Featured Image Credit: Max
Topics: Film and TV, Horror, Stephen King, US News, HBO
Michael Slavin
A trailer has been released for a long awaited vampire horror film based on a book dubbed Stephen King’s creepiest by fans.
The modern master of horror has published over 65 novels and 200+ short stories, so being designated that title by fans is a huge honour.
Whether it be Gerald’s Game, IT, The Shining, or a lesser-known work like 1922, King’s work is always ripe for film adaptation.
Check out the trailer for the latest Stephen King flick:
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The film is Salem’s Lot, and after a troubled production and multiple delays is finally set to release.
Announced in 2019, it was originally intended to release in theatres in 2022.
It will now be releasing early next month on Max, HBO’s streaming service.
The film follows the same plot as the book, which was published in 1975, in which a writer returns to their home town only to discover that it has been taken over by vampires.
Directed by Gary Dauberman, it stars Lewis Pullman, Bill Camp, and Alfre Woodard.
One comment on the trailer on YouTube said: “I think this is Stephen King’s creepiest book. There are so many scenes in the book that get under your skin.
“The Shining and Pet Sematary are very spooky and creepy too but Salem’s Lot just has such good tension throughout the book.”
Another said: “The only book I've ever read that legitimately made me turn all the lights on in the house.”
Replying on Twitter, one fan said regarding the trailer: “Loved the original and this looks great so far. I definitely will be watching."
There have been previous attempts to adapt the book, with a mini series in 1979 and a ‘follow up’ film in 1987 titled A Return to Salem’s Lot.
Another fan replied saying: “Horror fans we might be back”, whilst another called it an ‘amazing trailer’.
Stephen King had previously called out Warner Bros, who produced the film, for halting its release.
He posted on Twitter saying: “Between you and me, Twitter, I’ve seen the new SALEM’S LOT and it’s quite good.
“Old-school horror filmmaking: slow build, big payoff”.
“Not sure why WB is holding it back; not like it’s embarrassing, or anything. Who knows. I just write the f*cking things.”
In multiple interviews in the 1980s, King has stated previously that of all his books, Salem’s Lot is his favourite.
Salem’s Lot releases on Max Thursday, October 3.