Stephen King and his son Joe Hill crafted the novella Throttle as a tribute to Steven Spielberg’s 1971 television film Duel, which launched Spielberg’s career by captivating audiences with its intense thrills. This creative nod by King and Hill demonstrates how early cinematic stories continue to influence modern horror narratives. Their novella, inspired by the suspenseful cat-and-mouse chase in Duel, is now in the process of being adapted into a feature film, promising to bring that gripping tension back to the big screen.
Steven Spielberg’s Television Film ‘Duel’ as a Launchpad
Before Spielberg became a household name with blockbuster hits like Jaws, he directed Duel as a TV movie for ABC’s Movie of the Week. Made on a meager budget with a small cast led by Dennis Weaver, the film tells the story of a businessman taunted relentlessly by a mysterious truck driver as he travels across rural California. What set Duel apart was Spielberg’s expert use of suspense and action to make the vehicles themselves the stars of the story, never revealing the trucker’s face or motives, which heightened the sense of danger and uncertainty.
The film’s success far exceeded expectations, earning an extended theatrical release worldwide and helping Spielberg secure projects like The Sugarland Express. Duel remains a benchmark for simple yet effective storytelling centered on the battle between good and evil, relying heavily on tension rather than explanation to engage viewers.
Father and Son Collaboration on 2009’s ‘Throttle’
Stephen King’s prolific career began decades ago with the publication of Carrie in 1974, eventually cementing his legacy as a master of horror. His son Joe Hill emerged as a notable writer in his own right with works like Heart-Shaped Box, creating a powerful literary duo known for their imaginative storytelling across multiple forms. In 2009, they collaborated on the novella Throttle for an anthology honoring the influential author Richard Matheson, whose short story inspired Spielberg’s Duel.
“gripping, almost painfully suspenseful rocket ride of a movie.”
—Stephen King, about Spielberg’s Duel
Throttle tells the story of a truck driver who deliberately targets a biker gang at a remote diner, escalating a violent clash on the road. Unlike Duel, where the motivations remain mysterious, Throttle reveals the driver’s reasons only at the climax, adding layers to the classic road thriller format and deepening the narrative’s emotional impact.
The Journey of ‘Throttle’ Toward a Film Adaptation
After its initial publication, Throttle was adapted into a comic book in 2012, extending its reach beyond the printed page. A film adaptation was announced in 2017, with acclaimed Hollywood writer and producer David S. Goyer attached. Goyer’s credentials include major franchises like Blade, the Dark Knight trilogy, and Man of Steel, lending hope that the project could finally reach production.
In 2020, streaming service HBO Max was confirmed as the film’s distributor, continuing to highlight the story’s appeal to contemporary audiences. However, the project has faced delays typical of many Stephen King adaptations, remaining in development for years amidst industry changes. While other adaptations like The Long Walk are finally coming to fruition, fans await to see if Throttle will emerge from its lengthy production phase to capture the suspense and excitement inspired by Spielberg’s original work.
The Enduring Influence of Classic Suspense Stories
The relationship between Duel and Throttle illustrates the timeless power of simple yet intense storytelling, where minimalistic setups can generate profound engagement. Spielberg’s early triumph not only launched a legendary career but also inspired subsequent creatives like King and Hill to revisit and reinvent the suspenseful chase on the open road. Should Throttle reach theaters, it will likely pay fitting tribute to Spielberg’s craftsmanship while adding the distinct voices of two of horror’s most respected authors.
As audiences continue to seek thrilling narratives, the collaboration between Stephen King and Joe Hill serves as a hopeful testament to how new work can evolve from cherished classics, keeping the spirit of suspense alive for generations to come.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How high is Stephen King’s IQ?
A. Stephen King, a writer from the U.S., is famous for horror and suspense stories. People say his IQ is about 130. His skill in creating gripping tales has made him very popular and respected.
