Directed by Wes Craven, the man behind A Nightmare on Elm Street, the 90s most beloved slasher series, Scream, is about a string of murders made by a masked killer called Ghostface in the town of Woodsboro, California. The story mainly follows Sidney Prescott (Neve Campbell), who’s mother was killed only a year earlier by the same killer as the recent victims’.
Time- 9
This movie definitely stands the test of time. For being nearly 30 years old, I have found that this is still a fan favorite. I think that’s mainly the case because in many ways, Scream is a spoof of other horror movies. One of the characters gives the “rules” for surviving a typical horror movie. Breaking that wall had really never been done before, so this film sticks out, especially among other slashers. The film sits at just under 2 hours long. There are just a couple parts that feel a little dragged out or unnecessary. However, most of it leaves you on the edge of your seat and trying to solve the murder cases along with the characters.
Rewatchability- 8
Personally, I could watch this movie over and over again. After several watches, nothing is shocking anymore. Knowing who the killers are and what happens at the end can get tiring for some watchers, but that does not change how iconic it is. I still find myself going back to this one because of how different it is compared to all other slashers and other horrors made around the same time.
Cinematography/Editing- 9
A lot of the shots in this film are very interesting, as it always seems to feel a bit eerie. Additionally, action sequences aren’t too jolting and lighting is good even during nighttime scenes, so everything happening can be seen well. I also adore how several of the kills are semi-avoided on camera by only showing Ghostface and their knife, while others are brutal to witness.
Plot- 10
Scream’s storyline is definitely one of the leading reasons it’s as good as it is. The ending contains one of the most interesting plot twists I’ve ever seen. Everything that leads up to that part feels like a whirlwind of chaos and victories that leave you simply hoping Sidney can escape Ghostface.
Acting- 10
Every single actor in this entire movie is phenomenal. Drew Barrymore may not have been in it long, but her acting led to one of horror’s best opening scenes of all time. Skeet Ulrich and Matthew Lillard bring fun and odd friendships to the table, then both twist into absolutely exquisite psychos by the end. In addition, Courteney Cox and David Arquette hold up romantic and heroic side stories throughout the film. Finally, Neve Campbell is now known in the horror scene as a “Scream Queen” for her portrayal as one of the toughest leading ladies in the genre.
Costume Design/Special Effects- 7
There were not a ridiculous amount of special effects to be used in this movie, but the ones that were used, were very effective. The on-screen kills and the makeup used for the victims afterwards never looked incredibly fake. Also, the costume and mask for Ghostface have become so recognizable, that even people that have never seen the movie know about the killers’ notoriety.
Gruesome Factor- 6
Like I previously said, there really aren’t a whole ton of on-screen kills in Scream. The only really gross part of this movie was in the beginning. I suppose it’s a nice change of pace for a slasher to not be extremely disgusting, but I think there could have been more in the first one.
Shock Value- 8
The whole point of watching Scream, at least for me, has always been to figure out who is behind Ghostface’s mask. That being said, the whole movie could be considered shocking if your guess is totally off. There’s also a haunting score that plays every time Ghostface is around, as well as a ton of jumpscares all throughout. But most of the points are earned for the absolute jaw-dropping twist.
Believability- 9
Scream is extremely believable in the fact that there are a series of murders in a small town. The entire movie is captivating in general though, because of how it strings the viewers along until the end when Ghostface is revealed. The actors also heavily aid to the believability because they all act so perfectly as confused, terrified and sometimes insane high schoolers.
Ending- 10
We’ve finally made it to the end, where Ghostface is revealed as both Billy and Stu, which still sends shivers down my spine when I watch it. The actual ending of Scream is well done too because of how hard all the characters fought. Killing off both murderers opened the door for the entire Scream franchise, where each movie, Ghostface is “adopted” by someone else.
Points Total: 86% out of 100%
This film is one of my absolute favorite horror movies. I relate to and adore Randy’s character for being a horror fan who tries to warn his friends about what could happen, based on his knowledge of the genre. I also find myself laughing often, particularly as Stu’s character. I also really enjoy the soundtrack, specifically the song that plays Sidney and Billy’s first scene together, Gus Black’s cover of Blue Oyster Cult’s “Don’t Fear the Reaper” plays. Overall, the Scream series is comprised of fantastic films and I cannot wait to see how they twist this slasher story again for Scream VI.