Carrie (2013)(Horror)

Kimberly Peirce’s much awaited remake of Stephen King’s debut novel from 1974 is facing a lot of criticism from all circles. While a bit of it is warranted, over the past few months it has turned into some sort of a witch hunt.  Yes there are flaws in the movie and it isn’t as scary as the 1976 Brian De Palma version.  But you have to give credit to Peirce for making the movie far more contemporary.

What works against Peirce is that that courtesy X Files and Chronicle and apparently around 40 other movies that have used the topic in a not so scary manner.  Way back in 1976, De Palma was probably the first to use the concept. It was bound to be scary as hell.  There were some brilliant performances from the cast but we will save that for another day.

Given that background, let’s see what Peirce actually gets right.  Firstly, she gets celebrated casting director Avy Kauffman to pick a bunch of actresses who were actually right for the role (I am going to get a lot of brickbats for saying this).  But honestly, do you think anyone else could have played Margaret White more convincingly than Julianne Moore? And Chloë Grace Moretz is perfect as Carrie.

Peirce has also adapted the story for the current day and age.  There is the use of mobile phone videos (and whats with Nokia being so prominently displayed in so many movies of late!!!).  But the tampons still remain in its place.  Only, Chris (Portia Doubleday) shoots the video and gets it viral.  That is much more embarrassing right?

For those who aren’t aware of the story, Carrie, is the story of a 15 year old girl bought up in exceptionally protected circumstances by her all but psychotic mother who thinks that she has cancer when she is pregnant with Carrie.  Carrie is homeschooled for most of her life before the government intervenes and puts her into the local school.  As she grows up, she discovers her power of Telekinesis.

Peirce also takes Margaret White’s Agliophila (love of pain – more like punishment) to the next level.  Simple slapping will not do.  She has to bang her head against the wall, cut / impale herself and scratch herself all over.  So there is no lack of blood or gore. Even the scene where Margaret gives birth to Carrie at the beginning of the movie is bloody as hell!!!

But, despite all this, Carrie, is not scary.  You feel emotions ranging from hate to pity.  But not fear. Why? Refer back to para 2 of this write up.  Add to that a generous helping of talent that one Brian De Palma had v/s that of Peirce.  She falls short on narration.  She goes overboard with the telekinesis.  Maybe that’s what the current generation wants.  But she is not going to get any fear out of them.  Worth watching once though.  6 on 10.

Watch the trailer on http://www.imdb.com/video/imdb/vi1340843545/?ref_=tt_ov_vi