Scream 7: Franchise Loses Its Way?

Paramount's "Scream 7" is under scrutiny for its fearful approach to its own legacy and the current horror landscape. Director Kevin Williamson's latest installment is seen as a corporate move that fails to capture the franchise's original spirit or appeal to modern audiences.

The film is noted for its unusual context, including the return of Neve Campbell as Sidney Prescott amid fan protests over the dismissal of "Scream 6" star Melissa Barrera. This attempt at reassurance, however, is perceived as stifling the satire that once defined "Scream."

Criticism extends to the script, described as straightforward to the point of being dull, and a generic setting that lacks the impact of previous locations. The ensemble cast struggles with lifeless material, leading to a lack of emotional connection and memorable deaths.

Technically competent but lacking innovation, the movie's violence becomes monotonous after a solid opening. The film's meta-commentary is dulled into self-soothing, ignoring the genre's current energy from artistic risks and reinvention. "Scream 7" prioritizes safety over bravery, resulting in a less dangerous Ghostface.