This post was published more than a few years ago (on 2004-07-14) and may contain inaccurate technical information, outmoded thoughts, or cringe takes. Proceed at your own risk.
I remembered this fondly from my high school days, but more remarkable now for the fact that the lead character, a high school cheerleader, was actually not in her mid-twenties when they filmed it. The effects range from hokey to ewwwwwww!!, and the cold war government conspiracy angle still plays pretty well.
All in all, a decent flick, and Frank Darabont co-wrote it, in an out-of-character turn away from Stephen King prison movies. Three stars.