Well-done big screen adaptation of the Stephen King novel is one of the most acclaimed King-based films ever, and rightfully so.
School teacher awakens from a five year coma to discover that he has the power to see into a person's past or future trauma by merely touching them.
The story that drives this solid thriller is a well-rounded and often moving character study. It's a compelling tale with some great sequences of suspense and the occasional good jolt. Director David Cronenberg delivers splendidly well-shot sequences in this film, as well as a nice atmospheric kind of bleakness that's completely in tune with our story. The music score is also quite beautiful.
The cast is the best highlight however. Star Christopher Walken does perhaps one of his best performances as our tormented hero, whom we build quite a bond with. Brook Adams is quite good as Walken's lost love. Martin Sheen is impressive as a sinister politician. Tom Skerritt and Colleen Dewhurst are also good in their small roles.
All around The Dead Zone is a wonderful film, even if you're not a fan of Stephen King.
Remade as a TV series in 2002
*** 1/2 out of ****
