My favourite Stephen King film is hitting Netflix this weekend and it isn't The Shining

When folks speak about the most effective movies impressed by Stephen King novels, The Shining is nearly instantly introduced up. And whereas that movie, directed by Stanley Kubrick and staring Jack Nicholson, is definitely an iconic horror movie, it takes a a lot completely different method to the supply materials, and because of this, exists (in my thoughts, at the least) fairly far aside other than the novel that impressed it.

And whereas there have been different Stephen King diversifications which have a extra devoted tackle his work (Carrie and The Lifetime of Chuck instantly spring to thoughts), far and away, my absolute favourite Stephen King adaptation is 1990’s Distress. And if you have not been in a position to verify this movie out but, it’ll be available on Netflix this weekend, beginning March 1.

What’s Distress about?

When fandom goes too far

Directed by Rob Reiner and starring Kathy Bates and James Caan, Distress follows the story of acclaimed novelist Paul Sheldon who writes regency romance books that includes a personality named Distress. Although the books are profitable, Sheldon plans to finish the collection so he can write one thing else. Nevertheless, on his approach to delivering his closing manuscript to his writer, he finds himself caught in a blizzard and crashes his automobile. He’s rescued from the wreckage by a nurse named Annie Wilkes, who tells him that she is going to handle him till the climate clears.

Nevertheless, when Wilkes finds (and reads) his closing manuscript, she turns into enraged on the ending, burning it and insisting that he re-write the guide to her liking, or undergo some really dire penalties.

The movie could also be over 35 years outdated, however I discover the best way it offers with trendy points like fandom, parasocial relationships, and obsessive habits to be very well timed for 2026. The movie additionally options really beautiful performances from James Caan and Kathy Bates, the latter of whom received an Academy Award for her efficiency.

The place else are you able to stream Distress?

You should buy or hire the movie within the normal locations

If you do not have a Netflix account however nonetheless wish to take a look at this iconic movie, it’s out there to buy or hire from Apple TV, YouTube, Amazon Prime Video Google Play, and Fandango at Residence. It isn’t out there on another streaming service without spending a dime proper now as of March 2026.