Warner Bros., out now on digital, 4K, Blu-Ray™ & DVD 

 

The longer version of the epic sequel to The Shining…

As a long time fan of Stephen King (to the extent of writing a book on the subject of his works a few years back), I was looking forward to firstly reading Doctor Sleep (which I did, as photographic evidence shows, ignoring some quite stunning scenery when I was on holiday), and then seeing the filmed version. This was somehow going to square the circle of being a sequel both to King’s novel and Kubrick’s movie – both great pieces in their own way, but very different (as the miniseries version showed).

For various reasons I missed it in cinemas (but Nick Joy’s review of that version can be read here), and so came to this Blu-ray knowing that the movie had underperformed. However, the home entertainment version includes Mike Flanagan’s director’s cut, running at a hefty three hours, and it’s surprisingly effective.

This isn’t a director’s cut on the lines of Payback, where we got a completely reworked third act. This adds to the strengths of the film, allowing certain elements more time to breathe. For a start, we get to know Jack Torrance in this version – we’re never necessarily going to like him, but we gain an understanding of him, both through his own actions and the effects those have had on his son Dan. The relationship between the two of them becomes absolutely core to the film. Other elements benefit from the extended running time – the conversation between Dan and Halloran, for example – while we get even more of the nastier moments (and see at least one that’s only mentioned in the original cut).

Ewan McGregor gives one of his finest performances, and Flanagan has assembled a strong cast. Like the original Kubrick version of The Shining, it may well be that people come to appreciate Doctor Sleep as the years go by – but there’s no question that it’s one of the best Stephen King adaptations out there.

Verdict: Even better in the longer version – make your appointment with Doctor Sleep now! 9/10

Paul Simpson

Doctor Sleep is out now on digital download now, 4K, Blu-Ray™ & DVD. Click here to order from Amazon.co.uk