Carrie (1976) - 8 stars out of 10

Carrie (1976) - 8 stars out of 10

This movie was MESSED UP in a genius way. Although every audience member has a certain horrific expectation, the ratio of normal to abnormal makes the ending INCREDIBLY effective. The opening scene is shocking and upsetting, and then the opening interaction between Spacek and Laurie sets the audience up to understand why Carrie is the way that she is. From there, the movie displays normal high school interactions with some stereotypical characters. This movie screams "Hitchcock" from its cinematography to the high school's name (Bates) to those blood-curdling Psycho notes on the violin. My favorite part of the movie is how quickly it turns from normal to Satanic. It is a rarity for a horror film to receive an Oscar nomination (let alone 2 in acting categories) but Spacek and Laurie deliver unforgettable performances in their 2-member disfunctional family. It definitely benefitted Spacek to have the acting maturity of a 26-year-old while appearing to be a teenager. The ending is perfect and this movie simply will not disappoint. Thank you Stephen King, for your sick mind that dreamt up Carrie and will change my thoughts regarding prom forever.