This is one of my favourite horror films of the last twenty years, the slow build up and brooding, escalating sense of menace is excellent...and the performances are top notch in my opinion 👌
I don’t understand why they put the alternate ending where he dies on most copies. It doesn’t feel like a complete character arc as opposed to the original ending where he survives and he has the recording of the dead daughter
This movie is pure perfection, the best example that a movie can be scary, mysterious, philosophical, but also very very fun. I often rewatch it and with every rewatch i like it even more.
Thank you for keeping me company during these long commutes, guys! I think I've listened to your Alien 3 and Dawn of the Dead review at least 10 times each. I saw this one in the theater many years ago and pretty much forgot about how good it was until you reminded me today. BTW, as an American, I'd love to hear your review of Santa Clause: The Movie (1985), given it's positive reception in the UK. We didn't receive it well in the States, but I personally loved it. Lastly, just an idea, but I'd love to see you guys review classic and modern games using the same format as your film reviews. You guys have such great chemistry and the delivery is very engaging.
I wish there were more movies like this and Identity (also with Cusack).. I think that's the last "recent" movie where Samuel L. Jackson didn't turn it all the way up and actually acted.. Love 1408 ❤
This film came out when I was ten and I don't think I saw it until I was thirteen or somewhere on that degree. But seeing it as an adult, I see why it's one of the best Stephen king adaptation ever.
I'm not trying to reach, but man I'm in a dark spot currently, and you both really help as you know. I've run myself down really badly 😢 . Just wanna say thanks again to both of you! 👊
It's not just hotels that don't have a 13th floor. I live in Los Angeles and go into a lot of tall residential buildings too and a lot of them don't have a 13th floor either. In the elevator it goes from 12 to 14.
For me this is an iconic OTSR review, Cussack acts his ass off in this film! And Gary you absolutely nailed his decent into all the feelings he feels to a tee! And ofcourse brother Iain with his input, the yin to the yang the ultimate counterpoint...The lads.
My belief on who sent the postcard to John Q sacks character is it was just a random fan or random person that heard about this room or somehow made it out of the room or maybe they worked at the motel or the hotel but it wasn't Samuel l. Jackson's postcard
This is easily one of the greatest horror movies ever made and it’s not even close in my book. I absolutely love it! I especially recommend the theatrical version over the Director’s Cut here as well.
I really like him in the early comedies like One Crazy Summer and Better Off Dead. If you guys like wacky comedies you'll enjoy those 😉 Anywho awesome review as always guys 👏🏽
This in my opinion is one of the top 3 best SK adaptations. I read the short story first and was very skeptical when I heard the film was coming out, but I loved it (I saw the dead Mike in Olin's car ending). The best ending is of course King's short story ending, which had him physically survive with a LOT of physical and emotional scars and knowing that his life has actually been cut years short bc of his stay in 1408, like a Chernobyl survivor. I think Gary's fave film ending is the closest to that, but doesn't go into it. Cusak did such a great job, and I enjoyed Sam L Jackson too. What I like most about the metaphor is that like radiation on cancer, a small amount of that could have actually helped Mike to heal his trauma, but of course its evil and kept frying the life out of him.
This is one of my favourite Stephen King adaptations, and one of my favourite horror films. Although not necessary, I do also recommend people check out the short-story as well. The film beats it in most ways, but from Mike enters the hotel to he enters the room, the short-story is better and adds way more lore and builds up the room so much. Stephen King is far from the best narrator (if you go for the audiobook) but I think he does really well with this story, he captures the mood perfectly. I'm sure others have mentioned it too, but it's amazing that this story was created so that Stephen King could show people how he edited his stories in his book On Writing. Well I think he started the story for that reason, and liked it so he decided to finish it.
@2:47 Iain: “I watched Grosse Pointe Blank at a very *good* time in my life and thought ‘you know what? I want to be a professional killer.’ And I think I chose the right path not to, but like-I would have shot you for money, possibly…” Gary: [depressed, hangdog expression]
I really dig John Cusack in any movies (even those I dont like, I always think he is great!) - weird that you point out this came out in the same year as The Mist, as I always had this down as being older, and the Mist had the feel of a tv movie for me, whereas this seemed like "big hollywood".........Id have set them years apart on that aesthetic! I too dont remember the ending ahhahaha
actually I always feel Cusack and Miles Teller have a similar vibe to them...............maybe they should buddy cop or play brothers for an ultimate movie!
