Salem’s Lotfirst reactions are finally in after the Stephen King Vampire movie’s 2-year delay, revealing just how worthwhile the new horror movie truly is. TheupcomingSalem’s Lotremakebegan production in September 2021, with the film originally set to be released the following September in theaters. However, Warner Bros. ended up delaying the film multiple times before settling on a streaming release following the 2023 Hollywood strikes. The movie will be arriving on Max on July 23, 2025.
Now, first reactions toSalem’s Lotare in following its premiere at Beyond Fest, revealing what critics think of King’s new vampire movie. Overall,reviews have been decidedly mixed, with many critics enjoying the movie despite its cheesy, sometimes comedic approach. However, others found the presentation less desirable, calling the script “thin” but still giving positive takes on performances. Check out what some first reactions had to say below:
Alex HarrisonofScreen Rantsays that, while the movie doesn’t live up to the expectations its delay has caused, it’s still a well-made, creepy horror film.
Darren Mooney, member of the Online Film Critics Society, wasn’t sold on the film’s lack of thematic exploration, but was happy with the more “pulpy” presentation it stuck to throughout its run.
Hunter BoldingofThat Hashtag Showbelieved the film was fantastic, wishing it had been released in theaters before Warner Bros. decided to change it to streaming.
Edgar Ortegaof theWhere Heartbreak Feels Good Podcastsees the film as more comedic than horrifying, critiquing the script as having little substance, but praising the stars for making it work regardless.
Alex ZalbenofComicbook Club Livefound the film disappointing, critiquing its pacing and dialogue, yet still praising actors like Jordan Preston Carter and the shot composition.
CriticalOverlordthought the movie was a mixed bag, praising Lewis Pullman and the cast, but criticizing the story and the vampire Barlow’s design.
William BibbianiofTheWrapindicated the film is a love letter to vampire movies, with plenty of fun moments and memorable characters to root for.
The Moonlight Warriorcalled the adaptation fun but flawed, believing it could become a classic someday even if it doesn’t live up to other movies in the genre.
In addition to the mixed reviews found online,critical reception has been equally split as reviews have come out for the movie.While Josh Korngut ofDread CentralbelievedSalem’s Lotlacked the depth to be considered a good adaptation, EJ Moreno ofFlickering Myththought the movie made for a good horror throwback. Similarly, Courtney Howard ofFresh Fictionwas unimpressed by its campiness, while Brian Orndorf ofBlue-ray.comfound it a good Halloween experience.
What Salem’s Lot First Impressions Say About The Stephen King Horror Movie
The Vampire Film Isn’t For Everyone
…the film still sounds like it can be carried for many horror fans looking for a campy experience this Halloween season.
The mixedreviews forSalem’s Lotindicate the vampire movie isn’t going to appeal to everyone,embracing a tone and presentation that feels more like a haunted house than a film with thematic depth.This being disappointing is understandable, given the desolate tone and isolating mood of King’s original novel. However, these changes have clearly benefited the movie in some regard, making it stand out for many horror critics despite the less stellar attributes.
Salem’s Lot Vampires Explained: Origin, Appearance & Powers
While it’s hard to know exactly what the vampires will be in the new Salem’s Lot adaptation, Stephen King’s book and previous miniseries offer clues.
What’s clearest, however, is thatthe characters are a standout for most critics, whose praise Ben Mears (Lewis Pullman), Susan Norton (Makenzie Leigh), Dr. Cody (Alfre Woodard), Matthew Burke (Bill Camp), Father Callahan (John Benjamin Hickey), and Mark Petire (Jordan Preston Carter) as memorable parts of the movie. While there was some criticism toward Barlow (Alexander Ward),cast ofSalem’s Lotclearly impressed. Even though other elements weren’t as enticing for some, the film still sounds like it can be carried for many horror fans looking for a campy experience this Halloween season.
Our Take On Salem’s Lot First Impressions
The Movie Still Sounds Like A Fun Treat For The Season
Although there a pointed criticisms aimed at the movie’s tone and story,Salem’s Lotstill sounds like a haunted house-style movie that could be entertaining throughout October. Even though it doesn’t have as much resonance or darkness as King’s novel, the new spin on the film sounds like something vampire fans would still enjoy. Although reviews for the movie aren’t as positive as expected, it still seems like a decent enough watch on Max when it arrives.
Salem’s Lotis written and directed by Gary Dauberman, best known for writing films inThe Conjuringuniverse and theItduology.
Source: Various (see above)
Salem’s Lot
Cast
Salem’s Lot is a 2024 remake of the movie of the same name released in 1979. The latest adaptation of Stephen King’s 1975 novel stars Lewis Pullman, Makenzie Leigh, and Bill Camp, with Gary Dauberman writing and directing the Max original film. The plot revolves around a writer who discovers a vampire in his hometown of Jerusalem’s Lot upon returning home for inspiration.
