The Diary of Ellen Rimbauer (2003)

The American television film, The Diary of Ellen Rimbauer (2003), directed by Craig R. Baxley, is an adaptation of Ridley Pearson’s novel, The Diary of Ellen Rimbauer: My Life at Rose Red (2001). Written under the pseudonym Joyce Reardon, PhD, Pearson’s book was based on Stephen King’s script for Rose Red. It follows the story of the construction of Rose Red, a cursed mansion in Seattle, Washington, during the early 20th century. Wealthy oil magnate John Rimbauer builds the imposing Tudor neo-Gothic style mansion as a gift for his submissive wife Ellen, on 40 acres (16 ha) of woodland. Mysterious accidents plague the construction and continue to haunt the infamous estate.

The plot was built on a Native American burial ground. Even during construction, the house gave off an eerie aura: several workers died, and a foreman was murdered by a colleague. After marrying Rimbauer, Ellen starts journaling about her apprehensions towards their new relationship, confusion over her sexuality, and the nightmare her life has become. Despite their rocky marriage, having two children – first Adam, then April with a deformed arm – brings some solace to Ellen. However, as she becomes more aware of John’s shady past, her initial admiration for his lavish lifestyle turns into hatred and fear.