A Book A Week

A review of a book to film adaptation. 

Lately, it seems as if Hollywood will do anything to produce a surefire hit. Instead of taking risks with original material, studios rely on established franchises and characters to draw in audiences. They have even gone as far as to completely remake or "re-imagine" previous films. And so, 37 years after Stephen King's debut novel, Carrie, was originally adapted for the big screen, we get another film version of his classic high school revenge story.

The film follows the shy high school student Carrie White (Chloe Grace Mortez), as she endures relentless bullying from her peers. From the start of the movie, we are aware that Carrie does not fit in. She is shy, quiet, and a bit awkward. At home, a religious and disturbed mother, played by Julianne Moore, attempts to shield her daughter from the sinful outside world. This sheltered lifestyle ends up being the root of Carrie's problems. While showering after gym class, Carrie experiences her first period. Terrified by the blood, she panics, having a meltdown that draws the attention of the entire locker room of girls. But instead of helping the frightened girl, the others mock her, throwing tampons at her, and posting a recording of the entire horrific incident.

One girl, Sue Snell, feels bad for the mistreatment of Carrie, and has her boyfriend ask Carrie to the prom as a way to make amends. Meanwhile, Carrie discovers that she has telekinetic powers that enable her to manipulate objects with her mind. Both empowered by this new found skill and terrified of its possibilities, Carrie wants nothing more than to be normal and to fit in. So, she accepts the prom invitation. The rest of the story is an infamous scene of the horrors of bullying and the revenge that follows.

This is the ultimate revenge story. The talented cast of this film help to make the audience sympathize with Carrie. As she exacts her revenge, we are drawn to cheer her on, even when the revenge becomes out of control. Despite its age, this story rings with social relevance, commenting on bullying, the power of social media and other technologies, and the basic human desire to be accepted by our peers. Fans of Stephen King, horror movies, and thrillers are sure to enjoy this well done remake.

Have you read the novel or seen the movie? If so, what did you think of it? What book adaptations would you like to see as a future Friday Flicks post?