Stephen King's debut novel, Carrie, and Brian De Palma's subsequent 1976 film adaptation remain cornerstones of horror. However, the narrative surrounding Carrie is more expansive than many realize, especially in light of Mike Flanagan's recent TV adaptation and the existence of its most controversial film sequel, The Rage: Carrie 2. This 1999 film, now streaming for free on platforms like Tubi, Pluto TV, and YouTube, offers a distinct, and arguably more compelling, continuation of Carrie's story than Flanagan's recent work.
An Unlikely Sequel
The Rage: Carrie 2 was not initially conceived as a Carrie sequel. It originated as a project called The Curse by screenwriter Rafael Moreu, but after stalling, the story was reworked to capitalize on the established Carrie brand. The film stars Emily Bergl as Rachel Lang, a high school outcast with nascent telekinetic abilities, stemming from her mother's mental breakdown and institutionalization.
Rachel's difficult life, marked by an abusive adoptive family and the tragic suicide of her only friend, Lisa, is further complicated when her powers manifest. This leads to a violent confrontation at a party, mirroring the climax of the original Carrie, though set in a mansion rather than a prom. A significant revelation posits that Rachel and Carrie White are half-sisters, sharing a father and the telekinetic "Shine." This genetic link, however, deviates from Flanagan's recent adaptation.
Original Carrie actress Sissy Spacek declined a cameo, but footage from the 1976 film was used. Amy Irving reprised her role as Sue Snell, the sole survivor of the prom incident, now serving as a guidance counselor who watches over Rachel. Irving has publicly expressed regret over her involvement in The Rage, stating in an interview, "I'm sorry I ever made that film. Except they paid me a shitload of money." Despite its production history and a notable cast member's reservations, The Rage: Carrie 2 is considered a serviceable horror film with some effective twists and a strong conclusion.
##Carrie Season 2... The Rage?
Flanagan's Carrie adaptation significantly alters the established lore. His series introduces a network of women with telekinetic abilities, who intervene after the prom incident to conceal evidence and rescue Carrie. The first season concludes by setting up a larger narrative arc involving these individuals, with Flanagan confirming plans for a three-season story.
While this expansion aligns with Stephen King's later tendency to build interconnected universes, it diverges from the original novel and De Palma's film. Critics suggest this narrative choice, particularly the inclusion of Easter eggs at the season's end, may serve primarily to secure a second season. Whether Flanagan's vision will be realized remains uncertain. In the interim, The Rage: Carrie 2 provides an intriguing, alternative pathway for the Carrie saga, a direction perhaps worth considering.
