The Scream film series has always been known for its meta-textual approach, dissecting and subverting the tropes of the horror genre. Since its inception in 1996, the franchise has taken pride in challenging audience expectations and delivering unpredictable jump scares.
In the latest installment, Scream 7, the formula remains consistent. The narrative revolves around Sidney Prescott, portrayed by Neve Campbell, as she navigates yet another deadly encounter with the knife-wielding Ghostface, a figure linked closely to her past. Alongside her loyal friends, including Courteney Cox’s Gale Weathers, Prescott relies on the power of friendship and horror movie knowledge to fend off the relentless killer.
Despite the franchise’s success and critical acclaim, with every entry maintaining a fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes except for Scream 3 and the recent Scream 7, the film series has also become somewhat immune to criticism. The self-aware nature of the movies, where characters acknowledge and critique horror movie cliches, often complicates traditional critiques of the films themselves.
The return of Neve Campbell to the series in Scream 7 generated excitement among fans, but the film lacks the innovative edge that defined earlier installments. The departure of key cast members like Jenna Ortega and Melissa Barrera, alongside director Christopher Landon, due to controversies, led to last-minute changes and protests, impacting the movie’s production.
One of the criticisms of Scream 7 is its departure from the meta deconstruction of the horror genre that characterized previous films. The latest installment fails to engage with this self-reflective aspect, resulting in a more conventional and less original storyline. The iconic villain, Ghostface, loses some of its menacing appeal in a narrative that feels predictable and lacking in depth.
Ultimately, while Scream 7 attempts to address themes of trauma and survival, these elements come across as underdeveloped and disconnected from the larger narrative. As the franchise struggles to maintain its initial spark, some critics argue that it might be time to let the series rest in peace.