Top 20 Best and Worst Stephen King Movie Adaptations

[@WatchMojo]

What’s your favorite King adaptation? Did any leave you cold? Let us know in the comments! For more content like this, click here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/d5mqfHmYo7unqrM Don't forget to play our Live Trivia (www.watchmojo.com/play) games at 3pm and 8pm EST for a chance to win cash! The faster you answer, the more points you get!

[@danielsantiagourtado3430]

You guys rock!

[@happeedaze1]

I guess the only adaption part I didn't like and felt embarrassed about was Randal Flagg dancing just hard to crappy low music in The Stand remake. It really sucked hahaha He did not do justice for being in a Stephen King movie. It just looked out of place and funny.

[@monstersociety3360]

You guys should have waited a little longer to make this list. There's a "Salem's Lot" adaptation coming up, and considering the nasty production issues it's rumored to be having, it sounds like it's gonna be BAAAAAADD. It's been in development hell for YEARS. it's a shame that it might bomb, considering it's a great Stephen King book. Just watch the 70's version, it's probably going to be a lot better.

[@erzaender]

it chapter one and two and maximum overdrive

[@Greenkai3000]

Still waiting for the film adaption of The Long Walk

[@LucareonVee]

Am I the only person who thinks that “The Dead Zone” with Christopher Walken and Martin Sheen at the very least deserves an honorable mention? Seems like no one talks about it ever.

[@alyzu4755]

I came here to talk about this. It's SO good! I watched it again a couple of weeks ago and it holds up really well.

[@Mr.Glidehook]

Nope. Agreed.

[@coomtothebroom778]

I agree. It’s a fantastic movie that holds up extremely well. Showed it to some friends about 5 years ago and one of them was sobbing by the time it was over. Great performances and a wonderful story. 💯

[@Mr.Glidehook]

@@coomtothebroom778 I'm a big Walken and Sheen fan. This flick is a masterpiece but extremely heartbreaking. If Mojo had a real grasp on the subject then this would be aamong the best. Walken's expression when having visions is chilling. What a performance! I've been a fan since the first time I saw him. BTW, if you get the chance, check out a forgotten movie titled "Biloxi Blues". He's a WW2 drill sergeant and steals the whole show from Matthew Broderick and a whole cast of great actors. It's funny, romantic but, of course, sad. And don't forget one of the most loathed James Bond movies "A View To A Kill" because as a maniacal villain, he's still my favorite of all Bond villains. He takes a terrible screenplay and turns it into a hilarious Bond outing.

[@LucareonVee]

@@Mr.Glidehook I’ve seen both of those. He’s definitely a great talent.

[@Luxray2000]

I absolutely love how Stephen King adaptations can either be the most beautiful thing you’ve seen in your life, or the biggest piece of garbage you will ever lay your eyes on

[@wmdkitty]

The best ones are both of those at the same time.

[@cuttlefishagain]

lol good point

[@ms.mi.2231]

And i love them all

[@lauranelson2331]

My first exposure to Misery was the stage adaptation and it does not disappoint.

[@deborahblackvideoediting8697]

😂 So true!!

[@michaellynes3540]

Stephen King didn’t like Stanley Kubrick’s “The Shining,” but King did admit that Kubrick’s adaptation was the most terrifying horror movie he had ever seen.

[@daniellewillis2767]

I don't think he did....

[@bigal650]

@@daniellewillis2767 he did years later. He also said it didn’t resemble his novel at all

[@daniellewillis2767]

@@bigal650 cool 😎. I'm surprised!

[@snoop4470]

Anyone ever watch the shinning mini series he made? It was awful.

[@thehorrorhound6575]

@@snoop4470 well so was maximum overdrive lol

[@mydumblife8067]

I actually am floored that Pet Sematary 1989 wasn’t mentioned as one of the best, there’s not a ton of changes from the book, it’s a damn good adaptation 😡

[@BarryHart-xo1oy]

You are quite right.

[@ericpigg2689]

I agree. The man who played Louis Creed was terrible, but it still did not sink the movie. Fred Gwynne carried the show and I thought it was great!

[@johnjamesleahy4065]

I really don't know if I agree or not with your statement but I'd sincerely respectfully would like to know what you didn't like about his performance

[@BarryHart-xo1oy]

Very true.

[@steven2345]

Stephen king adapted the screenplay

[@wheatgerm1208]

I know there's a lot to choose from, but I would definitely include "Christine" in the Best category. It's a downright creepy read, and the movie does a decent job of presenting both the horror and the tragedy of the story.

[@angelaholmes8888]

Yes totally agree 💯🚗

[@capolka202]

Still love that movie.

[@temmere]

Always been one of my favorites. The way it makes those old songs sound so menacing is fantastic.

[@silkecanada]

THE STAND!! For a "non filmable" book they did a pretty good job (the old version with Molly Ringwald and Gary Sinise)

[@bigal650]

Yeah definitely not the newer one

[@kriscynical]

Yeah I'm shocked that isn't on this list. I remember watching that miniseries with my mother when I was a kid back when it aired because she was a huge Stephen King fan and had read the entirety of The Stand, unabridged. It's a doorstop of a book that could kill somebody for sure. lol I don't remember any details from the show itself, I just remember really loving it.

