Renowned author Stephen King recently opened up about the horror movie that left a lasting impression on him in a new documentary titled Chain Reactions. King admitted that the 1999 found footage horror film, The Blair Witch Project, “really got under my skin” during a vulnerable time in his life. Despite being known for his mastery of horror storytelling, King shared that watching this particular movie with his son, Joe Hill, while recovering in the hospital was a harrowing experience.
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In an interview for the documentary, directed by Alexandre O. Philippe, King recalled the intensity of watching The Blair Witch Project unfold. As the characters delved deeper into the eerie woods and encountered unsettling sights, King found himself unable to continue watching. The author, famous for works like Carrie and The Shining, admitted, “I got to a point where I said, ‘Joe, turn it off. I can’t take it anymore.’ And that’s rare.”
Known for his resilience when it comes to consuming horror content, King explained that while he is “kind of case hardened” to scary movies, there are still rare occasions when a film manages to deeply affect him. The Blair Witch Project stood out to him because of its unique storytelling and portrayal of terror that lingered with him long after viewing it.
Chain Reactions delves into the impact of the 1974 horror movie The Texas Chain Saw Massacre on the genre, featuring insights from King and other industry figures. King drew parallels between The Blair Witch Project and The Texas Chain Saw Massacre, highlighting their low budgets and minimalist approaches that added to the authenticity and impact of the horror they portrayed.
Reflecting on his first viewing of The Texas Chain Saw Massacre, King shared his experience of watching it in a near-empty theatre, which heightened the movie’s chilling effect on him. He commended the film’s gritty, realistic aesthetics that contributed to its overall sense of dread and unease, making it a memorable and haunting cinematic experience for him.
Aside from his insights on horror films, King has recently ventured into new creative projects, including a retelling of the classic tale “Hansel and Gretel” with illustrations by Maurice Sendak. His diverse contributions to literature and storytelling continue to captivate audiences across different mediums, showcasing his enduring influence in the world of fiction.
As Chain Reactions prepares to premiere in New York City and Los Angeles, before expanding nationwide, audiences can look forward to gaining further insights into King’s perspective on horror cinema and its profound impact on storytelling. With his candid reflections and unique storytelling style, King remains a pivotal figure in the realm of horror literature and film, shaping the genre for generations to come.