Gary Dauberman delivers the goods

Gary Daubermans “Salem’s property.” is a captivating and atmospheric adaptation of Stephen King’s 1975 novel that successfully transforms the source material into a cinematic experience that feels both classic and contemporary. Featuring a cast led by Lewis Pullman, Makenzie Leigh, Alfre Woodard and Bill Camp, the film captures the eerie, claustrophobic horror of the novel while introducing modern filmmaking techniques that enhance its spooky themes. For fans of supernatural horror, the film strikes a near-perfect balance between slow-burning suspense and propulsive moments, with some minor flaws in pacing and narrative focus. Despite it, “Salem’s property.” turns out to be one of the better King adaptations in recent years.

Premise:

The film follows writer Ben Mears (Lewis Pullman) as he returns to the small town of Jerusalem’s Lot – colloquially known as “Salem’s Lot” – to find inspiration for his next novel. But as he reconnects with his childhood home, he realizes that something sinister is lurking beneath the city’s surface. This familiar scene, in which a protagonist returns to a haunted or cursed hometown, is brought to new life by Dauberman’s tight direction, creating a sense of isolation and fear that is palpable throughout the film.

Lewis Pullman is captivating:

Pullman plays Mears with quiet intensity, capturing the character’s intellectual curiosity and growing paranoia as he uncovers the city’s dark secret: the arrival of a vampire, Kurt Barlow (played with menacing seriousness by Alexander Ward). The gradual discovery of Barlow’s influence on the city is done masterfully, and the film’s slow reveal of his terrible powers heightens the tension in a way that will please both fans of King’s novel and those unfamiliar with the story.

The ensemble cast is one of the standout elements of “Salem’s property.”. Makenzie Leigh delivers a strong performance as Susan Norton, Mears’ lover, whose warmth and sincerity make her a grounded and relatable character amid the escalating chaos. The chemistry between Leigh and Pullman is compelling and their relationship provides the necessary emotional anchor for the film’s supernatural elements.

Woodard and Camp shine:

Alfred Woodard brings in the role of Dr. Cody brings seriousness and wisdom to her role, making her one of the key players in the fight against the vampire threat. John Benjamin Hickey as Father Callahan also stands out, portraying the clergyman’s crisis of faith as both vulnerable and powerful, especially in the face of the supernatural invasion of the city. Its plot is one of the film’s most compelling subplots, adding layers of existential dread that reinforce the overall theme of good versus evil.

A particular highlight is Bill Camp’s portrayal of Matthew Burke. His character, a high school teacher who helps Mears and the other residents confront the vampire, exudes a mix of paternal warmth and weariness. Camp’s performance adds a touch of humanity to the film’s dark, otherworldly atmosphere, and his moments of dry humor provide a much-needed reprieve from the horror.

Kurt Barlow:

Ward’s Kurt Barlow is frightening in his restraint. Rather than overplaying the villainous role, Ward’s portrayal of the ancient vampire is cold, calculating and deeply unsettling. His piercing eyes and commanding presence make every scene he’s in unnerving, creating a scary antagonist who feels genuinely evil without lapsing into aggression.

Atmosphere:

One of Dauberman’s strengths is “Salem’s property.” is his ability to create an atmosphere of slowly building horror. The city itself, with its aging houses, shady streets and run-down landmarks, feels like a character in its own right. Michael Burgess’ cinematography uses light and shadow to great effect, capturing the oppressive atmosphere of the city as it descends into darkness, both literally and figuratively. There are several key sequences in which the use of fog, dim streetlights and long, empty corridors creates a haunting gothic horror that feels timeless.

This atmospheric build is complemented by a spooky score by composers Nathan Barr and Lisbeth Scott. His music, subtle yet effective, emphasizes the feeling of fear without overshadowing the film’s quieter moments. The balance between silence and sound is key to the tension, with the eerie melodies creeping in at just the right moments to heighten the tension.

Tempo:

While the film follows the core structure of King’s novel, Dauberman also updates the narrative for modern audiences in a way that feels organic. While the pacing is uneven at times, it is generally well executed, allowing the story’s themes of isolation, fear, and the corruption of innocence to resonate in today’s world. The small-town dynamics and interpersonal relationships are fleshed out in a way that gives the horror a grounded feel and ensures that the supernatural elements hit even harder when they crop up.

The first half of the film is slow and methodical, focusing on character development and setting the stage for the final descent into chaos. This deliberate pacing may seem frustrating to viewers expecting a more action-packed horror film, but for those familiar with King’s slow-burn tension, it’s a worthwhile buildup. When the horror finally breaks out, it’s haunting and terrifying, with practical effects adding to the film’s dark, grounded tone.

Set pieces:

The film’s key set pieces – particularly the climactic battle between the townspeople and Barlow’s henchmen – are well directed, with a sense of desperation and brute force that gives the impression that the stakes are incredibly high. Dauberman doesn’t shy away from bloodshed, but he uses it sparingly, allowing the horror to seep into the audience’s psyche rather than relying on shock value.

Defects:

While “Salem’s property.” is outstanding in many ways, but not without its flaws. Some characters, particularly those in the supporting cast, feel underdeveloped, and the middle section of the film drags a bit as it moves from the mystery of Barlow’s influence to the utter horror of his rise to power. Some storylines remain unresolved or seem rushed, leaving some viewers wanting more closure.

However, these issues do not significantly impact the overall experience. The film’s strengths – its atmosphere, its performances and ability to evoke genuine terror – far outweigh its minor pacing issues.

In total:

“Salem’s property.” is a masterfully crafted horror film that lives up to Stephen King’s beloved novel. With strong performances, a spooky atmosphere and a well-executed narrative, the film is a testament to Dauberman’s understanding of King’s work and his ability to translate it into a visual medium. For fans of supernatural horror and Stephen King adaptations, this is a must-watch as it delivers terror that lasts long after the credits roll.