Great review! I like how you went over all the funny scenes- like the one with the fridge ("I WANT MY DRINK!") amd the 4 different endings. John Cusack's performance is phenomenal. I reviewed this on my channel as well. Which scene did you think was the creepiest?
The short story is the creepiest thing ever! The movie gives a lot more backstory, but it cannot convey the unease and terror of the story. And I am not just saying that as some stuck-up reader in a “oh, the book was so much better” kind of way. As a matter of fact, I prefer the audiobook read by King himself. Listening to it scares me so bad I think it over for days afterwards 😂
The number 1408 has bugged me since before I saw this movie. I kept seeing the number, mainly on my watch when checking what time it was, for an extended period, to such a degree that even my fiance at the time noticed it after I told her about it. Then, after months of this, I got a call one day, telling me my brother in law had died. And when did he die? Yup, on the 14th day of the 8th month, or 1408. Every year since, I've been expecting bad news on that date. Luckily nothing more like it has happened, but having one family-ish member suddenly die (in front of his son and wife) is more than enough of that stuff for me. In conclusion: hate the number, love the movie.
I love this movie but it’s kinda like the butterfly effect where it’s hard to find one with the original ending. Most of the ones I have found have the ending where he dies. And not the other better ending. Kinda like how most of the endings of the butterfly effect are the one where he kills himself in the womb
Good adaption. Didn’t mind it differing from the original. Cast really brought it. Had shining vibes to me and I felt could coexist with the Kubrick version. Cusack fan but no shame I didn’t care for high Fidelity either. He peaked at Better off Dead🤣.
Amazing review guys. This film is great and I loved the way it ended, theatrical version with daughters voice ect. I think it's a great film if someone says, got a scary film to watch? One of those I'd reccomend highly!
Some people have triskaidekaphobia, which is defined as "extreme superstition regarding the number thirteen." that's why a lot of hotels don't have a thirteen floor I guess! Weird that hotels or elevators do this, haven't heard of many other products avoiding it.
Can you guys review Dream Demon 1988? It's a highly underrated little horror film that's kind of forgotten by time. It's supposedly an Elm Street rip off, but has way more in common with Hellraiser.
This is the best Stephen King movie adaptation. It’s not even close. The Shining is a fantastic movie. The original Pet Sematary is nearly as dark as the novel, but this is the best King-based horror movie.
Another great adaption I don't feel gets enough love is "Hearts in Atlantis". Not a horror film however, but it's such a powerful story and so well adapted from the source material. Where it (like this) elevates the story.
I never thought of this is straight horror. It’s just not scary enough, the only time it plays the true horror card is the zombie in the vent. It’s more like a dark fantasy. A lot of fun though. I enjoy it more everytime I watch it.
Aw, dang, I missed the Ichi review. EDIT: I remember being underwhelmed by this movie but I can certainly see why this movie has appeal. I'm glad Iain and Gary have a different opinion to me on this one as I wasn't able to appreciate it like they do and it's interesting seeing it from their perspective.
@@nickelliott629 Yeah I just noticed that. Guys, please re-upload that video if possible. That review was amazing seeing 2 different perspectives on one of the most contoversial films ever made really. Please guys :)
This is the most wonderful philosophical horror movie.I'm not one for it usually since it's usually left to be a "it was all in his head," while this is a good mix of real and psychological fear. Everything that happens to Mike is real, but the experience is one tailor made for him.
Let me introduce you to Bug Busters! Bugs as big as humans are invading the earth through a small town. This b moive, knows it is a b moive and makes all the jokes and 4th wall breaks to go with it. Randy Quaid at his finest, saves the town, but at what cost. Along side Katherrine Heigl, teen in love, who needs to solve the infestation before it's too late. If you think this is the Faculty, well Josh Hartnett on you cus it ain't. These bugs are hard to kill, with bullet proof legs that can stop bullets in mid air, and grenade dodging action in true Jackie Chan fashion! Enjoy
How meta do you want your Stephen king? 1408 just doesn’t bother answering that. Watched this movie in a time I „was in this room“ and the themes there are fucking accurate, inclusive EVERY single one of the different endings. That’s what I like about kings story’s. He knows the human psyche very well and despite of genre and themes he provides a kind of effective help. One of the best adaptations of one of his story’s. Sidenote; found your channel in the same timeframe I lived through that and watched the movie, what makes this review slightly ironic for me.