[@101shadeira]

@John Doe the guy who spells moon is now the character Patrick from SpongeBob

[@101shadeira]

The stand portrayed how 2020 started 😂😂

[@BlackJackLopez]

@@101shadeira, lol, yeah, it was PRETTY scary. When they described Covid, I was like: "Okay, hang on a second, seriously?"

[@meyeboy2]

Dolores Claiborne is a really great adaptation of the book, one of my favorite movies

[@JekrisMaravilla]

yeah too bad they didnt included it. loved that movie too.

[@NathanSeraph]

Dolores Claiborne is definitely one of the best movies based on a Stephen King Story.

[@michaelbledstein7515]

This should have been #1. One of my favorite movies ever.

[@tosin_davidson]

What about Silver Bullet???

[@SheogorathMadHatter]

I agree 100℅

[@BrandonMichelle]

I've never thought of Carrie as a horror, I consider it a tragic tale of a bullied girl who was pushed too far.

[@gamleskalle1]

Horror being Carrie

[@daniellewillis2767]

Piper Laurie stole the show

[@rnw2739]

@@gamleskalle1 Horror being the bullies and her mental mother, you mean.

[@kmax1223]

That's the story, yes. The genre is definitely horror.

[@bobbibaker4685]

What an interesting book to have been written by a man.

[@trinaq]

The acting from all of the child actors in "Stand by Me" is fantastic across the board, but special mention has to go to River Phoenix. During the scene where Chris confesses to Gordie about the Milk Money, I sob along with him every single time. Who knows what he could have accomplished if not for his untimely passing? 😢💔

[@ashwinidesai4051]

Yeah, RIP, River Phoenix. 😞😢

[@berchimis]

true

[@momojojo590]

River was so good. It’s really sad we didn’t get to see what he would’ve become after he outgrew the Teen Idol stage. He was just starting to take on more adult roles when he died.

[@RansomRambula-no6yo]

Because he died of a drug OVER-DOSE.

[@MsRapture16]

One of my favorite movies of all time is "Misery". The hobbling scene still scares (and pains) me to this day. I couldn't believe she was so obsessed with James Caan to do ha to him. But I loved it from start to finish!!! I also didn't think "Thinner" deserved to be on the worst list though. I thought it was well done and the ending was heart wrenching because the main character knew the inevitable.

[@meandmyEV]

The movie was great but the hobbling part of the novel is even scarier. Stephen King might be the only author that has ever really scared me while reading a novel and he has done it multiple times in different novels. Like "jump out of my chair" scared.

[@sooners2037]

Doesn’t she cut his foot off and then cooks it in the book

[@MsRapture16]

@@sooners2037 does she??? I never read the book ...

[@ryanscott3161]

She cauterises the wound with a blow torch

[@mb-pc3zn]

Misery is also my favorite still have to read the book tho.

[@kasatka3690]

I'm surprised the Pet Sematary(s) weren't mentioned. They were arguably more famous and worthwhile to mention. They definitely can't hold a candle to the book.

[@SuV33358]

Ugghhh!!!!!! That semi truck comin speeding down the rd. 😓

[@jennywright8883]

Yes! My 46 year old still says "now he wants to play with you" 🐱🐶🐷🐰🐭

[@angelabennett8245]

I thought Pete Sematary really sucked. The walking dead kid, and dog just looked ridiculous.

[@kasatka3690]

@@angelabennett8245 I agree 💯! What a shame. Also, Dr. Sleep was underwhelming as well I thought.

[@beardedhussar1755]

Loved the movie, but the book was excellent.

[@mr.t5403]

The Green Mile will always be my go to movie when I feel like crying🥺. Can't believe Michael Clark Duncan(r.i.p) didn't win an Oscar for his performance.

[@Jennythecatgirl]

That’s the movie to put on if you want to see me cry

[@betacollector9343]

I agree. I also feel it should have won the best picture over American Beauty.

[@Danielle0785]

If I recall that was a heavy hitting year in that category.

[@JamesSmith-gc9kk]

The green mile is one of the only movies that makes me cry every time I watch it

[@BigFella117]

Shawshank Redemption deserves the top spot on this list. The performances, music, and the ending all make it such a memorable film. It is definitely my favorite movie adaptation of any of Stephen Kings novels

[@trinaq]

Preach, it's also the one of the only stories which contains no supernatural elements, but is mostly a realistic drama.

[@jrob18mvp]

Shining

[@kurtiskoch880]

Green mile

[@BigFella117]

@@trinaq those are usually the best stories

[@vanplq8841]

Its the #1

[@moosepocalypse6500]

I didn't hate the remake of IT, in fact it was really good... but I think for the original, Tim Curry is more than worth the price of admission 🤘

[@BarryHart-xo1oy]

Very true.

[@richardperaza5083]

That’s true but remember they said they weren’t going to include TV cable movies so that why it didn’t make the list

[@benjaminaskren9075]

The best part is Tim Curry has Coulrophobia (fear of clowns)

[@richardhoehn9922]

Secret Window? 1408? Pet Sematary? Dolores Claiborne? Apt Pupil? Dr. Sleep? Maybe you could get a list out of these adaptations.

