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"Scream VI" dir. by Tyler Gillett, Matt Bettinelli-Olpin


"Scream VI"

Where I watched it: Cineplex

The "Scream" franchise has had its ups and downs. The first two, of course, were classics. The third and fourth, not so much.

Now, only a year after the release of "Scream V" and riding strong on the newfound star power of Jenna Ortega comes "Scream VI."

"Scream VI" has been teased steadily over the past year with posters and stills depicting the radical change of setting from the quiet and isolated town of Woodsboro to the chaotic, bustling metropolis of New York. While some horror movies have produced negative results by having a scenary change ("Jason Takes Manhattan"), this movie works surprisingly well in its new environment.

"Scream VI" had me at the edge of my seat. The pace is rapid and unrelenting. The tension is ever-present. There are hardly any moments where characters are allowed to catch their breath before being chased, attacked or brutally murdered by Ghostface.


This movie felt like a real throwback to the horror blockbusters of yesteryear (like "Scream"). I saw an advanced screening of this at Cineplex and was thrilled to see the concession stand stocked with promotional Ghostface popcorn bags and drink cups. Really took me back to the good ol' days. There was even a song/music video from Demi Lovato and Mike Shinoda that played before the movie started that felt very late 90's/early 00's.

If I'm being honest, I wasn't totally sold with Melissa Barrera in the last movie as Sam Carpenter, but she really shines bright here. The dynamic between her and her sister (played by Jenna Ortega) has a lot of layers to it.

The movie doesn't go light on the laughs either. As are all the "Scream" movies, this one is super self-referential. The characters openly admit to existing in "a franchise" where new horror-movie rules apply. This leads them to the conclusion that no one is safe and that any of them (legacy character or not) can bite the dust in this installment.

In case you're wondering, yes... there is a lot of blood and gore, probably the most out of any "Scream" movie to date.

There's a lot to like about this movie. Keep in mind it's a slasher and not an A24 slow burn and for what it is, it goes above and beyond.

Remember to stick around for the post-credits scene.

8/10

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