Go, then. there are other worlds than these.

Rating: 10/10 (23 November 2007)

As a lifelong fan of King, and avid bibliophile I have read every one of his books, most of them several times. "The Mist" has always been my favorite of his novella length stories (along with the "The Long Walk"). I have to admit I am always up for something new (if the author is comfortable with it) thus I really appreciate the new ending; it is brave, dark, and creative.
The movie itself has great pacing, moving both slowly (no ghoulies jumping out immediately, making the movie boring after 5 minutes..a la every Wes Craven or John Carpenter movie ever)and quickly in moments of tension. The acting is natural and fluid; the movie is cast with real people (especially if you live in Maine). I find most horror movies terribly boring and tedious, whereas this movie got me pretty riled up. Even the folks in the theater with me got excited. The last time I went to a movie where people applauded was...well...it was a long time ago.
Perhaps what got me the most excited were the many Dark Tower references. From the Lobstrosity to Mrs. Carmody's "My life for you" (hmmmm...flashbacks of Tick-Tock and Trashcan anyone?) The movie brings up many of the same things I've wondered when reading the story. Did the creatures come from Roland's dimension? Was Carmody one of Flagg/Fannin's cronies? There are other parallels that I can't remember at the moment, but the movie gave me hope that perhaps....just perhaps...a DT movie would not be a total nightmare. Maybe.
One can hope.