SCREAM VI **** USA 2023 Dir: Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett. 122 mins
Arguably the best film in the franchise following the original Scream (1996), Scream VI is the ultimate throwback. Featuring Courteney Cox as old school favourite Gale Weathers and Scream 4’s Hayden Panettiere as Kirby Reed, detectives take a look back at previous killers when old evidence begins to appear at Ghostface crime scenes.
With few flaws, we’re treated to the high standard we have come to expect from the Scream franchise, with Scream (2022) writers and directors back with a bang.
Following the pattern of the original Scream trilogy, the “core four” head for New York City where they are seemingly happy, until Ghostface finds them and begins killing with an increasing frenzy.
There are several new faces, meaning the Woodsboro survivors can’t be sure who to trust. The likeability of all characters leaves you guessing and hoping that your favourites aren’t next.
One of my favourite scenes adds some originality into the well-known slasher scenes of the franchise. The subway scene looks and feels tense, whilst making the audience very aware of the NYC surroundings. It also depicts the city lifestyle, as even in a crowded place, nobody sees the stabbing.
Other than the subway, the set design of the abandoned cinema is a real winner. It provides an eerie atmosphere whilst showcasing the Ghostface evidence collection. Whilst inflicting fear on the audience, we also feel lots of nostalgia and a pang of loss for past characters.
Even the kills are gruesome, yet to dial this down James Vanderbilt and Guy Busick add in plenty of humour. My favourite line actually comes from Gale Weathers, in typical Gale fashion with plenty of wit and attitude.
Overall a really thrilling watch, even if you’re not a fan of the franchise.
Review by Poppy Blundell