In the novel, sheriff Alan Pangborn's child and wife died in a car accident and the sheriff is still mourning them. As a token, he still keeps a joke spring snake that belonged to his dead son. The toy plays a pivotal role in Pangborn defeating Leland Gaunt, who reveals his true demon form before disappearing. Instead, in the movie Gaunt is defeated by Danforth Keeton who blows him up along with his shop.

Film