UPDATE: HBO’s highly anticipated “Welcome to Derry” is set to premiere on October 26, bringing the iconic Pennywise the Clown back to the screen. Fans are buzzing with excitement, and speculation is rife about whether this new installment will be among the scariest Stephen King adaptations ever made.
As the countdown begins, a recent ranking reveals the top ten horror films based on King’s chilling works that have kept audiences awake at night. Here’s a look at the most spine-tingling adaptations confirmed so far:
10. Cujo (1983) – This adaptation of King’s 1981 novel tells the terrifying tale of a rabid St. Bernard. Starring Dee Wallace, this film showcases a mother’s desperate struggle to protect her son from a relentless beast, tapping into primal fears of entrapment.
9. The Monkey (2025) – Osgood Perkins’ upcoming film, based on King’s short story, mixes dark comedy with horror. It follows estranged twin brothers whose childhood trauma resurfaces, promising a unique blend of tension and gruesome creativity.
8. Creepshow (1982) – A cult classic co-written by King, this anthology film delivers thrills and laughs. With segments featuring King himself, it offers a nostalgic nod to horror comics, ensuring chills through various terrifying tales.
7. Salem’s Lot (1979) – Directed by Tobe Hooper, this miniseries adapts King’s vampire tale with a haunting portrayal of a small town succumbing to evil. Its unforgettable scenes have made it a lasting favorite among horror fans.
6. Carrie (1976) – King’s debut novel became an iconic film through Brian De Palma’s direction, featuring Sissy Spacek in a legendary performance. The suspenseful prom scene remains one of horror’s most shocking moments.
5. The Mist (2007) – Frank Darabont’s adaptation of King’s novella dives deep into human psychology under pressure. As a small town faces an otherworldly fog, the film builds tension to a heart-wrenching conclusion that resonates with viewers.
4. It (2017) – Reviving the horror icon, Bill Skarsgård’s portrayal of Pennywise brought a new depth to King’s story. The film’s depiction of childhood fears against a backdrop of trauma struck a chord, making it a standout horror experience.
3. Pet Sematary (1989) – This adaptation explores themes of grief and loss through the lens of a resurrected child, ensuring that viewers are left with a lasting sense of dread and despair.
2. Misery (1990) – Kathy Bates’ Oscar-winning performance as an obsessive fan showcases a terrifying psychological thriller. The film’s iconic “hobbling” scene continues to haunt audiences, solidifying its place in horror history.
1. The Shining (1980) – Despite King’s disapproval of Stanley Kubrick’s adaptation, it remains a classic. Jack Nicholson’s chilling portrayal of Jack Torrance and the Overlook Hotel’s eerie atmosphere create a film that is eternally unsettling.
As anticipation builds for “Welcome to Derry,” fans are eager to see if it can add to this legacy of fear. With King’s works continuing to adapt, the horror genre is set to thrive with fresh nightmares for a new generation.
Stay tuned for more updates and share your favorite Stephen King adaptations in the comments below!
