Kathy Bates, Rob Reiner Mark 'Misery' Anniversary

At the TCM Classic Film Festival, Kathy Bates and director Rob Reiner marked the 35th anniversary of Misery, discussing their creative differences over the adaptation's level of violence. Bates expressed disappointment that the film omitted not only the novel’s notorious foot amputation but also a lawnmower killing, believing their inclusion would have better reflected Stephen King's intent. Reiner explained that he preferred to emphasize psychological horror and character development over graphic violence, maintaining that the protagonist should not suffer further physical loss. Despite initial fears about her career, Bates went on to win the Oscar for Best Actress, making Misery the only Stephen King adaptation to receive an Academy Award. The panel also covered the casting process, with several actors declining the role of Paul Sheldon before James Caan accepted, and Warren Beatty's perspective of the film as a 'prison movie.' Both Bates and Reiner celebrated Misery's lasting psychological impact and critical recognition.