Join Topshare to discover the list of Top 10 best movies of writer Stephen King that you cannot ignore. Experience haunting and dramatic stories adapted from his famous literary works, with perfect blends of horror, suspense, and psychological analysis. The cinematic works are full of attraction, bringing a memorable experience to everyone who loves this genre.
1 IT
IT - the best film by writer Stephen King.
Trailer for Stephen King's Best Film - IT
"IT" is a horror film based on the novel of the same name by writer Stephen King. The series is divided into two parts: "IT" (2017) and "IT Chapter Two" (2019).
The story takes place in the town of Derry, a place haunted by a primordial demon that takes the form of a man wearing an orange shirt and has the ability to shapeshift according to the fears of children. Demons often appear in the form of a clown named Pennywise. The film focuses on a group of childhood friends called "The Losers' Club" who are hunted by Pennywise. The main characters include Bill Denbrough, a boy who lost his sister to Pennywise; Beverly Marsh, a girl who is bullied at school and has to deal with a violent family; and other members of the group.
The first part of the film focuses on the events that took place when the friends were young, while the second season focuses on their reunion as adults and having to face Pennywise once again. They must find a way to defeat Pennywise and end the nightmare the demon has caused Derry. "IT" received generally positive reviews from both audiences and critics. The film creates tense horror scenes and brings thoughts about fear, childhood, and the power of friendship.
Genre: Horror, Drama, Fantasy.
Release year: 2017.
Main actor:
Bill Skarsgård as Pennywise, the ghostly clown.
Jaeden Martell as Bill Denbrough.
Finn Wolfhard as Richie Tozier.
Sophia Lillis as Beverly Marsh.
Jeremy Ray Taylor as Ben Hanscom.
Chosen Jacobs as Mike Hanlon.
Jack Dylan Grazer as Eddie Kaspbrak.
Wyatt Oleff as Stanley Uris.
Directed by: Andy Muschietti.
Screenwriters: Chase Palmer, Cary Fukunaga, Gary Dauberman (based on the novel by Stephen King).
Duration: Approximately 135 minutes.
America.
IMDb Score: 7.3/10
2 1408
1408 - The best film by writer Stephen King. Image source: IMDb
Stephen King's Best Movie Trailer - 1408
"1408" is a horror film based on the short story of the same name by writer Stephen King. The film was released in 2007 and directed by Mikael Håfström. The story revolves around Mike Enslin, a writer specializing in writing about supernatural events. He decides to investigate hotel room number 1408 at a hotel in New York City, despite many warnings about strange events and the deaths of many previous customers. Though initially disbelieving, Mike soon realizes that the room actually harbors terrifying mysteries and supernatural phenomena. He is trapped in a series of nightmarish events and must fight to survive and learn about the origins of this terrifying room.
The film creates a dramatic and haunting space with tense and suspenseful horror scenes. John Cusack plays Mike Enslin, and the film also stars Samuel L. Jackson as the hotel manager. "1408" was praised for its acting and ability to create tension and awe in the audience. "1408" offers an engaging and watchable horror experience for those who love the horror genre and want to experience a haunting story in a scary room.
Genre: Horror, Drama, Fantasy, Mystery.
Release year: 2007.
Main actor:
John Cusack as Mike Enslin.
Samuel L. Jackson as Gerald Olin.
Mary McCormack as Lily Enslin.
Tony Shalhoub as Sam Farrell.
Len Cariou as old Mike Enslin.
Directed by: Mikael Håfström.
Screenwriters: Matt Greenberg, Scott Alexander, Larry Karaszewski (based on a short story by Stephen King).
Duration: Approximately 104 minutes.
America.
IMDb Score: 6.8/10
3 The Shining
The Shining - the best film by writer Stephen King. Image source: VnExpress
Trailer for Stephen King's Best Movie - The Shining
"The Shining" is a popular horror film directed by Stanley Kubrick and released in 1980. The film is based on the novel of the same name by Stephen King. The story revolves around the Torrance family, including Jack Torrance (Jack Nicholson), wife Wendy (Shelley Duvall) and son Danny (Danny Lloyd). Jack takes a job looking after the Overlook Hotel in a remote mountain area during the winter. Looking to find inspiration for a book, Jack hopes to make the most of his lonely time at the hotel.
