Overview

In Violence in the Films of Stephen King, contributors analyze the theme of violence in the film adaptations of Stephen King’s work—ranging from the earliest films in the King canon to his most recent iterations—through a variety of lenses. Investigating the diverse and varying roles that violence continues to play as both the level of violence and the gendered depictions of violence have evolved, many of the contributors come to the conclusion that King’s films have grown more violent over time. This book also examines the fine line between necessary violence and sensationalist violence, discussing the complexity of determining what constitutes violence with a narrative and ethical significance versus violence intended solely to titillate, repulse, or otherwise draw an emotional reaction from viewers. Scholars of film studies, horror studies, literary studies, and gender studies will find this book particularly useful.

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9781793635792

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Reviews

One of the finest collections of essays on Stephen King's films ever published. Highly readable, immensely informative, and wonderfully perceptive. The editors have assembled a stellar selection of articles from the finest King scholars. If you enjoy Stephen King, then I would strongly suggest you make room on your bookshelf for this volume. It is indispensable. -- Gary Hoppenstand, Michigan State University Violence in the Films of Stephen King is not just a timely study, but a necessary one. Poised at the intersection of aesthetics and ethics, the volume's chapters ask the hard questions of King adaptations: when is violence necessary? When is it simply gratuitous? Under what conditions (if any) is violence OK? And what pleasures do viewers derive from it? This significant volume will be essential reading not just for those interested in King, but also for those preoccupied with larger issues of violence and justice, and their representation on screen. -- Jeffrey Andrew Weinstock, Central Michigan University

Author Information

Tony Magistrale is professor of English at the University of Vermont. Michael J. Blouin is associate professor of English and the humanities at Milligan University.

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