[@RobbKong999]

I agree with all of these except Apt Pupil. I personally disliked that one because I loved the novella (especially the ending). The ending was too drastically different for my liking, but I understand where people would like it. 1408 got snubbed royally in this list. That is a rare example where the adaptation is not only faithful, but even expands a bit on backstory.

[@BarryHart-xo1oy]

That is a great idea.

[@macallyrunyan8670]

Obsessed with dr. Sleep

[@laborincana4490]

@@macallyrunyan8670 i loved Dr. Sleep , the novel. The movie, urge, not a bit.

[@Yavanna79]

Don't forget Bag of Bones adaptation. I love that book, though the movie/miniseries was bit meh. Not bad but meh. And I do understant few of changces they had to made, because some of the stuff in the book just can't be made as film. Or the movie/serie would bi x rated big time.

[@Parzival_Z98]

I was into Maximum Overdrive thanks to the Green Goblin Truck. Probably the most coolest truck I’ve ever seen in film. The menacing goblin face, combined with the Detroit Growl, it’s so AWESOME!!!

[@dullahan7677]

Saw a vid on here a few weeks back that featured a a guy that had recreated the goblin truck down to the most minute detail. The guy even accessed the original molds for the goblin head used in the movie.

[@MrDash03]

I remember channel surfing one night and came across this movie with the baseball field scene thinking it was a sequel to Bad News Bears until the soda machine killed the coach and some of the players and a steamroller ran over another one 😂

[@guilhermino4488]

Thinner was nightmare fuel in for me as a child 😢

[@lifewithlee6298]

Yeah , no good guys only worse guys . Except for his daughter 😢with a sweet tooth

[@KoldBreeze]

Thinner and the original Castle Freak movie had me shook as a kid. I even looked it up recently, and apparently, the 90s movie Castle Freak scarred an entire generation 😂😂😂 that movie fuxked all of us up

[@talitafranco7230]

Thinner scared me too so much!! I like it!

[@helgageraldine513]

Thinner and The Fly with Jeff goldblum for me.

[@Stonecutter334]

Very underrated

[@KevyNova]

The Dead Zone was a great adaptation. Very faithful to the book except one scene which was scaled down considerably because it would’ve doubled the film’s budget to shoot it. The worst is The Running Man. It’s a fun Schwarzenegger movie but is totally different from the book. I’d love to see a faithful movie version of it someday.

[@darthsidious47]

Where the heck is Silver Bullet? That was an adaptation of Stephen King's Cycle of the Werewolf. Which is a great short story by the way.

[@jenniferhanson3671]

I said that too!

[@ShelleyAK]

When I was ten I snuck downstairs and hid behind the couch to watch this while my parents were watching it. I had nightmares for weeks that a werewolf was going to climb up to my second story window and get me. I was 23 before I had the balls to watch it again to remind myself why it scared me so.

[@Doomted90]

I found Children of the Corn in my dad's movie stash when I was like 12 and thought "that sounds like a good movie for a kid to watch!" We lived in Illinois... surrounded by corn fields... never told my dad why I wouldn't go near the rows... but I think he knew.

[@jacobasuncion3132]

I’m surprised Christine didn’t make the list

[@imgoodatbasketball6223]

Same that’s my favorite book

[@mercurysbest]

Such an awful film doesn’t do the book justice

[@shaka994]

Loved the film and the book. One of King's best IMHO.

[@momojojo590]

The best ones were actually short stories instead of full length novels. The Mist, Shawshank and Stand By Me are prime examples. Even The Green Mile is considered a novella instead of a full length novel.

[@sarahfuller5482]

I agree.

[@gspendlove]

The Green Mile is a full-length novel. It was originally published in six parts, but when put together, it's as long as The Tommyknockers.

[@TylerLuvsCinema]

One of the most faithful adaptations didn’t even make this list and it’s a short story. Dolan’s Cadillac is literally the most faithful adaptation, but everyone forgets about it. I fucking love that movie, it’s one of my favorite adaptations.

[@momojojo590]

@@TylerLuvsCinema - I didn’t even know they made a movie out of that story. I looked and it’s not available to stream/rent/buy anywhere digitally so that’s probably why. I’d definitely like to watch it though cuz I love the story and it’s got a decent cast.

[@wadewilson8011]

The Green Mile is one of his longest. It had a series of SEVERAL books to come out. Know what you're talking about before posting.

[@donaldtittle349]

not a novel but a screenplay, Storm of the Century is my all time favorite and Sometimes They Come Back is great as well

[@sarahfuller5482]

I loved storm of the century

[@jenniferhanson3671]

oh I forgot about "Sometimes They Come Back"! that was a good one!

[@flashldn155]

Ohh found someone who like’s similar to what I enjoyed watching most. Those 2 movies were great, my other favs Cats eyes, graveyard shift and misery.

[@ThePirateprincess23]

How can there be no honorable mentions of Cujo, The Stand, The Tommyknockers, Pet Semetery, The Langoliers, and Christine? Also, I have seen Thinner and the theatrical trailer made the movie sound more thrilling than it actually was.