However, when the family arrives and begins to live at the hotel, strange and haunting supernatural events begin to occur. Danny, with his supernatural abilities, senses the presence of evil forces in the hotel. Meanwhile, Jack gradually becomes frenzied and haunted by the hotel's spooky powers, threatening the safety of his family.
"The Shining" was praised for its way of expressing the pinnacle of cinema and creating a tense horror space. Jack Nicholson's stellar performance as Jack Torrance, coupled with the film's psychological pressure and superb visuals, contributed to one of the most influential and classic horror classics in cinematic history.
Genre: Horror, Psychological, Fantasy.
Release year: 1980.
Main actor:
Jack Nicholson as Jack Torrance.
Shelley Duvall as Wendy Torrance.
Danny Lloyd as Danny Torrance.
Scatman Crothers as Dick Hallorann.
Directed by: Stanley Kubrick.
Screenwriters: Stanley Kubrick, Diane Johnson (based on the novel by Stephen King).
Duration: Approximately 146 minutes.
Country: USA, UK.
IMDb Score: 8.4/10
4 The Dark Tower
The Dark Tower - the best film by writer Stephen King. Image source: TV Insider Tom Taylor as Jake Chambers Katheryn Winnick as Laurie Chambers Director: Nikolaj Arcel. Writers: Akiva Goldsman, Jeff Pinkner, Anders Thomas Jensen, Nikolaj Arcel (based on
Trailer for Stephen King's Best Movie - The Dark Tower
"The Dark Tower" is an adventure and fantasy film adapted from the novel series of the same name by Stephen King. The film was released in 2017 and directed by Nikolaj Arcel. The story in "The Dark Tower" revolves around the adventures of Gunslinger Roland Deschain (Idris Elba) in an apocalyptic scenario. Roland, the only surviving warrior of the Gun Society, searches for the "Black Tower", a mysterious structure located at the Center of the Universe. Roland's mission is to protect the Black Tower from the ravages of the ultimate evil force called "The Man in Black" (The Man in Black, played by Matthew McConaughey). On his journey, Roland meets Jake Chambers (Tom Taylor), a boy with the ability to see and interact with parallel worlds.
"The Dark Tower" blends elements of fantasy, western and horror. The film focuses on the battle between light and darkness, the quest and the quest to save the world. Despite interest from fans of the original novel, the film was not critically acclaimed and was not commercially successful. However, Idris Elba and Matthew McConaughey have been critically acclaimed for their performances in the roles of Roland and The Man in Black.
"The Dark Tower" is viewed as a plot that summarizes and blends key elements of Stephen King's long novel series, and does not fully reflect the detail and scope of the series as a whole.
Genre: Adventure, Fantasy, Action.
Release year: 2017.
Main actor:
Idris Elba as Roland Deschain / Gunslinger.
Matthew McConaughey as Walter O'Dim / Man in Black.
Tom Taylor as Jake Chambers.
Katheryn Winnick as Laurie Chambers.
Directed by: Nikolaj Arcel.
Screenwriters: Akiva Goldsman, Jeff Pinkner, Anders Thomas Jensen, Nikolaj Arcel (based on the Stephen King novel series).
Duration: Approximately 95 minutes.
America.
IMDb Score: 5.6/10
5 Stand by Me
Stand by Me - the best film by writer Stephen King. Image source: YBOX
Trailer for Stephen King's Best Picture - Stand by Me
"Stand by Me" is an adventure and comedy film released in 1986, based on the short story "The Body" by Stephen King. The film is directed by Rob Reiner. The story takes place in the 1950s and follows a group of four boys: Gordie (Wil Wheaton), Chris (River Phoenix), Teddy (Corey Feldman) and Vern (Jerry O'Connell). When a friend of theirs named Ray Brower goes missing, the group decides to cross the woods to find his body. In their adventurous journey, they face many difficulties, create memories and experience growth.
"Stand by Me" focuses on a journey of search, friendship, and loss. The film offers a realistic and touching look at childhood, companionship and the meaning of friendship. The young actors' performance in the film was appreciated and became a memorable point in their careers. "Stand by Me" is considered a classic film and is one of Stephen King's excellent works to be adapted into a film. The film delivers a profound message of friendship and becomes a work associated with memory and humanity.
Genre: Adventure, Comedy, Romance.
Release year: 1986.
Main actor:
Wil Wheaton as Gordie Lachance.
River Phoenix as Chris Chambers.
Corey Feldman as Teddy Duchamp.
