

[@NellieBear84]

Probably because people read/watch Stephen King because of the supernatural aspect. I've already lived though realistic horrors; I don't wanna be 'entertained' by bringing those memories back. I'd much rather read/watch ridiculous horror. That's my perspective on why this wasn't as popular, anyways.

[@bill61570]

THANK YOU for posting this review! I hung on every word because these are the EXACT feelings and opinions I have about this gem of a film.

[@torchwood00]

Chris has to do 1990 IT yet

[@TheOFamily5rocks]

Jack O' Neill im sure he will, hes doing this series leading up to the new it so why wouldnt he do that

[@geraldhiggins6062]

Yeah he'll either do It (probably Wednesday) or Stand By Me

[@claydontplay8783]

Chris I couldn't agree more with your assessment. I remember reading the book before the movie came out and thinking"Kathy Bates would be perfect if they ever make the movie". And boy was she ever. I watch all of your reviews, and enjoy them all, except for one, but I won't get into that. Keep up the great work and I look forward to your review of IT.

[@mishafox4888]

Never heard of this movie (or any other movie with Kathy Bates other than Misery) but I'm very interested. I can tell that she became Dolores Claiborne in the role just by the clips I saw her in the review. And it's amazing to be able to do that, especially with what she probably has to go through in the movie and winning an oscar in Misery. I'll try to find it on Netflix or a rental sometime soon ^-^

[@alexprinsrealestateagent1263]

Such a good movie. I remember watching this on TNT when I was about 10. I was so drawn to it. It was so somber and heavy stuff to watch at that young, but I was so invested into the movie. I was old enough to understand something horrible was going on, and by the end I was rooting out loud for Kathy Bates. I want to watch it again as an adult and see if it still holds up.

[@edvoorhees4253]

I’m really enjoying all your reviews. They make me want to see or revisit many of these fine films. My “to see” cue has increased significantly. Keep up the good work!

[@akhilt9583]

Just saw this movie, i cried at the end, it would've been heartwarming if the daughter and the mother stayed together for the rest of their lives coz they missed so much of each other's life, doloris claiborne gave up so much for her daughter, felt very sad.

[@andriottijunior]

I have watched this one when I was 15, when it was released directly in home video in Brazil. Definitely my 5 best adaptations of King's novels. Lost count of how many times I've rewatched it. Bates and Parfitt are perfect on their roles. The story is dark and unfortunately still very much real for a lot of women out there.

[@GiraffeFillet]

This is why I love this channel. I never would have heard of this movie without it.

[@FrancisXLord]

I was one of the few people who went to see this at the cinema. I was a big fan of Misery and here we had Kathy Bates doing King again so I had to see it. She didn't disappoint. I agree with you entirely Chris, despite popular opinion often citing Misery as her best role, I'd say her Dolores Claiborne beats it. You can see she was throwing her heart and soul into it. The story, while typical and full of many of the usual King cliches (e.g. violent alcoholics), you are invested in because of how credible the characters are and much of that has to do with the actors' delivery.

[@ThePedroornellas]

Chris, I'd love to see your opinion on two of my favourites: The Hitcher (1986) and Fright Night (1985)! 😃

[@X2Magneto]

I saw this as a kid in the theaters. God, it was so good on the big screen!

[@joealexander9548]

Thanks for reviewing this. This is one of those movies you go into with modest expectations and by the end you just sit in awe at everything you just witnessed. I can't believe it isn't available on blu-ray, especially with all the completed SHIT you can find on shelves and in bargain bins. And while you were absolutely right about Kathy Bates' performance, Jennifer Jason Leigh deserves high praise as well. Overall, this is just a fantastic movie that dserves the same praise given to Shawshank and The Green Mile. Thank you.

[@unmixedunmastered2810]

Chris please review Darren Aranofsky films before Mother! comes out

[@ammo76534]

Won't happen bud

[@BobChillison]

The film comes out in two weeks so he wouldn't have time to watch and review the films

[@AB-xx4hu]

Marin Zajmi Requiem for A Dream should be reviewed at some point In the future..

[@ToxicTurtleIsMad]

TheAdam 98 black swan is waaaaaaay better film

[@ToxicTurtleIsMad]

Is a*

[@Angel420mn]

I always loved this movie. Totally amazing.

[@krhodes866]

Also I've never even heard of this film in fact I thought this was a new release

[@Elementroar]

I just automatically think of Misery when I think about Kathy Bates and Stephen King. It's just one of those things where I didn't expect her to work with King again on another adaptation, and that her performance in Misery just doesn't seem possible to be topped for her.

[@jamesdooling4139]

The film was extremely close to the book. I remember reading it over the course of one Friday night/Saturday morning. I think I took a single break. It was high school. I'm old now. Both the film and the book are masterpieces. I've seen the film two dozen times and read the book three times. If you're not moved by the story of Dolores, you're dim or you are sheltered. If you find a Vera in this life, serve her. It's not the money, it's the wise ruthlessness most of us are lacking...

