Synopsis: The children of Gatlin, Nebraska, decide to murder the adults following the instructions of a little preacher named Isaac. Three years later, a couple arrives in the town in their car, not knowing what awaits them.
Based on a story by Stephen King that was published in the book "Night Shift". At one point the book appears on the dashboard of Burt and Vicki's car.
This is the first part of a saga made up of nine titles and a remake. I'm going to watch them all at once because at the time I think I was stuck on the third one and I'd like to know how they continued it.
Starring Peter Horton (Burt), also appeared in "Amazon Women on the Moon" (1987), and Linda Hamilton (Vicky), famous for "The Terminator" saga (1984), also appeared in "King Kong Lives" (1986). R.G. Armstrong (Diehl), also starred in "Predator" (1987) and "Dick Tracy" (1990).
John Franklin (Isaac) was 24 years old when he made this film. It was his film debut. He later appeared in "The Addams Family" (1991).
It was also the debut of Courtney Gains (Malachai). He later appeared on "Back To The Future" (1985), "The 'Burbs" (1989) and "Memphis Belle" (1990)
In the original story Isaac and Malachai were named William Renfrew and Craig Boardman. It is very reminiscent of "Who Can Kill a Child?" (1976). Although as I said in that entry King's book came out a year later and it's unlikely I saw it.
Fact: Children of the Corn was released in theaters on March 9, 1984. Filming locations include Holly Springs, Hornick, Salix, Sergeant Bluff, Sioux City and Whiting, Ia. It was directed by Fritz Kiersch, in what was his directorial debut.
The film is based on the short story by Stephen King. It was first published in the March 1977 issue of Penthouse magazine and later in King's 1978 Night Shift collection. This was the eighth King story to be adapted for the big screen. The film's two main antagonists, Isaac and Malachai, were masterfully played by John Franklin (Isaac) and Courtney Gains (Malachai).
It was the acting debut for both of them. It was also the acting debut for John Philbin as Amos, who would go on to star in such films as Point Break, The Return of the Living Dead and Tombstone. To date, the film spawned nine sequels / remakes. John Franklin reprised his role as Isaac, in the 1999 sequel, Children of the Corn 666: Isaac's Return. It features a solid score, composed by Jonathan Elias. The film's first DVD release was on April 10, 2001.
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