Mike Flanagan’s ‘Carrie’ Receives High Episode Ratings and Fans Praise It as a Top Horror Show
Few tales in horror have been retold as frequently as Stephen King’s story of a lonely teenager with terrifying abilities. Each new adaptation must address the same question: why revisit this story now? Mike Flanagan’s ‘Carrie’ premiered on Prime Video with a confident answer.
Flanagan, who writes, oversees the show, and directs select episodes, is not remaking Brian De Palma’s 1976 film, which he reportedly considers a classic. Instead, he is reinterpreting King’s 1974 novel from a new perspective, transforming it into an eight-episode series. All episodes were released on October 7, allowing viewers to binge-watch the entire series at once.
Now, the ratings are starting to paint a picture. An episode-by-episode breakdown for Season 1 reveals that ‘Carrie’ never falls below an 8.0 rating, with Episode 1 at 8.1, Episodes 2, 3, and 4 each at 8.0, and Episode 5 at 8.2. The latter half of the season sees even higher scores, with Episodes 6 and 7 both achieving 8.5, while the finale settles at 8.2. Fans are already declaring it one of the best horror shows of the year.
Mike Flanagan’s CARRIE, one of the best horror shows of the year https://t.co/EqIJw7ZLnQ
— The Cinéprism (@TheCineprism) October 8, 2026
The consistency of these ratings is noteworthy. Horror series often start strong but may lose momentum or falter in the middle. However, this series maintains a solid opening followed by a clear peak in Episodes 6 and 7.
This trajectory indicates that the story intensifies rather than exhausts its best material too early. For a show leading viewers toward one of horror’s most iconic climaxes, this is the ideal path. It also suggests that the quieter setup episodes are rewarding rather than dragging.
Critics have responded positively as well. The series debuted with an 85% rating on Rotten Tomatoes from 39 reviews, surpassing the 2002 version (32%) and the 2013 film (51%), although it still trails behind the 1976 original at 94%. Reviewers have praised its contemporary take, relevance to social media and bullying, and the performance of lead Summer H. Howell, with one review calling her portrayal star-making.
However, not all critics were convinced. Some took issue with relocating the story to a modern high school, while others found it less distinctive and not as frightening as anticipated. In her review, Gizmodo acknowledged the series’ power but felt the finale was rushed and that the vignettes featuring other telekinetic women throughout history were the weakest elements.
The new series follows Carrie White, a lonely outcast isolated by her overbearing mother. After her father’s sudden death, she enters public high school, where bullying, a community scandal, and her telekinetic abilities disrupt her life. Unlike previous adaptations, this Carrie begins as an innocent newcomer rather than a lifelong victim, allowing the harassment to build gradually.
Social media plays a significant role in the narrative. Alison Thornton’s Chris is a standout character, showcasing insecurity behind her cruelty and using an anonymous Instagram account to torment Carrie. A framing story built around interviews with survivors also expands King’s universe beyond the town of Chamberlain.
Howell portrays Carrie as more open to the world than previous versions, displaying curiosity and eagerness for friendship. Samantha Sloyan plays her mother, Margaret, as a woman whose control stems from fierce love and paranoia rather than a clichéd fanatic. The ensemble cast includes Siena Agudong as Sue, Josie Totah as Tina, Joel Oulette as Tommy, and Arthur Conti as Billy.
Matthew Lillard takes on the role of Principal Grayle, while Amber Midthunder plays a sympathetic young teacher. Recurring guests include Kate Siegel, Heather Graham, Katee Sackhoff, Michael Trucco, and Rahul Kohli. Howell was reportedly selected from over 1,000 auditioning actors.
If you think you know her story, you’re dead wrong. All episodes of Carrie, a new series from Mike Flanagan, premiere October 7 on Prime Video. https://t.co/e21yA4nj4E
— Prime Video (@PrimeVideo) September 9, 2026
For Flanagan, the positive reception is another indication that his brand of emotional horror resonates with audiences. His series are known for blending scares with character-driven narratives, and early reactions suggest ‘Carrie’ adheres to that formula. Viewers have highlighted the emotional storytelling and Howell’s standout performance.
This series also aligns with a growing appetite for horror during the spooky season. A familiar title with a modern twist, a cast filled with both rising and recognizable talents, and a consistent stream of strong episodes create a compelling combination. Whether these ratings will hold as more viewers complete the season remains to be seen.
Have something to add? Let us know in the comments!