[@macwyll]

Yep, Thinner was well done for sure.

[@ocorley3124]

I love thinner

[@Quinnandfriends1]

Will always have a special place in my heart for Silver Bullet, thought it'd be mentioned on this list

[@flashldn155]

Brilliant film, forgot about it till you mentioned it. most of my favs not in the list. I know shining & shawshank are favourites ranked amongst the top, i skipped watching those movies it after few minutes not my thing.

[@JesseJ588]

​@@flashldn155so.... what kind of movies are you thing?

[@flashldn155]

@@JesseJ588 what I meant is if I’m not enjoying it or interested I won’t be watching it. Not my thing, get it.

[@gregcarter9680]

Was really hoping to see Christine get at least an honorable mention. Such a cool premise, great novel, and a great movie.

[@angelaholmes8888]

I absolutely enjoyed both versions I can't believe that there's going to be a remake

[@juanatenco453]

When I found out that King was the author of Shawshank Redemption I couldn't believe a horror writer could create this masterpiece whose only element of horror is the hopelessness of the innmates.

[@crystalshaw8744]

I was this old (old) when I found out.

[@BlanchestarlightUwU]

That's what makes an artist great. Yes, writing is an art. Being able to see as many possibilities, not only the ones already used 1000000000000000 times before...

[@BlackJackLopez]

On behalf of all amateur writers that dedicate to writing Horror... okay, no, I'll be civil and polite 😂. But people tend to forget King is a WRITER. He once wrote in a preface, he was called to meet his then current agent (around the Cujo novel success, more or less), and the Agent told him he was worried King got typecasted as a 'Horror Writer'. King simply said: "Oh. That's all?". At the highest point of his popularity, King wrote a lot of things... out of compromise, so to speak. That's why he adopted the Richard Bachman pseudonym and just let himself go. But if you read The Dark Tower series, you see the full extent of his imagination, that's why we Constant Readers love it so much. Those stories feel limitless. King is the King of Subtext.He could write a story about a Murderous Nightstand Drawer (or a Haunted Grocery List?), but he's also probably talking about something else entirely. 'Shawshank' is all about Hope, and true Freedom.

[@tanandalynch9441]

​@@BlackJackLopezKing could write a book about a haunted coffee pot and still make it work

[@sk70091]

More than a horror writer, Stephen King is a great storyteller.

[@Pugs365]

I'm still haunted by the part in the book Pet Sematary where Louis digs up Gage and finds his face covered in a light layer of mold. I guess that was too much in the day, to see a dead baby. The scene was shot showing Louis leaning down into the open casket to pick and hold his little boy, still a touching moment.

[@mytruecrimelibrary]

Nothing beats the books 📚

[@kasatka3690]

💯

[@gamleskalle1]

Bs

[@Lon.BedStuyforLife]

💯👏🏽

[@bridgettwilhelm8991]

Nailed it!

[@robindew9072]

Most Definitely "Stand By Me" was a fabulous coming of age movie. So Very well Done. All the young actors were so awesome in it.

[@Sauere]

I love where maximum overdrive landed. And I totally agree, it’s so much fun that it’s easy to forgive it for being so over the top.

[@celeboria]

Few authors have ever succeeded to capture the magic of what it is like to be a kid the way Stephen King has. I'd always like to think it's because he remembers being a kid so exceptionally well.

[@robk.6591]

The Shining will always be my favorite adaptation of King's. Then Misery. Both films explore two very unstable people secluded with only one or two other people.

[@LittleMissLion]

I like how a lot of the tension and horror is subtle (until it's not). The music, cinephotography, characterisations, etc, are all strong, meaning there's no cheap thrills.

[@PsilocybeJedi]

The Shining Mini series was far better than kubricks movie

[@robk.6591]

@@PsilocybeJedi Disagree

[@ninodeoliveira5854]

@@robk.6591 agree, it was more faithful

[@snjg1035]

The Shining, Delores Claiborne, Cujo, Shawshank Redemption, Carrie, and Pet Semetary are my favorites!

[@rmooreg]

"The Dead Zone" and "The Dark Half" were both excellent, faithful film adoptions of their source novels. They both were well written, acted and directed. And both really nailed the creepy, frightening moods of the novels. Christopher Walken was perfectly cast as the troubled reluctant psychic who is fated to see what no one was meant to see, but denied the ability to know the full meaning of his visions, their outcomes hidden in the "Dead Zone" leaving him agonizing over whether his fore knowledge of events will change or cause the horrific events he sees unfolding in his mind. Wil his intervening save or condemn those whose future he witnesses? Walken is perfect as the conflicted hero, who struggles with his frightening gift, a gift that he never asked for or wanted. Timothy Hutton is equally good as a writer terrified by, and terrifying as his own literary creation, a murderous character seeking revenge on the author for killing him off in the last novel in a grim, violent series. Hutton channels both the killer and his creator as the former murders anyone that was involved with publishing the book, leaving a gruesome trail of victims as he works his way towards the author and his family. Neither movie gets the recognition it should.

