Stephen King's first novel is getting a new life on streaming. "Carrie," an eight-episode series from horror filmmaker Mike Flanagan, premieres Wednesday, Oct. 7, on Prime Video, according to Time and Radio Times. Summer H. Howell stars as Carrie White, the bullied teenager with telekinetic powers.

Early reviews are largely positive. Time called it the first worthy adaptation in 50 years. Radio Times praised it as a fresh and creative take. Critics singled out Howell's warm, magnetic performance and the show's updates, which add social media bullying and modern school politics to King's story.

Not every review was glowing. The Hollywood Reporter called it a mixed bag, and IndieWire said it is not much of a horror show. Several critics said the famous prom climax lands with less force than in Brian De Palma's 1976 film, which starred Sissy Spacek and earned her an Oscar nomination.

Flanagan has built a loyal following with horror series such as "The Haunting of Hill House," "Midnight Mass" and "The Fall of the House of Usher." He has also adapted King before, with the films "Doctor Sleep" and "The Life of Chuck."

Here is the background. King published "Carrie" in 1974. It was his breakthrough, after his wife, Tabitha, rescued the first pages from the trash. The story has been adapted several times, including a 2013 film with Chloë Grace Moretz and even a Broadway musical in 1988, one of the most famous flops in theater history.

The series comes during a busy streaming week. Netflix also releases the thriller "Animals" with Ben Affleck on Oct. 9.

All eight episodes of "Carrie" drop at once for Prime members.

What we know: "Carrie" premieres Oct. 7 on Prime Video with Summer H. Howell.
What we don't: Whether viewers will embrace a gentler, longer take on the story.