‘Carrie’ Review: Mike Flanagan’s Remake Is a Timely (and Terrifying) High School Tragedy

Mike Flanagan's remake of Carrie is a timely and terrifying high school tragedy that introduces the story of young Carrie White to a new audience while offering die-hard fans a fresh perspective. Set in modern-day, the series explores the tragedy of Carrie White, a misunderstood girl with psychic abilities who faces bullying at school and abuse at home.

The show diverges from the original movie by focusing on a layered, in-depth exploration of grief and trauma, as well as the impact of a broken education system and unchecked abuse through social media.

Summer H. Howell's performance as Carrie is particularly noteworthy, as her ability to convey a wide range of emotions, from childlike innocence to unbridled rage, anchors the series. Samantha Sloyan's take on Carrie's mother, Margaret White, is a surprise, as she brings a nuanced performance that deviates from the unhinged, religious zealot portrayed in the original film.

The ensemble cast delivers strong performances, with Sierra Agudong's Sue Snell, Alison Thornton's Chris Hargensen, and many others, all contributing to a rich portrayal of high school dynamics.

Flanagan's version of Carrie places a strong emphasis on female relationships, which has sparked concerns about the story being told through a male's eyes. However, the series features an array of female writers and directors, giving the story a fresh and necessary perspective. The tragedy of Carrie White is told through a female gaze, and the conflicts that arise resonate on a deeper, more authentic level.

Unlike the original film, which is known for its gratuitous nudity, Flanagan's adaptation avoids excessive gore and violence, focusing instead on an emotionally resonant coming-of-age tragedy. While some may view this lack of gore as a flaw, it ultimately adds to the poignant and impactful nature of the story.