Margaret receives a letter in the mail concerning her late husband’s cremation, which she shreds. On the topic of letters, Chris’s acceptance letter to Duke prompts a wake-up call from the guidance counselor, who urges her to think realistically about her future given that her prestige will not matter outside the confines of Chamberlain, Maine. A seething hopelessness and denial sink in for her.
Under Snell’s watchful eye, Chrstine apologizes to Carrie, and yet even to Snell’s surprise, Chris invites Carrie to a party.
Carrie enlists the support of her underutilized Black neighbor to attend the party, where she becomes the life of the party. A lot of her peers cordially integrate her into their circles and games, fueling Hargenson’s increasing disdain for the rising social butterfly.
Billy Nolan arrives at the party to process drug transactions among his underage customers. A flirtatious Chris assures him she is 18 and the daughter of her notable attorney of a father. Tina, a Chris wannabe, pressures Chris to drink excessively, threatened by Billy’s attention toward Chris. Tina uses Chris’ insecurities against her, even catching unappealing photos of partygoers. An inebriated Chris confronts Brooke too far until Brooklyn announces that Chris’ parents are getting a divorce. Apologetic and genuinely surprised Chris did not know, Brooklyn sulks away. A once in-denial Chris puts the pieces together as to why her parents have separated and father’s card declined earlier.
Sue and Tommy (who looks at least 30), lose their virginity. Tommy drives an intoxicated Carrie home. They bond over the stars within the vast universe. En route to her house, starry-eyed Carrie momentarily makes Tommy’s car levitate. When she returns home, she remarks something to her father’s specter before rushing to bed to pretend to sleep as her mom returns home momentarily.
Alone at night, Chris makes the CarrieRed_ Instagram account public, posting glaringly offensive captioned photos of partygoers Tina had captured akin to the burn book in Mean Girls. By the next day, the public account disseminates widely, landing in Carrie’s purview.
Chris’ descent into a Stephen King villain is perfectly paced. It is strange, though, that she and Billy are not already an option. This version ensures they meet for the first time. For a limited series, an already established relationship would rectify pacing here.
Rating: 8/10