HBO Max has released a new adaptation of the classic horror film “Salem’s Lot,” which tells the story of Ben Mears, a man who moves to a small town in Maine that is plagued by evil vampires. The remake became available on HBO Max on Thursday, October 3, and is rated R due to its violent content and strong language.
The narrative revolves around Mears, a writer who returns to his hometown with the intention of crafting a book about the Marsten House, a supposedly haunted residence that looms over the town. However, his plans take a dark turn when he finds out that the house’s owner is a vampire who is transforming the townsfolk into a legion of the undead.
Significantly, much of the film was shot in Massachusetts, which lends an authentic New England ambiance to the production. Notable filming locations include central Boston, Ipswich’s downtown, and several other areas such as Sterling, Clinton, and Princeton, with the Princeton Public Library serving as a shooting location for three days. A house on Crescent Street in Stow was also featured in the film.
Originally penned in 1975, “Salem’s Lot” is Stephen King’s second novel, following his breakout hit “Carrie.” The 1979 version of “Salem’s Lot” can be rented on platforms like Prime Video and Apple TV, and is also available via subscription on HBO Max.