Scream – A Modern Rehashing of the Classic Horror Franchise

In an age of sequels, reboots, and things in between, the Scream franchise seemed like an unlikely target especially after the death of series creator and horror legend Wes Craven back in 2015. That being said, if the franchise could be put in anyone’s hands, directors Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett of Ready or Not fame are a great choice. The original franchise was so groundbreaking in its subversion of the horror genre and its meta commentary about the genre and pop culture of the time. Meanwhile, things have certainly changed since the debut of the original Scream back in 1996 but on the other hand, a lot of films have taken the mantle since then and have more or less tackled the meta commentary aspect. With that, the big question is clearly whether or not the next film in the franchise could get it done nearly 30 years later. The answer to that question is surprisingly well as the fifth film in the franchise, also titled Scream (which is admittedly an annoying requel trend that this film also took shots at), adapts that same formula and applies it to today’s day and age with great success for the most part.

Scream saw a new Ghostface killer reemerge in Woodsboro 25 years following the events in the original. The new target of this new Ghostface appeared to be a pair of sisters named Sam (Barrera) and Tara (Ortega) but of course there was a lot more to that story. Unsurprisingly, the past played a large part in the events of this film as it all came together for Sam and Tara alongside the new circle of characters who all shared a connection to the original film. Setting the tone nicely, the film began with a bang as that encounter set the wheel in motion for the story’s endgame which was to bring all those elements of the past back together in the city where it all started. That contingent of course included the original trio of Sidney Prescott (Neve Campbell), Gale Weathers (Courtney Cox), and Dewey Riley (David Arquette). That literal contrast of the old and the new characters made for a compelling dynamic to watch.

The old and new theme went beyond the makeup of the film’s characters and would be key in solving the mystery that plagued Woodsboro. In order to understand the happenings of the present, one must understand the happenings of the past. A commentary on film franchises, sequels, and reboots, the events may seem familiar but they also felt different which was arguably the point. Though a rehash, it was just different enough to still be its own thing if viewed through a lens of today. As mentioned, other films have offered meta commentary about film and the time which they were made with varying degrees of success therefore the commentary this time around may not be as impactful this time around. While not perfect by any means, Scream still bring more than enough to justify itself despite coming off as dated and forced at times. In the end, it also brought enough twists and turns to keep audiences on the edge of their seats.

Just like the commentary, Scream maintains the brutality and the body count while employing some creativity in its kills. Overall, the film was full of satisfying moments, be it those kills or character moments. Besides the three legacy characters, the new characters this time around were also just as compelling to watch. Bringing depth and energy, that emotional investment was there. Any horror film is more scary and/or thrilling because of that connection between audiences and its characters and this film had it. It is clear that the script and direction were from filmmakers who cared about the Scream franchise and the horror genre as a whole. Though the story wasn’t without its issues, it was still a blast to watch.

In terms of the performances, they were great across the board. Assuming a Sidney Prescott type role, Barrera was a powerhouse as Sam. Showing strength and vulnerability made for a relatable character arc fitting of the role. Ortega was a scene-stealer as Tara while her chemistry with Barrera was also a highlight. When it came to the legacy three, though with limited roles, they all fit right in seamlessly. As much as the film was an adaptation, it was also a love letter to Sidney, Gale, and Dewey and their history and for that, it was so satisfying to see them all on screen once again. Campbell and Cox were still forces and Arquette was stellar as the broken down former sheriff.

It’s unclear how the recently-announced sequel would go but at least we got this one.