Salem's Lot

When Vampires are Just Average: A Cheeky Look at 'Salem's Lot Reboot!

Is the latest *Salem's Lot* film destined for greatness or destined for the bargain bin? Find out why we think it's all a bit mediocre!

Horror enthusiasts, gather round! The film adaptation of Stephen King’s classic vampire novel *Salem's Lot* has resurfaced, and it’s raising eyebrows faster than a vampire’s fang can sink into a juicy neck. Streaming on HBO Max since October 3rd, the new version is directed by Gary Dauberman, a screenwriter known for works like *IT* and *Annabelle Comes Home*. But spoiler alert – this time, the vampire vibe doesn’t quite hit the mark. With a narrative that centres around Ben Mears, played by Lewis Pullman, the film offers a fresh take, yet somehow feels aggressively average. One can't help but think, “Could it really have been worse?” Let’s sink our teeth into it!

While the 1975 novel by King has cemented its status in the genre, the adaptations seem to have missed the mark when it comes to capturing the essence of the fearsome vampire Barlow. Instead of being an enigmatic villain that sends chills down our spines, he’s more likely to make you laugh than scream – unless laughter is your coping mechanism for horror films. Many fans have chimed in, questioning why the adaptations keep transforming Barlow from the captivating horror of a classic vampire into an unrecognizable beast reminiscent of a poorly made movie monster. Honestly, it feels like a missed opportunity for cinematography gold!

Moving through the cobwebs of the storyline, critics have pointed out the familiar horror tropes and character stereotypes peppered throughout the film. Despite the compelling talent of actors like Alfre Woodard and Bill Camp, it’s hard not to notice that the film doesn’t quite deliver the thrills one would hope for in a vampire saga. Let’s face it – screaming at the top of your lungs or clutching your armrest isn’t just about the flickering screens but about crafting characters that truly resonate.

As the film hits those rushed climaxes, viewers might find themselves yearning for the backstory of the infamous Marsten House, the haunts that they’ve never explored chalked up in a history beyond typical horror film fare. The Marsten House's narrative deserves a deep dive just as much as the characters themselves! So, can we really hope for more converting stories from this vampire genre? It may take a few garlic cloves and holy water to bring it back to life!

Interesting Fact #1: *Salem's Lot* has had multiple adaptations since its original release, but King has famously commented that he's uncomfortable with how adaptations capture the heart of his storytelling. This particular reboot, however, seems more 'toothless' than ever.

Interesting Fact #2: The iconic Marsten House, central to the novel, was inspired by several real-life reports of haunted houses across America, where strange happenings and eerie presences still reign today! So the zombies in our living rooms may not be the only ones lurking around…