The miniseries adaptation of The Shining, based on the novel by Stephen King, is now available for streaming on Hulu. This version, which aired in 1997, offers a unique interpretation of the story that diverges significantly from Stanley Kubrick’s iconic 1980 film. King has long criticized Kubrick’s adaptation for its departure from the emotional depth of his original narrative, and with this release, viewers can explore King’s vision in a more faithful and personal rendition.
King’s Discontent with Kubrick’s Film
The Shining is widely regarded as one of the most influential horror films of all time. Kubrick’s cinematic style, characterized by its chilling formalism and striking visuals, has left an indelible mark on the genre. However, King has openly expressed his dissatisfaction with Kubrick’s portrayal of Jack Torrance, the story’s protagonist. King described the film as “a big, beautiful Cadillac without an engine,” emphasizing that it failed to capture the complex, tragic elements of his narrative.
In King’s novel, Jack Torrance is depicted as a deeply flawed character who grapples with love, addiction, and the haunting influence of the Overlook Hotel. In contrast, Kubrick’s adaptation presents Jack as a man on the brink of madness from the start, lacking the internal struggle that King sought to convey. This divergence from the source material prompted King to take action.
A Vision Realized: The 1997 Miniseries
In response to his discontent, King worked with director Mick Garris to create a miniseries that aligns more closely with his original intentions. Though it was not a theatrical release and aired on network television, this adaptation allowed King to shape the narrative in a way that Kubrick’s film did not. It is a rare opportunity for an author to revisit and reshape their work on screen, particularly decades after another version has already gained acclaim.
The miniseries presents a different tone and approach to storytelling. While Kubrick’s film maintains a cold distance, King’s adaptation is imbued with warmth and intimacy. Actor Steven Weber portrays Jack Torrance as a man struggling to do right by his family, while Rebecca De Mornay‘s Wendy is depicted as strong and proactive, rather than a passive victim. This emphasis on character development allows the audience to experience the horror of the Overlook Hotel through a lens of empathy and understanding.
King’s personal history with addiction is evident throughout the miniseries, as it explores the themes of love and grief that ultimately contribute to Jack’s tragic downfall. The Overlook is not merely a haunted location; it becomes a predatory force that exploits Jack’s vulnerabilities, making his descent into madness a more painful and relatable experience.
Embracing Imperfections
While the miniseries is not without its flaws, including the limitations of late-‘90s television production, these imperfections contribute to its charm. The effects may not be as polished as those in Kubrick’s film, and the pacing can feel uneven. Yet, this rawness lends a sense of humanity that contrasts sharply with Kubrick’s meticulous craftsmanship. The miniseries becomes a personal exploration rather than just a horror story.
In the context of its time, the 1997 miniseries navigated the restrictions of network television, which often limited the portrayal of horror and violence. King and Garris managed to construct an emotionally resonant narrative that still delivers genuine scares, showcasing the power of psychological horror without the benefit of an R rating. The result is an intimate portrayal of a family’s struggle against the backdrop of supernatural terror.
Both adaptations of The Shining offer distinct perspectives on the same source material. Kubrick’s film presents a polished nightmare that emphasizes the inevitability of madness, while King’s miniseries frames it as a tragic tale of a father losing his battle to maintain his family’s love amidst overwhelming forces. Together, they contribute to a rich dialogue about how stories can evolve over time and through different interpretations.
As audiences now have the chance to stream King’s version on Hulu, they are invited to engage with the narrative in a new way. This miniseries stands as a testament to King’s commitment to reclaiming his story. In a landscape where studio control often overshadows individual voices, King’s adaptation reaffirms the importance of authorship and the personal connection between a storyteller and their narrative.
Ultimately, watching the miniseries is not merely a nostalgic experience; it is a chance to appreciate how King’s vision has reclaimed its place in the cultural conversation surrounding The Shining. The Overlook Hotel remains a haunting symbol, but now it resonates more deeply with themes of love, loss, and the struggle against personal demons.
