Mike Flanagan Sets Carrie Series in Present Day for Prime Video
The showrunner updates Stephen King's story with smartphones, social media and a paranoid Margaret White, keeping King's approval.
Mike Flanagan, showrunner of the new Carrie series, has explained why he is moving Stephen King's story into the present day. The series is set to premiere on Prime Video, according to an interview published by Slashfilm.
In Flanagan's version, the first episode ends with the shower scene, in which Chris Hargensen and other girls record Carrie with their phones. Chris also creates an anonymous Instagram account called "Carrie Red" to share videos and rumors about students and faculty.
Margaret White is portrayed as a paranoid conspiracy nut and parents' rights activist who streams to spread her views. At Ewen High, students walk through metal detectors and have an active shooter drill on Carrie's first day, all within the show's fictional setting.
The adaptation carries Stephen King's approval, though no release date has been announced for the Prime Video series.
From 1979 to the Present
Stephen King's original novel Carrie was published in 1974 and set in 1979. Flanagan said he wanted to bring the story into the present day rather than leave it in its original period.
Quick answers
Who is the showrunner of the new Carrie series?
Mike Flanagan is the showrunner of the new Carrie series.
Where will the Carrie series premiere?
The Carrie series premieres on Prime Video.
Does Stephen King approve of the new Carrie adaptation?
Yes, the series brings the Stephen King story into the present day with King's approval.