Tina Blake barely existed in the “Carrie” film, but in Mike Flanagan’s Prime Video series she became the show’s best-dressed character. The small role was expanded for Josie Totah, who plays Chris Hargensen’s best friend, and her closet carries the whole show.
Tina’s wardrobe moves from Guizio’s yellow gingham corset to a pink-bow knit set by For Love & Lemons. By prom, she’s walking the halls in an emerald satin corset gown by Amoris.
Costume designer Tammy Joe gave each girl a distinct wardrobe with room to change styles. Tina pairs that gingham corset with a belted denim mini, while a green track jacket gives her school wardrobe a sporty option alongside the bows and florals.
The role barely existed before the series. “In the film, she had a different name and it wasn’t a big character,” Totah said of Flanagan, adding that he “gave me permission to play so much.”
What she played is a girl desperate to belong. “So fun to play someone who is so seriously desperate to belong and to fit in,” Totah said, describing a “very, very toxic relationship” between Tina and Chris, played by Alison Thornton.
Totah has lived in this register before, as Lexi on “Saved by the Bell,” a part she’s said was built on “the Regina George, the sort of Heathers vibe, the Cher from Clueless.”
Carrie, Flanagan’s eight-episode take on Stephen King’s 1974 novel, premiered Oct. 7.
