His thrillers often play on psychological fears. They make you question your own sanity or safety. In 'The Dark Half', the idea of a doppelganger is explored in a way that really messes with your mind and keeps you on edge throughout the story.
They often have complex characters. For example, in 'The Shining', Jack Torrance is a complex character with his own inner demons that are exploited by the haunted hotel. Another characteristic is the strong sense of atmosphere. King is really good at creating a spooky, foreboding environment, like in 'It' with the sewers and the old houses in Derry.
'The Green Mile' is quite popular. It's a different kind of thriller as it also has elements of drama and the supernatural. The story of the inmates on death row and the mysterious prisoner with special powers makes for a very emotional and suspenseful read/watch. It makes you think about justice and mercy.
One of the most famous is 'The Shining' based on Stephen King's novel. It has a great sense of psychological dread as the main character slowly descends into madness in the isolated hotel. The film adaptation is very well - known for its creepy atmosphere and the performance of Jack Nicholson.
They often use the characters' inner demons. For example, in 'The Shining', Jack Torrance's alcoholism and his past traumas are gradually uncovered as the story progresses. This makes the audience wonder how his inner issues will affect his actions and the safety of his family. Also, the isolated settings in many of King's works, like the Overlook Hotel, add to the suspense as the characters are cut off from the outside world.
Often, they have a sense of authenticity. For example, the locations in 'Zodiac' were real places where the events actually occurred, which adds to the realism. They also tend to make the audience feel a deeper sense of unease because they know these things could really happen.
One characteristic is the complex characters. King is great at creating multi - dimensional characters. In his novels - turned - psychological - thrillers, like in 'The Dark Half', the main character has a split personality, which adds a lot of psychological depth and mystery.
One great example is 'Misery'. It's about a famous novelist who is held captive by his 'number one fan'. The psychological tension is palpable as the fan torments the writer. Another is 'The Shining'. The slow descent into madness of the main character while in the haunted hotel is a classic psychological thriller aspect.
Often, they have complex characters. For example, in 'The Dark Half', the main character has a split personality, which creates a lot of psychological depth. His two sides battle it out, and it keeps the reader on edge wondering which side will win.
They often have a strong sense of authenticity. Since they are based on real events, they can make the audience feel more involved. For example, in 'Memories of Murder', the details of the investigation and the social background of that time are presented realistically.
They often have a sense of authenticity. Since they are based on real events, the settings and situations feel more believable. For example, in 'Memories of Murder', the rural landscapes and the way the local police operate add to the realism.