The 55+ Best Stephen King Movies
Horror writer Stephen King ranks among the most prolific of contemporary American authors. This is a complete list of feature films and miniseries based on his writings, including work written under the pseudonym Richard Bachman, and the sequels to films based on Stephen King books. The rankings are determined by the votes of Ranker users.
With the second installment of King's classic It hitting screens soon, what better time to look back on the man's long and storied list of adaptations? (NOTE: King's short stories, novellas, and other work have also inspired numerous TV shows, and you can check out the full ranking of all Stephen King adaptations to see where those fall.)
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14,174 VOTESThis captivating drama explores the themes of friendship, hope, and redemption as it follows the story of two prisoners, Andy Dufresne and Ellis "Red" Redding, who form a deep bond through shared experiences and struggles. Set within the oppressive confines of Shawshank State Penitentiary, the film serves as an allegory for personal resurrection, exemplified by Andy's determination to prove his innocence and regain his freedom. As an adaptation of Stephen King's novella Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption, the movie has earned its place as a timeless classic, showcasing masterful storytelling and unforgettable performances.
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23,869 VOTESAdapted from King's serialized novel of the same name, this supernatural drama takes place during the Great Depression and delves into the lives and individual stories of death row inmates at a Louisiana penitentiary. With Tom Hanks as Paul Edgecomb, the head prison guard, and Michael Clarke Duncan as John Coffey, the mysterious and gentle-seeming giant with miraculous healing powers, the film weaves a powerful and emotional narrative that explores themes of redemption, justice, and humanity in a cruel world. The Green Mile's unforgettable performances and heart-wrenching plot make it an enduring work of cinema.
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33,570 VOTESBased on King's novella The Body, this coming-of-age story follows four young friends who embark on a journey to find the body of a missing boy in their town. Set in 1950s Oregon and told through a series of flashbacks narrated by the adult version of main character Gordie Lachance, the film explores themes of friendship, loss, and the transition from childhood innocence to adulthood. Stand by Me has become a beloved classic for its superb ensemble cast and powerful storytelling that resonates with audiences even decades after its release.
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- #11 of 399 onThe Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked
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43,502 VOTESThis chilling psychological thriller brings to life one of King's most terrifying and obsessive villains, Annie Wilkes, played by the phenomenal Kathy Bates. When writer Paul Sheldon (James Caan) suffers a car accident and finds himself incapacitated at the remote home of his self-proclaimed "number one fan," the true depths of Annie's twisted mind become apparent as she subjects him to psychological torture and physical violence. Misery's taut pacing, compelling performances, and masterful direction have solidified its reputation as a standout adaptation of King's work.
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53,110 VOTESIn this iconic adaptation of King's first published novel, director Brian De Palma crafts a harrowing tale of adolescent angst, cruelty, and supernatural terror. The story follows the shy and misunderstood Carrie White as she discovers her telekinetic powers while simultaneously being tormented by her abusive fanatically religious mother and cruel classmates. With a memorable breakout performance from Sissy Spacek, this chilling and unforgettable horror film continues to endure as a genre-defining classic.
More Carrie- #270 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #41 of 375 onThe Best Movies Based On Books
- #13 of 397 onThe Best Horror Movies Of All Time
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64,041 VOTESRenowned director Stanley Kubrick adapts King's psychological horror novel into a visually stunning and haunting exploration of madness and isolation. The film follows writer Jack Torrance and his family as they become trapped in the remote and malevolent Overlook Hotel, descending into a spiral of supernatural terror and psychological unraveling. Despite King's own reservations about the adaptation, The Shining remains an indelible part of cinema history for its stylistic innovations and unforgettable performances by Jack Nicholson and Shelley Duvall.
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71,881 VOTESIt
This modern adaptation of King's sprawling and terrifying epic focuses on the first part of his novel, following a group of young friends as they face the monstrous entity terrorizing their small town of Derry, Maine. With Bill Skarsgård delivering a chilling performance as the malevolent Pennywise the Clown, the film captures the horror at the heart of King's work while offering a fresh perspective on the enduring power of friendship and resilience against evil. This updated take on the story has achieved immense popularity and critical acclaim for reinvigorating King's source material while remaining faithful to its roots.
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- #16 of 397 onThe Best Horror Movies Of All Time
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- It
83,277 VOTESThis television miniseries adaptation of King's novel features an ensemble cast, including Tim Curry in his iconic portrayal of the monstrous Pennywise the Clown. Spanning two parts, the story follows the Losers' Club as children facing Pennywise and then as adults returning to their haunted hometown to confront him once again. Though considered less polished than the 2017 adaptation, this iteration has earned its status as a cult classic and continues to be remembered for Curry's unnerving and transformative performance.
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92,938 VOTESThis chilling horror film, adapted from King's novel of the same name, digs deep into the themes of grief, loss, and the terrifying consequences of meddling with the natural order of life and death. When a grieving father discovers an ancient Native American burial ground with the power to resurrect the dead, he sets off a chain of horrific events that threaten his family and sanity. The unsettling atmosphere and unforgettable imagery have made this adaptation a seminal work in King's cinematic canon.
