Prime Video is now streaming an 8-episode series adaptation of Stephen King's debut novel, Carrie. This new adaptation serves as the first project under Mike Flanagan's partnership with Prime Video and sees him executive producing alongside King.
Flanagan, known for his work on adaptations such as Doctor Sleep, The Life of Chuck, and Gerald's Game, has previously collaborated with King. This new series also marks the beginning of Flanagan's development of an adaptation of King's The Dark Tower for Amazon.
While Flanagan often works with a recurring cast, this Carrie series introduces new talent like Summer H. Howell and Amber Midthunder. This approach aims to make the classic story more relatable, particularly for younger audiences. The series expands on the original narrative, taking advantage of its extended runtime to delve deeper into the story than previous adaptations.
A Modern Take on a Classic Tale
The adaptation incorporates contemporary elements, reflecting the significant changes in the cultural landscape since the novel's 1974 publication and the 1976 film directed by Brian de Palma. Notably, social media plays a prominent role in this retelling.
Polygon's review of the series highlights how the inclusion of anonymous social media accusations adds a new layer of tension. "We know the story's true horror will eventually emerge from Carrie's awful psychic outburst, but watching the entire town squirm under the pressure of anonymous social media accusations is even more agonizing," writes Polygon's Jake Kleinman.
This modernization of the story has been met with critical praise. The series currently holds an 84% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics noting its success in bringing a modern touch to a timeless work and allowing the performers to shine. The series debuted on Prime Video on October 7.