Tranquil Town Transformed by Enigmatic Stranger

Read Time:4 Minute, 33 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Needful Things
–

Genre: Crime, Drama, Fantasy
Year Released: 1993, 2023 Kino Lorber 4K
Runtime: 2h/3h 11m
Director(s): Fraser C. Heston
Writer(s): Stephen King, W.D. Richter
Cast: Max von Sydow, Ed Harris, Bonnie Bedelia, Amanda Plummer, J.T. Walsh, Ray McKinnon, Duncan Fraser, William Morgan Sheppard, Shane Meier, Valri Bromfield, Don S. Davis
Where To Watch: available now here www.kinolorber.com, or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: In the world of cinema, every once in a while, there comes a tale that upends the peaceful routine of an ordinary town, transforming it into a world of excitement and intrigue. Enter the film/miniseries based on Stephen King’s NEEDFUL THINGS, where the arrival of an enigmatic stranger Leland Gaunt (Max von Sydow), abruptly ruptures the serene small-town charm of Castle Rock (sound familiar?) Gaunt soon stirs things up with his unique antique store, causing the once harmonious townfolk to teeter on the brink of discord. Is it just a coincidence, or are Gaunt's peculiar curios at the root of it all? This mystery proves too compelling for the town's chief law enforcer to ignore.

Before diving into this review, I wanted to highlight a few things about this release. First and foremost, Kino Lorber went out of their way to include a gorgeously restored theatrical version and the three-hour and eleven-minute TV cut (coming with both the 4k and standard Blu-ray releases.) I recommend the TV cut; although certain things were edited out from the theatrical version, it gives you a much more official film cut. Director Fraser C. Heston (Charlton Heston’s son) says the theatrical cut is their preferred cut for what that’s worth. Kino Lorber also gives the slipcover reason for existing, giving us a different cover on the case itself; I love it when the art differs!

Castle Rock was a beacon of tranquility until Gaunt’s arrival, but it masked a reservoir of dormant resentments. As portrayed by Max von Sydow, Gaunt capitalizes on these fissures, trading not in coins but seemingly innocuous goods. Little does the town realize these small trinkets are to blame for the ensuing chaos, leaving Sheriff Alan Pangborn brought to life by Ed Harris.

King is a seasoned veteran of creating stories that marry the allure of quintessential American small-town life with the pervasive shadow of malevolence. His explorations often probe into the dualistic nature of evil, manifesting either as external entities or internal strife. NEEDFUL THINGS impeccably brings this to life, drawing a vivid illustration of wickedness as both an inner demon and an external adversary.

As the town descends into chaos, viewers are captivated by the dramatic unraveling. The narrative cleverly escalates from seemingly benign mischief to full-blown confrontations. The suspense surrounding Gaunt's true nature only heightens the audience's intrigue.

While the movie does bear some cinematic shortcomings, it stays true to the original novel's chilling essence. W.D. Richter's screenplay successfully fosters a palpable sense of unease, while Max von Sydow's performance as Leland Gaunt demands viewers' attention despite his limited screen time.

Ed Harris, Amanda Plummer, and JT Walsh give commendable performances, though their characters could have been further explored (as they are in the TV cut.) However, Max von Sydow steals the spotlight, pushing NEEDFUL THINGS beyond the confines of a conventional horror narrative. The film ends with a poignant reminder of the ongoing battle between good and evil, leaving viewers contemplating long after the credits roll.

In conclusion, NEEDFUL THINGS is a worthy adaptation of Stephen King's acclaimed novel. Despite some imperfections, it successfully channels the essence of the story. The ensemble's remarkable performances, primarily Max von Sydow's, ensure that this film is an enthralling cinematic experience not to be missed.

Product Extras :
DISC 1 (4KUHD)
Brand New HDR/Dolby Vision Master (Theatrical Cut) – From a 4K Scan of the Original Camera Negative
Audio Commentary by Director Fraser C. Heston, Moderated by Scorpion Releasing's Walt Olsen
5.1 Surround and 2.0 Lossless Audio
Triple-Layered UHD100 Disc
Optional English Subtitles

DISC 2 (BLU-RAY)
Brand New HD Up-Res Master of the 191-Minute TV Cut
New Interview with Screenwriter W.D. Richter
Theatrical Trailer
Dual-Layered BD50 Disc
Optional English Subtitles

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[photo courtesy of KINO LORBER]

MY SAG-AFTRA/WGA STRIKE STATEMENT:
As an advocate for creators, actors, and writers, I firmly stand with SAG-AFTRA and the WGA in their current strike. The entertainment industry is built on these individuals' extraordinary talents, and their contributions must be appropriately recognized and rewarded. They deserve fair compensation, sensible work hours, and respect for their creative rights. I believe in the power of unity and collective action, and I'm steadfast in my support for their fight for better working conditions and fair remuneration. Together, we can shape a more equitable future in the entertainment world.

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