The results were mixed, at best.
The potential was there, but, frustratingly, you could see its limitations.
They are all Wikipedia page intro, no grace notes.
Custom image by Ana Nieves
That said, this’Salem’s Lotproves why the story works better as a miniseries.
Their story came to an explosive end when he murdered Birdie before killing himself.
The rest just didn’t have the same punch as in the book.
Salem’s Lot is a 2024 remake of the movie of the same name released in 1979. The latest adaptation of Stephen King’s 1975 novel stars Lewis Pullman, Makenzie Leigh, and Bill Camp, with Gary Dauberman writing and directing the Max original film. The plot revolves around a writer who discovers a vampire in his hometown of Jerusalem’s Lot upon returning home for inspiration.
I understand why it was done: some of the book deaths simply didn’t work in the adaptation.
Still, Alfre Woodard’s character being unceremoniously killed by a shotgun blast was insulting.
Dr. Cody deserved a bigger, more poignant death than that.
Of all the characters who got shortchanged in the’Salem’s Lotadaptation, it’s arguably Father Callahan.
In the book, he doesn’t die at all.
Instead, a far worse fate befalls him.
Salem’s Lot Adaptation
Release Year
Kurt Barlow Portrayed By
Salem’s Lot (2 ep.
miniseries)
1979
Reggie Nalder
2004
Rutger Hauer
Chapelwaite (10 ep.
When Barlow taints him forever, it removes the priest’s future choices.
Salem’s Lot is a 2024 remake of the movie of the same name released in 1979. The latest adaptation of Stephen King’s 1975 novel stars Lewis Pullman, Makenzie Leigh, and Bill Camp, with Gary Dauberman writing and directing the Max original film. The plot revolves around a writer who discovers a vampire in his hometown of Jerusalem’s Lot upon returning home for inspiration.
Even if he were to regain his faith, he’s forever barred from hallowed spaces.
Ironically, the act is a horrific way to restore the doomed priest’s belief in God.
They may be underdeveloped, but at least they get some screen time.
It’s a real shame, as they’re the supporting backbone of the story in the book.
When they’re turned or killed, it hurts; they were real people with real lives.
Some shots in’Salem’s Lotwere genuinely gorgeous, and the mid-’70s production design and set decoration are near-impeccable.
Truly, I was impressed.
It’s about as natural and immersive as any period piece we’ve seen in years.
The cinematography was also impeccable; certain shots might have been a painting.
