Carrie

Carrie

Year: 1976

Runtime: 98 min

Language: English

Director: Brian De Palma

Horror

In this chilling horror classic, a reclusive high school student, Carrie White, is mercilessly bullied by her peers. Sheltered by her devout mother, Carrie's isolation breeds a terrifying secret: she possesses telekinetic powers that can wreak havoc on those who torment her. As the pressure builds towards prom night, Carrie's rage culminates in a catastrophic outpouring of fury, leaving destruction and despair in its wake.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Carrie (1976)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Carrie (1976). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

1970s

The film is set in the 1970s, a decade marked by shifting social norms and the emergence of youth culture. This period showcased both liberation and oppression, reflected through Carrie's struggles against bullying and domestic strife. The era's lack of understanding regarding mental health issues is evident in the characters' reactions to Carrie's abilities.

Location

Locker Room, Prom Venue, Carrie's Home

The film's climactic events unfold in a high school locker room, where angst and teenage drama converge. The prom venue serves as a backdrop for both joy and tragedy, symbolizing acceptance and impending doom. Carrie’s home, dominated by her fanatically religious mother, illustrates a stifling environment that contributes to her turmoil.

🏫 School 🎉 Celebration 🏠 Home

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:03

Main Characters – Carrie (1976)
Meet the key characters of Carrie (1976), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Carrie White (Sissy Spacek)

Carrie White is a shy and troubled teenager with telekinetic abilities. Her character embodies vulnerability and rage, stemming from both her bullying at school and her oppressive home life. As Carrie evolves from an isolated girl into a powerful figure of vengeance, her tragic journey illustrates the consequences of neglect and cruelty.

🧠 Powers 😔 Victim 🌹 Tragic Hero

Margaret White (Piper Laurie)

Margaret White is a fanatically religious mother who imposes extreme beliefs on Carrie. Her abusive nature and psychological manipulation contribute significantly to Carrie's struggles. A complex antagonist, Margaret's actions stem from her own fear and ignorance, ultimately leading to devastating consequences for both herself and Carrie.

😇 Religious 💔 Abusive 🦹‍♀️ Antagonist

Sue Snell (Amy Irving)

Sue Snell is a popular girl who feels guilt over her role in bullying Carrie. Her character represents a desire for redemption and compassion, as she attempts to atone by inviting Carrie to the prom. Sue's internal conflict highlights the complexity of teenage relationships and the potential for empathy amid cruelty.

🙌 Redemption 💖 Compassionate 🎭 Complex

Tommy Ross (William Katt)

Tommy Ross is Sue Snell's boyfriend who, despite initial reluctance, agrees to take Carrie to prom. He is characterized by his kindness and genuine affection for Carrie, becoming a pivotal figure in her quest for acceptance. Tommy's innocence and bravery stand in stark contrast to the cruelty exhibited by others.

❤️ Kind🙏 Supportive 🎉 Romantic

Chris Hargensen (Nancy Allen)

Chris Hargensen is the main antagonist and a ringleader among the bullies. Her character embodies cruelty and vengeance, driven by a desire for power and retribution against Carrie. Chris’s manipulative nature and willingness to go to extremes showcase the darker aspects of adolescent rivalry.

😈 Bully 🔪 Vengeful 🎭 Antagonist

Billy Nolan (John Travolta)

Billy Nolan, Chris's boyfriend, represents the entanglement of young love and malicious intent. His character is reckless and supportive of Chris’s schemes against Carrie, showcasing peer influence in wrongful actions. Billy's involvement amplifies the tension surrounding prom night and the violent culmination of the narrative.

😈 Reckless 🔪 Accomplice 🎭 Antagonist

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:03

Major Themes – Carrie (1976)
Explore the central themes of Carrie (1976), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🌪️ Revenge

Revenge plays a pivotal role in 'Carrie,' driving the plot and character motivations. Carrie's transformation from a bullied girl to a vengeful force reflects the devastating consequences of betrayal. The film explores how unchecked anger can lead to tragic outcomes for both the avenger and those subjected to their wrath.

💔 Isolation

Isolation is a central theme, embodied by Carrie's separation from her peers and the overwhelming influence of her mother. Despite her telekinetic abilities, Carrie remains emotionally alone, which fuels her tragic downfall. The narrative illustrates the psychological impact of loneliness and the desperate need for acceptance.

👗 Coming of Age

The film captures the essence of coming of age, emphasizing Carrie's experiences as she attempts to navigate her teenage years. From her first period to the prom—a symbol of social acceptance—Carrie's journey reflects the trials faced by adolescents. However, this rite of passage turns tragic, highlighting the struggle between youth and societal expectations.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:03

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