Best Stephen King Film Adaptation
Stephen King is one of the most prolific and successful writers in contemporary publishing. His 1974 debut novel, Carrie, announced him as an exciting new voice in horror, and since then he has written thrillers, science-fiction, fantasy, crime dramas, and nonfiction. As of 2026, Stephen King has published 67 novels or novellas, and more than 200 short stories, many of which have been adapted to films, TV series, comic books, and more. While Mr. King is still cranking out stories, for our 2026 Halloween Special we wanted to look at the numerous movies already based on his works. So be afraid, be very afraid, as the Great Pop Culture Debate attempts to name the Best Stephen King Film Adaptation.
Movies discussed: The Shining (1980), Misery, Carrie (1976), The Shawshank Redemption, It: Chapter One (2017), The Mist (2007), Pet Sematary (1989), Stand By Me, Christine, Cujo, The Green Mile, Children of the Corn (1984), Apt Pupil, The Dead Zone (1983), Firestarter (1984), Creepshow (1982)
Join host Eric Rezsnyak and panelists Bob Erlenback, Kate Raccuila, and Victor Manibo as they discuss and debate 16 of the most memorable movie adaptations of the works of Stephen King.
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Round 1 Match-Ups:
Play along at home by finding the listener bracket here. Make a copy for yourself, fill it out, and see if your picks match up with ours!
Match-Up 1: The Shining (1980) (1) vs. Creepshow (1982) (4)
Match-Up 2: Christine (1983) (3) vs. Stand By Me (1986) (2)
Match-Up 3: The Shawshank Redemption (1994) (1) vs. Apt Pupil (1998) (4)
Match-Up 4: Children of the Corn (1984) (3) vs. It: Chapter One (2017) (2)
Match-Up 5: Misery (1990) (1) vs. Firestarter (1984) (4)
Match-Up 6: Cujo (1983) (3) vs. Pet Sematary (1989) (2)
Match-Up 7: Carrie (1976) (1) vs. The Dead Zone (1983) (4)
Match-Up 8: The Green Mile (1999) (3) vs. The Mist (2007) (2)
Want to play along at home?
Download the Listener Bracket and see if your picks match up with ours!
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Episode Credits
Host: Eric Rezsnyak
Panelists: Bob Erlenback, Kate Racculia, Victor Manibo
Producer: Derek Mekita
Editor: Bob Erlenback
Theme Music: “Dance to My Tune” by Marc Torch
