Stephen King’s 2025 Adaptations: The Ultimate Rewatch Guide
Stephen King’s stories dominated screens in 2025, with new films and series captivating audiences. Discover which adaptations are worth revisiting and how they stack up for rewatch value.
In 2025, Stephen King’s tales were everywhere, with a flurry of adaptations gracing both cinemas and television. From chilling horrors to dystopian thrillers, directors both seasoned and fresh took on the challenge of bringing King’s work to life. Some efforts soared, while others left viewers wanting. Here’s a look at six of the year’s most notable adaptations, ranked by how likely you’ll want to watch them again.
The Institute: Familiar Territory, Little Innovation
Based on King’s 2019 novel, The Institute arrived as an eight-part series on MGM+. The story follows Luke Ellis, a prodigious teenager abducted and confined in a secretive facility exploiting children with unusual abilities. The show splits its focus between the children’s ordeal and an ex-police officer’s investigation, but the result is a rather tired retread of themes seen in earlier works such as Stranger Things, The Shining, and Firestarter. Despite a capable cast, including Ben Barnes and Mary-Louise Parker, the narrative feels somewhat uninspired, with little to distinguish it from its predecessors.
The Institute is available to stream on MGM+ in the U.S.
The Running Man: High Hopes, Modest Returns
Edgar Wright’s take on The Running Man promised much, especially with Glen Powell in the lead. The film, adapted from King’s 1982 novel (written as Richard Bachman), thrusts viewers into a grim future where Ben Richards must survive a deadly televised contest to expose a corrupt regime. While the original 1987 version leaned into camp, Wright’s version is slicker but struggles to escape its shadow. The director’s trademark rapid editing doesn’t always serve the story, and despite a pointed message, the film doesn’t quite deliver the rebellious punch it aims for.
The Running Man is available to rent or buy on Amazon or Apple TV in the U.S.
The Life of Chuck: A Surprising, Heartfelt Turn
Mike Flanagan’s adaptation of The Life of Chuck defies expectations. Rather than a straightforward horror, the film offers a moving meditation on existence, anchored by Tom Hiddleston’s standout performance. The narrative unfolds in reverse, exploring the life and quiet significance of Charles “Chuck” Krantz. With a supporting cast including Mark Hamill and Karen Gillan, the film is visually striking and emotionally resonant, offering a fresh perspective on King’s storytelling.
The Life of Chuck is available to rent or buy on Amazon or Apple TV in the U.S.
Welcome to Derry: Pennywise Returns to Haunt
Arguably the year’s breakout success, Welcome to Derry revisits the infamous clown Pennywise in 1960s Maine. The series, a prequel to the recent IT films, delivers a steady stream of psychological and supernatural scares. Each episode peels back new layers of terror, with Bill Skarsgård reprising his role as the menacing clown. The show’s creators have hinted at further exploration of Pennywise’s dark legacy, and with strong critical and audience support, a second series seems likely.
IT: Welcome to Derry is currently streaming on HBO Max in the U.S.
The Monkey: Dark Fun with a Deadly Toy
Osgood Perkins, following his success with Longlegs, brings a wicked sense of humour to The Monkey. The film centres on a cursed toy monkey whose cymbals signal gruesome deaths, haunting a family across generations. Theo James leads a cast that includes Elijah Wood and Tatiana Maslany, navigating a story that balances horror with moments of levity. The narrative is tight, the cameos are entertaining, and the ending packs a proper twist. It’s a lively watch, though perhaps not one for a family night in.
The Monkey is currently streaming on Hulu in the U.S.
The Long Walk: Dystopian Drama with Real Heart
Francis Lawrence’s adaptation of The Long Walk stands out as a powerful exploration of camaraderie under pressure. Set in a bleak future, the film follows a group of boys forced into a relentless walking contest where falling behind is fatal. The dialogue is sharp, the pacing brisk, and the emotional stakes high. Mark Hamill’s portrayal of a chilling authority figure adds to the film’s impact, echoing the dangers of turning violence into entertainment. This adaptation captures the spirit of King’s original novel, offering a compelling and memorable experience.
The Long Walk is available to rent or buy on Amazon or Apple TV in the U.S.