[@BlackJackLopez]

Both great novels and adaptations, I think. Many didn't like "The Dark Half". I think Tim Hutton did a fair good job; the Dark Half was my favorite King novel for a while, and I loved the overall story and particularly the character of Thad Beaumont. And Christopher Walken in "Dead Zone"! Many argue that Walken doesn't "look" anything like King's description of Johnny Smith, but what I like about these two actors is that they did the characters their own way, and I think that was quite good. Hutton's George Stark may feel a bit 'overplayed' at times, but I mean, we're talking about Stephen King's 'Richard Bachman' alter ego COMING TO LIFE! That's just incredible!!!

[@daphneloose5880]

how come Children Under the Stairs, Pet Cemetary and Cujo not on this list?? those were great movies!!

[@jeremiahallyn4603]

I know right?!?! Can't believe those movies weren't even mentioned 😒

[@talitafranco7230]

Yesss! I love those! Specially Cujo and Pet cemetary! They are so amazing and scary!

[@craftingwithclass21]

Yes!!! Totally agree. Those three movies were the stuff of nightmares for me 🫣 but they were so good! Zelda anyone? 🙅🏻‍♀️

[@momojojo590]

People Under the Stairs wasn’t by Stephen King.

[@lyndiwilson7671]

I agree about Cujo

[@timothyivey5497]

Dolores Claiborne is pretty damn good.

[@amandalupacchino6728]

The Shining was perfect in every aspect of the word. The framing, music, color, and so much more. The only way I can describe it is a work of art

[@seanwinter5360]

Unfortunately it didn't end the way the book did. And Mr. Halloran doesn't die in the book. I hated that Kubrick killed him In the movie. The TV version was much better and quite a bit creepier I think.

[@beardedhussar1755]

The book and the movie were totally different. The movie was essentially Kubrik.

[@Cheepchipsable]

@@beardedhussar1755 Yes Kubrick basically rewrote just about everything he adapted.

[@Pugs365]

The creepiest part of the book Christine was where Arnie's best friend sees the car filled with the ghosts of all she killed. I was disappointed that wasn't in the movie.

[@lucy-louthebeagle4511]

Holy hell I forgot about that in the book! My first read by King was Cujo. Then I'm pretty sure I read Christine then Carrie. I remember cause I did book report on Cujo while my friend did one on Christine. Then someone else read Carrie. And I wasn't allowed to watch Cujo the movie until I read the book. But yet my mom let me watch The Shining with her and my dad without reading the book 🤣 but I remember reading those 3 first. I completely forgot about the ghosts! I wish that was in the movie!

[@olvialee7221]

598: Stand By Me. The performances from Jerry O’ Connell, Corey Feldman, River Phoenix and Wil Wheaton is outstanding. I was introduced to this movie years ago, but I fell in love with it. Because of River Phoenix

[@LittleMissLion]

If you love the movie Misery, absolutely read the book. Or listen to the audio book. King's descriptive language is second to none. So imaginative and unexpected.

[@snoop4470]

Kathy Bates first movie and she's awesome.

[@PsilocybeJedi]

Yea just read the book and saw the movie for the first time and was honestly disappointed in the ending of the movie.

[@robk.6591]

I finished the book in four days. It's one of my favorites.

[@mike91mdk45]

Annie wilkes is even nuttier in the book lol

[@PsilocybeJedi]

@Mike 91MDK yea for real. And the hobbling in the book was way more intense and the entire book after that reads completely different because Paul starts to really lose it.

[@boogoodie]

I must say stephen King is a master at his craft. He just has an amazing imagination and brilliant writing skills. He rarely leaves me bored with his work. I fully believe his books are the most, from any writer, that have been transferred to film or series. He should be so proud of his achievements. I'm a HUGE fan.

[@victoriabean6279]

👍🏾😉

[@Mr.Glidehook]

Needful Things? Max Von Sydow was stellar! How could you forget it?😢

[@FeatsDaily]

Just some thoughts: The Mist ending was incredible. IT felt a little rushed for two movies, but hard to complain when the source material is enormous. Dr Sleep is one of my favorites. Great follow up to the Shining and had some wild antagonists.

[@ashiqsr5751]

You missed the Dead Zone. The movie was overall satisfying and Christopher Walken's performance was amazing!I didn't know the classic Children of the Corn had hate. I loved it.

[@angelaholmes8888]

I really enjoyed the dead zone film

[@myladynaynay]

Thoughts on Rose Red? The miniseries is what got me into Stephen King ^^

[@mariaharrison7228]

Loved rose red, great mini series.

[@trinaq]

It's a pity that "Shawshank Redemption" was considered to be a flop when it was initially released. Luckily, it's rightfully lauded nowadays as a classic.

[@emilyholasek63]

Top movie of 94. Pulp Fiction is a close second.

[@SpamEggSausage]

some movies take time to catch on

[@benduffy2782]

I will admit Shawshank is the best in quality but Salem's Lot (1979) literally changed my life and got me into his work. It is easily my favourite.

[@Cheepchipsable]

Yes, easier to make a good movie with good actor and a huge budget.

