Do you like scary movies?
Or a decent sixth sequel to said scary movie?
If so, you’ll be in luck with “Scream 7”, the latest entry in the long running slasher franchise initially created by the late Wes Craven and writer Kevin Williamson. The latter also happens to add director to his resume, in addition to cowriter, for this one. “Scream 7” sees yet another Ghostface killer target Sidney Prescott (Neve Campbell) and her daughter Tatum (Isabel May) in the quiet town they have built a new life. Determined to protect her family, she must face the horrors of her past to put an end to the bloodshed once and for all – or until the inevitable eighth film releases.
Beginning chronologically, the movie has a gripping opening sequence (sadly, much of which was divulged by the trailers). The bloodshed here set the tone for much of what is to come over the next two hours. The carnage and action of “Scream 7” is unparalleled for the series, with one moment making me reconsider going to Beechmont. Any gore lovers will walk away satisfied.
I absolutely recommend checking this one out in IMAX, which the AMC Lincoln Square (also the site of the “Scream VI” premiere) fortunately offered. Speaking of which, when I went to go watch the movie, I was honored to meet one of my favorite film critics – Grace Randolph – best known under the “Beyond The Trailer” banner on YouTube (having the most subscribers for a female-led film review channel)!
Returning to the film, a strength of “Scream 7” is the mother-daughter relationship of Sidney and Tatum (whose name is a loving homage to the original). May delivered a strong enough performance as a daughter attempting to gain her independence. May encapsulates Neve Campbell’s rebellious spirit with ease. Campbell is of course great as Sidney, resilient and no-nonsense.
Another great performance was Courteney Cox as Gale Weathers. “Scream 7” allows us to see a return to the character’s investigative roots that felt missing from the last few films, which was truly appreciated. Speaking of past films, much like “Scream VI”, this movie certainly does have neat easter eggs that fans of previous films, like myself, will enjoy (though I wish some were not leaked).
The last major positive is the use of Matthew Lillard. I cannot be specific, but his inclusion in the movie was awesome. He truly gave it his all.
Where “Scream 7” falters is most notably the final reveal, which was sadly forced, underwhelming and unfortunately undermines some of what came before. The corresponding third act was, likewise, rushed but still had one or two fun moments. As expected, the movie is riddled with the typical cliches and plot holes of horror movies.
Ultimately, I also wish the film took a couple more creative risks, which would have helped better distinguish it from others. In terms of where this seventh film ranks among the franchise, I would say the middle of the pack. It is certainly not the best sequel, as the first two will never be topped in my opinion, but I do feel that “Scream 7” is not the worst either, still standing above the third film for example. Ironically, given the chronology, I would rate “Scream 7” a seven out of ten on the entertainment scale.