★★★★

Directed by Matt Bettinelli-Olpin & Tyler Gillett.
Starring Neve Campbell, Courteney Cox, David Arquette, Melissa Barrera, Jenna Ortega, Jack Quaid, Mikey Madison, Dylan Minette, Mason Gooding, Marley Shelton, and Jasmin Savoy Brown.

“Scream” (2022) is a remake of the iconic horror film “Scream” (1996) and a continuation of “Scream 4” (2011). The “Scream” franchise has produced several sequels since its first movie and this latest one was poised to mark a turning point for the franchise. The film takes the audience back to Woodsboro as a new Ghostface killer(s) terrorizes relatives of characters from the first movie, also known as legacy characters. The first “Scream” was such a success because it looked at the horror genre and decided to subvert nearly every trope that had been established over the years, and this remake really makes sure to give this premise a modern twist. “Scream” (2022) not only remakes the events of the first “Scream” but also pokes fun at the very concepts of remakes and sequels, or as the film dubs them, “requels.”

“Scream” (2022) starts out by remaking the iconic opening scene of its predecessor with changes that lean into the current setting, such as text messages and an advanced security system, but also establishes one of the movie’s most important aspects: the Stab films. The Stab Films are the in-universe counterparts to the “Scream” franchise and are the driving force between character dynamics and many of the movie’s meta-commentary. “Scream” (2022) had a lot to say about the current state of Hollywood and made sure to use its runtime to its full potential so it could say everything it wanted. “Scream” (2022) not only mimics the plot of the original but also brings back cast members in the most creative ways.

Another vital aspect of “Scream” is the whodunnit atmosphere that makes the viewers try to figure out who the Ghostface killer(s) is. This mystery only serves to make the film more enticing throughout the film. They are constantly giving you reasons to suspect each of the main characters. This film not only toys with the viewer but also keeps the kills interesting and creative.

Watching “Scream” (2022) was great because I could never guess what was going to happen. For example, one of the unique things about “Scream” is that the killers get beat up and have to work for their kill, which is always fascinating to see, and it really shows how psychotically determined the Ghostface killer is.

“Scream” (2022) is definitely a masterclass in how to reboot a franchise and a riveting film for fans and newcomers alike. In an era of countless reboots and remakes, it is nice to see that there is a franchise that can at least live up to its original installment.