There are few modern writers who are as prolific in their output as Stephen King. Since the publication of “Carrie” in 1974, King has released novels almost yearly, and sometimes more than one. Since 1976, King’s novels have gotten major film adaptations, once again starting with “Carrie” (directed by Brian De Palma). It’s possible more people know King’s work BECAUSE of the many adaptations than from the books themselves.
It’s only fair then that a documentary be made about all these movies, which is exactly what we’re getting this summer.
“King on Film” is a documentary by Daphné Baiwir. It takes a look at the many adaptations for television and film of King’s works. The project has interviews with some of the bigger players in bringing those books to the screen. Included among them are Frank Darabont, Mick Garris, and Mike Flanagan. Darabont scored a hat trick with adaptations, finding success with “The Shawshank Redemption,” “The Green Mile,” and “The Mist.” Garris brought us the King film, “Sleepwalkers” along with the mini-series for both “The Stand” (1994) and “The Shining.” Flanagan meanwhile has become the modern King-master, with adaptations of “Gerald’s Game,” “Doctor Sleep,” and his upcoming attempt of “The Dark Tower.“
What makes this documentary potentially rich is how all over the quality map adaptations of King’s work are. For every “Misery” or “It” there’s a “The Dark Tower” or “Dreamcatcher.” Even King himself has the dubious honor of having written and directed “Maximum Overdrive,” a film that he fully admits was a train wreck. There’s also the mid to late 90s television miniseries like “The Langoliers” and “The Tommyknockers,” which were met with a decidedly mixed reception for their performances and special effects.
Long story short, this subject is absolutely fertile ground for a documentary to be made. According to Fangoria, it’s quite good. They couldn’t say enough good things about it following a screening they attended. Their good fortune will eventually be ours as well as the documentary was officially picked up for distribution by Dark Star Pictures. No official release date is set yet, but the documentary is aiming for a summer theatrical release, with a digital release in the fall.
We look forward to seeing how this documentary turned out. Whether you’ve read his books or not, the impact King has had on film is powerful. We’ll make sure to update you once we hear an official release date.
