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Stephen King’s literary creations have inspired an impressive number of film adaptations, ranging from short stories to full-length novels. While some of these adaptations have left much to be desired, others stand as true cinematic masterpieces. Including sequels and TV specials, the number surpasses fifty, not counting many lesser-known short films. Out of the vast selection, here are my picks for the top fifteen films inspired by Stephen King's writings.
15. Pet Sematary
Pet Sematary, based on one of King’s most chilling horror novels, revolves around a mysterious cemetery where pets buried there return to life, albeit in twisted, malevolent forms. This haunting tale explores the desperate desire to undo tragic loss, but the consequences are far more horrifying than imagined. The film's conclusion is unforgettable and ranks among the most stunning finales in King-based movies.
Purchase the Special Collector’s Edition of Pet Sematary on DVD through Amazon.
14. Storm of the Century
Storm of the Century was originally released as a two-part mini-series and later made available on DVD. This gripping tale, written by Stephen King, follows a mysterious man who appears just as an unprecedented blizzard hits a small, remote island in Maine. With the ability to control others, he demands a child to raise as his own, threatening dire consequences. A truly haunting and unforgettable story.
Get your hands on the DVD of Stephen King's Storm of the Century on Amazon.
13. 1408
This film, starring John Cusack and Samuel L. Jackson, is based on a Stephen King short story that revolves around a haunted hotel room with a tragic and terrifying past. The sinister room absorbs so much energy that it's only superficially cleaned once a week and remains off-limits for rentals. An author, who is skeptical about the supernatural, checks in—only to find himself trapped in a nightmarish, endlessly repeating scenario, where the room seeks to devour his soul and refuses to release him.
Get the DVD from Amazon: 1408 (Widescreen Edition)
12. Children of the Corn
Children of the Corn, based on a Stephen King short story (with all six of its dreadful sequels originating from studios trying to cash in), features the iconic line, “Outlander! Outlander! We have your woman!” This chilling scene helps set the tone for the film, where a child prophet manipulates the town’s children into murdering all the adults, as they revere “He who walks behind the rows.” Not the best place for a car breakdown! It’s a solid horror film with some genuinely eerie moments.
Purchase the DVD at Amazon: Children of the Corn
11. It
This movie, running just over three hours, is split into two parts, with Pennywise the Clown being one of the most terrifying horror villains ever seen in cinema. Personally, I credit this film (along with seeing it when I was ten) as the reason for my lifelong fear and hatred of clowns. It's often debated that the first half of the film is outstanding, while the second half falters, mainly due to a revised ending. To be fair, the book's conclusion would be nearly impossible to fully adapt to the screen, but overall, this remains a great film, with the first half being especially strong. If you have a fear of clowns, you might want to skip this one.
You can buy the DVD on Amazon: Stephen King’s It.
10. Rose Red
This four-part mini-series, running just over four hours, offers a modern take on the classic haunted house ghost story. A professor, dismissed from her position due to her paranormal studies, brings a group of psychics to a haunted manor, secretly hoping that their powers will ‘revive’ the house, like jump-starting a dead car, to provide the proof she needs to advance her career... or perhaps, she's losing her sanity and seeking immortality. It's unclear, which adds to the intrigue of the movie. The film features strong characters, genuinely chilling moments, and a well-wrapped-up plot. Plus, it’s often found in bargain bins, making it a steal for under $10.
You can purchase the DVD on Amazon: Rose Red.
9. Secret Window
Based on a novella by Stephen King, this film stars Johnny Depp and John Turturro. It's one of my personal favorite King adaptations, and if you're a writer or aspiring writer, it adds a special dimension. Johnny Depp plays Mort Rainey, a successful author going through a divorce, when a psychotic stranger, John Shooter, appears and accuses Rainey of stealing his story. Shooter demands recognition, and he's willing to kill anyone who stands in his way until he gets what he wants. The film delivers an amazing twist ending, stellar performances, and a level of eerie suspense that's tough to rival.
You can buy the DVD at Amazon: Secret Window.