This is a strange one for me. When I first saw it, I thought that it was predicable and boring. Having watched it twice since I regard it as a true classic. I think it works better when you realize what's going on, and then watching it all play out.
@@OffTheShelfReviews thanks alot! I am now a supporter though patreon first time doing so for any RUclips channel! I made a request for review. Hope you guys have a Merry Christmas and Happy new year.
Steven king based this story 1408 from Dante's Inferno, which served as a symbolic allegory of Dante acknowledging his own sin. Through engaging in cruelty towards fellow sinners, including those who have personally harmed him, and through being scolded for compassion for sinners, even for his own relatives, Dante grows to understand the foibles of human nature. Is based on the journey to God and enlightenment. Even though I am not particularly religiously inclined, is a representation of himself much like Dante based his book on his iwn shortcomings. The story encapsulates the nine circles of Hell in this very clever representation of Dante's inferno. The circles are concentric, representing a gradual increase in wickedness, and culminating at the center of the earth, where Satan is held in bondage. It was a representation of the self. I have only just come across your channel, Great work guys Subscibed 👏
This is one of my favourite horror films of the last twenty years, the slow build up and brooding, escalating sense of menace is excellent...and the performances are top notch in my opinion 👌
Me too
Mine also
I don’t understand why they put the alternate ending where he dies on most copies. It doesn’t feel like a complete character arc as opposed to the original ending where he survives and he has the recording of the dead daughter
This movie is pure perfection, the best example that a movie can be scary, mysterious, philosophical, but also very very fun. I often rewatch it and with every rewatch i like it even more.
I love this movie, no filler, no pomp, no silly motive... it is literally, "Just an evil fucking room"
Thank you for keeping me company during these long commutes, guys! I think I've listened to your Alien 3 and Dawn of the Dead review at least 10 times each.
I saw this one in the theater many years ago and pretty much forgot about how good it was until you reminded me today.
BTW, as an American, I'd love to hear your review of Santa Clause: The Movie (1985), given it's positive reception in the UK. We didn't receive it well in the States, but I personally loved it.
Lastly, just an idea, but I'd love to see you guys review classic and modern games using the same format as your film reviews. You guys have such great chemistry and the delivery is very engaging.
Ah the 80's, when everything was ' : The Movie'... :)
My favorite John Cusack character will always be Lane Meyer from Better Off Dead, who showed us how a skier really skies.
I wish there were more movies like this and Identity (also with Cusack).. I think that's the last "recent" movie where Samuel L. Jackson didn't turn it all the way up and actually acted.. Love 1408 ❤
This and Identity is such a great John Cusack double feature for a film night. I think anyone who like this would also like Identity and vice-a-versa.
The only ending i’ve seen is the one where the wife also hears the recording, and i quite liked it personally
My favorite John Cusack film is IDENTITY. 😊 I can watch it all day every day
It's OTSR THURSDAY! Thanks, Gary and Iain!
Have a good one, Shelfers! 👊👊👊
I love Jack Black in High Fidelity. His speech admonishing the father that wanted to buy the pop album for his daughter is legendary. 🤣🤣🤣🤣.
This film came out when I was ten and I don't think I saw it until I was thirteen or somewhere on that degree. But seeing it as an adult, I see why it's one of the best Stephen king adaptation ever.
This was so brilliant I'm back already, This film really did hit home on almost every level.
This movie has a great use of its paranormal elements, the performance and histories is the most memorable aspect
Really glad to see you guys do this one. So much to talk about.
I'm not trying to reach, but man I'm in a dark spot currently, and you both really help as you know. I've run myself down really badly 😢 . Just wanna say thanks again to both of you! 👊
I bought this on DVD from a bargain bin years ago, and was shocked by how good it actually is. It's definitely underrated.
