Carrie (2002) - A Movie Review

If I focus really hard I can move things.

Based on the book by Stephen King, Carrie was a 2002 adaptation released to television. Carrie White, an outcast, is asked to senior prom. Finding out that she has telekinesis powers, Margaret, Carrie’s over-religious mother believes her daughter going to prom is a sin. Once Carrie arrives at the prom, it is a dark evening to remember.

Many people aren’t aware that there’s a 2002 version of Carrie. I used to harshly criticize the 2002 TV movie version, but after some thought, it follows closely to the book. While the 2002 version of Carrie is a closer adaptation of the story, it didn’t do so well with special effects.

Angela Bettis sold the shy, awkward, and reserved version of Carrie. Despite being almost 30 at the time of filming, I believed Bettis as Carrie. The emotion that she bore was very realistic. In contrast to Spacek and Moretz’s performances, I actually felt the journey of Carrie finally standing up for herself.

Unlike Piper Laurie’s corny, loud, and brash version of Margaret in the 1976 version, Patricia Clarkson goes for a more reserved and quieted toned version of Margaret. I thought that was a great approach because you never know when Margaret is going to snap.

For the first time, Margaret and Carrie’s relationship is given a chance to expand into an actual mother-daughter relationship. I like how Clarkson’s version cares for Carrie, frightened that she is going to lose her. She feels like a real mother other than her abusive moments to Carrie.

Miss Desjarden is my favorite character of all in the 2002 TV movie. Rena Sofer’s scathing, intimidating, and genuine confrontation with the girls in the locker room is the best depiction of Miss Desjarden.

Kandyse Mclure’s portrayal of Sue is the best out of the Carrie films. She gives a strong, kind, and heroic version of Sue. In this version, Carrie and Sue have an actual, albeit awkward conversation before the prom. That is a scene that we needed from the other versions.

Emelie De Ravin is manipulative as Chris. The 2002 version includes a scene with Carrie and Chris interacting. This is one of my favorite scenes. A moment in their conversation implies that Chris is insecure. It gave her more depth. And she’s not the one to come up with the prank at the prom. Instead, it’s Billy.

Tobias Mehler was not the right choice for Tommy Ross. He bore no chemistry with Carrie. If Mehler did a better job with his own performance, I like how Tommy treats Carrie nicely. He feels genuine.

The ensemble in the 2002 TV movie did a lot of whispering and watching Carrie. At times, it feels like that’s their only motivation. Look out for an appearance by Jodelle Ferland who plays Young Carrie. One character who was only a minor character in the book and movie is Tina Blake (Katherine Isabelle). I despised her whenever she is onscreen. Surprisingly, she is nastier than Chris.

David Carson attempted to create a different depiction of the story more about the characters. It felt like a genuine story. Not having the budget, most of the CGI effects are noticeable and are cheesy. Arguably the prank on Carrie is one of the best-looking blood showers out of the three. Due to bad ratings, Carson was planning to create a television series which is the reason for the different ending.

The 2002 version of Carrie is the most overlooked among fans. After a closer watch, it is a more realistic version of Carrie. I recommend that you find this version of Carrie.