Misery – Review

While there are a zillion adaptations of Stephen King’s novels, only some seem to be worthwhile. Misery remains definitely one of the very good ones. The story is simple, yet effective. Author Paul Sheldon (Caan) spends his time writing in seclusion at the Silver Creek Lodge in the Rocky Mountains. He can focus, and be unbothered by his surroundings, and return back to society after completing his novels.

He has just wrapped his latest novel, and hops in his vintage Mustang, headed down the wintry hill, completely oblivious to the incoming snow storm. After his car spins off the road and he is in a violent car crash, it seems unlikely that he will survive the remote setting and blustery weather. Miraculously, he is pulled out of the wreckage by an unknown savior, only to eventually wake in the care of a nurse named Annie Wilkes (Bates), in her home.

As he begins to mend, he waits for power and phone lines to be restored, so he can reach out to his publisher and family. Annie reveals that she is coincidentally Paul’s “number one fan” and simply adores his Misery Chastain novel series. He is happy to have lucked out with someone to care for his shattered legs, as well as someone who says kind words about his writings.

What begins as a recovery period in a stranger’s home advances into something sinister as Paul begins to question Annie’s motives and her sanity. The movie takes some dark turns, never losing steam and ratcheting up the tension.

The acting is fantastic, and includes some of both Caan and Bates’ best roles for me personally. The snowy small-town setting is perfect for the simple story, and gives credence to its tale. Thrills come fast once the movie gets rolling, and tension is hammered home with a few unforgettable scenes.