Celebrated horror novelist Stephen King has shared a characteristically candid and humorous review of the new Apple TV+ series, 'Cape Fear'. The 78-year-old author, a self-declared aficionado of John D. MacDonald's 1957 novel 'The Executioners' which serves as the source material, took to social media to express his admiration for the latest adaptation.
King's verdict, posted on X, declared the series: “It’s entertaining because it’s more f***ed up than Peter O’Toole on his birthday.” This vivid comparison references the legendary British actor, Peter O’Toole, famed for his hell-raising reputation and iconic roles such as in 'Lawrence of Arabia'. O'Toole passed away in 2013 at the age of 81.
The comment initially sparked some discussion after another user suggested the series was 'sloppily and ridiculously plotted'. However, King quickly clarified that his colourful remark was intended as high praise, adding, “I say that with love and admiration.” The 10-episode series, created by screenwriter Nick Antosca, features a star-studded cast including Amy Adams and Patrick Wilson as the couple pursued by the psychopathic Max Cady, played by Javier Bardem.
This latest iteration of 'Cape Fear' follows two previous major screen adaptations. The 1962 film version starred Gregory Peck and Robert Mitchum, while a 1991 remake featured Robert De Niro, Nick Nolte, and Jessica Lange. The new Apple TV+ series launched last month and is available for streaming in the UK, with new subscribers able to access a free seven-day trial before a monthly subscription fee.
King's enthusiasm for adaptations of his preferred material is well-documented. Coincidentally, earlier this week, a new film adaptation of his own dystopian novel, 'The Long Walk', soared to the top of HBO Max’s streaming charts. That film, which premiered in cinemas last year and stars Cooper Hoffman, David Jonsson, and Mark Hamill, had spent decades in development and saw King himself request an increase in on-screen violence to accurately reflect the novel's brutal themes.