The Mist

Having directed the superb "The Shawshank Redemption" and the near perfect "The Green Mile", Frank Darabont is a fine choice for the latest Stephen King adaptation, "The Mist".

After a violent thunderstorm, David Drayton, (Thomas Jane, also in the "Dreamcatcher" adaptation) his son, and his litigious neighbor (Andre Braugher) stop at the town's supermarket for some supplies. However, a mysterious mist descending from the mountains is slowly heading their way.

A man, perhaps Richard Dawkins, breaks into the crowded supermarket, his face bloodied, warning the people to stay away from the mist. Some, overcome with fear, run out only for their last screams of agony to be heard. The townspeople suspect there was been an accident at the plant, but perhaps, the strong military presence spotted earlier indicates something else. Soon enough, strange creatures are seen coming out of the mist.

The creature effects in the first sequence are too computer generated to be believeable. The quality vastly improves later on as evidenced by the deadly species.

The most interesting part of the film is the way the human characters react to this invasion. Mrs. Carmody (Marcia Gay Warden) is determined the book of Revelation is being played out, plague by plague. I would surmise this woman may have been in a cult before the recent events. She believes she can earn her place in God's Kingdom. Always a sign someone is not a christian.

Other beliefs are expressed, for example, humanity is basically good; contempt towards politics and religion; God is not vengeful. All these are taken into consideration to form an escape.

The finale differs from the original story. It is satisfying, but ironic in the sense of a "Twilight Zone" ending.

Dark Tower anyone?