Pet Sematary (2019) is the second big screen adaptation of Stephen King's bestselling novel. I remember seeing the original back in 1989 and I liked it. Sometimes I think remaking a film is a mistake, but I can understand why the film was produced because much like The Shining directed by Stanley Kubrick took liberties with the source material, Kubrick's version also could not bring to life some of the things the novel featured like the Topiaries. Unfortunately, when Mick Garris and Stephen King got to remake The Shining as a television miniseries, the ability to create things like CGI Topiaries that come to life looked horrible and while that version communicates things that are lost in the Kubrick version, it was just not the same. I kind of feel the same problem occurs with this remake too. The filmmakers take some liberties, but ultimately what should have been scary, just comes off as offensive. The bright spot is the great John Lithgow in the role of the neighbor who tells the father about the Sematary and sets off the events that occur thereafter. Even though the film more than hints that Lithgow's character is under the fell influence of the evil in the woods, it still does not justify certain aspects in the film. So in my opinion the remake is worth a look, but if you did not like the original or if you do, you should read the book.
The 4K UltraHD version looks sharp with deep blacks and fine details, which is complemented by the English Dolby ATMOS Soundtrack included for the 4K version. A high definition version is also provided on Blu-ray Disc and there is a limited time redeemable code for a digital copy on an insert within the BD case. The extra value features run over 90 minutes and include a set of four featurettes that focus on various aspects of the production, such as adapting the original novel, the production design, casting and characters and so on.
Other bonus features include extended and deleted scenes as well as an alternate ending.
Pet Sematary (2019) is available now at retailers on and offline courtesy of Paramount Home Entertainment.
(C) Copyright 2019 By Mark A. Rivera
All Rights Reserved.
