Stephen King has never been shy about sharing his horror recommendations, and his latest endorsement has sent a new film skyrocketing up the streaming charts. The Cycle, a chilling thriller that King has compared to The Thing meets Silence of the Lambs, is currently dominating on both Shudder and AMC+, proving that the master of horror still knows how to pick a winner.
The film stars Deborah Ann Woll, best known for her role as Karen Page in Marvel's Daredevil series, and she's joined by Jeffrey Donovan, Jack Doolan, and Will Hochman. Written and directed by Jordan Downey, with a co-writing credit for Kevin Stewart, The Cycle follows a daughter who must unravel the mystery of her father's death after his body, missing for over three decades, is discovered at the center of a grisly crime scene. It's a premise that's as haunting as it is gripping, and it's clearly resonating with audiences.
Since its release, The Cycle has climbed into the top 10 on both Shudder and AMC+, a testament to its growing popularity. The film currently holds a stellar 95% critics' score on Rotten Tomatoes, with an audience score of 68%, indicating that while critics are raving, viewers are also finding plenty to appreciate. King's endorsement, which he shared on social media, has undoubtedly fueled the surge, but the film's own merits are what keep viewers hooked.
This isn't the first time King's praise has boosted a project's profile. His track record includes championing everything from indie gems to big-budget blockbusters, and his fans have learned to trust his taste. With The Cycle, he's once again put his stamp on a film that deserves attention, and the streaming numbers reflect that.
For those who haven't yet seen it, The Cycle is available to stream right now on both Shudder and AMC+. If you're a fan of psychological horror with a sci-fi twist, this is one you won't want to miss. And if you're looking for more of King's recommendations, be sure to check out our list of his best opening chapters or explore other horror gems like Vampire Carnival.
As the streaming wars heat up, The Cycle is a prime example of how a strong critical reception and a celebrity endorsement can translate into major viewership. It's a win for Shudder and AMC+, and a win for horror fans who are always on the lookout for the next scare. So grab your popcorn, dim the lights, and see why Stephen King is calling this one of the best horror movies of the year.
