Odele Carlson

Written by Odele Carlson

Modified & Updated: 05 Mar 2024

Sherman Smith

Reviewed by Sherman Smith

42-facts-about-the-movie-children-of-the-corn
Source: Plex.tv

When it comes to cult classic horror movies, few can match the eerie and macabre atmosphere of “Children of the Corn.” Released in 1984, this Stephen King adaptation has gained a dedicated fanbase over the years. Set in the fictional town of Gatlin, Nebraska, the film follows a couple who stumble upon a sinister secret in the form of a group of homicidal children who worship a malevolent entity named “He Who Walks Behind the Rows.” With its iconic scenes and memorable characters, “Children of the Corn” has left an indelible mark on the horror genre. In this article, we will delve into 42 fascinating facts that shed light on the making of this chilling film, its cast, and its enduring legacy.

Key Takeaways:

  • “Children of the Corn” is a classic horror movie released in 1984, based on a story by Stephen King, and it explores the dangers of blind faith and the corrupting influence of power.
  • The film’s eerie atmosphere, shocking twists, and memorable quotes have made it a cult favorite, leading to a successful franchise and leaving a lasting impact on pop culture.
Table of Contents

The film was released in 1984.

Children of the Corn made its debut on March 9, 1984, and quickly gained popularity among horror enthusiasts.

Stephen King’s short story served as the inspiration.

The movie is adapted from Stephen King’s 1977 short story of the same name. King is renowned for his horror fiction, and this story is no exception.

The movie was shot in Iowa.

The filming took place in and around various locations in Iowa, providing an authentic setting for the story’s rural and eerie atmosphere.

The film explores a sinister cult of children.

The plot revolves around a group of children who inhabit the fictional town of Gatlin, Nebraska, and are led by a mysterious young preacher known as “Isaac.”

Eight sequels and a remake have been made.

The success of Children of the Corn spawned a franchise, with eight sequels released over the years. In 2009, a remake of the original film was also produced.

Linda Hamilton starred as one of the main characters.

Renowned actress Linda Hamilton, known for her iconic role as Sarah Connor in the Terminator series, portrayed the character of Vicky, one of the adult protagonists.

The cornfields were a central element of the movie.

The vast and eerie cornfields contribute to the film’s overall atmosphere, serving as both a metaphorical and literal symbol throughout the story.

The film’s soundtrack enhances the tension.

The musical score composed by Jonathan Elias adds depth and suspense to the movie, intensifying the chilling moments and building tension.

“He Who Walks Behind the Rows” is the main antagonist.

The name refers to the demonic deity worshiped by the cult of children in the story. It represents the malevolent force driving their actions.

High Corn was the tallest actor on set.

The towering cornstalks used in the movie reached heights of over seven feet, giving the impression of an intimidating and otherworldly environment.

Stephen King had a cameo in the film.

As a nod to the author, Stephen King appears in a brief cameo as a character named “Job,” a gas station attendant caught up in the unfolding events.

The movie employed real-life twins for added eeriness.

The characters of Isaac and Malachai, two of the cult’s leaders, were played by real-life identical twins Robert and Courtney Gains. Their uncanny resemblance contributes to the unsettling atmosphere.

The film utilizes practical effects for its horror sequences.

To enhance the realism of the horror elements, Children of the Corn relied on practical effects such as prosthetics and animatronics, giving audiences some genuinely creepy moments.

It explores themes of religious fanaticism and blind faith.

The movie delves into the dangers of extreme religious beliefs, portraying the destructive consequences that can arise from blind obedience and fanaticism.

22 different children were cast for various roles.

A total of 22 child actors were selected to portray the cult members, with each bringing their distinct personalities and eerie presence to the screen.

The film was a commercial success.

Children of the Corn proved to be financially successful, grossing over $14 million at the box office against its modest budget.

A prequel was released in 2001.

Children of the Corn: Revelation, released in 2001, serves as a prequel to the original film, further expanding on the disturbing origins of the cult.

The film’s script underwent significant changes.

While the movie remains faithful to Stephen King’s original story, several alterations were made to enhance the on-screen adaptation and create a more chilling experience.

The movie is known for its shocking opening sequence.

The film captivates viewers from the start with a brutal and intense opening scene that sets the tone for the rest of the story.

It has developed a dedicated fan base.

Over the years, Children of the Corn has gained a loyal following of fans who appreciate its unique blend of horror and suspense.

The film explores the loss of innocence.

The theme of lost innocence is a recurring motif throughout the movie, as the children are manipulated into committing horrific acts.

Children of the Corn is often included in lists of top horror films.

The film’s impact on the genre has been recognized by various critics and publications, consistently appearing in lists of the best horror movies of all time.

The movie’s success led to adaptations of other Stephen King stories.

Children of the Corn paved the way for numerous movie adaptations of Stephen King’s works, solidifying his status as a master of horror.

The film’s title is derived from a biblical verse.

