Very good adaptation.

Rating: 7/10 (6 January 2009)

I have just finished the short story so it was fresh in my mind when I watched this film tonight. I must say, I was not disappointed. The short story, if you have not read it, is very good. I have no patience for King's long winded work but his short story collections are brilliant. Check out 'Nightshift' to see what I mean.
The adaptation of 'The Mist' to the big screen does alter things in several ways... but nothing is the worse for it. There is some exposition of the origins of the Mist in the film whereas there isn't anything spelled out in black and white in the book. This is fair enough, as people more often or not complain if they aren't given enough background in a film. I for one don't mind being left in the dark with certain elements of a story if the meat of it is really good. That's just me though.
But.... what is this thing that we are talking about anyway? It's a horror/thriller and in that the film succeeds and then some. Frank Darabont has done his job and done it well. Him being a big fan of King's work has no doubt helped some as the crucial parts of the story (certain lines and imagery) are all included and he brings the story to the screen in a very skillful and loving way. Mrs. Carmody is presented as an attractive, middle-aged women here - not like the stained tooth crone she is in the story. But she's still freaky and you will be rooting for her demise. The much hyped ending is very good. Probably the best thing that the director brings to the table. The creatures are cool. The scene in the pharmacy had me thinking of the part in 'Aliens' where the marines first stumble into the nest. Great stuff. And bravo for the lack of a bombastic soundtrack - nothing ruins the mood more than an intrusive score. The occasional sub bass rumblings and minimalist low organ notes say more than any pompous score ever would.
Check this film out - you won't be disappointed, especially if you dug 'Cloverfield'.