
"Cell," released in 2016, is a film adaptation of Stephen King's novel of the same name, featuring John Cusack as Clayton 'Clay' Riddell and Samuel L. Jackson as Thomas 'Tom' McCourt. Upon its initial release, the movie received predominantly negative reviews from critics who criticized its pacing, special effects, and deviation from the source material. Audiences similarly expressed disappointment, citing the film's failure to capture the intense horror and suspense of King's book. Over the years, "Cell" has not significantly gained traction as a cult classic or an underrated gem. Instead, it is often viewed as a dated relic within the horror genre—an example of an ambitious concept hindered by execution issues. Despite this, it retains some interest among dedicated Stephen King fans and horror completists who appreciate its thematic elements and performances amid its flaws.