𝐂𝐮𝐣𝐨 𝟏𝟗𝟖𝟑

Cujo is an adaptation of Stephen King’s 1981 novel, directed by Lewis Teague, with a screenplay written by Don Carlos Dunaway and Barbara Turner (under the pseudonym Lauren Currier). It belongs to the era of 1980s horror cinema that sought to bring King’s literary nightmares to life on screen. The story blends elements of psychological horror, survival, and tragedy, creating a deeply unsettling yet intimate tale.

The film follows the terrifying ordeal of a mother and son trapped in their car, under siege by a rabid dog. Beyond the horror of the situation, Cujo explores themes of family dysfunction, infidelity, and the primal instinct to protect one’s loved ones.

The narrative begins with Cujo, a friendly St. Bernard, chasing a rabbit near his owner Joe Camber’s rural property. During the chase, Cujo gets his nose into a cave inhabited by bats and is bitten, contracting rabies. Over time, Cujo’s behavior grows increasingly erratic and violent.

When the family car breaks down, Donna and Tad take it to Joe Camber’s remote farm for repairs. Unbeknownst to them, Cujo has succumbed entirely to rabies and k.i.l.l.ed Joe and another visitor. When Donna and Tad arrive, Cujo attacks, forcing them to take refuge in their broken-down car.

Trapped during a sweltering heatwave, with no food or water, Donna fights to protect Tad as Cujo relentlessly stalks them. The tension builds as Tad’s health deteriorates due to dehydration and heat exhaustion. In a climactic confrontation, Donna overcomes her terror, fights Cujo with a broken bat, and ultimately k.i.l.l.s him to save her son.