Movie Review: Carrie (2013)
Synopsis
Carrie is a supernatural horror film directed by Kimberly Peirce, based on Stephen King’s iconic 1974 novel of the same name. The film presents the harrowing and tragic story of Carrie White, a shy and awkward high school student who is subjected to relentless bullying and physical abuse, both at school and in her oppressive home environment. Carrie, portrayed by Chloë Grace Moretz, lives with her fanatically religious mother, Margaret White, played by Julianne Moore, who imposes an extreme interpretation of Christianity upon her daughter, further isolating Carrie from her peers.
As the narrative unfolds, Carrie discovers her telekinetic powers, which allow her to manipulate objects with her mind. The story progresses through the social dynamics of high school, where Carrie’s attempts at acceptance are met with cruelty, particularly from her classmates, led by the popular yet vindictive Chris Hargensen (Portia Doubleday). An unexpected moment of compassion arrives when her classmate Tommy Ross (Ansel Elgort) asks her to the prom, igniting a flicker of hope in her otherwise lonely existence.
However, the prom serves as a catastrophic turning point. Following a cruel prank involving pigs’ blood, Carrie’s pent-up rage and pain manifest explosively, unleashing her telekinetic powers in a tragic and violent episode that wreaks havoc on the entire town. The film tracks Carrie’s descent into chaos and explores themes of alienation, revenge, and the devastating consequences of bullying, ultimately culminating in a hauntingly tragic ending that reflects the dire consequences of isolation and rage.
List of Actors and Their Characters
- Chloë Grace Moretz as Carrie White
- Julianne Moore as Margaret White
- Ansel Elgort as Tommy Ross
- Portia Doubleday as Chris Hargensen
- Judy Greer as Miss Desjardin
- Alex Russell as Billy Nolan
- Gabrielle Wilde as Sue Snell
- Mike McGowan as Mr White
- Brianne Tju as a Classmate
- Stephen Mangan as Principal
Review
As a remake of one of the most beloved horror films of all time, Kimberly Peirce’s Carrie is steeped in the daunting legacy of Brian De Palma’s 1976 adaptation. This modern rendition aims to capture the raw terror and emotional heft of the original while attempting to appeal to a new generation of viewers who may not be familiar with the source material. With its tragic themes of bullying, social ostracism and the extreme consequences of human cruelty, Carrie resonates more powerfully today than ever.
Chloë Grace Moretz delivers a striking performance as Carrie White, finding a balance between vulnerability and burgeoning strength. Her portrayal embodies the pain and confusion of adolescence, enhanced by the character’s supernatural abilities. Moretz captures Carrie’s pathos adeptly, rendering her both sympathetic and tragic. Her abilities, often seen as a metaphor for the tumultuous feelings that accompany growing up, provide an innovative overlay to the narrative. However, one might argue that the nuances of her evolution could have been explored deeper, which would encourage the audience to engage more profoundly with her development.
Julianne Moore’s portrayal of Margaret White is both terrifying and deeply sympathetic. Moore channels a frantic zealotry that showcases the extreme lengths to which a parent can go in their misguided belief system. The dynamic between Carrie and her mother is central to the narrative and exacerbates Carrie’s emotional instability. It is uncertain if the film needed more context regarding Margaret’s past, as it would lend more depth to her character and enrich the overarching emotional narrative. Nevertheless, Moore’s performance is memorable and compelling, delivering a chilling depiction of fanaticism that effectively captures a mother’s misguided love twisted by zealotry.
In terms of supporting performances, Ansel Elgort as Tommy Ross brings an empathetic presence to the film. His genuine kindness toward Carrie shines amidst the cruelty and bullying, providing some much-needed emotional relief. Portia Doubleday’s portrayal of Chris Hargensen effectively channels the cruel, social climber archetype, inciting rage yet never feeling like a one-dimensional antagonist. Chris serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of unchecked privilege and the cruelty that can arise when one seeks to manipulate their social status.
The film, however, cannot escape the shadow of its predecessor. While it retains the core elements and themes of King’s novel, Peirce’s adaptation feels somewhat shallow in comparison to De Palma’s exploration of fear, rage, and isolation. This modern version leans heavily on the trauma of Carrie’s experiences rather than the emotional complexity of her identity and powers. The pacing often feels rushed, leaving essential character moments underdeveloped. Comparatively, De Palma’s work deftly imbued the narrative with suspense and emotional gravitas.
Cinematography and visual effects are noteworthy aspects of this iteration. The film’s aesthetics capture a distinctly contemporary high school atmosphere, contrasting sharply with Carrie’s inner turmoil. The use of telekinesis is creatively depicted, leading to both horrifying and poignant moments. The climax, which unfolds at the prom, emerges as a visual spectacle that underlines the extremity of Carrie’s emotional state. The chaos that envelops the scene is crafted with a blend of horror and artistry, expertly accentuating the film’s themes of teenage angst and revenge.
Sound design and score also play a crucial role in establishing the film’s atmosphere. The music underscores the escalating tension and visceral horror, constantly reminding viewers of the emotional turmoil that festers within Carrie. While the atmospheric elements entice viewers into the horror aesthetic, they sometimes overshadow the personal and emotional journeys of the characters.
One notable change from the original adaptation is the use of technology and social media. The modern context infuses the narrative with a contemporary understanding of bullying and a nuanced view of adolescent relationships. Despite the film occasionally delving into topical matters, it sometimes feels cursory and fails to engage deeply with the complexities of modern adolescence, often opting for cliché tropes.
That said, Carrie (2013) remains a relevant narrative that addresses crucial themes of bullying, isolation, and revenge—issues that persist in various forms across generations. The exploration of power dynamics in the high school environment provides a backdrop that myriad viewers can relate to, making the film an important discussion point regarding the culture of bullying and the repercussions of social exclusion.
The film ultimately culminates in a tragic conclusion that reverberates with the harsh truths of societal cruelty. While it may lack the emotional depth and establishment of suspense that characterised the original, it still manages to evoke a deep sense of empathy for Carrie and a dread for the circumstances that led her to unleash her rage.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Carrie (2013) is a modern relaying of Stephen King’s harrowing tale that captivates with strong individual performances, particularly by Moretz and Moore. Though it grapples with the weighty legacy of its predecessor, the film presents a visceral examination of the dire consequences of bullying and isolation, effectively striking a chord with contemporary audiences. However, the swift pacing and underdeveloped character arcs prevent it from achieving the emotional resonance that might have elevated it to the heights of De Palma’s classic.
Score: 7/10