[@z0d3n48]

The Mist has always been my favorite, mainly because I found an audio book that was in 3D. You could hear the things moving around (as well as the actors) and it was all acted out. When the movie finally made it to the silver screen I was stoked! And it was everything I remembered save for the ending. The change was dark and thrilling compared to the book or audio book were they were still in The Mist. IT, however, will always hold a special place in my heart and the new one I can't get enough of. Watched Chapter 1 with my Mom last night and she loved it!

[@IWantToPetYourDog]

Stephen King liked the movie ending better than his book's. WatchMojo wrongly has it in their Top 20 Movies Ruined By Their Disturbing Endings.

[@mariaharrison7228]

The ending, if I'd had a million years I would never have guessed, that ending stayed with me for weeks, like something terrible had happened to me. Endings that come out of nowhere like that are like gold.

[@alienmoosestudios]

Great list! 🤩 Thanks for sharing 😊🦝👽

[@tristanscatliffe9840]

I love Thinner! I’ve it watched so many times.

[@amandaaaryn8465]

Same!! White man from town. ...Ilism

[@nuclearpoultryproductions5039]

HOW was Salem’s Lot not on this list?? That’s the equivalent to a top ten Shakespeare without Hamlet!

[@lyndiwilson7671]

I agree 100%

[@MotherofImps]

Agree. That scared the absolute piss out of me as a teenager. And started my love of vampire stories lol. "Look at meeee, schoolteacher..." FML it still scares me even today.

[@nuclearpoultryproductions5039]

@@MotherofImps I watched it in second grade and Barlow traumatized me.

[@MotherofImps]

@@nuclearpoultryproductions5039 I can totally believe it!

[@christineheminger7762]

@@nuclearpoultryproductions5039 same here. I was bothered for weeks. I watched many scary movies in the following years but none have ever affected me as much as that. I even hesitated to watch it again for fear I would feel that way again, but when I did it seemed fairly tame compared to other horror movies

[@Claire-vl3bj]

Where's Christine?? I love that film & book

[@silkecanada]

Yes! Watched it in the movie theatre back then and the scene in the garage, when the lights turn on, scared the crap out of me!

[@erinmccutcheon3751]

My problem with Thinner was that there wasn't any likable characters to root for. The only good character was the daughter, and she ends up collateral damage thanks to her dad's carelessness.

[@CiardisInferno99]

Thinner had a massive tone problem too. The novella was a fairly straightforward curse tale; the movie kept trying for dark comedy and failing hard.

[@deedeetee17]

What was missing in the new IT was Bill’s mourning of Georgie. Jonathan Landis from the 90’s was truly believable and gut wrenching in his sadness for his brother’s loss. The new movie pulled me out of it when I thought Bill kinda moved on with very little sadness or mourning - that made it a fail for me

[@starrsmith3810]

IT (2017) literally has Bill refusing to accept that Georgie is dead until he ends up having to accept it later on and in which his friends comfort him. I call that some grieving going on. Hell that was his reason for fighting Pennywise and he literally breaks down after accepting the truth. That’s not him moving on easily. Plus IT (2019) deals with Bill’s guilt about it.

[@missybuchanan9631]

*Brandis. Only because he's sadly dead. But I hated the new portrayal of Pennywise. Bill Skarsgård did a great job acting but the costume was awful. He's not meant to be scary as Pennywise, he's meant to look like Ronald McDonald... I did love the addition of Paul Bunyan statue though, oh and the Webby and Garson opening.

[@lucy-louthebeagle4511]

​@missybuchanan9631 in the book he did have a silver suit from I remember reading but the makeup was completely off. He was still written to not even look remotely scary. And I remember multiple colored balloons. I did enjoy Bill's acting as Pennywise but that's the only thing I really didn't like about the movie. Them using one color balloon and then I do believe the makeup was off. Could yall imagine if Tim Curry could do the thing Bill does with his eyes? Both are good renditions to be part of the Stephen King Canon but I agree with you for most part

[@FuzzyFoot58]

There were very few things done right in this version and I was angry watching the book be butchered like that.

[@Leslie.__.]

So glad to see 1922 on here! It is a really good adaptation that deserves more popularity

[@Spiralredd]

"They're all gonna laugh at you!"-Margaret White

[@tarekjuman8339]

The fact that pet semetary (80s one) Christine and cujio aren't on the list for best shows there are a lot of good versions of his movies.

[@kriscynical]

I was in elementary school at a Christian school when the miniseries of The Shining aired. My parents were more laid back (meaning they didn't think everything was demonic and evil) and my mom loved Stephen King, so they let me watch it with them over the week that it aired. A lot of the other parents at the school were the super strict hardcore evangelical types, so their kids weren't allowed to watch it even though they really wanted to. It was a well-advertised "event" series at the time, after all. After the first episode aired, the next day one of my friends asked me at lunch what had happened, and I started telling them the story of the episode. By the end of the week I had a group of about eight kids from my grade sitting at the same lunch table with me, all listening to my daily recaps of the episodes in detail. It's utterly ridiculous now, but that was back before the internet was as prevalent as it is now so that was the only way they had to hear what happened! 😂

[@Cheepchipsable]

I'm sure you could meet up with some Amish kids, 🤣

[@bridgettwilhelm8991]

I liked this one better than the original. Is it available in any format. Nobody talks about it.