Jerry O'Connell as Vern Tessio.
Kiefer Sutherland as Ace Merrill.
Directed by: Rob Reiner.
Screenwriters: Raynold Gideon, Bruce A. Evans (based on the short story "The Body" by Stephen King).
Duration: Approximately 89 minutes.
America.
IMDb Score: 8.1/10
6 Misery
Misery - the best film of the writer Stephen King. Image source: IMDb
Trailer for Stephen King's Best Picture - Misery
"Misery" is a horror and psychological film adapted from the novel of the same name by Stephen King. The film was released in 1990 and directed by Rob Reiner.
The story revolves around the famous writer Paul Sheldon (James Caan), who is trapped after a car accident and is saved by a woman named Annie Wilkes (Kathy Bates). Annie is a huge fan of the famous novel that Paul wrote with the main character Misery Chastain. However, Annie becomes dangerous by forcing Paul to write a new novel that continues Misery's story. Paul must face obsession, mental devastation, and invisible danger from Annie. In her house, Paul becomes a prisoner and must find a way out of Annie's control to survive.
"Misery" is a dramatic psychological thriller that creates a tense and haunting space. Kathy Bates' performance as Annie Wilkes earned her the Academy Award for Best Actress. The film emphasizes the power and exhaustion of addiction and the collapse of perceived security. "Misery" is considered one of the best in the Stephen King adaptation category. The film creates haunting and highlights the horror and psychological elements of the story, making the audience feel emotional and tense from beginning to end.
Genre: Horror, Psychological, Fantasy.
Release year: 1990.
Main actor:
James Caan as Paul Sheldon.
Kathy Bates as Annie Wilkes.
Richard Farnsworth as Buster.
Frances Sternhagen as Virginia.
Directed by: Rob Reiner.
Screenwriter: William Goldman (based on the novel by Stephen King).
Duration: About 107 minutes.
America.
IMDb Score: 7.8/10
7 The Green Mile
The Green Mile - the best film by writer Stephen King. Image source: IMDb
Trailer for Stephen King's Best Movie - The Green Mile
"The Green Mile" is a film set in the 1930s, adapted from the Stephen King novel of the same name. The film was released in 1999 and directed by Frank Darabont.
The story takes place in a Louisiana state prison, where John Coffey (Michael Clarke Duncan), a man with supernatural abilities, is sentenced to death for the murder of two children. Paul Edgecomb (Tom Hanks) is a correctional officer at the prison and a witness to miracles created by John Coffey. Paul begins to believe that John is innocent and tries to find out the truth behind the deaths of two children. "The Green Mile" offers a story of kindness, guilt, and hope. The film questions each person's justice and moral obligations. It offers insight into people and their ability to create change and forgiveness.
The performance of the actors in "The Green Mile" was highly appreciated, especially Michael Clarke Duncan as John Coffey. The film brings emotion and humanity, and creates a space full of emotion and depth. "The Green Mile" is considered one of the best movie adaptations of Stephen King's novels. The film delivers a message about kindness and the power of forgiveness, and is a must-see for lovers of emotional and meaningful stories.
Genre: Psychological, Crime, Supernatural.
Release year: 1999.
Main actor:
Tom Hanks as Paul Edgecomb.
Michael Clarke Duncan as John Coffey.
David Morse as Brutus "Brutal" Howell.
Bonnie Hunt as Jan Edgecomb.
James Cromwell as Warden Hal Moores.
Directed by: Frank Darabont.
Screenwriter: Frank Darabont (based on the novel by Stephen King).
Duration: Approximately 189 minutes.
America.
IMDb Score: 8.6/10
8 Dolores Claiborne
Dolores Claiborne - the best film by writer Stephen King. Image source: IMDb
Dolores Claiborne
"Dolores Claiborne" is a drama and psychological drama adapted from the novel of the same name by Stephen King. The film was released in 1995 and was directed by Taylor Hackford.
The story in "Dolores Claiborne" focuses on protagonist Dolores Claiborne (Kathy Bates), a woman who is accused of killing her wealthy husband, Joe St. George (David Strathairn). Dolores is suspected by the police and faces investigation. In the process, she is forced to deal with her traumatic past and complicated relationship with her daughter Jessie (Jennifer Jason Leigh). "Dolores Claiborne" delves into the psyche of the main character and uncovers the truth about Dolores' life through flashbacks. The film explores the grip of power, domestic violence and the struggle to survive in a harsh environment.
