“They’re all gonna laugh at you.” – Margaret White

A year after Jaws made audiences afraid to go in the water, Carrie raised similar fears about the high school prom. 

Based on Stephen King’s best-selling novel and adapted for the screen by Lawrence D. Cohen, the film stars Sissy Spacek as Carrie White, a shy, friendless high school senior who possesses the power of telekinesis.  Her classmates’ mean-spirited prank at the prom drives Carrie to unleash her wrath on all involved, making this horror classic the ultimate revenge film. 

There are neither ghosts nor ghouls nor chainsaw-wielding murderers in Carrie; from the opening shower scene to the ferocious climax, the film’s horror develops through its characters.  Both Spacek and Piper Laurie, who plays Carrie’s tormented, religiously fanatical mother, earned Academy Award® nominations for their performances.  The film’s stellar supporting cast includes Amy Irving, Nancy Allen, John Travolta, William Katt, and Betty Buckley as Miss Collins, the compassionate gym teacher. 

Director Brian De Palma will participate in a post-screening discussion about the film (schedule permitting). 

Redbank Films.  United Artists.  1976.  35mm.  97 minutes. 

Academy Award Nominee: Actress in a Leading Role (Sissy Spacek), Actress in a Supporting Role (Piper Laurie)