Christine (1983)

The American supernatural horror film Christine (1983), directed and co-scored by John Carpenter, is based on Stephen King’s novel of the same name. It follows the impact of a classic red and white 1958 Plymouth Fury named Christine on the lives of Arnie Cunningham, his friends, family, and teenage enemies. This car seems to have a mind of its own and a possessive personality that negatively influences Arnie. In 1957, at a Detroit car factory, the Fury shuts its hood on a worker’s hand and later kills another worker for dropping ash on its seats. Twenty years later in Rockbridge, California, high school senior Arnie is bullied by Buddy Repperton and his gang, but his best friend Dennis Guilder comes to his defense and gets them sent to the principal’s office.

Arnie and Dennis spot a rundown 1958 Plymouth Fury for sale in the yard of a shabby house after school. The car, named Christine by owner George LeBay, is being sold for $250. Despite Dennis’ protests, Arnie purchases the vehicle. However, his parents do not allow it to be kept at their home. Arnie begins restoring the car at Will Darnell’s local garage, where he also works part-time and has access to necessary parts. As he works on Christine, Arnie’s personality transforms into one of rebellion and arrogance, causing concern for his parents and Dennis. When confronted by Dennis, LeBay reveals that his deceased brother shared the same obsession with Christine and that his young niece tragically died in the car.