Since the groundbreaking release of Carrie in 1974, Stephen King has become a towering figure in horror literature, with his stories inspiring numerous film and television adaptations. Despite many of these adaptations gaining widespread acclaim, several notable projects remain overlooked by audiences. This article highlights eight underrated Stephen King adaptations you can still stream, offering a fresh look at hidden horror treasures that deserve more attention.
Mike Flanagan’s ‘Doctor Sleep’ (2019): A Haunting Sequel to a Classic
Directed by Mike Flanagan, Doctor Sleep continues the story of Danny Torrance, portrayed by Ewan McGregor, years after the terrifying events at the Overlook Hotel. Now an adult, Danny battles lingering trauma and alcoholism while uncovering a young girl with psychic abilities who faces threats from a sinister cult of psychic vampires. Alongside McGregor, the cast includes Rebecca Ferguson, Kyliegh Curran, Cliff Curtis, and Carl Lumbly.
Despite being based on a Bram Stoker Award-winning novel and serving as a sequel to the iconic The Shining, this film unfortunately did not achieve significant box office success. However, critics generally praised it for its strong performances and thoughtful exploration of themes like childhood trauma and addiction. Rather than a pure horror sequel, Doctor Sleep is a compelling thriller that many feel has been underrated. You can rent or buy the movie on Amazon, Apple TV+, and Google Play Movies.
Vincenzo Natali Brings ‘In the Tall Grass’ (2019) to Life on Netflix
Adapted from a chilling novella co-written by Stephen King and his son, Joe Hill, In the Tall Grass follows Becky and her brother Cal as they investigate the cries of a child in a vast field of towering grass. Directed and written by Vincenzo Natali, the film stars Laysla De Oliveira as Becky and Avery Whitted as Cal, joined by Harrison Gilbertson, Will Buie Jr., Rachel Wilson, and Patrick Wilson.
Premiering as a Netflix Original at the Fantastic Fest in 2019, the film received mixed critical feedback and remained underappreciated by the wider audience. It is, however, a tense and atmospheric horror movie that incorporates a claustrophobic setting and time-loop mechanics, enhanced by solid performances, particularly by De Oliveira and Wilson. Streaming now on Netflix, this movie offers a unique, eerie experience for fans of supernatural horror.
The Psychological Complexity of ‘Secret Window’ (2004) Directed by David Koepp
Secret Window, a psychological thriller directed and written by David Koepp, centers on Mort Rainey, a bestselling writer grappling with depression and creative blockage. Johnny Depp plays Mort, who faces escalating threats when accused of plagiarism by John Shooter, played by John Turturro.
Although the film had mixed reviews and moderate box office results, it stands out for its suspenseful narrative and atmospheric direction. While it diverges from the novella’s original ending, the film achieves a Hitchcockian level of tension and dark intrigue. Despite being less remembered today, it remains a gripping adaptation, available for rent or purchase on platforms including Amazon and Apple TV+.
‘Needful Things’ (1993): A Cautionary Tale of Greed in a Small Town
Based on King’s 1991 novel, Needful Things tells the story of Leland Gaunt, played by Max von Sydow, who arrives in Castle Rock, Maine, opening an antiques shop with suspiciously low prices. In exchange, Gaunt asks for seemingly harmless pranks that soon lead to havoc and violence across the community. The cast also features Ed Harris, Bonnie Bedelia, Amanda Plummer, and J.T. Walsh.
This film serves as a parable about greed and materialism, illustrating how a town’s social fabric unravels due to small acts of malice. Although its reception in 1993 was mixed, it garnered three Saturn Award nominations and won Best Supporting Actress for Amanda Plummer. Needful Things remains a captivating blend of horror and drama, and you can stream it on Amazon, Apple TV+, and Google Play Movies.
Frank Darabont’s ‘The Mist’ (2007): Blending Horror with Political Commentary
Produced, written, and directed by Frank Darabont, The Mist adapts King’s psychological horror novella by depicting a group of townspeople trapped in a supermarket, surrounded by a supernatural fog concealing monstrous creatures. Set in Bridgton, Maine, the film stars Thomas Jane, Marcia Gay Harden, Laurie Holden, and Andre Braugher.
Premiering at the 2007 ShowEast film festival, this adaptation followed Darabont’s acclaimed work on The Shawshank Redemption and The Green Mile. It received positive reviews and achieved box office success, praised for its combination of nail-biting suspense and political subtext. Though not always prominently discussed today, The Mist is essential viewing for Stephen King enthusiasts and is available on FuboTV and Paramount+ with Showtime.
‘Castle Rock’ (2018–2019): A Supernatural Anthology Exploring King’s Fictional World
Created by Sam Shaw and Dustin Thomason, the series Castle Rock is a supernatural anthology set in the infamous fictional town appearing in many Stephen King stories. Each season weaves new narratives connected by underlying supernatural elements and Castle Rock’s eerie history. The show features André Holland, Melanie Lynskey, Bill Skarsgård in the first season, and Lizzy Caplan, Paul Sparks, and Tim Robbins in the second.
This ambitious series received praise for its performances, writing, and atmosphere, gaining accolades during its run. Bill Skarsgård and Lizzy Caplan’s portrayals were particularly lauded for tapping into the spirit of King’s characters. While it has slipped from mainstream conversation, Castle Rock remains a rewarding experience for fans seeking deep dives into King’s universe and is currently streaming on Hulu.
Fritz Kiersch’s ‘Children of the Corn’ (1984): A Cult Classic of Religious Horror
Based on King’s 1977 short story, Children of the Corn depicts a small Nebraska town where the children have formed a fanatical cult that sacrifices adults to a malevolent entity. Directed by Fritz Kiersch, the film stars Peter Horton, Linda Hamilton, John Franklin, and others.
Although the original movie received mixed critiques, it was a box office hit that spawned a lengthy franchise. The film remains a cult favorite for its disturbing exploration of childhood fanaticism and primal violence. Despite some campy moments, the strength of its premise endures. Streaming for free on The Roku Channel, TubiTV, Hoopla, and Plex, it’s a must-watch for viewers interested in classic supernatural horror.
Lewis Teague’s ‘Cujo’ (1983): A Terrifying Story of Survival Against a Rabid Dog
Adapted from King’s novel, Cujo is a horror thriller centered on a mother and her son trapped in their car, menaced by Cujo, a once-friendly St. Bernard driven mad by rabies. Directed by Lewis Teague and featuring Dee Wallace, Daniel Hugh Kelly, and Danny Pintauro, with vocal effects by Frank Welker, the film unfolds as a tense fight for survival.
Though it gained mixed reviews upon release, Cujo was a commercial success, ranking as the fourth highest-grossing horror film in 1983. Its grounded storyline and escalating terror have earned it a devoted cult following. Currently available on AMC+, MGM+, Shudder, and Kanopy, it remains a significant yet frequently overlooked adaptation in King’s filmography.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How high is Stephen King’s IQ?
A. Stephen King is an American writer known for horror, supernatural fiction, and suspense stories. He is one of today’s most productive and successful authors. It is said that his IQ is about 130. His skill in creating gripping and thrilling tales has gained him a large group of fans and praise from critics.
