Please be aware that this article reveals plot details from Scream 7. After seeing Scream 7 during its opening weekend, I noticed a problem with the previous two films, Scream (2022) and Scream VI, had been fixed. As a huge fan of the original Scream – I’ve watched every movie in the series multiple times – I was eager to see Ghostface return. However, while Scream 7 is doing well at the box office, most fans and critics haven’t been very impressed. It was great to see familiar faces like Gale Weathers and the twins, Chad and Mindy, but the new characters just aren’t very engaging.
I’ve been a big fan of the Scream movies for a long time, and I really enjoyed both Scream (2022) and Scream VI. I especially appreciated how they addressed the idea of sequels and the surprising Ghostface reveal in the fifth film. (I’m still sad about Dewey’s death, but I’m trying to focus on the positives!) Overall, I thought those two movies were excellent. However, there was one problem with the fifth and sixth films that I think Scream 7 attempts to solve, even if the rest of the movie isn’t as good as it could be.
‘Scream 7’ Finally Gives Sidney Prescott a Real Story
Paramount Pictures/Everett Collection
Many fans, including myself, understand and support Neve Campbell’s choice to leave the Scream VI franchise due to salary disagreements. However, looking back, the previous film, Scream (2022), didn’t really give her character, Sidney Prescott, a compelling storyline. Compared to Scream 4, which I consider a strong entry in the series, the latest movie felt different. It had been a while since Sidney was targeted by Ghostface, and she returns to Woodsboro to promote her memoir, Out of Darkness. She’s built a new life with a supportive publicist (Alison Brie) and even has a somewhat unsettling cousin (Emma Roberts as Jill Roberts). Then, Ghostface reappears – or rather, a new Ghostface emerges. It’s an enjoyable film that handles Sidney’s character with respect, acknowledging her past trauma while hinting at a future where she can move beyond the constant threat of masked killers and loss.
The film Scream (2022) opens with Sidney Prescott on the phone with Dewey Riley (David Arquette), pushing a young child in a stroller. It’s good to see they’re still friends and care about each other. However, Sidney’s role mostly seems to be as a seasoned mentor, warning the new group of characters about the dangers she faced. The film tells us she has a family now, but it feels like we need to know more about her life and what she’s been up to.
The latest Scream movie doesn’t quite live up to the standards of the franchise, and it’s not a particularly strong film overall. It feels more like a typical teen drama, reminiscent of shows like Dawson’s Creek, than a unique horror installment. The characters’ fashion choices feel dated, and there’s an odd mix of lighthearted scenes – like a school play rehearsal – alongside the expected violence. The movie focuses on typical teen concerns, such as parties and relationships, and one character’s boyfriend raises suspicions. While the writer and director, Kevin Williamson, is known for his work on ’90s teen dramas, that style doesn’t quite fit the Scream formula here.
I have to admit, even a show as cheesy as Dawson’s Creek could pull at your heartstrings with its stories about growing up, love, and family. But Scream 7? It just doesn’t quite hit those same emotional notes. When you have teen characters in a horror movie, you need both humor and real depth, and this film felt a little lacking in that. That being said, I really loved seeing what Sidney Prescott is up to. Her story felt so natural and earned. She’s built this wonderful life – a happy marriage, three kids (we met Tatum!), and she’s running her own coffee shop. It’s lovely to see her settled, but still understandably haunted by the past. The extra security and that panic room? Totally believable – who wouldn’t be worried if Ghostface came back?
It all works, really. The story focuses on dealing with trauma, a mother trying to connect with her daughter about the past, and overcoming difficult experiences – what more could you ask for? While Scream 7 can be frustrating by the end – the killers are somewhat ridiculous and lack compelling motives – it still delivers some strong moments. The scenes between Sidney and Tatum are particularly memorable, whether they’re discussing Tatum’s desire for independence or, ultimately, agreeing to open up about Sidney’s past. These interactions feel authentic and explore the complexities of parent-teen relationships, showing how even well-meaning parents struggle to balance protection with allowing their children to grow and be themselves.
‘Scream 7’ Could Have Integrated Sidney Prescott, Tara, and Sam Carpenter’s Storylines
Paramount Pictures
As a huge Scream fan, I was really intrigued by what I heard about the original plan for Scream 7. It sounded like the story they had for Sam and Tara Carpenter would have been fantastic. I especially loved the idea of tying their storyline into Sidney Prescott’s journey as the ultimate final girl. Apparently, Skeet Ulrich hinted that they were building towards a three-movie arc where Billy Loomis would manipulate his daughter – Sam – into becoming Ghostface! Can you imagine how amazing it would have been to see Sidney figure that out? It would have been a seriously mind-blowing reveal.
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The conflict between Sidney and Tatum over Ben isn’t very compelling. Nothing can compare to the powerful connection between Sidney and Billy Loomis in the original Scream – their scenes, like Billy sneaking into her room and Sidney discovering his true nature, are legendary within the franchise. It was always unlikely Ben would be revealed as the killer, so building suspense around him just doesn’t add much excitement.
If Tara and Sam had been in Scream 7, Tatum’s character could have been developed more fully. Perhaps they would have become friends, allowing for meaningful discussions about Billy, especially since Sidney’s daughter is curious about her parents’ relationship. Seeing these characters connect and explore their family history would be compelling. It would be even more impactful if Sam were secretly Ghostface, adding a layer of suspense and surprise. While it’s unclear who will lead Scream 8 if it happens, the film needs to delve deeper into Tatum’s story and ensure all characters, both new and established, are well-developed and satisfying.
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2026-03-04 18:36