It's 8am in NS Canada, and this is EXACTLY the perfect way to start my day! Awesome review gentlemen!
Awesome review of one of my favourite films! Cusack is perfect in it!
It's not just hotels that don't have a 13th floor. I live in Los Angeles and go into a lot of tall residential buildings too and a lot of them don't have a 13th floor either. In the elevator it goes from 12 to 14.
Yup. Funny how that's done all due to superstition
Awesome.review.as always guys! 👊 Crazy to think that this gets overlooked in the discussion about the best Stephen King adaptations.
A second review to watch in the same night? Yes please!
30:13 I also enjoy the John Cusack scenes
For me this is an iconic OTSR review, Cussack acts his ass off in this film! And Gary you absolutely nailed his decent into all the feelings he feels to a tee! And ofcourse brother Iain with his input, the yin to the yang the ultimate counterpoint...The lads.
My belief on who sent the postcard to John Q sacks character is it was just a random fan or random person that heard about this room or somehow made it out of the room or maybe they worked at the motel or the hotel but it wasn't Samuel l. Jackson's postcard
This is the only movie that gave me the same kinda feelings that playing Silent Hill 2 did..
I have waited so long for you guys to cover this great movie, very underrated IMHO.
One of the best modern horror films ever. Also, one of the most underrated Stephen King films too.
Snakes on plane review 🐍📽😎
Love this film guy's, still creeps me out to this day, anytime I hear The Carpenter's We've Only Just Begun on the radio I instantly think of 1408.
This is easily one of the greatest horror movies ever made and it’s not even close in my book. I absolutely love it! I especially recommend the theatrical version over the Director’s Cut here as well.
I really like him in the early comedies like One Crazy Summer and Better Off Dead. If you guys like wacky comedies you'll enjoy those 😉
Anywho awesome review as always guys 👏🏽
You guys look like you're having so much fun in this one. Gary, there's no way you think The Mist ending is terrible!
I'm looking forward to this review! The first 30 Minutes of the movie are perfect - one of the best built ups in a horror movie.
This in my opinion is one of the top 3 best SK adaptations. I read the short story first and was very skeptical when I heard the film was coming out, but I loved it (I saw the dead Mike in Olin's car ending). The best ending is of course King's short story ending, which had him physically survive with a LOT of physical and emotional scars and knowing that his life has actually been cut years short bc of his stay in 1408, like a Chernobyl survivor. I think Gary's fave film ending is the closest to that, but doesn't go into it. Cusak did such a great job, and I enjoyed Sam L Jackson too. What I like most about the metaphor is that like radiation on cancer, a small amount of that could have actually helped Mike to heal his trauma, but of course its evil and kept frying the life out of him.
This is one of my favourite Stephen King adaptations, and one of my favourite horror films. Although not necessary, I do also recommend people check out the short-story as well. The film beats it in most ways, but from Mike enters the hotel to he enters the room, the short-story is better and adds way more lore and builds up the room so much. Stephen King is far from the best narrator (if you go for the audiobook) but I think he does really well with this story, he captures the mood perfectly. I'm sure others have mentioned it too, but it's amazing that this story was created so that Stephen King could show people how he edited his stories in his book On Writing. Well I think he started the story for that reason, and liked it so he decided to finish it.
Have you seen Identity? Good horror mystery with John Cusack, Ray Liotta and others. The ending is... different, but still a good one
What's your favourite scenes Iain: "Well you know, any with John Cusack in." I think he's in every scene of the film. "Yeah, I know..."
Identity is a hidden gem. This is also just a great movie
@2:47
Iain: “I watched Grosse Pointe Blank at a very *good* time in my life and thought ‘you know what? I want to be a professional killer.’ And I think I chose the right path not to, but like-I would have shot you for money, possibly…”
Gary: [depressed, hangdog expression]
I really dig John Cusack in any movies (even those I dont like, I always think he is great!) - weird that you point out this came out in the same year as The Mist, as I always had this down as being older, and the Mist had the feel of a tv movie for me, whereas this seemed like "big hollywood".........Id have set them years apart on that aesthetic!
I too dont remember the ending ahhahaha
actually I always feel Cusack and Miles Teller have a similar vibe to them...............maybe they should buddy cop or play brothers for an ultimate movie!
