First Reactions to Salem’s Lot Remake
After a prolonged two-year delay, the initial reactions to the much-anticipated Salem’s Lot remake, based on Stephen King’s novel, have finally emerged. The film, initially slated for a theatrical release in September 2022, faced multiple postponements by Warner Bros., ultimately leading to a streaming release on Max set for October 3, 2024, after the 2023 Hollywood strikes.
Initial Reviews from Beyond Fest
Following its premiere at Beyond Fest, critics have shared their mixed feelings about the new vampire movie. While some praised its eerie atmosphere and craftsmanship, others criticized its cheesy and occasionally comedic tone. Despite differing opinions, the performances were generally well-received. Here’s a glimpse of what some critics had to say:
– Alex Harrison, Screen Rant: Acknowledged the film’s failure to meet heightened expectations but recognized it as a well-crafted, chilling horror movie.
– Darren Mooney, Online Film Critics Society: Expressed dissatisfaction with the film’s lack of thematic depth, yet appreciated its consistent “pulpy” style.
– Hunter Bolding, That Hashtag Show: Found the film fantastic, lamenting its shift from theaters to streaming.
– Edgar Ortega, Where Heartbreak Feels Good Podcast: Viewed the movie as more comedic than terrifying, critiquing the script’s lack of substance but applauding the cast’s performances.
– Alex Zalben, Comicbook Club Live: Critiqued the pacing and dialogue, yet praised the actors like Jordan Preston Carter and the film’s visual composition.
– CriticalOverlord: Called the film a mixed bag, commending Lewis Pullman and the ensemble while criticizing the plot and vampire Barlow’s design.
– William Bibbiani, TheWrap: Described the film as a love letter to vampire cinema, filled with enjoyable moments and memorable characters.
– The Moonlight Warrior: Labelled the adaptation as fun but flawed, suggesting it could become a classic despite not matching others in the genre.
Broader Critical Reception
The mixed reviews extend beyond the initial reactions, with critics divided over the film’s merits. Josh Korngut of Dread Central found it lacking in depth as an adaptation, whereas EJ Moreno of Flickering Myth appreciated it as a nostalgic horror piece. Similarly, while Courtney Howard of Fresh Fiction was unimpressed by its campiness, Brian Orndorf of Blu-ray.com enjoyed its Halloween appeal.
What Salem’s Lot First Impressions Say About The Film
The Vampire Film Isn’t For Everyone
The reviews suggest that Salem’s Lot might not cater to all tastes, with its tone and presentation leaning more towards a campy, haunted house vibe rather than a film exploring deeper themes. This shift from the somber tone of King’s original novel may be disappointing to some, yet it has garnered attention for its standout qualities.
Salem's Lot Vampires Explained: Origin, Appearance & Powers
Notably, the characters have been praised, with critics highlighting performances by Lewis Pullman (Ben Mears), Makenzie Leigh (Susan Norton), Alfre Woodard (Dr. Cody), Bill Camp (Matthew Burke), John Benjamin Hickey (Father Callahan), and Jordan Preston Carter (Mark Petire). While Barlow’s portrayal (Alexander Ward) received some critique, the cast overall left a positive impression. Despite other elements not resonating with everyone, the film seems to offer a campy delight for horror enthusiasts this Halloween.
Our Take On Salem’s Lot First Impressions
The Movie Still Sounds Like A Fun Treat For The Season
Despite the critiques concerning its tone and narrative depth, Salem’s Lot appears to deliver a haunted house-style experience that could entertain audiences throughout October. Although it may lack the darker resonance of King’s novel, the film’s fresh take seems poised to please vampire aficionados. While the reviews aren’t overwhelmingly positive, it appears to be an enjoyable watch on Max when it debuts.
Salem’s Lot is written and directed by Gary Dauberman, known for his work on The Conjuring universe and the It duology.
Source: Various (see above)
Salem's Lot (2024)
- Horror
- Thriller
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.
