Stephen King, widely recognized not only as a legendary horror author but also for his deep connection to cinema, singled out the 2016 zombie film Train to Busan as one of the best movies of the 21st century. Known for his expertise in storytelling and character development, King included this Korean thriller in his top 10 selections for the New York Times’ poll of the 100 best films of the current century. This choice elevated the film’s profile significantly in both literary and cinematic circles.
Train to Busan follows the harrowing journey of a work-focused father, Seok-woo, who attempts to mend his relationship with his young daughter, Soo-ahn, while battling a sudden zombie outbreak aboard a speeding train. The film’s emotional core, combined with its intense zombie action sequences, captivated King and stood out among many entries in the genre.
The Unique Appeal of Train to Busan Among Zombie Films
Though zombies had already become a familiar horror trope by 2016, Train to Busan distinguished itself through a blend of high-stakes action and rich emotional storytelling. Unlike many zombie films that focus solely on scares or gore, this movie deeply explores the father–daughter relationship amid chaos and survival. Its tightly woven plot and heartfelt moments align well with the themes often found in King’s own work, which likely contributed to his strong admiration.
The film revitalized a genre that many viewed as exhausted, delivering fresh perspectives and relatable human drama. Critics and audiences alike praised its pacing, character depth, and ability to balance horror with heart. By placing it in his top 10, Stephen King underscored the movie’s significance as a game-changer in the zombie category.
How Train to Busan Measures Up as a Modern Horror Classic
Stephen King’s endorsement confirms that Train to Busan is not only one of the best zombie movies but also an influential film within 21st-century cinema. While some may debate its placement amongst other celebrated films on the New York Times list, King’s vote highlights the movie’s lasting impact and unique qualities that set it apart from conventional horror offerings.
King acknowledges the film’s excellence in combining thrill and emotional depth, making it appealing beyond typical genre fans. However, the limited representation of horror films in the poll—with only Let the Right One In and Get Out also included—suggests this area of cinema often goes underappreciated in such rankings.
Whether or not Train to Busan will maintain a top-tier spot in future discussions, its standing as a groundbreaking zombie classic appears secure. Its success speaks to the power of merging heart-pounding suspense with strong character relationships, a blend that resonates with creators and audiences alike.
The Film’s Key Cast Bringing Intensity to the Story
The movie stars Gong Yoo as Seok-woo, the determined father striving to protect his child and regain her trust amid disaster. Kim Su-an plays Soo-ahn, whose innocence and vulnerability heighten the stakes and emotional tension throughout the journey. Their performances anchor the film’s narrative, making the experience more immersive and relatable.
The Significance of Stephen King’s Praise for Train to Busan
Stephen King’s recognition of Train to Busan as one of the top films of the century amplifies the movie’s status beyond traditional horror niches and Korean cinema circles. His stamp of approval may encourage wider audiences to discover the film as a benchmark for emotional storytelling fused with genre thrills.
This endorsement also shows King’s appreciation for stories that blend character-driven drama with horror, reinforcing why his opinions carry weight in both literary and cinematic communities. As the zombie subgenre continues to evolve, Train to Busan stands as a model for balancing action with emotional resonance, inspiring filmmakers and viewers around the world.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What was Stephen King’s illness?
A. The well-known writer struggled greatly with a serious drug addiction that almost took over his life. This addiction was caused by many things, like the stress of being famous, personal issues, and a desire to avoid life’s pressures.
Q. How high is Stephen King’s IQ?
A. Stephen King is a well-known American writer famous for horror, supernatural fiction, and suspense stories. He’s incredibly productive and successful. His intelligence, with an IQ near 130, helps him create engaging and thrilling stories. This skill has led to a large fan base and praise from critics.
Q. Is Stephen King almost blind?
A. About 10 million individuals are affected by this condition, which often leads to complete blindness, though not always. Consequently, King has severely impaired vision and is almost considered legally blind now.