8. Hearts in Atlantis
A lesser-known fact about Stephen King is that he's not just a master of horror. Some of the finest literary fiction of the past five decades has been written by him, and the movie 'Hearts in Atlantis' is adapted from one of those novellas. This film focuses less on the supernatural and more on the incredible storyline and the lives of its characters. The book 'Hearts' consists of four novellas, but the film adapts just one of them. It's a faithful and well-executed adaptation, with impressive performances, strong direction, and a movie that even those who aren't fans of King's work will appreciate. This is a modern classic, much like 'Stand by Me.'
You can purchase the DVD on Amazon: Hearts in Atlantis.
7. The Green Mile
Some might argue this film deserves a higher rating, and they may be right, but the fact that there are so many excellent films adapted from Stephen King's works—so much so that a film as great as this one (ranked in the top 250 movies on IMDB) might not even crack the top five—shows just how many hidden gems exist. Not only is Tom Hanks exceptional in his role, but this emotionally powerful movie (which subtly mirrors the story of Jesus) is an incredible watch that stays true to the book in most aspects.
You can buy the DVD at Amazon: The Green Mile (Single Disc Edition).
6. The Shining King version
While I consider Stanley Kubrick's version a good film, Stephen King disliked it because it strayed from his original story. Since the author himself wasn't fond of it, I don't think it belongs on the list. However, King's own version, initially released as a mini-series, is a standout horror film that faithfully brings the novel to life and provides a truly terrifying experience, making it well worth watching every time.
You can buy the DVD at Amazon: Stephen King’s The Shining (Two Disc Special Edition).
5. The Mist
Adapted from a novella (or long short story, depending on your perspective), this tale has been a favorite among Stephen King enthusiasts for years. The film does an exceptional job of capturing the terror that unfolds when an inexplicable mist rolls into town, bringing with it mutated creatures, massive tentacles, and a slew of terrifying beasts. Trapped in a supermarket, the survivors must face not only the external horrors but also a religious zealot who creates a child sacrifice cult, dividing those within. The film concludes with one of the most unforgettable endings, perhaps one of the most shocking moments in cinematic history.
You can buy the DVD at Amazon: The Mist.
4. The Stand
This grand mini-series is based on the monumental novel set in a post-apocalyptic world where a Super Flu has wiped out most of humanity. The survivors are divided, with the good gravitating toward the wise and nurturing Grandma Moses, while the evil follow Randall Flagg, leading to an ultimate battle between good and evil, even after most of the world's population is gone. This was one of King's finest works, and the movie does a commendable job of adhering to the storyline, despite the immense volume of material that needed to be woven into the plot.
You can purchase the DVD at Amazon: The Stand.
3. The Shawshank Redemption
This film is one of only three on IMDB to have a rating exceeding 9.0 (out of 10) and holds the title of the second greatest movie of all time on the site, and for good reason. This exceptional movie is based on an equally remarkable novella about a banker wrongfully convicted of his wife's murder, who is sent to a brutal prison where both the guards and warden are corrupt. The acting is outstanding, the plot is captivating, and everything about this film is perfectly executed. Not only is it the best adaptation of a Stephen King work, but it is widely regarded by cinema enthusiasts as one of the finest films ever made.
You can buy the DVD at Amazon: The Shawshank Redemption (Single Disc Edition).
2. Misery
This is one of Stephen King's finest horror novels, and the best movie adaptation of his work in the genre. Annie Wilkes, the ultimate fan, becomes the terrifying nightmare of any celebrity—or anyone who has ever been stalked. When an author is involved in an accident, he is 'rescued' by an obsessive admirer, who ends up murdering anyone who gets too close and invents the chilling term 'hobbling.' The mere mention of that word sends a shiver down your spine. Kathy Bates delivers an extraordinary performance as Annie Wilkes, cementing her status as one of the most convincing psychopaths in cinematic history.
Buy the DVD at Amazon: Misery.
1. Stand by Me
This movie is also featured on IMDB's top 250 list of all-time great films and tells a remarkable coming-of-age story about four mismatched friends from junior high. They embark on a journey to find a missing boy, presumed dead, by following a set of train tracks. Along the way, they discover more about each other and themselves, ultimately transforming forever as a result of their adventure. This touching film has its moments of sadness and serves as a testament to Stephen King's ability to write beyond the horror genre. The film is based on his novella 'The Body.'
Buy the DVD at Amazon: Stand By Me (Deluxe Edition).
