The Dead Zone
In his mind, he has the power to see the future. In his hands, he has the power to change it.
Overview
Johnny Smith is a schoolteacher with his whole life ahead of him but, after leaving his fiancee's home one night, is involved in a car crash which leaves him in a coma for 5 years. When he wakes, he discovers he has an ability to see into the past, present and future life of anyone with whom he comes into physical contact.
Backdrop
What makes this movie Worth Watching
Released during the Cold War era, 'The Dead Zone' reflects the fear and anxiety about nuclear war and political power structures. It also explores the idea of a single individual possessing the power to alter the course of history, which mirrors the public's perception of influential leaders.
- Strong performance by Christopher Walken as John Smith, a school teacher who develops psychic abilities after a coma.
- Compelling and thought-provoking plot with supernatural elements and political thriller aspects.
- Explores themes of fate, morality, and personal responsibility in an engaging manner.
- Offers a unique blend of horror, drama, and suspense that appeals to a wide audience.
Fun Facts
- 'The Dead Zone' was based on a novel by Stephen King who made a cameo appearance as an extra in the film.
- Christopher Walken was initially hesitant to take on the role due to its dark nature but eventually agreed after meeting director David Cronenberg.
- David Cronenberg's original ending was deemed too graphic and was significantly altered from the novel's conclusion.
Available Languages
English
US
Title:
"In his mind, he has the power to see the future. In his hands, he has the power to change it."
Deutsch
DE
Title: Dead Zone
"Der Attentäter"
Italiano
IT
Title: La zona morta
"Nella sua mente il potere di vedere il futuro. Nelle sue mani il potere di cambiarlo."
suomi
FI
Title: Viimeinen yhteys: The Dead Zone
""
Français
FR
Title: Dead Zone
"Si le futur était entre vos mains, le changeriez-vous ?"
Português
PT
Title: Zona de Perigo
""
Where to Watch
Cast
Crew
Reviews
This was outstanding, and ranks right up there for me, both in terms of Stephen King adaptations in general and Cronenberg's work in particular. It also houses one of my very favourite Christopher Walken performances. When I see Martin Sheen be such a jerk here, it both makes me realize where his son Charlie gets that side of his personality from and makes me fear, even though I'm Canadian, the fact that Donald Trump actually has a chance of being the next president of the United States. It also reaffirms in my heart the great adoration I have for Brooke Adams.
Pretty good paranormal thriller with a nice, and strangely normal, performance from Christopher Walken. Kept my attention throughout even if the finale felt a bit rushed and, the final scene, pretty laughable. Still found it entertaining though not sure how much desire I have to re-watch, although I may give the TV series a shot down the line. **3.25/5**
The Dead Zone is a movie that hits several genres and carries itself very well. It's able to do so due to the strength of the main character, Johnny Smith, played so well by Christopher Walken. Walken's performance is casual at times and absolutely stunning at others. To think that Bill Murray was thought by Stephen King to be a better option is crazy. Walken's performance brings out the best in the rest of the ensemble as the movie goes through 3 acts, with several stories intermingled quite nicely with each other. While it is not a true horror movie, in my opinion, the work of David Cronenberg comes out nicely in some scene's that remind you he is in charge of our minds during the 100 minute or so feature.
I highly recommend this to anyone that loves Stephen King adaptions or psychological thrillers. It is a movie, that in my opinion, has aged very nicely and holds it's own in any era. Great film! I give this movie a solid 8 out of 10.
Oscar Awards
Wins
Haven't Won A Oscar
Nominations
Haven't Nominated for Oscar
Media
Trailer
Official Trailer
Trailer
The Dead Zone (1983) ORIGINAL TRAILER [HD 1080p]
Featurette
Mick Garris on THE DEAD ZONE