carrie No one rooted for Michael Meyers, Freddy Krueger, or Jason Voorhees. But there is something about Carrie that makes you cheer for her; if not out loud, a little from the heart.

 Carrie

No one rooted for Michael Meyers, Freddy Krueger, or Jason Voorhees. But there is something about Carrie that makes you cheer for her; if not out loud, a little from the heart.  Most of us have felt like the outcast at one point in our life; wanting to fit in or at least not stand out. So when it comes to horror films this story does draw attention to itself in how good it is. Revenge is never the answer but at times it is sweet to watch.

Carrie is a retold, modernized version of the 1976 supernatural horror flick based on the Stephen King Novel.  Carrie White (Chloë Grace Moretz) is an awkward teen made even more socially inept by her bible thumping momma (Julianne Moore). When Carrie becomes the brunt of horrible teasing by her fellow classmates it unleashes a hidden kinetic power. Things begin to get better when she is befriended by another student, but not everyone is ready to let the taunting end. The film culminates with the memorable prom scene made legendary in the first film.  

Remakes of classics are always iffy. They will forever be compared to the original and must bring something new and exciting while not overstepping the boundaries of loyalty. It is safe to say that this version will not only captivate new comers but sit nicely with fans of the first film, and even of the book. This is achieved mainly by three factors. First and foremost are the performances by Moretz and Moore. Chloë is fabulous as Carrie White. She not only captures the demeanor and naivety of the awkward teen but adds something that Spacek was unable to; a heartbreaking softness. You feel sorry for her from the beginning and never sense the need to pull away. She has such innocence about her delivery that immediately draws you in. Yet when the power is unleashed you see a strong force in her eyes that is controlling without ever being harsh.

Moore gives an award winning performance as the religious fanatic trying to save her daughter from the world’s evils. She is more terrifying than Carrie ever will be. Your heart beats a bit faster and your palms get a little sweatier every time she enters the scene. Julianne is expected to bring drama but here she adds a fuel to the “crazy fire” that we have yet seen from her. Her back and forth dance with Moretz is spot on and makes this movie special.

The other thing that makes this film work is the antagonists. For Carrie to truly get you in her corner you have to have someone to hate. You must despise the girls that taunt her mercilessly. And in this one you do. The writing, directing, and performances of the teenaged girls in this movie help stir the adrenaline and tension. By the time it is over you can’t wait for Carrie to mop the floor with them.

Carrie is rated R for bloody violence, disturbing images, language and some sexual content. This is totally an adult film and parents need to think hard before letting their young teens watch. Granted the anti-bullying message is there if you look for it but the imagery, drama, and content is way too brutal for young eyes. This is made for fans of the genre that want a slick, well made, and perfectly acted horror film. If you are squeamish or have a hard time breathing in tense moments then this is likely not your first choice. Those who are loyal to the original should give this a view. It will certainly please. I give it 4 out of 5 dirty pillows. Some of the special effects kept it from being perfect but those are worth overlooking.

Matt Mungle

Review copyright 2013 Mungleshow Productions. Used by Permission.

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