Misery

Kathy Bates is the court actress of Stephen King's scary horror films, and next to Dolores Claiborne, her portrayal of Annie Wilkes is a perfect and convincing example of quality acting. The atmosphere of the film gradually builds, the emotions could be cut through with a chainsaw and there's some great music to boot. I just quietly enjoyed the performance of the aforementioned actress who made James Caan's life hell. In short, the satisfaction of yet another film adaptation of King's book is truly on point and I am intoxicated beyond measure by it. (24/05/2011)

First of all, Rob Reiner’s direction is brilliant. He skillfully leads the actors and brilliantly depicts a depressive and suggestive atmosphere of fear, uncertainty, and apprehension. Moreover, almost all the film takes place in one room, or rather in one house, and it doesn't even detract from its impact. The pace and tension masterfully escalate until the devilish finale. (23/05/2005)

I really like the book by King and even though the movie doesn’t stick completely to it, it works much better than I expected. The stifling atmosphere and Annie’s high-strung “fits" sent shivers down the spine. This is mainly thanks to the great James Caan and Kathy Bates (unforgettable oink, oink, oink), who was awarded an Oscar for her role. An excellent thriller that is undoubtedly one of the best adaptations of King’s works. (06/07/2007)

Already while reading the novel I kept telling myself how cool it would be to have a huge bedroom in my house (aka writing factory) where a dozen of my favorite writers would serve me a fresh work of art every day. Enough dreaming and let’s get on with cruel film reality. First I need to say that even though I spend my time here criticizing, I recommend Misery. Particularly because of dear old Kathy Bates in a role of a good soul capable of seeing the good in others. But avoiding getting to the bottom of things unlike in the book turns out to be a little counterproductive. The result is that it makes Reiner’s movie too slick. The fact that the motion sister of the original lacks the impact of the novel is due to the nonexistence of the parallel story of Misery Chastain’s resurrection novel. I understand that it wouldn’t work in the movie (even though with a good director, who knows?) and it’s only logical that this storyline was the first to go, but without it Misery is but a mere eunuch. Although exceptionally well made, for a King adaptation. (30/03/2008)

One of the best adapted works based on Stephen King. Some passages are "softer" compared to the book, which I appreciated, oddly enough, because when I read it some 10 years ago, it made my gorge rise quite a bit at times. Kathy Bates as the most ardent fan of a successful writer is absolutely second to none, and James Caan is absolutely divine with his rational approach full of desperation. Scary, shocking, intense, and suspenseful all the way to the rooftop (or should I say basement...). [85%] (21/08/2022)