Stephen King’s stories have captivated us for decades, and his influence stretches far beyond the pages of his novels. Many of his works have been adapted into films and television series, creating a rich tapestry of interconnected tales. These adaptations are packed with hidden gems, nods, and winks to other King stories, creating a rewarding experience for longtime fans.
Why does King (and those who adapt his works) keep referencing his other works? Maybe it’s the familiar settings in Maine, an attempt to build a cohesive universe, or simply a bit of self-congratulatory fun. Whatever the reason, these easter eggs add an extra layer of enjoyment for those in the know. Get ready to explore ten of the most delightful self-referential moments in Stephen King adaptations!
10. The Dark Tower – Pennywise
The Dark Tower series was envisioned as the nexus of King’s entire multiverse, so including references to other stories feels almost like cheating. However, since the 2017 film adaptation was directed by Nikolaj Arcel, it definitely qualifies as an adaptation with easter eggs.
In one scene, Jake Chambers, a young hero with psychic abilities, finds himself exploring the ruins of Mid-World. He stumbles upon the remains of an ancient theme park which features a partially buried statue of a clown hand holding Pennywise’s trademark balloons and a ride subtly named “Pennywise.” This unmistakable nod to It is a treat for fans of both series.
9. Castle Rock – “Wanna See a Body?”
Similar to The Dark Tower, the TV show Castle Rock acts as a bridge between many of King’s works. The series is filled with references to various locations, props, and characters from King’s books. However, some of the most delightful easter eggs are surprisingly subtle, like the nod to Stand By Me.
King is known for horror, but he also wrote The Body, the novella that was adapted into the coming-of-age film Stand By Me. The catalyst for the film’s plot is Vern’s earnest question, “You guys wanna go see a dead body?” This same line appears in the fifth episode of Castle Rock, spoken by The Kid atop a roof, overwhelmed by internal voices. Amidst the noise, one voice stands out, asking, “Wanna see a body?”
8. It – Turtles
King fans know Maturin, the ancient, god-like turtle who created at least one universe and views Pennywise with disdain. While Maturin has a more direct role in the novel, director Andy Muschietti included several nods to the cosmic reptile in the films.
Throughout both It movies, turtles appear during pivotal or emotionally significant moments. They appear as turtle stickers, Lego bricks, statues, and in conversations about turtles. Most subtly, the root that Mike uses to guide him on his journey, which Native Americans gave him, is named Maturin. According to Muschietti, “Maturin’s still there in the movie. It’s just not personified by a giant turtle.”
7. Pet Sematary – Cujo
The original Pet Sematary novel includes a clear reference to Cujo and its murderous St. Bernard. In the book, Jud Crandall tells Louis Creed about a rabid dog that killed four people. This story is also included in the 2019 film adaptation, but it takes on a darker tone.
In the movie, Jud tells the story at a child’s birthday party, making it inappropriate for the setting. This decision makes viewers question Jud’s sense of judgment and highlights the unfortunate luck that Maine seems to have with pets within King’s fictional universe.
6. The Mist – Gunslinger Roland
The 2007 film adaptation of The Mist is a tense and violent horror movie offering social commentary. One of the most discussed aspects of the film is its ending, which deviates from King’s original, more optimistic conclusion. However, the opening shot of the movie is the easter egg, and it deserves a spot on our list.
The film opens with David Drayton painting Roland the Gunslinger from The Dark Tower. The image is unmistakable, showing the gun, bandoliers, the red rose, and the dark tower. The figure resembles Clint Eastwood, mirroring the early Dark Tower cover art that portrayed Roland as an Eastwood look-alike.
5. The Shining – Hedge Maze Foreshadowing
Stanley Kubrick’s film version of The Shining is often considered the best King adaptation, despite King’s own reservations. The film is a classic full of symbolism. Some fans have analyzed it to find hidden meanings and allusions that might involve the moon landing. One clever theory involves how the film foreshadows its hedge maze ending.
In the film, Jack wears a forest-green tie with a large knit pattern that resembles a hedge maze. Danny watches cartoons that show Wile E. Coyote chasing the Road Runner through a maze of train tracks. The cartoon includes a song that warns, “The coyote’s after you, Road Runner. If he catches you, you’re through.” This builds tension toward the film’s climax.
4. It: Chapter 2 – “Here’s Johnny!”
It: Chapter 2 includes an obvious reference to The Shining. One of the most iconic lines from The Shining is when Jack Torrence breaks down a bathroom door, sticks his head through, and yells, “Here’s Johnny!” It: Chapter 2 repeats this line and shot almost exactly.
When Bev is trapped in a bathroom stall, Pennywise tries to force his way in, taking on the forms of people closest to Bev. In the form of Henry Bowers, Pennywise breaks through the door and delivers the classic line, mirroring the framing from Kubrick’s original shot.
3. It – Tim Curry Cameo
Tim Curry’s portrayal of Pennywise in the 1990 It miniseries was memorable. The 2017 film pays tribute to Curry with a Pennywise doll in his likeness.
In the film, Richie finds himself in a room with many frightening clown dolls, each a variation of Pennywise. One clown doll has the exact hair, makeup, and outfit worn by Curry’s Pennywise, making the reference clear.
2. Doctor Sleep – Original Danny
In Doctor Sleep there is an easter egg that seemed impossible to include in the film.
During a little league game where the True Knot are scouting a young player with psychic abilities, the camera shifts to a conversation between two onlookers in the stands. One of these men is Danny Lloyd, who played Danny Torrance as a child. Danny Lloyd had retired from acting after The Shining, so this cameo was his first acting job in 38 years.
1. It: Chapter 2 – Bad Endings
The greatest easter egg from any King adaptation is in It: Chapter 2. King pokes fun at himself. Throughout the film, Bill is a successful writer who is talented and beloved, except for his endings. The easter egg pokes fun at the most common criticism King receives in real life—that his books are wonderful but don’t have satisfying endings.
King cameos in the film and says that Bill’s endings stink. This shows humility or dismissal to critics. Either way, it’s a fun easter egg and culmination to King’s self-referential career.
These easter eggs offer a glimpse into the mind of Stephen King and his influence on the world of film and television. Whether you’re a casual fan or a die-hard Constant Reader, spotting these references adds an extra layer of enjoyment to your favorite Stephen King adaptations.
Which Stephen King easter egg is your favorite? Leave your thoughts in the comments below!