Kathy Bates' performance as Dolores Claiborne received critical acclaim and earned her the Saturn Award for Best Actress. The film creates an atmosphere of gloom and tension, with an engaging plot and sharp character development. "Dolores Claiborne" is considered a psychological drama worth watching, giving viewers a deep story and a sharp look at the psychology of the main character.
Genre: Psychological, Crime, Mystery.
Release year: 1995.
Main actor:
Kathy Bates as Dolores Claiborne.
Jennifer Jason Leigh as Selena St. George.
Christopher Plummer as Det. John Mackey.
David Strathairn as Joe St. George.
Judy Parfitt as Vera Donovan.
Directed by: Taylor Hackford.
Screenwriter: Tony Gilroy (based on the novel by Stephen King).
Duration: Approximately 132 minutes.
America.
IMDb Score: 7.4/10
9 Doctor Sleep
Doctor Sleep - the best film by writer Stephen King. Image source: IMDb
Trailer for Stephen King's Best Movie - Doctor Sleep
"Doctor Sleep" is a horror and spiritual film adapted from the novel of the same name by Stephen King. The film was released in 2019 and directed by Mike Flanagan.
The story takes place after the events of "The Shining" and focuses on the character Danny Torrance (Ewan McGregor), who has grown up after experiencing terrifying events at the Overlook Hotel. Danny, now known by the nickname "Doctor Sleep", uses his supernatural abilities to help others and fight against a group of people who hunt for children with supernatural abilities. "Doctor Sleep" explores themes such as the power of love, confrontation with the past, and the quest for salvation. The film brings a blend of horror and spiritual elements, creating a scary and emotional atmosphere.
Ewan McGregor's performance as Danny Torrance received critical acclaim, and Rebecca Ferguson also played a prominent role as the character Rose the Hat. The film creates a massive world and a remarkable sequel to the classic story "The Shining". "Doctor Sleep" is a must-see for those who love the work of Stephen King and gripping spiritual thrillers. It combines elements of spiritual horror and personal salvation, creating a deep and contemplative story.
Genre: Horror, Supernatural.
Release year: 2019.
Main actor:
Ewan McGregor as Dan Torrance / Doctor Sleep.
Rebecca Ferguson as Rose the Hat.
Kyliegh Curran as Abra Stone.
Cliff Curtis as Billy Freeman.
Zahn McClarnon as Crow Daddy.
Directed by: Mike Flanagan.
Screenwriter: Mike Flanagan (based on the novel by Stephen King).
Duration: About 152 minutes.
America.
IMDb Score: 7.3/10
10 Gerald's Game
Gerald's Game - the best film by writer Stephen King. Image source: Goodreads
Trailer for Stephen King's Best Movie - Gerald's Game
"Gerald's Game" is a psychological horror film adapted from the novel of the same name by Stephen King. The film was released in 2017 and directed by Mike Flanagan.
The story in "Gerald's Game" focuses on a couple, Gerald (Bruce Greenwood) and Jessie Burlingame (Carla Gugino), as they spend the weekend at a secluded house. Gerald proposes a new sex game called "Gerald's Game" and ties Jessie to bed. However, the game turns into a nightmare when Gerald suddenly dies, leaving Jessie in a horrible situation and trying to find a way to break free from the bondage and survive. "Gerald's Game" explores themes such as freedom, survival, and struggles with the past. The film focuses on Jessie's psyche and mood as she confronts loneliness, fear and sexual abuse from her past.
Carla Gugino's performance as Jessie Burlingame is well received, and the film creates a tense and haunting atmosphere. Mike Flanagan has created a quality psychological thriller by skillfully adapting the complex story and presenting tense and unexpected situations. "Gerald's Game" is a must-see for those who love the work of Stephen King and psychological thrillers full of tension. It offers a sharp look into human psychology and horrifying situations in a gripping storyline.
Genre: Horror, Psychological, Fantasy.
Release year: 2017.
Main actor:
Carla Gugino as Jessie Burlingame.
Bruce Greenwood as Gerald Burlingame.
Henry Thomas as Tom.
Carel Strycken as Raymond Andrew Joubert.
Directed by: Mike Flanagan.
Screenwriters: Mike Flanagan, Jeff Howard (based on the novel by Stephen King).
Duration: About 103 minutes.
America.
IMDb Score: 6.6/10
