By Jack Ransom - October 10, 2024
The latest Stephen King adaptation to creep onto our screens. Salem’s Lot sees an author (Lewis Pullman) return to his hometown of Jerusalem's Lot in search of inspiration for his next book, only to discover that the townspeople are being attacked by a bloodthirsty vampire.
This was originally shot back in 2021 (with a few reshoots in 2022), and then shelved indefinitely to the point it was more than likely never going to see the light of day, which in a morbid way, due to its vampiric antagonists, is quite ironic. However, three years later the film has risen from the grave. Straight to streaming in America, but welcomely with a cinematic release here in the UK.
Firstly, I just want to make it clear the audience at this screening was appalling and did occasionally topple into full blown distraction at times, however in all honesty when it comes to the scares I think it’s clear that this was never going to be a winner. Whilst it certainly isn’t a plodding snooze-fest like the three hour 1979 mini-series, this latest adaptation unfortunately is lacking in character substance and really only picks up it in its second half once the vampiric shenanigans begin to take over the town.
At just under 2 hours the film has a substantial amount of time to work with, it’s just a shame that when it comes to investment and immersion in the small town community inhabitants it falters as the screenplay very much only interested in the surface level bite. It goes through the King motions (it undeniably feels like one of his properties), but doesn’t drive the stake in hard enough.
From a direction and stylistic standpoint the flick is solid. It certainly rises above a lot of streaming service fodder and there is a suitably Autumnal vibe to the proceedings. The cinematography is genuinely superb at times and the lighting adds to the suburban gothic atmosphere. The vampire designs aren’t particularly standout and the kills are very straightforward and are awash with crimson as they rightfully should be.
The cast is solid and delivers pretty much what they can with the material they are provided. Lewis Pullman is a decent lead, but is quite wooden as the mysterious lonely writer, Alfre Woodard and Bill Camp are probably the standouts alongside the hammy Pilou Asbæk as Barlow’s guardian. The child acting does leave a lot to be desired and the dialogue is incredibly cringe, however Jordan Preston Carter has a standout ‘snarky kid takes on a vampire’ moment.
Salem’s Lot unfortunately lacks bite and falls into the ever-growing pile of average King adaptations that will be forgotten as quickly as they appear. The Autumnal atmosphere, cinematography and practical effects are notable and the performances are decent. However, the character depth, dialogue and immersion in this town leaves a lot to be desired. It also isn’t scary, which doesn’t help.
Salem's Lot releases in cinemas October 11
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