The Surprising Cinematic Tastes of the Master of Horror

Stephen King, the renowned author of countless horror classics, is known for his ability to terrify readers with his chilling tales. However, when it comes to his own cinematic preferences, the master of horror has a few surprises up his sleeve. Contrary to popular belief, King's all-time favorite movie is not a horror film, but rather a box office flop from a renowned director known for his work in the genre.

Uncovering the Unexpected Favorites of the King of Horror

Exploring King's Diverse Cinematic Palette

While Stephen King's literary works have been the source of countless horror movie adaptations, the author's own cinematic tastes extend far beyond the realm of terror. In an interview with the British Film Institute (BFI), King revealed a list of his favorite films, showcasing a diverse and unexpected range of cinematic preferences.At the top of King's list is a film that may come as a surprise to many – William Friedkin's 1977 box office flop, "Sorcerer." Friedkin, of course, is best known for directing the iconic horror classic "The Exorcist," which is widely regarded as one of the greatest horror films of all time. However, King's admiration lies not with Friedkin's supernatural thriller, but rather with his lesser-known and commercially unsuccessful "Sorcerer."

Sorcerer: King's Unexpected Cinematic Gem

"Sorcerer" is a 1977 American adventure thriller film directed by William Friedkin, based on the 1950 French film "The Wages of Fear" by Henri-Georges Clouzot. The film follows a group of men from different backgrounds who are brought together in a small South American town, where they are tasked with the dangerous job of transporting highly volatile nitroglycerin across treacherous terrain.Despite its critical acclaim, "Sorcerer" was a commercial failure, struggling to find an audience and ultimately losing a significant amount of money for the studio. However, King's appreciation for the film runs deep, and he has long championed it as one of his all-time favorites.In his interview with BFI, King praised the film's gritty realism, the intense performances, and the sheer technical mastery displayed by Friedkin in crafting the film's nerve-wracking set pieces. He described "Sorcerer" as a "masterpiece of suspense" and a "white-knuckle ride" that showcases Friedkin's skills as a director.

Delving into King's Eclectic Cinematic Tastes

While "Sorcerer" may be the surprising standout on King's list of favorite films, the author's cinematic preferences extend far beyond the realm of horror. In the same interview, King also highlighted his admiration for other genres, including classic westerns, crime dramas, and even comedies.Among the other films on King's list are the Coen brothers' "Fargo," the Clint Eastwood-led western "Unforgiven," and the gritty crime drama "The French Connection." These selections demonstrate King's appreciation for well-crafted, character-driven stories that transcend the boundaries of a single genre.King's eclectic taste in cinema is a testament to his deep understanding and appreciation of the art form. Rather than being solely focused on the horror genre, the author's cinematic palate is broad and diverse, reflecting his keen eye for storytelling and his ability to recognize the merits of films that may not necessarily fit the mold of his own literary work.

The Enduring Legacy of "Sorcerer"

Despite its initial commercial failure, "Sorcerer" has since gained a cult following and a renewed appreciation among film enthusiasts. The film's reputation has grown over the years, with many critics and filmmakers recognizing it as a masterful example of suspense and technical filmmaking.King's unwavering support for the film has undoubtedly played a role in its resurgence. The author's endorsement has helped to shine a spotlight on "Sorcerer" and has encouraged a new generation of viewers to discover the film's many charms.As the master of horror continues to captivate audiences with his literary works, his cinematic tastes serve as a reminder that the world of film is a vast and diverse landscape, filled with hidden gems and unexpected delights. By championing the underappreciated "Sorcerer," King has not only expanded our understanding of his own artistic sensibilities but has also contributed to the ongoing appreciation and preservation of a true cinematic masterpiece.