In this episode of the Fully Booked podcast, hosts Meghan and Shirin delve into the latest adaptation of Stephen King’s 1975 novel, Salem’s Lot. Released on HBO Max on October 3rd, 2024, this new version attempts to bring King’s vampire tale to a modern audience.
As we explore the film’s strengths and weaknesses, we’ll examine how it compares to the source material and previous adaptations, and discuss why it ultimately falls short of expectations.
Note
The following is an editorialized transcript of our weekly literary podcast. If you would like to listen to the podcast, click the play button above orlisten on your favorite platform with the links below.
The Legacy of Salem’s Lot
Before we dive into the specifics of this book adaptation, it’s worth noting the significance of Salem’s Lot in Stephen King’s bibliography. Published in 1975, it was King’s second novel and his first foray into vampire lore. The book has been highly regarded by fans and critics alike, praised for its atmospheric tension and exploration of small-town dynamics in the face of supernatural horror.
Salem’s Lot has been adapted twice before for television: a well-received 1979 miniseries and a 2004 version starring Rob Lowe. The enduring popularity of the story speaks to its resonance with audiences and the timeless appeal of vampire narratives.
Salem’s Lot 2024 Plot Overview
The 2024 film adaptation of Salem’s Lot follows the basic structure of King’s novel. Set in the fictional small town of Jerusalem’s Lot, Maine (colloquially known as Salem’s Lot), the story centers on Ben Mears, a young writer who returns to his hometown to work on a novel. Coinciding with his arrival is the appearance of two mysterious European antique dealers, Mr. Straker and Mr. Barlow, who purchase the infamous Marston House on a hill overlooking the town.
As strange events begin to unfold and children start disappearing, Ben, along with a local teacher named Matt Burke and a young horror enthusiast named Mark Petrie, begins to suspect that something sinister is afoot. They eventually discover that Barlow is an ancient vampire who has come to turn the town’s residents into his undead minions.
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Adaptation Challenges and Missed Opportunities
While the film attempts to capture the essence of King’s novel, it falters in several key areas:
Atmosphere and Tension
One of the most significant shortcomings of this adaptation is its failure to recreate the novel’s atmospheric tension. In King’s book, the sense of dread builds slowly, with characters gradually piecing together the horrifying truth. The film, however, rushes through this process, revealing the vampire threat early on and sacrificing much of the mystery and suspense that made the novel so effective.
We found that the movie struggled to establish a consistent tone, oscillating between attempts at serious horror and more campy elements reminiscent of lighter vampire fare. This inconsistency prevented the film from fully immersing viewers in the terrifying world King created.
Character Development
Another area where the adaptation falls short is in its treatment of the characters. Ben Mears, the protagonist, feels underdeveloped and somewhat passive. His backstory and motivations are barely explored, making it difficult for the audience to connect with him emotionally.
The romantic subplot between Ben and Susan Norton, a local woman, feels particularly rushed and unconvincing. Their relationship lacks the depth and authenticity found in the novel, making Ben’s later anguish over Susan’s fate less impactful.
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Subscribe to our weekly newsletterPacing and Exposition
The film’s pacing is problematic, with much of the plot progression feeling rushed or disjointed. Important revelations and character realizations occur too quickly, often through clumsy exposition. This is particularly evident in the scenes where Matt Burke and Mark Petrie discuss vampire lore, which comes across as forced and unnatural.
Visual Style and Period Setting
While the film makes an effort to recreate the 1970s setting through costumes and set design, it doesn’t fully capture the essence of the era. The visual style, while occasionally striking, doesn’t consistently evoke the period or the gothic atmosphere of King’s novel.
Performances and Standout Elements
Despite its shortcomings, the film does have some redeeming qualities:
Jordan Preston Carter as Mark Petrie
One of the brightest spots in the adaptation is Jordan Preston Carter’s performance as Mark Petrie. The young actor brings charm and authenticity to the role, effectively conveying Mark’s horror expertise and bravery in the face of supernatural threats.
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Visual Effects and Makeup
The vampire makeup, particularly for the character of Barlow, is generally well-executed. While some CGI enhancements occasionally detract from the practical effects, the overall visual representation of the vampires is suitably creepy and effective.
Cinematography
The film features several striking visual compositions that capture the eerie atmosphere of Salem’s Lot. While not consistently maintained throughout the movie, these moments showcase the potential for a more visually compelling adaptation.
Deviations from the Source Material
The 2024 adaptation makes several significant changes to King’s original story:
- Character Fates: The film alters the fates of several key characters, including Matt Burke and Father Callahan. These changes often simplify the narrative at the expense of the novel’s nuanced exploration of faith and mortality.
- Ending: The movie’s conclusion lacks the epilogue found in King’s novel, which depicts Ben and Mark returning to Salem’s Lot a year later to destroy the remaining vampires. This omission robs the story of its sense of closure and the ongoing struggle against evil.
- Thematic Depth: The adaptation fails to fully explore some of the novel’s deeper themes, such as the loss of faith and the corruption of small-town America. These elements are present but underdeveloped in the film.
RelatedHow Stephen King Almost Threw Away His Most Successful Book
In Closing
The 2024 adaptation of Salem’s Lot, while not without its merits, ultimately fails to capture the magic of Stephen King’s novel. Its rushed pacing, inconsistent tone, and underdeveloped characters prevent it from achieving the same level of horror and emotional resonance as the source material.
For fans of King’s work or vampire fiction in general, the film may be worth watching for its visual elements and Jordan Preston Carter’s standout performance as Mark Petrie. However, those seeking a truly faithful and effective adaptation of Salem’s Lot may be better served by revisiting the 1979 miniseries or, better yet, reading King’s original novel.
As we reflect on this latest attempt to bring Salem’s Lot to the screen, we’re reminded of the challenges inherent in adapting beloved literature. While the core of King’s vampire tale remains compelling, this adaptation serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of pacing, atmosphere, and character development in bringing literary horror to life on screen.
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