In 1999, Stephen King released an audiobook of short stories titled, “Blood and Smoke.” One of them, “1408” follow a non-fiction writer who checks himself into a hotel to unconver a room where previous occupants were killed. As you might expect, the titular room haunts him. Eight Years Later, John Cusack starred in a film adaptation.
Released in 2007, (same year Death Note aired on Adult Swim) it received positive reviews from critics and movie goers alike. Plus, it was a box office hit. Anyway, the most recent Stephen King adaptation, “The Long Walk” starring Cooper Hoffman is already out. Bill Skarsgård will reprise his role as Pennywise in a prequel to “It: Chapters 1-2,” “Welcome to Derry” will stream on October 26, 2025 on HBO Max. By the way, I’ll watch and review Horror films during throughout October. Get into the Halloween spirit.
This review contains no SPOILERS.
Lifted & Cursed Aspects
Lifted: John Cusack did a great job for his performance.
Samuel “Sam” L. Jackson did a decent job for his performance in a brief role.
Tony Shalhoub makes a cameo appearance.
Matt Greenberg, Scott Alexander & Larry Karaszewksi co-wrote the script. The latter two also wrote “Ed Wood,” “Man on the Moon” & American Crime Story: The People vs. OJ.” All three writers told a better short story to full-length film adaptation than Roger Corman’s “The Raven.”
Mikael Håfström did a solid job directing.
Scare Factor relies on a psychological approach. Makes you feel like you’re inside the room.
Gabriel Yates (The Talented Mr. Ripley, Cold Mountain) orchestrated the soundtrack.
Practical Effects wee heavily involved. Digital Effects were used sparingly.
Cinematography’s shot in stable condition.
Pacing was not slow or fast. I was hooked right from the get-go.
Unlike most Stephen King adaptations, this one subverts cliche like bullies and the main location is set in Maine. Didn’t feel like a repeat of “The Shining.” A breath of fresh air.
The Carpenters’ “We’ve Only Just Begun” is used in certain parts. Every time I hear that tune, I think of Chubbs singing in “Happy Gllmore.”
We learn about Mike’s background.
The Director’s Cut improves the ending. Without giving it away, has something to do with Mike’s character arc. Test Audience didn’t like it.
The Number 13 often appears as a recurring image. Call me superstitious. It’s my least favorite number. Why? Because I don’t want bad luck to happen. Dimension Films reshot the ending for the Theatrical Cut. It’s not the only movie from 2007 Test Audiences disliked. Sony was forced to change I Am Legend’s ending.
Cursed: Despite being billed in a lead role and appeared on the poster, Sam Jackson has a small role. Misleading if you ask me.
Harvey “Ted Bundy” Weinstein served as an executive producer. 1408 came out before the world learned Weinstein’s a rapist. He belongs in the slammer for the rest of eternity.
The Theatrical Cut’s ending didn’t fit the writers and director’s intended result.
An unintentional funny moment with Mike attacking a mini-fridge and screaming as if he’s I.R. Baboon from “I Am Weasel.” I’m surprised a Test Audience didn’t demand the studio to reshoot the scene for Mr. Cusack. Not make him sound like a cartoon character.
The Final Verdict: B, FOR BRAVERY (Director’s Cut)
1408’s an underrated Stephen King film adaptation. If you’re looking for something to watch during Halloween Month, I highly recommend the Director’s Cut. Which Horror movie should I watch and review next? Please leave a comment.
Nickthemoviecritic.com 