Scream - A Movie Review

Be careful about those wrong numbers. Ghostface could be stalking your house.

Scream became a horror classic in 1996. A serial killer dressed as Ghostface is on the loose murdering its victims. Sidney Prescott is tormented by an anonymous caller. Fighting back, she has to think wisely about the killer’s tactics.

Scream begins with one of the best horror movie openings. I always enjoy watching Scream every October. It is an on-edge thriller that introduced a new scare dynamic to the horror genre. Consolidated with a white-knuckled terror-inducing climax, Scream is a lesson about watching out for wrong numbers.

Neve Campbell’s fighting determination as Sidney Prescott is her best trait. Campbell had to stay in a state of terror for most of the film. She did an incredible job illustrating bravery, will-power, and leadership. Sidney showcases how to stand up for yourself, along with courage to withstand any battle.

The cast of Scream memorable. Credits to include are Skeet Ulrich, Courteney Cox, W. Earl Brown, Rose McGowen, David Arquette, Matthew Lillard, and Jamie Kennedy. Drew Barrymore has one of the most memorable appearances that shocked audiences when the film debuted on the screen.

Every character has depth. Lillard was the best in his wacky and comedic performance. His delivery of, “I’ll be right back,” is my favorite line. Until now, I never realized that it was Henry Winkler who played an uncredited role as the principal of the school. He was excellent! Shoutout goes to David Boothe and Carla Hatley for small but unforgettable appearances.

Even on the first watch, it’s a little obvious who the killers are. In no way does it ruin the film. Viewers are kept guessing at every second. Whether that was the director’s intentions, it’s a subtle detail that tells audiences to be on the lookout for anyone who has a strange behavior.

Originally Courteney Cox did not get the role of the ruthless reporter, Gale Weathers because filmmakers thought it would ruin her character as Monica in the sitcom, Friends. Cox is outstanding. My favorite part about Scream is its positive message regarding women. Instead of acting helpless, women are taught to stand their ground and take charge.

The horror in Scream is real. Caller I.D. was invented because of this film. At times, the film is very unsettling, most notably the opening and final act. Much of it involves the real terror of a cryptic stalker who taunts its victims over the phone. For anyone who is triggered by stalkers, Scream is not the movie for you.

Scream introduced Ghostface to the world of horror. The costume is frightening. The costume adds more to the terror that anyone could be the killer. Now, Ghostface has become a popular character outside the franchise of Scream.

The late Wes Craven did an outstanding job in his direction for Scream. The opening will always be the most talked about part of the film. It is a well-written and very well-directed story. The editing plays as a character of its own. Craven’s work with the cast is notable as he created terrific depth to all the characters.

Scream was not an easy film to make. Craven wanted to make it as real as possible. Due to a lack of communication, the police arrived on-set because the frightening phone calls were actually made during the filming.

Scream is an ultimate horror-slasher classic. The slasher content is not for all audiences. Be cautious and get out the popcorn to enjoy the film with all your friends. Make sure you follow the three rules of what to do in a horror movie.