“Exploring the Dark Depths of Stephen King’s ‘Pet Sematary: Bloodlines’ with the Director”

‘Pet Sematary: Bloodlines’ Director on Working With Dogs, and Giving the Stephen King Novel’s Indigenous Portrayals a ‘Refresh’

Introduction

In the world of horror, Stephen King’s 1983 novel “Pet Sematary” has become a classic. Over the years, it has been adapted multiple times for film, with each version bringing its own interpretation of the chilling story. The latest adaptation, titled “Pet Sematary: Bloodlines,” directed and co-written by Lindsey Anderson Beer, takes a unique approach by serving as a prequel to the previous films and delving into the origins of the evil that haunts the town of Ludlow, Maine.

A Fresh Perspective

“Pet Sematary: Bloodlines” is set in 1969 and follows a young Jud Crandall as he encounters the malevolent forces that would plague Ludlow for years to come. Lindsey Anderson Beer, known for her work as a screenwriter on films like “Sierra Burgess Is a Loser” and “Chaos Walking,” sees the film as an opportunity to explore the human elements of horror.

Beer emphasizes the importance of character-driven horror, stating that caring about the characters is what makes horror truly terrifying. She believes that “Pet Sematary” is a story that is inherently human, filled with character drama that elicits an emotional connection with the audience. In her interview with Variety, Beer explains, “You care about those characters. You care about their fates.”

A Cherished Opportunity

Beer’s involvement in “Pet Sematary: Bloodlines” came about through her long-standing admiration for Stephen King’s novel. When approached by producers Mark Vahradian and Lorenzo Di Bonaventura, with whom she had previously worked on “Transformers: Rise of the Beasts,” Beer saw the project as a fitting choice for her directorial debut.

The director aims to bring to life elements from the book that haven’t yet been explored on screen. She wanted to delve deeper into the nature of the evil and answer the questions she had as a reader and fan. Beer also recognized the need to update the trope of the mystical Indigenous and the cursed land, and thus introduced new Indigenous characters to provide a fresh perspective on the mythology of “Pet Sematary.”

Authenticity and Practical Effects

To create an authentic 1969 setting for the film, Beer conducted extensive research on how Maine looked at the time. She wanted to avoid the stylized portrayal of the era often seen in movies set in the 1960s. With the guidance of production designers and costume designers, she aimed for a lived-in and specific feel that accurately represented the time period.

Working with animal actors posed its own set of challenges for Beer and her team. They had to coordinate the actions of the dogs and ensure the safety of both the animals and the human actors during intense scenes. Beer opted for practical effects whenever possible, believing that practical effects add realism that CGI often lacks. She wanted to create an immersive experience for the audience, using practical effects and shooting on location in dark, spooky woods.

The Fulfillment of Creativity

For Beer, the most fulfilling aspect of the entire process was the opportunity to direct her own screenplay. As a writer transitioning to directing, she welcomed the chance to see her vision through from beginning to completion. Being able to have full creative control and witness the project come to life was a profound experience for her.

In conclusion, “Pet Sematary: Bloodlines” offers a fresh take on a beloved horror story, combining elements from the original novel with new perspectives and character-driven horror. Lindsey Anderson Beer’s dedication to authenticity and practical effects adds a layer of realism and immersion to the film. With her directorial debut, Beer has crafted a unique prequel that aims to answer long-held questions and breathe new life into the “Pet Sematary” universe.