Haunt-tober 2024 is here and it’s time to dive into the macabre, the strange, and the frightful during this beloved time! Join me as I spend the month discussing new and classic films.
A master of his craft, when Stephen King writes an antagonist, you know it’s going to be a memorable one.
I posed this question recently and Pennywise (IT) came up and also, Randall Flagg (THE STAND). These are the two that immediately come to my mind, as well as The Man in Black (THE DARK TOWER SERIES). But, there’s another that’s equally formidable and especially memorable even if the lore doesn’t quite match up to those previously mentioned.
One that exists in the film world only, with no further experience to widen his history. It doesn’t make him any less interesting though, and in some ways, even more curious.
Andre Linoge (Colm Feore) is a stranger who arrives at Little Tall Island, ME with a ferocity that makes this storm not only formidable, but unlike any seen before. This is Storm of the Century, (1999) a miniseries written just for television, that shows that King’s talent lives in every medium.
This is the kind of villain that’s smart, savvy in the ways of human behavior and is intimidating in his ability to make you think something is your idea. He’s a powerful foe and he eventually brings an island to its knees, but especially, our lead.
All of these villains are iconic and belong in a list of the best. A creature made of fear that appears differently to various people? Genius. And Randall Flagg, well, he’s from my favorite novel and anyone truly bringing up the mantle of evil when it’s world stakes of good vs evil, deserves it. Linoge is a mysterious force, and while we don’t know his full motivations we feel his power. He also works as an example of our own insecurity, sin and lack of faith.
I just wanted to throw Andre out because he’s a lesser known and seen entity in King history but is no less menacing. Especially with Colm Feore’s unforgettable portrayal. If you haven’t seen this series, I’ll continue to be its cheerleader.
Go discover another favorite King villain.
Stay tuned for more Haunt-Tober coverage!
Who is your favorite? Let us know in the comments below!