The Incredible Themes Carry Somewhat Cheesy Movie

Rating: 8/10 (8 March 2017)

The "Carrie" story originally penned by Stephen King contained some of the most interesting and truly uncomfortable themes ever put to paper in a story. This movie effectively captures those themes despite (at times) trying to turn into a cheesy slasher flick. Because of this, it still remains a classic to this day.
For a basic plot summary, "Carrie" sees high schooler Carrie White (Sissy Spacek) undergo her first menstrual period in the most embarrassing way possible. Having not been educated about "those things" because of her religion-obsessed mother Margaret (Piper Laurie), Carrie struggles to understand what is happening to her. Not helping matters is the fact that Carrie also begins to develop a sort of telekinesis, allowing her to move objects with her mind when her emotions get out of control. When fellow student Sue Snell (Amy Irving) gets Carrie to the senior prom, the event that will change Carrie's life forever occurs.
Like I said, this movie is great because its themes hit so close to home. I would almost go so far to say that "Carrie" should almost be required viewing for teen girls entering high school. There are just so many concepts (religion, becoming a woman, parental relations, friendship, etc.) floating around throughout this film that there is usually always "something to think about".
Perhaps the hallmark of the overall experience, though, is the Spacek/Laurie acting duo. Their scenes are probably the most gripping of the show and, once again, hit really close to home sometimes when it comes to religion.
The only thing I don't particularly care for about this movie is that director Brian de Palma at times tries to turn it into a "teen slasher" flick. I mean, he casts P.J. Soles for crying out loud! Luckily, he doesn't go too far from King's brilliant story, but there are times (if you've read the book) where you might think "okay...let's be moving on here".
Overall, "Carrie" is a classic films with themes that will stand the test of time. I hear that it is being remade in 2013, and I feel that they will have a tough time living up to this rendition.