VHS Vault: Christine (1983)

 "You can't beat her... nobody can."

I have a few Stephen King adaptations coming to the VHS Vault in the next week or so. I'm looking forward to getting them in here, but first, let's address the big red machine, Christine (1983).

John Carpenter's adaptation of Stephen King's novel about a killer 1958 Plymouth Fury with a mind and murder of her own. This isn't just a car. Christine is jealous, possessive, and deadly, and she'll eliminate anyone who comes between her and her owner.

Nerdy high school student Arnie Cunningham is a walking target for bullies until he spots a dilapidated red-and-white Plymouth Fury and falls instantly in love. Against his parents' wishes and his best friend Dennis's warnings, Arnie buys Christine and begins restoring her. 

As the car comes back to life, Arnie transforms, becoming confident, aggressive, and dangerously obsessed. Christine isn't just a car; she's a supernatural force that regenerates herself, eliminates Arnie's enemies, and won't tolerate anyone threatening their bond, especially Arnie's girlfriend Leigh.

John Carpenter brings his signature style to Stephen King's story, crafting a film that's equal parts teen drama, supernatural horror, and automotive nightmare. The practical effects of Christine repairing herself are still stunning, and the film's exploration of obsession and possession gives it emotional weight beyond the killer car premise. George Thorogood's "Bad to the Bone" becomes Christine's theme song, perfectly capturing her menacing personality.

Christine is perfect for fans of Stephen King adaptations, John Carpenter films, and '80s horror with style. Watch Christine on Amazon and witness one of cinema's most unforgettable vehicles of terror.

🎞️ Vault Fact File

Title: Christine
Year: 1983
Director: John Carpenter
Runtime: 110 minutes
Rating: R
Tagline(s): "Body by Plymouth. Soul by Satan."
Studio / Distribution: Columbia Pictures
Cast: Keith Gordon, John Stockwell, Alexandra Paul, Robert Prosky, Harry Dean Stanton

Fun Fact: Over 20 Plymouth Furys were used during production to create Christine's various states of repair and destruction. The self-repair scenes were achieved through meticulous reverse photography and practical effects, with no CGI involved.

Extra Trivia: John Carpenter composed the film's synthesizer score, but the soundtrack heavily features 1950s rock and roll—including "Bad to the Bone" by George Thorogood, which wasn't actually from the '50s but became inseparable from Christine's image.

Legacy: Christine remains one of the most beloved Stephen King adaptations and showcases Carpenter at his stylish best. The film has become a cult classic, celebrated for its practical effects, strong performances, and the unforgettable image of a demonic car prowling the streets. It's a reminder that in the right hands, even a car can be terrifying.

⏪ Rewind or ⏩ Fast Forward?

Rewind: Essential viewing for Stephen King fans, John Carpenter enthusiasts, and anyone who loves practical effects-driven '80s horror. This is killer car cinema at its absolute best.

⚡ Watch It

She's a beauty... and a beast. Stream or buy Christine on Amazon and experience the ride of terror.

Official Christine Trailer

Back to the Vault

Love Stephen King horror? Check out VHS Vault: Pet Sematary (1989) or keep exploring the VHS Vault for retro horror treasures.