Stephen King has written numerous novels and short stories that have been adapted into movies, but one of his most iconic tales is Salem's Lot (1979), a vampire story that still sends shivers down many fans' spines. As I sat down to watch this classic mini-series, I couldn't help but wonder how it would hold up today.

One thing that struck me immediately was the fact that this was not a theatrical release, but rather a TV mini-series. This is something that will become a common theme when reviewing Stephen King movies - many of them were originally released in shorter form on television. Despite this, Salem's Lot remains a compelling and frightening tale that explores the darker side of human nature.

The story centers around a suave antiques dealer named Kurt Barlow (played by James Mason), who arrives in the small town of Salem's Lot with an air of sophistication and knowledge that goes far beyond his profession. However, as the townspeople soon discover, Barlow is not what he seems - and he has a sinister plan to drain the entire town of its blood before moving on.

The film features impressive make-up effects for its time, bringing the vampires to life in a way that was both convincing and terrifying. One standout scene that still gives me goosebumps is when young Lance Kerwin's character walks alone through the quiet streets of Salem's Lot - it's a masterclass in building tension and suspense.

The mini-series also explores themes of isolation and small-town secrets, as David Soul's character returns to his hometown only to find himself at the center of a growing vampire infestation. The film's climax is both intense and haunting, as the surviving characters make their desperate bid to escape the clutches of the undead.

For me, Salem's Lot (1979) remains one of the best movie adaptations of a Stephen King novel - it's a chilling tale that still holds up today. With its blend of suspense, horror, and small-town unease, this mini-series is a must-watch for fans of the genre. Just be sure to watch with the lights on!

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