Space Wolves
Great review! I like how you went over all the funny scenes- like the one with the fridge ("I WANT MY DRINK!") amd the 4 different endings. John Cusack's performance is phenomenal.
I reviewed this on my channel as well. Which scene did you think was the creepiest?
Wait.. Iain believes in ghosts.. but not the banana peel in the sky? Lmao way to pick and choose!
Thx buds!
The short story is the creepiest thing ever! The movie gives a lot more backstory, but it cannot convey the unease and terror of the story. And I am not just saying that as some stuck-up reader in a “oh, the book was so much better” kind of way. As a matter of fact, I prefer the audiobook read by King himself. Listening to it scares me so bad I think it over for days afterwards 😂
I feel the same way about the audiobook of The Exorcist read by William Peter Blatty himself.
I agree absolutely. When Mike tried to find the lightswitch and the wall felt like human skin....brrrrr...
Thankyou brothers 😎🙏👊
Looks like a good ghost story. I'm gonna check it out!
The version I saw on my dvd is the one where his wife hears their daughters voice. I think I would prefer the ending i have over the others describes.
The number 1408 has bugged me since before I saw this movie.
I kept seeing the number, mainly on my watch when checking what time it was, for an extended period, to such a degree that even my fiance at the time noticed it after I told her about it.
Then, after months of this, I got a call one day, telling me my brother in law had died.
And when did he die?
Yup, on the 14th day of the 8th month, or 1408.
Every year since, I've been expecting bad news on that date.
Luckily nothing more like it has happened, but having one family-ish member suddenly die (in front of his son and wife) is more than enough of that stuff for me.
In conclusion: hate the number, love the movie.
Underrated film.
I love this movie but it’s kinda like the butterfly effect where it’s hard to find one with the original ending. Most of the ones I have found have the ending where he dies. And not the other better ending. Kinda like how most of the endings of the butterfly effect are the one where he kills himself in the womb
Good adaption. Didn’t mind it differing from the original. Cast really brought it. Had shining vibes to me and I felt could coexist with the Kubrick version.
Cusack fan but no shame I didn’t care for high Fidelity either. He peaked at Better off Dead🤣.
Funny you would upload this, Gary, after I watched you play Phasmophobia on stream. 👍
Let's be honest, if you're on the 14th floor of a hotel.. you know which floor you're really on.
When are you guys gonna review Prey?
Amazing review guys. This film is great and I loved the way it ended, theatrical version with daughters voice ect. I think it's a great film if someone says, got a scary film to watch? One of those I'd reccomend highly!
Did the discord channel get deleted?x
Some people have triskaidekaphobia, which is defined as "extreme superstition regarding the number thirteen." that's why a lot of hotels don't have a thirteen floor I guess! Weird that hotels or elevators do this, haven't heard of many other products avoiding it.
Wait, what. I was just watching your video om Ichi the Killer. Where'd it go?
I was thinking the same thing.
The powers that be blocked the review. Hopefully will have Ichi back up in the coming weeks
What's with Stephen King and ledges
Also that WD cover is the SW image used for the 2e codex, nice
Can you guys review Dream Demon 1988? It's a highly underrated little horror film that's kind of forgotten by time. It's supposedly an Elm Street rip off, but has way more in common with Hellraiser.
This is the best Stephen King movie adaptation. It’s not even close. The Shining is a fantastic movie. The original Pet Sematary is nearly as dark as the novel, but this is the best King-based horror movie.
Another great adaption I don't feel gets enough love is "Hearts in Atlantis". Not a horror film however, but it's such a powerful story and so well adapted from the source material. Where it (like this) elevates the story.
I never thought of this is straight horror. It’s just not scary enough, the only time it plays the true horror card is the zombie in the vent. It’s more like a dark fantasy. A lot of fun though. I enjoy it more everytime I watch it.
And after this review, I want to hear 'We've Only Just Begun' by _The Carpenters._
Hello from Michigan. Shop smart S Mart,you guys are great!!!
I really enjoyed this movie and John Cusack was excellent
Aw, dang, I missed the Ichi review.
EDIT: I remember being underwhelmed by this movie but I can certainly see why this movie has appeal. I'm glad Iain and Gary have a different opinion to me on this one as I wasn't able to appreciate it like they do and it's interesting seeing it from their perspective.
