Movie #64- "Firestarter" (1984)

Starting in the late 1970s and into the 1980s, Stephen King adaptations were the craze.  Some were met with success while several were not as fortunate.  The only King movie/book combo that I've waded through is "Christine."  While I did enjoy both (the book more than the film), it's easy to understand the dilemma.  There is so much volume to the work of King, that it's difficult to translate it to the screen without missing key elements to the story.
For what I can guess, "Firestarter" is a shining example of the problem.  Taking a 400 page book and cramming it into a two-hour film.  So many elements of the script appear to be working against each other that the pacing of the movie is off.  The action zooms along with certain aspects receiving little to no explanation.  You start with brief back story, which turns into a chase, then becomes government conspiracy with a supernatural ending.  Drew Barrymore's powers seem to expand beyond the ability to start fires for the conclusion.
"Firestarter" is sunk more by the script than anything.  The acting isn't really the issue. Three Oscar winning actors are in the cast with two of them (Art Carney and Louise Fletcher) terribly underused.  George C. Scott has the most dynamic role, yet there is too much mystery surrounding his character.  Martin Sheen is solid as expected.  My only acting issue occurred with David Keith, who at times, is a little over the top.
The music also seems out of place.  Tangerine Dream provided the soundtrack, and their music is more geared toward sci-fi than supernatural.  Many scenes are punctuated with music that isn't appropriate for the mood.  (Side note, I've seen Tangerine Dream in concert.  Three guys, plenty of computer banks with a few guitar solos.)
This was another in the series of Movie Channel Roulette and I am apparently losing that game.

Rating: 4/10
Movies I've previously seen: 5
First time viewings: 59