[@kriscynical]

@@bridgettwilhelm8991 I think it might be available on DVD? I know it was once upon a time at least.

[@bridgettwilhelm8991]

@@kriscynical found it-thx

[@robindew9072]

Jack Nickleson was so awesomly amazing in "The Shining". "Here's Johnny". Love that line. Its a too notch movie.

[@sovereign3351]

IT will always be my fav Stephen King story 🎈

[@seanwinter5360]

You could do a top 30 with all the other movies made from Stephen King novels. Dreamcatcher, Dolans Cadillac, the Outsider, Doctor Sleep, Under the Dome, the Dark Half, Rose Madder, Desperation, Needful Things, Dolores Claiborne, The Tommyknockers, The Langoliers, Salems Lot, the Dead Zone, Cujo, Christine, Mr. Mercedes, Insomnia, Liseys Story. Bag of Bones, Hearts in Atlantis. I could go on and on here😂

[@derekroberts6654]

The ending of “The Mist” and Wes Craven’s “Deadly Friend” totally pissed me off😡

[@stacys8729]

I wasn't too happy about the ending of the Mist either, i guess I can see if for a movie ending- but I much preferred the book.

[@shaka994]

There's a video on YT about The Mist and its crazy ending. 'Why you're wrong about the ending', I'm pretty sure it's called. It's an interesting theory.

[@joemclemore6624]

The Mist has a black and white version that elevates the movie 10 fold. It really makes great use of the shadows and helps the cgi look better. I recommend finding that version and checking it out.

[@crittergamingUK]

As good as Frank Darabonts adaptations are, he has the movie rights to The Long Walk, which I would love of it became a reality. Seeing as he has owned them for decades, I can't see that coming to pass, unfortunately.

[@paultate5213]

The Long Walk is such a good story that nobody ever talks about.

[@kertmcafee]

My second ever King read after Thinner as a kid. Would love to see someone make this, but it’s very first person narrative heavy.

[@sister_bertrille911]

I thought for sure that 1408 would be on here for best. It's super creepy, and John Cusack and Samuel L. Jackson are at their best playing off each other.

[@patriciagrandjean8205]

"We've only just begun" indeed.

[@marysapeterson9453]

my favorite is Carrie. It was the first Stephen King book I read as a teenager and I have a certain favoritism towards the book!

[@Spiralredd]

Join the club . The Carrie white club. I was such a fan of that movie I actually had dreams where I befriended Carrie. And during prom I shoved her out of the way and took the blood instead of her.

[@LuckyDogGaming]

Great list!

[@Ishgard_Trash]

I actually enjoyed Sleepwalkers when I was younger and still watch it on occasion for nostalgic purposes, ridiculous special effects and deaths that make no sense what so ever included. It doesn't take itself seriously and you can tell it doesn't. Death by corn cob, which was not in the story, is proof of that. Makes me giggle every time.

[@NathanSeraph]

I'm still waiting for a movie adaptation of The Long Walk. A 2 hour movie about walking teenagers. That would be a challenge.

[@gregcarter9680]

That story freaked me out when I first read it (around 6th grade)...would love to see an adaptation of it.

[@NathanSeraph]

@@gregcarter9680 Yeah it's one of my favourites from King/Bachman. But I always thought that it would be quite difficult to make a good movie out of this story.

[@TheImaginator972]

Carrie is the only movie that I'll always remember as the best Stephen King adaptation of both the Original Classic and the Remake classic.

[@jeremiahallyn4603]

And then there was that pointless remake that was horrible. Why can't Hollywood leave classic movies alone??

[@abellewis3062]

@@jeremiahallyn4603 I enjoyed Chloe Grace Moretz as Carrie in that 2013 movie. It’s one of my favorite movies. Thank you.

[@Spiralredd]

​@@abellewis3062 Sissy spacek was far better

[@ashwinidesai4051]

@@abellewis3062 Ngl, I am sucker for old, campy horror films, but nonetheless Chloe Grace Moretz and Julianne Moore did good job at their respective characters.

[@abellewis3062]

@@Spiralredd Of course, but I like seeing updated movies.

[@leibermuster2399]

That part in Riding the Bullet where whoever gets ejected from the car and flies past the moon was hilarious! SK doing comedies now?

[@jonbourgoin182]

Shame they left the TV Miniseries off here. Storm of the Century is easily the most underrated King work ever in my opinion. Edit: oh and it's free to watch on KZbin. Thank me later.

[@charitysmidutz498]

Hopefully they'll do a TV list. Storm of the Century and Rose Red are probably my favorite mini series

[@julieplester1624]

❤ that mini series

[@eduardoj3314]

Salem’s Lot scared the living crap out of me. I had nightmares for weeks after I saw it in the movie theaters as a kid! Christine was good, Cujo as well. But the top three on this list plus The Green Mile are the best.

[@jaleena90]

I love to watch all Stephen King movies but nothing will ever beat my love for Green Mile

[@scooblov]

Great list! It highlights S.K.’s wild work that there are this many hits and misses.

