Stephen King’s influence on the new Carrie TV series is evident as Mike Flanagan brings the iconic horror novel to Prime Video with a contemporary perspective. The upcoming eight-episode series, led by Flanagan as writer, showrunner, and director of select episodes, promises to differentiate itself from previous adaptations.
Flanagan’s Collaboration with Stephen King Sets the Tone
Mike Flanagan, known for directing adaptations of King’s works like Gerald’s Game and Doctor Sleep, initially faced skepticism from the author about revisiting Carrie. Flanagan recalled King’s initial reaction:
“His first response was, ‘Leave her alone. She’s been through enough,’”
—Mike Flanagan, Showrunner
Undeterred, Flanagan shared his creative plans and the detailed series bible with King, who soon shifted his stance after understanding the new direction. As the filmmaker explained:
“But it’s that thing where the more information I could share, and sending him the bible and the plan for the show, he could see the thing we were trying to do that was new. Then he said, ‘Ohh, now I’m interested, just as a fan. I’m excited to see where this goes.’ Once he said yes, then we were off, because if Steve had said no, I wouldn’t do it.”
—Mike Flanagan, Showrunner
Reimagining Carrie for a Digital Age
According to Flanagan, this adaptation offers more than a simple update of the original story. He intends to use modern societal themes and technology, specifically the internet and smartphones, to explore issues like community destruction through online anonymity. As he put it:
“So we’re focused way more on the destruction of a community through these very modern tools. What happens in a world where the internet has created an environment of perceived anonymity? Carrie White in the locker room in every iteration is a horrifying scene. Carrie White in the locker room when people have phones in their hands is a whole different thing,”
—Mike Flanagan, Showrunner
Flanagan emphasized that the show will expand beyond Carrie White herself and the familiar narrative about telekinesis, hinting at a broader exploration of the novel’s themes and their relevance today. He clarified that while core elements remain, viewers should expect new dimensions to the well-known story.
The Enduring Legacy of Carrie and Its Adaptations
The story of Carrie White, the isolated high school student dealing with her domineering mother and the grief of her father’s death, has long resonated with audiences. Carrie faces harassment, a bullying scandal that shakes her whole community, and develops mysterious new powers:
“Misfit high schooler Carrie White has spent her life in seclusion with her domineering mother. After her father’s sudden and untimely death, Carrie finds herself contending with the alien landscape of public High School, a bullying scandal that shatters her community, and the emergence of mysterious telekinetic powers.”
—Source Material
Brian De Palma first adapted Carrie in 1976, followed by David Carson in 2002 and Kimberly Peirce in 2013, while Katt Shea directed the 1999 sequel. The upcoming series stands out as the most modern retelling, shaped by Stephen King’s influence and Mike Flanagan’s vision for a new era.
Looking Forward: Fresh Perspectives and Lasting Impact
With its focus on the pervasive role of technology in personal and communal trauma, the Prime Video adaptation is expected to breathe new life into King’s timeless story. By considering the harmful effects of internet culture alongside classic supernatural elements, the series aims to spark conversation among both longtime fans and new viewers alike, showcasing Stephen King’s influence on the new Carrie TV series as a driving force for change and relevance in the horror genre.