The title “The Children of the Corn” is a reference to a passage from the Bible, specifically Jeremiah 51:This adds a layer of religious symbolism to the story.

The movie explores the power dynamics within the cult.

Children of the Corn delves into the manipulation and hierarchy within the cult, showcasing the struggle for control among its young leaders.

The original short story was published in Penthouse magazine.

Stephen King’s short story first appeared in the March 1977 issue of Penthouse magazine before being collected in several of his anthologies.

It was one of the first Stephen King adaptations to hit the big screen.

Children of the Corn helped pave the way for the wave of Stephen King adaptations that followed, solidifying his influence in the realm of horror.

The film features gory and shocking death scenes.

Children of the Corn doesn’t shy away from gruesome deaths, providing plenty of shocking and visceral moments throughout the story.

The movie explores the dark side of religious zealotry.

By focusing on the disturbing actions of the cult, Children of the Corn serves as a commentary on the dangers of extreme religious ideologies.

It spawned a devoted franchise.

The success of Children of the Corn led to a long-lasting franchise that continues to release new installments, showcasing its enduring popularity.

The film’s director went on to direct other horror classics.

Fritz Kiersch, the director of Children of the Corn, has since worked on various other horror films, solidifying his status in the genre.

The movie’s chilling atmosphere is enhanced by its cinematography.

The cinematography in Children of the Corn effectively captures the eerie and unsettling ambiance of the film, contributing to its overall impact.

It explores the influence of charismatic leaders.

Children of the Corn delves into the destructive power of charismatic leaders who manipulate and control the minds of their followers.

The film’s plot revolves around a prophecy.

The cult believes in a prophecy that foretells the rise of a new order, leading them to commit horrific acts in the name of their twisted beliefs.

The movie was banned in some countries.

Children of the Corn faced censorship and bans in certain countries due to its violent content and unsettling portrayal of children committing acts of violence.

It explores the vulnerability of small-town communities.

The film highlights the vulnerability of isolated small towns and the dangers that can arise when a dark influence takes control.

The film’s success led to multiple homages and references in pop culture.

Children of the Corn has left an indelible mark on pop culture, with other movies, TV shows, and even video games paying homage to its iconic imagery and storyline.

The movie’s twist ending shocked audiences.

Children of the Corn is known for its unexpected and chilling twist ending that leaves viewers in shock and awe.

It offers a cautionary tale against blind obedience.

Through its disturbing narrative, Children of the Corn serves as a cautionary tale against blindly following charismatic leaders and unquestioningly accepting dogmatic beliefs.

The film generated several memorable quotes.

With its gripping dialogue, Children of the Corn has produced several memorable quotes that have become iconic within the horror film genre.

It explores the corrupting influence of power.

The movie delves into how power can corrupt even the purest of intentions, ultimately leading to devastation and chaos.

The film’s marketing campaign capitalized on its eerie imagery.

The promotional materials for Children of the Corn effectively utilized its unsettling imagery to capture the attention of potential viewers.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Children of the Corn is a cult classic horror movie that has captivated audiences for decades. With its terrifying storyline, eerie atmosphere, and memorable characters, it has secured its place as a staple in the horror genre. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to the film, these 42 facts about Children of the Corn have provided a deeper understanding and appreciation for the movie’s impact on popular culture.From its origins as a Stephen King short story to its successful adaptation on the big screen, Children of the Corn has left a lasting impression on horror enthusiasts worldwide. With its suspenseful plot and chilling portrayal of a town dominated by a group of sinister children, this film continues to entertain and frighten audiences to this day.If you haven’t experienced the thrill of Children of the Corn, now is the perfect time to dive into this iconic horror flick. Prepare yourself for a suspenseful journey into the cornfields that will have you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

FAQs

1. What is the plot of Children of the Corn?

The movie follows a young couple, Burt and Vicky, who find themselves stranded in a rural town inhabited by a cult of murderous children.

2. Who wrote the original story of Children of the Corn?

The original story, titled “Children of the Corn,” was written by renowned horror author Stephen King.

3. When was the movie Children of the Corn released?

The movie was released in 1984 and quickly gained a dedicated fan base.

4. Are there any sequels or remakes of Children of the Corn?

Yes, there are several sequels and a 2009 remake of the original movie.

5. Who directed the movie Children of the Corn?

The movie was directed by Fritz Kiersch.

6. Who are the main characters in Children of the Corn?

The main characters are Burt and Vicky, played by Peter Horton and Linda Hamilton, respectively.

7. Where was Children of the Corn filmed?

The movie was primarily filmed in Iowa, capturing the rural essence and cornfields that play a significant role in the story.

8. What is the age rating for Children of the Corn?

Children of the Corn is rated R for its intense violence and disturbing themes.

9. Is Children of the Corn based on a true story?

No, Children of the Corn is a work of fiction and not based on real events.

10. What is the legacy of Children of the Corn?

The movie has become a cult classic, spawning numerous sequels and leaving a lasting impact on the horror genre as a whole.

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