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- #140 of 399 onThe Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked
- #163 of 375 onThe Best Movies Based On Books
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102,408 VOTESAdapted from King's novella, this sci-fi horror film explores the tension between human nature and the unknown terrors that lurk beyond our comprehension. When a small town is enveloped by a mysterious mist filled with monstrous creatures, the residents become trapped in a supermarket and are forced to confront not only the external horrors but also the darker aspects of their own humanity. The Mist's tense atmosphere, stellar ensemble cast, and shocking conclusion have secured it as a standout entry in the realm of Stephen King adaptations.
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- Creepshow
111,687 VOTESDirected by the legendary George A. Romero and featuring a screenplay penned by King himself, this anthology horror film presents a series of macabre tales inspired by the classic EC Comics of the 1950s. Blending dark humor with genuinely chilling scares, the film showcases the talents of both Romero and King as leading figures in the horror genre. Creepshow's enduring appeal lies in its innovative storytelling and commitment to honoring the spirit of its comic book influences.
More Creepshow- #184 of 399 onThe Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked
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- Dolores Claiborne
121,835 VOTESIn this dark and moody adaptation of King's novel, Kathy Bates delivers another powerful performance in the titular role. As a housekeeper accused of murdering her employer, Dolores must reconstruct her troubled past and the violent events that led to this accusation, revealing long-buried secrets and unsettling truths. The film stands out for its unique blend of psychological thriller and domestic drama, as well as for Bates' nuanced portrayal of the complicated protagonist.
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132,282 VOTESDirector John Carpenter brings his signature style to this adaptation of King's novel about a possessed 1958 Plymouth Fury and its devastating impact on a high school misfit named Arnie Cunningham. As the malevolent car takes over Arnie's life, the line between man and machine begins to blur in a terrifying display of supernatural obsession. Christine's thrilling visuals and Carpenter's atmospheric direction combine to create a unique and enduring entry in King's pantheon of film adaptations.
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- #128 of 399 onThe Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked
- #629 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
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- The Dead Zone
141,934 VOTESAdapted from King's novel and directed by David Cronenberg, this psychological thriller follows a man who awakens from a coma with psychic abilities, and the dark implications of his newfound power. Christopher Walken delivers a mesmerizing performance as troubled protagonist Johnny Smith, whose visions of impending disaster force him to confront moral dilemmas with life-or-death consequences. The Dead Zone's chilling atmosphere, thought-provoking themes, and strong performances make it a standout entry among King's adaptations.
More The Dead Zone- #93 of 252 onThe 200+ Best Psychological Thrillers Of All Time
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151,883 VOTESThis eerie miniseries adaptation of King's vampire novel takes place in the small New England town of Jerusalem's Lot, where mysterious deaths and supernatural occurrences begin to plague the community. Anchored by memorable performances, particularly David Soul as writer Ben Mears and James Mason as the enigmatic Richard Straker, the series has become notorious for its suspenseful atmosphere and terrifying visuals, especially the chilling image of young vampire Danny Glick tapping at a window. As a faithful adaptation of King's work, Salem's Lot remains a chilling and captivating entry in the horror genre.
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- Needful Things
161,593 VOTESAdapted from King's novel, this darkly comedic and suspenseful tale unfolds in the small town of Castle Rock, where a mysterious shopkeeper named Leland Gaunt, played by Max von Sydow, opens a store that sells items with a sinister power to those willing to pay a terrible price. As the townspeople become consumed by their newfound possessions, they descend into a spiral of violence and chaos. With its engaging mix of horror and satire, Needful Things offers a unique and compelling look at the darker side of human nature.
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171,959 VOTESBased on King's short story, this supernatural thriller delves into the realm of psychological terror when a skeptical paranormal investigator, played by John Cusack, checks into a haunted hotel room with a deadly reputation. As the room's sinister power becomes apparent, the protagonist finds himself trapped in a nightmarish world where reality and perception blur in a fight for survival. The film's engaging premise, powerful central performance, and unnerving atmosphere have made it a well-regarded addition to the Stephen King adaptation collection.
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182,079 VOTESIn this thrilling adaptation of King's bestselling novel, an idyllic Maine family becomes trapped in their car by a rabid St. Bernard, leading to a relentless game of cat-and-mouse filled with suspense and terror. The film's claustrophobic setting and harrowing depictions of the dog's savagery have made it a memorable entry
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191,717 VOTESBased on King's novel, this sci-fi thriller follows a young girl named Charlie McGee, played by Drew Barrymore, who possesses the power of pyrokinesis, the ability to start fires with her mind. While on the run from a sinister government agency intent on exploiting her powers, Charlie and her father must navigate a dangerous world of conspiracies and betrayal. Firestarter's intriguing premise, intense visuals, and memorable performances have made it a standout entry in the realm of Stephen King adaptations.
