5. Carrie (REMAKE)
Whether there was any need to remake Brian de Palma’s iconic horror classic Carrie is up for debate, but Kimberley Peirce’s modern-day adaptation does provide a terrific vehicle for lead Chloe Moretz (aka Hit-Girl in the Kick-Ass series). As telekinetic outcast Carrie White, Moretz shows off her sizable dramatic chops and continues to build upon the already considerable clout she had previously gained in the horror genre from starring in Let Me In (another remake of an iconic horror flick). Julianne Moore also turns in a terrifying performance to rival Piper Laurie’s as Carrie’s religious nut of a mother. Other highlights include the modern setting (cell phones are well-utilized during the infamous shower sequence) and Judy Greer as a caring gym teacher.
The reason that Carrie doesn’t rank higher on this list is a simple sense of pointlessness that pervades the remake. Peirce never really comes up with a legitimate reason for a new Carrie (though the occasional incorporation of modern technology is cool, it doesn’t ultimately influence the story as much as it should), and the new additions don’t all sit well.
That said, Peirce’s respectful take on the story isn’t without merit. The director shoots Carrie with a more sympathetic eye, and the film’s message about the devastating effects of bullying takes on a particular poignancy given the recent, nationwide campaign to curb verbal and physical abuse between students in school. Besides, Stephen King’s tale is close enough to my heart that any film attempting to bring it to a new generation is all right in my book.
Mostly for the performances of Moretz and Moore, but also for Peirce’s diligent efforts to craft a remake true in spirit to the original, Carrie deserves a spot on this list.
In fact, speaking of the performances from Carrie, to hear a little bit from the actors themselves on what it was like making this film, be sure to check out our exclusive video interview below!
