Episode 22 & 23: Brian De Palma’s Carrie (1976)
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 93%
Ever wanted the lowdown on one of horror's cult classics, "Carrie"? Well, you're in the right place! Join your hosts, Mike Carron and Chad Campbell, along with special guest Sam Schreiner, as we navigate the eerie corridors of this 1976 masterpiece. From intense and outdated bullying, to the complex dynamics of a mother-daughter relationship steeped in religious fanaticism, we've got it all covered.
Strap yourselves in as we dissect high school life, the metaphoric use of telekinesis as a symbol of female empowerment, and the nail-biting prom night that left audiences with a chill down their spine. We don't hold back on the problematic aspects either; brace yourselves for an honest conversation about scenes that are controversial in today's context. Our critiques of this film’s gratuitous scenes extend from the notorious locker room incident to the prolonged prom scene. We break down these scenes, offering our perspectives on their effectiveness and their contribution to the overall tone of the film.
We shine the spotlight on the iconic prom scene, diving into the questionably masterful use of music and sound to heighten the horror. We even toy with an alternative song choice for Carrie's dramatic exit.
Then brace yourself as we journey through the iconic scenes, analyze the clever narrative trickery, and observe the unsettling reality of teachers' powerlessness against bullying. We engage in a thought-provoking discussion about the film's portrayal of revenge and its lasting cultural impact.
Our intriguing analysis doesn't stop there. We'll take you on an auditory adventure as we dissect the film's use of music and sound. From the innocence-shattering shower scene to the eerie sounds associated with the disturbing psycho St. Sebastian statue, we'll spotlight moments where the score brilliantly amplifies the horror and suspense. We'll also dive into a vigorous debate over whether the music and sound were sometimes out of place.
Finally, we'll whisk you behind the scenes of "Carrie," sharing fascinating tidbits like the 29-take slapping scene and the surprising revelation that actress Piper Laurie initially thought the film was a comedy! We'll even discuss potential casting choices and the film's box office success. Wrapping up our deep dive, we'll rate this classic horror film and share our personal views on its strengths and cultural significance. So come on, let's peel back the curtain on the masterpiece that is "Carrie."
You won't want to miss out on our entertaining anecdotes and thought-provoking insights - they’re sure to leave you with a fresh perspective on this beloved horror film. Whether you're a die-hard fan, or a horror newbie dipping your toes in, we guarantee a thrilling exploration of "Carrie" that will leave you wanting more!
Plot Summary:
Carrie White, a shy, friendless teenage girl who is sheltered by her domineering, religious mother, unleashes her telekinetic powers after being humiliated by her classmates at her senior prom. (Taken from IMDb)
Watchability Scale
Mike gave the film a 4, but later adjusted it to a 6. Chad and Sam gave it a 6. We gave the film a 6 on the Watchability Scale.
Links
The Very First Stephen King Movie Was Saved By A Weird Actor Mistake (ScreenRant)
Cinemablend Insights into Carrie
Acting Carrie (YouTube)
Carrie: The Musical (YouTube)