Common Sense Media Review
Stephen King's disturbing prom horror classic.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 15+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Carrie
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 22 parent reviews
Parents say that the film offers a complex blend of horror and social commentary, particularly focusing on themes of bullying and abuse, making it ideal for older teens but potentially troubling for younger viewers. While there are mixed feelings about the quality of the audio in different languages and certain scenes deemed inappropriate, many appreciate the performances, particularly Sissy Spacek's, and see value in its potential for discussions on serious topics like religious fanaticism and social acceptance.
- parental guidance
- content sensitivity
- strong performances
- horror themes
- discussion potential
- age recommendations
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
Based on 86 kid reviews
Kids say the film is a mixed bag, showcasing strong themes of bullying and the negative effects it has on mental health, which many find poignant and relevant, especially for younger viewers facing similar issues. However, reviews also highlight concerns over explicit nudity, sexual content, and intense violence, making it more suitable for mature teens rather than younger children, with many suggesting a minimum age of 13 for viewing.
- bullying theme
- explicit content
- mature audience
- emotional depth
- violence concerns
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
Although it's billed as a horror movie, CARRIE is just as much a poignant story of a bullied, lonely teen. With her stringy hair, mousy appearance and beaten-down posture, Sissy Spacek gives a heartbreaking performance as Carrie, who is tormented by her high school peers and abused and extremely sheltered by her religious-zealot mother. Meanwhile, Carrie struggles to understand the power she has to make objects move with her mind (telekinesis). She experiences a brief period of happiness after a popular boy asks her to the prom and a concerned gym teacher (Betty Buckley) takes Carrie under her wing. But that happiness is short-lived thanks to a cruel prank, and Carrie unleashes her telekinetic powers in an explosive act of revenge.
Is It Any Good?
This is probably the best film adaptation of a Stephen King novel. Carrie helped launch the careers of several young performers, including Spacek (who received an Oscar nomination), Amy Irving, John Travolta, and Nancy Allen. Almost painful to watch, the opening shots of a volleyball game and the girls' locker room depict the vicious bullying Carrie endures. The climactic prom-night scene begins with a breathless, Cinderella-like feel; the interaction between Carrie and her date, Tommy (William Katt) is sweet and hopeful, and Spacek looks radiant. This scene, however, becomes terrifying after some cruel bullies send Carrie over the edge. Director Brian De Palma's use of a split screen, combined with the music and Spacek's chilling transformation, creates an unforgettable scene of carnage.
Veteran actress Piper Laurie is disturbing in her Academy Award-nominated role as Carrie's holy-rolling, psychotic mother. Buckley's character, Miss Collins, emerges as a protective, encouraging influence; her scenes with Carrie are tender, bittersweet, and sadly futile. But it's Spacek's sensitive portrayal of a troubled girl that elevates this movie beyond mere horror.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how the movie handles the issue of bullies and their victims. Does Carrie's school appropriately deal with the students who pick on her? How does this '70s horror movie compare to some of the real bloodbaths you see today? Is it more or less scary and effective?
Movie Details
- In theaters : November 3, 1976
- On DVD or streaming : August 28, 2001
- Cast : John Travolta , Piper Laurie , Sissy Spacek
- Director : Brian De Palma
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : MGM/UA
- Genre : Horror
- Run time : 98 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : February 21, 2026
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by
Suggest an Update
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate