Through The Lens - Stephen King

Our series begins with Frank Darabont’s 1994 prison drama, The Shawshank Redemption. Through Darabont’s adaptation, we explore the story of a banker who receives a life sentence in Shawshank State Penitentiary for two murders, whilst he continues to claim innocence. As his time behind bars passes, the ex-banker creates connections and forms alliances with fellow inmates to survive his new life. But the question is, is this a story of redemption or is there simply no hope for the prisoners of Shawshank Penitentiary?

There is always something uplifting about a coming of age drama and Rob Reiner’s Stand By Me is no exception. Adapted from Stephen King’s novella titled The Body, the film follows a group of four boys who set out to find the body of a missing boy. Nominated for countless awards, it’s no wonder that the Rolling Stone hailed the film as "a staple of youthful nostalgia". If you are ready to be truly moved then Stand By Me is the adaptation for you.

We’ve all seen (or heard about) how Carrie gets covered in pigs’ blood at the prom but what else do we know about it? Brian De Palma’s Carrie is an adaptation of King’s book of the same name about a timid teenage girl who is ridiculed and mocked by bullies at her school. Unfortunately for the bullies, Carrie suddenly develops the power of telekinesis and uses it as an instrument to get revenge. Being the first of over 100 adaptations of published works by King, this supernatural horror is a confirmed classic and one not to miss.

Horror fans rejoice because the next instalment in our lineup is Rob Reiner’s Misery. Taking a more psychological thriller stance, this film explores the themes of obsession and captivity. Initial rescue and care turn into imprisonment and pain when a famed writer is held captive by a devoted fan. The story emphasises the thin line between fan and obsessive and reminds us how easily it can be crossed.

When compiling a series of adaptations from the works of Stephen King, it is impossible not to include The Shining starring Jack Nicholson and Shelley Duvall. This psychological horror film celebrates its 45th anniversary and we are screening the extended version. Stanley Kubrick’s film details how a former teacher and writer (Nicholson) takes the position as a caretaker at a hotel and relocates with his wife and son. What could’ve been a positive new start for the family turns into a spiral of madness and fear and the audience are brought along for the ride. Often referenced by critics and audiences alike as one of the greatest films of all time, The Shining firmly remains a staple in the hearts of Stephen King fans.