As a huge horror fan, and especially a Stephen King enthusiast, I’m always asked for Halloween recommendations. So, here are five movies and shows based on his work that I think are perfect for getting you in the spooky spirit. King really is a master of horror, and whether you prefer the books or the adaptations, there’s something for everyone this time of year!
Stephen King recently shared his Halloween recommendations on Threads, listing his favorite movie and TV adaptations and where to watch them. He suggests The Institute (available on MGM+ and Prime Video), 1922 (Netflix), Gerald’s Game (Netflix), Lisey’s Story (Apple TV+), and IT: Welcome to Derry (HBO Max). King also encourages fans to explore other adaptations of his work. You can find his full post below.
Post by @stephenkingView on Threads
Just before its debut on HBO Max, he recommended checking out the prequel series, IT: Welcome to Derry. The show expands on scenes from the original Stephen King novel and once again stars Bill Skarsgård as Pennywise, the famously frightening clown.
Following Welcome to Derry, The Institute is one of Stephen King’s newest stories to be adapted for television. The show released its first eight episodes throughout the summer of 2025, and has been renewed for a second season. This second season will continue the story beyond the events of the first season and will not be limited by the original book’s ending.
Considering Mike Flanagan’s history of adapting Stephen King’s stories, it’s no surprise King recommends Gerald’s Game. The 2017 film marked Flanagan’s first King adaptation, and he’s since gone on to adapt Doctor Sleep and The Life of Chuck. He’s also recently finished filming a Carrie television series for Prime Video.
Stephen King points out that both Lisey’s Story and 1922 are adaptations that haven’t gotten as much attention as they deserve. Lisey’s Story became a miniseries with Julianne Moore and Clive Owen in 2021, and the 2017 film 1922 earned a very high 92% rating from critics on Rotten Tomatoes.
Stephen King isn’t always thrilled with how his books are turned into movies or TV shows, famously disliking Stanley Kubrick’s version of The Shining. That makes it especially noteworthy that The Institute, 1922, Gerald’s Game, Lisey’s Story, and Welcome to Derry are being singled out as successful adaptations from the many versions of his work.
Stephen King has highlighted five stories, each offering a different kind of horror experience. Welcome to Derry delivers classic scares with a frightening monster similar to Pennywise, while The Institute focuses on the terror of cruel people exploiting children with special abilities. These stories vary in their approach – some are jump-scare focused, others build suspense through psychological chills – but they’re all captivating reads, especially for Halloween.
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2025-10-26 23:00