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201,999 VOTESThis chilling adaptation of King's short story delves into the eerie world of Gatlin, Nebraska, where a community of children has murdered all of the adults under the influence of a demonic entity. As a young couple becomes trapped in the town and targeted by the murderous children, they must uncover the terrifying secrets behind the supernatural force that governs them. With its haunting rural setting and shocking imagery, Children of the Corn endures as a chilling cult classic.
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211,465 VOTESAdapted from King's novella Cycle of the Werewolf, this suspenseful horror film focuses on a small town being terrorized by a werewolf, with only a disabled young boy named Marty and his sister believing in its existence. As the siblings begin to unravel the identity of the beast, they are drawn into a deadly game of predator and prey that culminates in a thrilling showdown. Silver Bullet's unique blend of horror and coming-of-age story provides an engaging and entertaining entry in the Stephen King adaptation library.
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22550 VOTESIn this sequel to The Shining, director Mike Flanagan brings King's novel to life, as an adult Dan Torrance, played by Ewan McGregor, struggles with his traumatic past and newfound sobriety. When Dan connects with a young girl who shares his psychic abilities, they find themselves hunted by a cult intent on consuming their powers. Doctor Sleep expands upon the mythology of its predecessor while carving out a haunting identity of its own, offering a riveting exploration of the lingering effects of trauma and redemption.
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- #106 of 252 onThe 200+ Best Psychological Thrillers Of All Time
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231,640 VOTESInspired by King's novel (written under the pseudonym Richard Bachman), this futuristic action thriller stars Arnold Schwarzenegger as a man forced to compete in a brutal televised game show where contestants are hunted for sport. The film's satirical take on media manipulation and society's desensitization to violence has only become more relevant with time. With its over-the-top action sequences and memorable one-liners, The Running Man remains an entertaining and thought-provoking entry in King's cinematic oeuvre.
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241,637 VOTESThis psychological thriller, based on King's novella Secret Window, Secret Garden, stars Johnny Depp as a writer accused of plagiarism by a mysterious stranger who becomes increasingly dangerous and unhinged. As the protagonist struggles to unravel the truth, he descends into a twisted world of paranoia, obsession, and hidden secrets. Secret Window's tight pacing, intricate narrative, and stunning performances make it an enthralling exploration of the darker recesses of the human psyche.
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25582 VOTESIt: Chapter Two
In this sequel to the 2017 adaptation, the Losers' Club reunites as adults to confront the evil Pennywise the Clown once again, revealing long-buried secrets about their shared history. The film maintains its focus on the themes of friendship and resilience, while showcasing a talented ensemble cast that includes James McAvoy, Jessica Chastain, and Bill Hader. With its blend of poignant character moments and terrifying scares, It: Chapter Two serves as a satisfying conclusion to the sprawling and nightmarish saga.
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- Cat's Eye
261,070 VOTESThis anthology film adapts three of King's short stories, (Quitters, Inc., The Ledge, and General), all connected by the presence of a wandering cat. Featuring an impressive cast that includes James Woods, Drew Barrymore, and Robert Hays, the film blends horror, suspense, and dark humor to tell tales of addiction, revenge, and supernatural intervention. Cat's Eye's unique narrative structure and King's inimitable storytelling make it a distinctive and memorable addition to his body of film adaptations.
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- #222 of 397 onThe Best Horror Movies Of All Time
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271,458 VOTESAdapted from King's novel (published under his Richard Bachman pseudonym), this dark horror film focuses on an obese lawyer who receives a supernatural curse from a vengeful gypsy, causing him to rapidly lose weight and sparking a desperate quest for redemption. With its grisly premise and engaging character development, Thinner delves into themes of greed, gluttony, and the dangerous consequences of unchecked power. The film's memorable plot and thought-provoking commentary make it an intriguing entry in the Stephen King adaptation catalogue.
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- Gerald's Game
- Netflix
28675 VOTESIn this Netflix adaptation of King's novel, a woman finds herself handcuffed to a bed in a remote cabin after her husband suffers a fatal heart attack during a sex game. As she struggles to survive and escape her dire situation, the limits of her sanity are tested by haunting memories and supernatural occurrences. With a standout performance by Carla Gugino and an unflinching exploration of trauma and resilience, Gerald's Game has become a critically acclaimed and highly regarded adaptation.
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29423 VOTES1922
This Netflix adaptation of King's novella takes viewers back to the titular year, where a Nebraskan farmer becomes embroiled in a web of deceit, murder, and supernatural retribution. With its slow-burning narrative, haunting rural setting, and powerhouse performance by Thomas Jane, the film offers a chilling exploration of guilt, paranoia, and the inescapable consequences of one's actions. Its stark, atmospheric cinematography and psychological intensity have secured 1922's position as a standout Stephen King adaptation.
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- Tales From the Darkside: The Movie
30913 VOTESThis horror anthology film adapts three short stories, including King's The Cat From Hell, and features a wraparound story about a young boy stalling his own execution at the hands of a witch by telling her these terrifying tales. Blending humor, suspense, and horror, the film offers an engaging and entertaining entry in the Stephen King adaptation library. With its memorable stories and standout ensemble cast, Tales from the Darkside: The Movie has found enduring appeal as a cult classic.
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