[@anitalonski2126]

Secret window should be the best list, Johnny Depp was really good & Christina & Salem’s lot should be on the list too

[@sarahm8695]

As an author, Misery is easily the scariest movie in this list. Just thinking about it makes me uncomfy

[@Benellismama]

Favorite line- this is Misery, my sow😂

[@jenessahicks8012]

Does it make you feel all Oogie?😂

[@seanellio]

I enjoyed "Thinner". One of his "Richard Bachman" books

[@mysoulmateiscarbs]

I've always like Stephen King's drama movies more than his horrors. I think because there are horror elements utilized but it's more like icing on a cake than a cake full of icing. Also, Dolores Claiborne should def be on this list as one of the best. Another excellent Kathy Bates film adapted from a Stephen King story.

[@lls3676]

The ending of The Mist is heartbreaking. 🙁

[@Shadowdemon2311]

One of the best retrospective on the King movies ever with thoughtful writing on judging aspects. Bravo @WatchMojo!

[@sallyspal]

Christine is also a wonderful adaption too. I truly enjoyed it.

[@kertmcafee]

Storm of the Century would probably be my second favorite behind Shawshank. The ending is just amazing!

[@markkevorkian]

The only way you could ever even attempt to do the dark tower books any justice is to do a series. You basically would need one season per book. Those books are insane. I loved them but they are mental.

[@seanrosenau2088]

IKR! My favorite weird part was that Evil AI Train.

[@LarsonPetty]

Didn't care for the last one. Just felt like lazy writing and that King was just kinda over all of it and getting through the job as quickly as possible. I mean, Harry Potter? Really?

[@Ferd414]

Yep. Trying to do DT as a single movie was insanity, and the result was pure crap.

[@suzys9098]

"Gerald's Game" was excellent!!! King is the master of horror because he knows that nothing is more horrifying than the human psyche, and human beings are the most frightening monsters of all!!

[@johnmanning6611]

I’m reading ‘Salems Lot first time in my life… it is so so so good! I’ve heard here and there that the ‘79 TV movie for it was SUPER good too. Surprising to not see it here, anyone else who’s seen it?

[@susanlansdell863]

It’s excellent, really creepy. Watch it!xx

[@JustinAnthony-vl2kf]

Children of the Corn is an O.G. Horror Film. Courtney Gains was the epitome of evil as Malachai! "He wants you too Malachai!" Classic.

[@kristennelson3190]

Look now...😅 "Riding the Bullet" and Especially "Sleepwalkers" are some of my favorite guilty pleasures (along with "Graveyard Shift", "Silver Bullet", and yes, "Children of the Corn"😜) 🖤👑🖤

[@scottyp1722]

My biggest problem with The Dark Tower was how they reduced Roland's motivation to simple revenge. The Roland in the books would sacrifice anything and anyone to protect the Dark Tower so he could reach it. The one in the movie couldn't give a shit.

[@danielsantiagourtado3430]

Love this author! Thanks for the list!🎉🎉🎉🎉

[@marcjameswhelan]

Bot loser spammer

[@flashldn155]

Some of the movies I enjoyed the most, Cats Eyes: what a fantastic movie, setting and music. 3different stories in a film. Graveyard shift, Misery, sometimes they come back, storm of the century wasn’t bad either.

[@jameshendricks8526]

I was wondering if I was the only one that liked "sometimes they come back".

[@Cheepchipsable]

I still remember the James Woods story...

[@flashldn155]

@@Cheepchipsable huh what’s James Wood story if you don’t mind me asking? Oh forget to mention Silver Bullet another favourite movie

[@bridgettwilhelm8991]

Loved cars eye

[@williamcrowe2576]

I think the best adaptation of The Lawnmower Man is probably a little-known student film made a long time ago which stuck closer to the source material right down to the death of a cat at the beginning.

[@CreepyKat86]

I believe I’ve seen this during a Dollar Baby film festival.

[@SuV33358]

I really liked the Lawnmower Man. I have the DVD and watch it now again.

[@NathanSeraph]

@@SuV33358 The Movie has "something" but it has nothing to do with the King story except for the name.

[@jonathancarlson6127]

I love “Graveyard Shift”. It’s just some great junk food. Hammy acting, good practical effects, and it’s quick.

[@dontdiscriminatehateeveryo9263]

The Carrie jump scare is how you do them right. That whole scene gives me anxiety, and then that music just ratchets up the feeling of dread and unease.

[@Ummmmple]

Pennywise saying "I'm not real enough for you?" Always made me shiver

[@masatotanaka999]

Surprised the langoliers didn’t make this list

[@rvoyles91]

I thought the same thing, but I think it's strictly movies and that was technically a miniseries.

[@heatherdale5571]

Awe! I'm so happy you got to Maximum Overdrive. It's one of my favorite King adaptations!! ❤️ 😆 a true 80s coke filled hard rock classic flick!

[@tomemiamore]

Pet Sematary , IT Delores Claiborne, &Misery. I'm really hoping there will be a movie or series for The Institute .

[@robindew9072]

Rita Hayworth and the Shawshank Redemption turned into a movie. Totally great movie. Totally amazing characters. Well written. Well done. My favorite, by far.