‘The Shining’ Actor Uncovers the True Reason Behind Stephen King’s Criticism of Kubrick’s Adaptation

Rebecca De Mornay: Still Making Waves

More than four decades after sharing the screen with Tom Cruise in the classic film Risky Business, actress Rebecca De Mornay continues to captivate audiences. She’s back in the spotlight with her latest role in the thriller Saint Clare, showcasing a different side of her talent compared to the lighthearted comedy of 1983.

A Shift from Comedy to Thriller

Saint Clare marks a significant shift for De Mornay, as she steps into a more intense and dramatic narrative. Fans of her work are likely aware that she thrives in darker, more complex roles. In fact, back in 1997, she played Wendy Torrance in an adaptation of Stephen King’s famous novel The Shining. This version was made for TV and unfolded over three episodes, contrasting sharply with Stanley Kubrick’s iconic film released in 1980.

Recently, MovieWeb had the opportunity to speak with De Mornay while she was promoting Saint Clare. During the conversation, she reflected on her experience working with Stephen King and her portrayal of Wendy Torrance—a role famously played by Shelley Duvall in the earlier film.

Thoughts on Stephen King

De Mornay shared her fondness for King and praised his unique perspective. "I got to spend a little bit of time with him on set. I love that man. He’s genuinely one of a kind," she said. She also mentioned how much she appreciated his writing, particularly his book On Writing. "I just finished a novel, and much of what I took from his book served as a master class on what to focus on when writing."

Interestingly, De Mornay revealed that she hadn’t read The Shining until she was preparing for the TV adaptation. "I actually happened to like the movie a lot, especially Jack Nicholson’s performance," she recalled.

Strong Characters in New Roles

Years have passed, but De Mornay remains committed to portraying strong female characters. In Saint Clare, she takes on the role of a grandmother and guardian to Bella Thorne’s character—an assassin who operates at night, using her unique ability to detect evil in modern society. This latest role is a reflection of De Mornay’s career-long dedication to strong and complex characters.

She opened up about her experience working with Thorne, emphasizing the chemistry they built on set. Their dynamic is expected to be captivating, and it’s clear that De Mornay thrives in environments where she can explore rich, multifaceted roles.

Where to Watch

Saint Clare is now available for audiences to enjoy in theaters, on demand, and through digital platforms. If you’re a fan of thrillers or intrigued by strong character portrayals, this film might be worth a watch.

Conclusion

Rebecca De Mornay continues to prove that great talent endures. From her early roles alongside Hollywood heavyweights to her latest project, she embodies characters with depth and complexity. With new projects like Saint Clare, it’s evident that her passion for acting remains as strong as ever. Whether you remember her for her iconic roles in classics or you’re just discovering her work, De Mornay’s range and skill keep her a relevant figure in the film industry.

In a world where movies often follow predictable formulas, De Mornay’s commitment to exploring the darker aspects of human nature ensures that her work is always engaging and thought-provoking. Don’t miss her latest performance in Saint Clare.