Salems Lot Cast Discuss Making a Horror Movie Setting

Salems Lot Cast Discuss Making a Horror Movie Setting

As a lifelong horror fan who grew up devouring classics like The Exorcist and It, I was beyond thrilled to hear that Stephen King’s Salem’s Lot is getting another modern adaptation. Having had the pleasure of working with seasoned actors such as Alfre Woodard and Spencer Treat Clark in this HBO Max version, I can confidently say that their combined talent and passion for the genre have breathed new life into the story.


As a dedicated horror enthusiast, I can’t help but marvel at how the horror genre has crafted some unforgettable cinematic masterpieces that linger in our minds long after the final credits. Timeless classics like “The Exorcist,” “The Shining,” and “It” have left indelible marks on audiences, remaining etched in our memories for years to come. A name that echoes through the halls of horror fandom is none other than Stephen King, whose works have been brought to life on the silver screen numerous times over the decades. Among them is his debut novel, “Salem’s Lot,” originally published in 1979. This chilling tale follows a small town’s struggle against an invasion of vampires that threatens its very existence. Despite being adapted multiple times before, director Gary Dauberman’s recent rendition on HBO Max marks the first adaptation in two decades.

As a dedicated gamer, I had the pleasure of chatting with Alfre Woodard (Dr. Cody) and Spencer Treat Clark (Mike Ryerson) during this HBO Max adaptation. With impressive resumes filled with major productions, Woodard has graced the screen in blockbusters like “The Lion King” and “Captain America: Civil War,” while Clark is renowned for his roles in films such as “Gladiator,” “Unbreakable,” and most recently, its sequel, “Glass.” They opened up about their experiences diving into the horror genre, comparing it to other genres, and how the movie’s immersive setting played a crucial role in bringing their performances to life.

Salem’s Lot Cast on Why Working on Horror is So Much Fun

Many actors strive to avoid being pigeonholed into one role type, thus they often pursue diverse characters instead, with some even welcoming roles that push them beyond their familiar territory. The movie “Salem’s Lot,” though primarily a horror production, delves into the theme of a small community uniting to safeguard their neighborhood from the menace of the undead. This blend of drama and horror offers flexibility for actors yearning for varied roles, and during filming, Woodard emphasized the significance of this versatility while portraying Dr. Cody.

Growing up as a child, I was often told to go outdoors and amuse myself. Back then, we didn’t have as much technology as we do now, so we had to use our imagination. We created characters, worlds, and even believed in them. For me, horror movies are the epitome of ‘go outside and play.’ They offer a great deal of freedom and excitement, just like playing outdoors did when I was young.

As a game enthusiast diving into the realm of film criticism, I can’t help but appreciate the intricate details that make a horror movie truly chilling. For instance, the horror genre offers actors a broader canvas for creative expression, which is one aspect. However, the ambiance and setting of the movie are equally crucial. In the case of “Salem’s Lot,” the filmmakers have wisely decided to maintain the 1970s era, staying true to the original storyline released in 1979.

During autumn, our filming took place. Initially, we utilized certain locations in early September when everything was lush and green. However, as the storyline mirrored the town’s decline, by the end of shooting, the leaves had all fallen, and the trees stood barren. This significant change in scenery had a profound impact on us actors.

Every version of “Salem’s Lot” offers fresh elements to the narrative, and this one appears to follow suit. While maintaining the novel’s authentic setting and atmosphere, the film is a fashionable reinvention of Stephen King’s cherished novel. This rendition should satisfy fans of the original and potentially attract new ones as well.

Salem’s Lot, based on the best-selling novel by Stephen King, will stream on Max on October 3.

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2024-09-28 18:23