'Carrie' Critics Unable To See Past 1976

The latest adaptation of Stephen King's 1974 novel, Carrie, has received a series of negative reviews ahead of its release in the US today (18th October). The film stars Chloe Grace Moretz (Kick-Ass), as Carrie, and Julianne Moore (The Hours) as her mother, Margaret. Carrie has the supernatural gift of telekinesis and, after being bullied at her high school, uses her powers to destroy her tormentors.

The director's decisions have also been questioned. Kimberley Pierce has previously directed or written a number of independent films which focus on controversial issues or those which are not usually presented in mainstream cinema. For instance Boys Don't Cry, starring Hilary Swank, tells of a gay woman's attempt to find love in Nebraska wearing a man's garb. As Pierce has a reputation for dealing with complex issues, many critics were surprised to find her adaptation of Carrie fairly one dimensional.

Watch the movie trailer for Carrie:

This is reflected upon by Betsy Sharkey of the L.A. Times who claimed "Carrie should have delivered more with the material in the filmmaker's feminist hands." Furthermore, Eric Henderson of Slant Magazine stated "In focusing on predominately kid-gloves portrayals of her teen players, Kimberly Peirce never properly addresses the machinery behind their doom."

Some critics including those of the Entertainment Weekly and the San Francisco Chronicle have written positive reviews, primarily emphasising Carrie retains the essence of the high school revenge movie. Furthermore the action is impressive and would, according to EW's critic, "make the devil - or Bruce Willis - proud." Nevertheless, each review mentioned that the film lacks depth.

Carrie is released in US cinemas today (18th October). Cinema goers in the UK will have to wait until the 29th November to see the film.

Chloe Moretz stars as the eponymous heroine in Carrie.