The cult horror hit from 1987, The Gate, finally gets its own novelization — and fans couldn’t be more thrilled. This isn’t just a story about kids accidentally unleashing horrors from a Hellish portal; it’s also a perfect entry point for anyone new to horror movies. I know this firsthand because The Gate was among the first horror films I ever saw, and it has held a special place in my heart ever since. In fact, I even featured it in a piece called "Best Horror Movie You Never Saw." But here's where it gets interesting: nearly four decades after it first terrified audiences, The Gate has now been transformed into a novel, penned by Christian Francis. You can grab a copy right now through this link.
The 224-page novelization brings a fresh and deeper look into the story. Here's what you can expect: “They have opened The Gate. Pray it’s not too late.” The book works from Michael Nankin’s original, darker screenplay, enriching the film’s blend of practical effects, suspenseful atmosphere, and memorable 1980s style adventure. The plot centers on Glen and Terry, two close friends who discover a strange hole in Glen’s backyard. Initially, it seems innocent enough—just a curious hole. But then strange and frightening things start to occur. Creepy visions, mysterious shadow creatures, and bizarre events escalate rapidly. By the time the boys fully grasp what’s happening, they've inadvertently opened a portal to a demonic dimension. The discovery spirals from curiosity to terror. With their parents out of town and malevolent forces drawing near, Glen and Terry must race against time to shut the gate before it's too late and the demons consume their world.
Whether you’re someone revisiting this cult classic or encountering its terrifying lore for the first time, this official novelization promises to deliver the chills, thrills, and intense suspense that made the movie unforgettable.
The original 1987 film was directed by Tibor Takács, with a screenplay by Michael Nankin, and featured performances by Stephen Dorff, Christa Denton, Louis Tripp, Kelly Rowan, and Jennifer Irwin.
Christian Francis has been busy bringing several horror films to life as novels lately. His recent works include novelizations of Session 9, In the Mouth of Madness, Witchboard, The First Power, and the Maniac Cop trilogy. Excitingly, his adaptation of Strangeland is set to hit shelves on October 22nd.
Are you a fan of The Gate’s eerie world? Will you be adding this new novelization to your collection? We’d love to hear your thoughts—agree or disagree? Drop your comments below and join the conversation about this cult horror gem.
About the Author
The Horror News Editor is an avid fan of horror and a wide range of films, including classics like the Friday the 13th series, the works of George A. Romero (especially the original Dead trilogy), Texas Chainsaw Massacre parts 1 and 2, Let the Right One In, and The Evil Dead, among many others. Beyond horror, favorites spill over into Kevin Smith’s movies, Back to the Future, the MCU, and even classic rock legends like Led Zeppelin. This editor enjoys podcasts, traveling (especially to Brazil), classic horror conventions like Cinema Wasteland, and writers such as Stephen King, Elmore Leonard, and Quentin Tarantino. The passion for both grindhouse film and blockbuster franchises like James Bond and Mission: Impossible rounds out their cinematic interests, making them a knowledgeable and enthusiastic voice in horror news.