[@rgee3972]

Great review of one of my all time favorite movies. I read the book when it came out and saw the film in the theater - after which my ex told me I'd be in charge of picking movies. So great to see others appreciating it too.

[@GrimMalchien]

This is one of my favourite King books. I didn't even know there was a movie! Thanks Chris.

[@AEthridge13]

Easily one of my favourite King horror movies. The scene with Ellen Muth and David Strathairn on the ferry is chilling.

[@justalyftdriver6831]

Don't let this distract you from the fact that Chris is always Stuckmann!!!

[@curiousworld7912]

I'm happy to see this film get some attention. As he says, the performances are excellent in a devastating, yet compassionate narrative. This film, along with 'The Dead Zone', is often overlooked when discussing King-based movies, but even without 'monsters', it is both frightening and poignant.

[@TheFadingMan]

One of the best King films. I’ve watched this film several times.

[@bradhirsch4845]

This is one of my favorite movies of all time. So well done, so well acted. And so over-looked/forgotten.

[@hitmixhyepock9405]

Side note, if you haven't read the books this book connects to Gerald's Game through the eclipse. The main characters get a glimpse of each other when the eclipse takes place.

[@jotaferreira4848]

Just saw it again today. It's amazing how much Mike Flannagan's flashbacks technique (wich is pretty much present in almost of all his movies and in The Hauntig of Hill House) are influenced by this movie

[@cindynoel67]

I love, love, love that movie. I remember seeing it in the theater when it first came out and I definitely own the dvd. I agree with you, it's a very underrated movie. This also is my absolutely most favorite Kathy Bates performance.

[@johndamenillusionist4342]

I applaud you for bringing focus to this film. Very underrated and overlooked.

[@MandleRoss]

I think a lot of people saw the cover for this when it came out and mistook it for Misery and didn't rent because they thought they'd already seen it.

[@Ace-ke7fq]

jennifer jason leigh was not in misery though, no way u could mix it up..

[@MandleRoss]

@@Ace-ke7fq Is that you Mr. Merrill?

[@jja8750]

Great review. I agree with all you said. Just a top-notch film from every angle of filmmaking, acting and storytelling and ... Bates, Strathairn, Plummer, Parfitt and JJL all should've contended for awards that year. I think the release date killed it.

[@simpsonraymond]

Good job reviewing a film that is great but hard to give proper justice without spoilers. Maybe you can start a spoiler talk of some of your favorite or most requested by your subs. Just an idea. Keep up the great work as always.

[@GuyWithAMic]

I'm a simple man, I see Chris upload, I open up the video, leave a like and enjoy Edit: Wow, the most likes I've gotten on a comment! Literally just copied a comment I saw lol

[@woah729]

Is that a Fawfuls Minion reference?

[@UnknownGunslinger]

Theultimategamer 803 how do you leave an enjoy?

[@GuyWithAMic]

Ivo Sotirov You like before the video starts

[@GuyWithAMic]

Noah Jay I don't know, I've seen these types of comments and just decided to make one

[@PeteTrempe]

Real dips dip, then dip.

[@jesssiemers665]

Saw this when I was like 11 at my grandma's house probably in about 98. Great movie

[@vik2823]

Chris have you seen What Happened To Monday on netflix? It is... something. Noomi Rapace is rocking there as seven different sisters. Would love to hear your opinion!

[@leeconstant7261]

I watched this movie when It was new. Back then we would go to our movie rental stores and we would all split up and meet up at the till with the movies we wanted to rent. Of course being about 8 years old when this movie came out I was renting all manner of other things. But one night I decided to watch this movie to myself while everyone slept. I still remember it to this day it had an impact on me even being that young but I didn't know why. I just recently watched it again and omg its amazing. Everything came back to me in vivid detail. This movie is a must watch.

[@trinabaker358]

Everything about this movie was perfect. Loved all the acting. Actually, perfectly cast and perfect acting. Jennifer Jason Leigh was perfect along with Bates and the others. The story is a great story of love. It was truly put together in a most fine way.

[@Monster10mm]

Seen this as a kid and had the dvd later on. Very good movie. Kathy Bates might not be a looker but she's one of my favorite actresses.

[@quietside3734]

A great and very underrated film, often forgotten by many. Superb performances.

[@lilnico4910]

WHEN IS THIS IT REVIEW COMING UP I NEED IT NOW..please

[@simonyesh]

Chris please do soon the mist, silver bullet, children of the corn, maximum overdrive, and the shinning.

[@Zazou_96]

Kathy Bates my favorite female actor. She did perfectly in misery but this role is soo difficult to play and she did so amazing

[@josephflanigan3649]

Wow! I was actually super sad watching this movie cuz of how broken these characters are. But at the same time I was on the edge of my seat wanting to know more. Kathy Bates is an absolute treasure