2 reviews in half an hour?! Amazing.
Ichi the killer isn't there now.
@@nickelliott629 Yeah I just noticed that. Guys, please re-upload that video if possible. That review was amazing seeing 2 different perspectives on one of the most contoversial films ever made really. Please guys :)
YT pulled the video and blocked Ichi....for now. We will get that review back asap
Amazing t shirt
Oh,I love this film!
Good movie indeed!!
I could have sworn you guys did this already
Either way great film!
shelf life!
This is the most wonderful philosophical horror movie.I'm not one for it usually since it's usually left to be a "it was all in his head," while this is a good mix of real and psychological fear. Everything that happens to Mike is real, but the experience is one tailor made for him.
What happened to Ichi?
What a ride..those evil bastards killed his daughter twice, like damn the impact when she crumbled away. Lets get the wicker man next boys
There is exactly one decent Steven King horror movie and it's this one. Not outstanding, but still very good.
Wake and bake to this one
The Shining on a budget ))
Love that movie.
Let me introduce you to Bug Busters! Bugs as big as humans are invading the earth through a small town. This b moive, knows it is a b moive and makes all the jokes and 4th wall breaks to go with it. Randy Quaid at his finest, saves the town, but at what cost. Along side Katherrine Heigl, teen in love, who needs to solve the infestation before it's too late. If you think this is the Faculty, well Josh Hartnett on you cus it ain't. These bugs are hard to kill, with bullet proof legs that can stop bullets in mid air, and grenade dodging action in true Jackie Chan fashion! Enjoy
*Turn up* 😌
Love this movie
How meta do you want your Stephen king?
1408 just doesn’t bother answering that. Watched this movie in a time I „was in this room“ and the themes there are fucking accurate, inclusive EVERY single one of the different endings. That’s what I like about kings story’s. He knows the human psyche very well and despite of genre and themes he provides a kind of effective help. One of the best adaptations of one of his story’s.
Sidenote; found your channel in the same timeframe I lived through that and watched the movie, what makes this review slightly ironic for me.
Cusack is so awesome but so mediocre at the same time. There's just something about him that is very likeable 😅
DARK TEMPLARS!!!!
this movie is a good horror film
❤
👍👍😎😎
Ok…. Are you guys just reviewing every single film I’m watching lately? 😮. Law abiden citizen now 1408 pmsl
This film was pretty good just like Tom Macdonald's music on RUclips 😅 new HOG family members comment down below.
This is a strange one for me. When I first saw it, I thought that it was predicable and boring. Having watched it twice since I regard it as a true classic. I think it works better when you realize what's going on, and then watching it all play out.
Just started watching, I hate this movie has multiple endings. Only complaints
Yo
i watched this once and just felt so boring, and cusak's acting seemed flat to me
Never cared for this film. Not nearly scary enough and a little Cusack goes a long way with me. Find him aggravating on screen.
The upside down bible, with a little imagination, and from right to left, reads El Diablo. I'm just throwing that there. Awesome horror film.
Hey lads I asked before but didn't get an answer. If I become a patreon what are the odds of getting a film I recommend reviewed? Thanks
Very high odds! We aim to review every patreon request. Cheers Tyler
@@OffTheShelfReviews thanks alot! I am now a supporter though patreon first time doing so for any RUclips channel! I made a request for review. Hope you guys have a Merry Christmas and Happy new year.
Steven king based this story 1408 from Dante's Inferno, which served as a symbolic allegory of Dante acknowledging his own sin. Through engaging in cruelty towards fellow sinners, including those who have personally harmed him, and through being scolded for compassion for sinners, even for his own relatives, Dante grows to understand the foibles of human nature.
Is based on the journey to God and enlightenment.
Even though I am not particularly religiously inclined, is a representation of himself much like Dante based his book on his iwn shortcomings.
The story encapsulates the nine circles of Hell in this very clever representation of Dante's inferno.
The circles are concentric, representing a gradual increase in wickedness, and culminating at the center of the earth, where Satan is held in bondage.
It was a representation of the self.
I have only just come across your channel, Great work guys
Subscibed 👏