John Carpenter’s 1983 film Christine adapts Stephen King’s chilling novel, bringing to life the tale of Arnie Cunningham (Keith Gordon), a high school outcast, and his terrifying obsession with a 1957 Plymouth Fury. This isn’t just any classic car; it’s a repo car called Christina, and it’s about to take possession of Arnie, body and soul. While Carpenter himself might be critical of this movie, Christine stands out as a uniquely compelling possession story, skillfully blending horror with the relatable pains of coming-of-age.
The movie excels at building believable characters. We see Arnie’s transformation from awkward teenager to someone consumed by his car, and the performances are key to this. Keith Gordon is exceptional as Arnie, portraying both the initial dorkiness and the later, unsettling menace with conviction. You genuinely believe in his descent, fueled by his bond with Christina, this sinister repo car. John Stockwell and Alexandra Paul provide strong support as Arnie’s concerned friend and girlfriend, respectively, witnessing the horrifying change. Adding depth, veteran character actors like Robert Prosky and Harry Dean Stanton enrich even smaller roles.
Much of Christine‘s power comes from the car itself – this menacing 1957 Plymouth Fury. The special effects, masterful for their time, make Christina a character in her own right. Carpenter’s signature 2.35:1 aspect ratio cinematography enhances the car’s imposing presence, making every scene with Christina visually striking. Adding to the atmosphere is a killer soundtrack packed with classic rock and roll hits, perfectly amplifying the film’s mood and the era.
Christine remains a truly underrated horror gem. It operates on multiple levels, exploring obsession, transformation, and the terrifying allure of a machine. It’s more than just a scary movie; it’s a character study wrapped in a supernatural thriller, all centered around a repo car with a mind of its own. Any minor flaws are easily overshadowed by the film’s strengths, making Christine a must-watch for horror fans and anyone fascinated by the dark side of car obsession.
