Mike Flanagan’s Carrie has quickly become one of Prime Video’s biggest streaming hits of October 2026. Just days after the premiere on October 7th, the series jumped to No. 1 on Prime Video’s U.S. streaming charts, overtaking their other incredible series called Neagley.
This adaptation of Stephen King’s iconic 1974 novel masterfully draws elements from previous versions of the story while modernizing it in a way that has audiences (including myself) excited for more.
BRIEF SYNOPSIS:
Carrie follows a sheltered teenager who, after a tragic event exposes her unconventional family dynamic, is forced to navigate the challenging world of high school for the very first time.
As she struggles to fit in with her classmates, she discovers a supernatural power that her mother has spent years trying to hide.
What Worked?
When I was invited to attend the two-episode premiere of Carrie in New York, I didn’t know what to expect. As someone who isn’t always a fan of newer adaptations, I was very happy with this one.
Before the premiere, I rewatched nearly every Carrie adaptation to prepare. What I loved most about Mike Flanagan’s approach was how he took elements from each adaptation and, in some instances, made them even better.
For example, in the 2002 adaptation of Carrie, the asteroid-like shower completely took me out of the film. However, Flanagan’s decision to use falling rocks instead made the scene feel much more believable. This also pays homage to the "Rain of Stones" incident from Stephen King’s original novel, making the moment feel more connected to its source material.
In my opinion, modernizing classic stories can sometimes feel cringey or forced, but that wasn’t the case here.
Another great decision was giving the audience more insight into Carrie’s story. I loved that she was still this awkward, sheltered teenager, but you could tell she genuinely wanted to experience a normal life. She had the potential to fit in if she had only been given the chance.
What Might Not Work (For Others)
One thing I found very noticeable was how Mike Flanagan pulled back on the brutality and unhinged nature of certain characters, specifically Carrie’s mother, Margaret White, and her gym teacher.
Although this is the case, I do think these changes make the characters feel more realistic for the times we live in. For example, a teacher physically assaulting a student today would likely mean the end of their career. It’s just not acceptable anymore.
Margaret White, on the other hand, is portrayed as more emotionally abusive than physically abusive. Her obsession with right-wing conspiracy theories also adds a modern layer to her character, showing how her extreme beliefs influence the way she raises and controls Carrie.
While these characters may not be as physically brutal as in previous adaptations, the story still manages to get pretty dark in other ways.
The Vibe
Call your friends over and grab the snacks, wine (or mocktails), red LED lights, and cozy blankets. This is the kind of horror series you’ll want to binge-watch because every episode will have you reaching for the next one!
The Verdict: Definitely Watch
Mike Flanagan’s Carrie is brilliant, addictive, and truly one of the horror gems of the year.
Summer H. Howell embodied the role of Carrie phenomenally, delivering a performance that makes you want to reach through the screen and give her a hug. She perfectly captured Carrie’s innocence, awkwardness, and desire to be accepted, making it nearly impossible not to sympathize with her.
Alongside Howell, the entire cast delivered incredible performances throughout the series, and by the final episode, I am excited for a second season. If you haven’t seen it yet, Carrie is streaming on Prime Video right now!
