'Salem's Lot [1979 miniseries]

'Salem's Lot
by Stephen King [DVD Salem's]

Although I've previously reviewed Stephen King's novel, 'Salem's Lot, for our staff recommendations, this 1979 mini-series adaptation deserves a strong recommendation of its very own. In my opinion, this is one of the best adaptations of a King novel to the screen, either big or small. The casting on this creepy little gem is perfect, from David Soul as Ben Mears, to James Mason as Jason Straker and Reggie Nalder as the Nosferatu-like Kurt Barlowe. Other cast members (all of whom are excellent) include Lew Ayres, Bonnie Bedelia, Lance Kerwin, Ed Flanders, Fred Willard, Geoffrey Lewis, and Elisha Cook Jr. This mini-series manages to capture the feel of a small New England town perfectly, and the sense of dread felt by the inhabitants as evil overcomes their community is palpable. This film has some genuine jump-out-of-your-seat scares, including one of my favorite "scary movie" scenes of all time, as newly vamped Danny hovers outside of Mark's bedroom and begs to be "let in". In 2004, a newer version of this story was filmed for TNT, starring Rob Lowe, Donald Sutherland, Rutger Hauer and Andre Braugher. It was slicker, and had a big-name cast. But for my money, you can't beat this 1979 mini-series! Perfect Halloween viewing material! -- recommended by Scott C. - Bennett Martin Public Library

[Also available in print, and book-on-cd formats.]

[ Internet Movie Database entry for this film ]

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