"I knew they'd hurt my little girl."

Rating: 7/10 (30 July 2018)

These are the words Margaret White says, as she's about to stab her daughter Carrie to death, as punishment for going to the prom.
I have seen both movie adaptations of this story, read the novel, and can honestly say that if I had to choose a favorite version, I'd pick this one, if -for no other reason- than because of the outstanding performances of both Piper Laurie, and Sissy Spacek, both of whom shine like new pennies.
There is also the presence of John Travolta, early in his career, and Amy Irving early in hers.
Though not one of my favorite movies, this film does have something of it's own to offer. It's one of Brian DePalma's best, and will haunt you long after you've finished watching it.
What's striking about this story, is the rush one can get from pushing an already racked, and fragile creature over the edge...And the dire consequences that can come from that action.
Shy and mousy Carrie White (Sissy Spacek) has been the butt of every cruel joke since toddlerhood.
Raised by the fanatical and insane Margaret White (Piper Laurie), Carrie's home life is hell, and her school life is not much better.
Constantly demeaned and humiliated, Carrie is surrounded by kids who have no compassion for her situation, and do everything they can to make it worse...
That is until pretty and popular Sue Snell (Amy Irving), feeling genuine remorse for her actions, asks her boyfriend Tommy Ross (William Katt), to take Carrie to the prom...
But there are certain others in the group, among them Chris Hargensen (Nancy Allen), and Billy Nolan (John Travolta), who see this prom night as a perfect opportunity to do some mischief with an appalling stunt...not knowing it'll be the one that kills them.
And not even the caring, and compassionate Miss Collins (Betty Buckley) can stop things now.
People say Carrie's gifts are evil.
It would be more accurate to say that this is what happens when mean people start preying too much on the weak, and the helpless.
Like a myth or a spook story:
Don't bully innocent people. Or powerful forces will get you.

Originally, Review #88
Posted On:
July 23, 2010