They were. Although I'm not sure I'd say that The Shining is a great adaptation of King's novel, but it's an excellent horror film in its own rite. The rest of them are very good films, of course. The track record of King adaptations (especially of his major works), though, I think everyone would have to admit, is pretty poor, unless Frank Darabont happens to be involved. On that point, I think I'd have to add The Mist to your list as well.
And, yes, I love the fact that this is going to be rated R. Looks like they're really on the right track with this. Hopefully they don't botch it the way so many have done so before with King's work.