In adapting Stephen King’s “Salem’s Lot” into film for the first time, the latest version, unlike its earlier miniseries adaptations, frequently loses the novel’s emotional depth, emphasizing standard vampire thrills instead. As a longstanding fan of King’s works, I found it disheartening to see the many opportunities for richer storytelling overlooked, particularly in the film’s crowded climax.
As the vampire menace looms, the residents of Salem’s Lot seek spiritual aid from Father Donald Callahan, portrayed by John Benjamin Hickey. Callahan, an alcoholic priest grappling with his fading faith, struggles to reconcile his beliefs as he faces the evil threatening his town. One pivotal scene later in the film tests Callahan’s faith, but director Gary Dauberman does not fully explore its significance, leaving out a crucial element familiar to King readers.
In a key moment from the book, Callahan confronts the vampire Barlow while trying to save a trapped boy named Mark Petrie. Barlow challenges Callahan, offering to release the boy if the priest abandons his crucifix, confident that his powers will prevail. This encounter is central to Callahan’s character development, transitioning from internal doubt to a profound external conflict.
However, when Barlow ultimately releases Petrie, Callahan’s lack of faith leads to a disastrous choice: he cannot bring himself to lower his cross. Barlow attacks, forcing Callahan to drink his blood, thereby marking him as prey for other vampires and severing his connection to holy powers. This crucial development is omitted in the film, with Callahan appearing lifeless when the characters later revisit the scene, a missed opportunity for a more meaningful conclusion.
There is hope for a more faithful portrayal of Callahan’s arc in Mike Flanagan’s upcoming adaptation of “The Dark Tower.” This series could explore the aftermath of Callahan’s encounter with Barlow, intertwining with the larger narrative of King’s work. Given that Flanagan aims to closely adapt the source material, there remains a possibility that Callahan’s story could play a significant role.
Despite “Salem’s Lot” being a Warner Bros. production—with Flanagan’s “The Dark Tower” potentially heading to Amazon—there is a chance for crossover in character development. Fans of King’s universe know the connection well, even if the film version hasn’t completely captured it. The brief hint of blood on Callahan’s face in “Salem’s Lot” suggests a connection to Barlow that may resonate in future adaptations.
Unlike earlier adaptations, which failed to connect King’s complex narratives, Flanagan’s approach appears promising, showing a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of King’s characters and storylines. As the excitement builds for Flanagan’s adaptation, King fans remain hopeful that Callahan’s journey will be given the attention it deserves, with the vampire blood serving as a subtle but significant narrative bridge between the two adaptations.