The release of Scream in 1996 revitalized the horror genre in the movie and entertainment industry. Three decades later, Scream 7 premiered on February 27, 2026. Scream 7 was produced by Spyglass Media Group, with Kevin Williamson directing his first Scream movie. Despite Scream 7’s high anticipation following the 5th and 6th movies’ success, it currently holds the lowest Rotten Tomatoes score in the franchise (32-35%), largely due to criticism of its plot.
Scream 7 introduces many new cast members including Isabel May as Sidney Prescott’s daughter, Tatum, and Joel McHale as her husband, Mark Evans. Returning stars include Neve Campbell and Courteney Cox. Notably, Jenna Ortega and Melissa Barrera do not return, as Barrera was fired after making posts regarding the Israel-Hamas conflict, and Ortega stood with her friend and fellow castmate and decided to focus on her role as Wednesday Addams on Wednesday.
Scream 7, continuing to take place in Woodsboro, is set 30 years after the original. The new story mainly focuses on Sidney Prescott, who is being targeted by a new Ghostface. The movie begins with two tourists, Scott and his girlfriend Madison, staying at the infamous Stu Matcher house. Then, only 10-15 minutes into the movie, they are murdered by Ghostface, who then sets the house on fire—because, of cours
Scream 7 refreshes Sidney Prescott’s life. She is now married and has a teenage daughter, who she named after Sidney’s late best friend Tatum Riley, killed by Billy Loomis in the original Scream. However, she is quickly disrupted when Ghostface resurfaces and targets her family. The rest of the plot and story will not be revealed to avoid spoilers. Viewers or those who are interested can watch the movie to see what happens next.
Critics are divided on the performances in Scream 7. While the performances of the younger cast are seen as underwhelming as they are thought to lack the spirit of previous installments, Neve Campbell’s performance is widely praised, viewing it as a fierce and sympathetic performance believed to be her best acting in the Scream franchise, bringing much maturity and emotion to the newest movie which saved it from being a waste.
Although Scream 7 is ranked as the worst movie in the franchise, there are some similarities and differences to earlier films. One notable similarity is how the film centers on Sidney Prescott as the protagonist and her life, family, and past. However, a difference is that instead of Prescott being portrayed as the “final girl” who is afraid of her past, she now fights to protect her family and demonstrates courage and no fear.
Scream 7 also features nostalgia-inspired Easter eggs focusing on the original films. One example is when Ben Brown, Tatum Evans’ boyfriend, sneaks through her bedroom window to visit her. This mirrors the scene in the original Scream movie when Billy Loomis sneaks through Sidney’s bedroom window.
Overall, Scream 7 relies heavily on nostalgia rather than a fresh start and new storyline. Despite its criticism, the film benefits from Sidney Prescott’s return, a strong opening scene, and intense, brutal kills. With a strong $100 million global opening weekend, those who enjoyed the original movies will best appreciate the newest film. While not considered the best, it is a decent watch for fans of the franchise.
