Carrie review: an emotional, modern retelling with changes that will certainly divide fans

Prime Video's new adaptation of Stephen King's Carrie, helmed by Mike Flanagan, has quickly climbed to the top of the streaming charts. The eight-episode series reimagines the classic horror story in a modern setting, utilizing contemporary technology like social media and smartphones to amplify the protagonist's isolation and bullying. While the series receives praise for its well-rounded character development and Summer H. Howell's compelling performance as Carrie, the adaptation introduces controversial changes. Critics point to the softened portrayal of Margaret White, Carrie's mother, as a departure that diminishes the character's original cruelty and the narrative's sense of isolation. Additionally, the series features a revised ending that is expected to spark debate among long-time fans of the source material. Despite these divisive creative choices, the show remains a significant entry in Flanagan's portfolio of King adaptations, successfully blending emotional depth with modern-day anxieties.