Review of Misery (1990) by Aaron M — 20 Oct 2018

Misery is a delight!

Rob Reiner brings chilling suspense and clever setup to his direction of Misery (1990). The story from Stephen King is as scary and sharp as ever with King's writing. Reiner takes the cold atmosphere, cramped spaces, and helpless situation and makes it even more frightening.

James Caan adds some much needed and appreciated humor as the hilarious and sympathetic injured author held captive by his intimidating fangirl Annie Wilkes (Kathy Bates). Caan keeps you entertained through his character's immense suffering and patience. He gives an underrated performance through his use of many subtle facial movements and bodily cues with his limited dialogue. I love Caan in Misery.

Speaking of which, Kathy Bates is the star here as the obsessed devotee that puts the fan in fanatic. Her portrayal is so sweet and innocent that quickly builds into some far more sinister. You'll never look at Bates the same way again after Misery.

I must mention the nice supporting roles from Richard Farnsworth, Frances Sternhagen, and Lauren Bacall. Farnsworth is the quintessential small town sheriff with a quaint charm. His sincerity and intrigue adds some joy and suspense to Misery. I think The Coen Brothers must have seen Misery to inspire their similar detective in Fargo (1996). Misery is alike Fargo in its local mystery alongside the enclosed insanity of The Shining (1980).

In short, Misery is a well directed film that depicts how depraved fans can resort to if unchecked by decency. It is as upsetting and humorous as the first time I watched it. You will be rooting for Caan the entire time. So sit back and endure the pain of Misery.