The “Scream” franchise has been a staple for the horror community since its release in 1996. Everything from the Ghostface mask to the meta comedy just screams (no pun intended) iconicity. Not only is it truly scary, but it definitely inspired more horror movies to take themselves less seriously, while still keeping its horror roots. With Halloween on the way, and the fifth installment coming up, this is the perfect time to rank all 4 “Scream” movies.
4. ‘Scream 3’ (2000)
Neve Campbell in “Scream 3.” Dimension Films.
“Scream 3” is usually at the bottom of most people’s lists. It’s not “bad” per se, but it’s just so much of what we’ve already seen before. A new Ghostface killer is on the loose, killing various minor characters, until it’s revealed that it was—you guessed it—one of the new characters introduced! The buildup doesn’t work, the twist isn’t satisfying, it retcons previous films, etc. The “Scream” films are supposed to critique the clichés of horror, but this just falls into those cliches. Still, it’s not all bad. Parker Posey’s character is hilarious, and I liked the setting with all of the movie sets. It just fails to be anything other than “just another horror movie.”
3. ‘Scream 2’ (1997)
Courtney Cox and “Ghostface” in “Scream 2.” Photo: Dimension Films.
While not as poor as “Scream 3,” this movie remains one of the most frustrating entries in the franchise. People praise it for taking risks, but I think the only time they actually do that is the finale, where they reveal the killer. I’ll admit, the twist is very exciting, connecting the first film rather flawlessly. Otherwise, it’s just lackluster and a repeat of the first film. They even (*spoilers*) kill off Randy, a fan-favorite, in the middle of the film, and it barely even had an effect on the plot or the characters.
A big problem with the franchise in general (and especially this movie) is the lack of variation. Each time someone dies, it’s always the same, so there’s no tension at all. Especially in a film with one of the highest kill counts and there’s a death every ten minutes, it makes the audience yawn instead of scream when a character gets offed.
2. ‘Scream 4’ (2011)
Neve Campbell in “Scream 4.” Photo: Dimension Films.
“Scream 4” was a huge surprise for me. Most soft reboots of horror franchises seem to fall flat, but the 4th installment actually played with some really interesting concepts and characters while still retaining its main feel. It definitely tried to go in a new direction, and while it wasn’t always successful, I’d say that the effort is very much there.
The killer(s) this time around were brilliant, having probably my favorite villain reveal in the franchise. Performances were great, which is honestly no surprise for these films, but most of the newcomers really shine here. Emma Roberts, Rory Culkin, and Alison Brie are just a joy on screen. The overall tone really works here too, seeming more modern than its predecessors. The theme of the toxicity of technology is a little heavy-handed at times, however. “Scream 4” definitely brought some life back into the franchise, ultimately making more sequels possible. It remains one of the most interesting horror sequels to this day.
1. ‘Scream’ (1996)
Ghostface in “Scream.” PHoto: Dimension Films.
It’s no surprise that the original is at the top of the list. There’s so many elements that make this film great: the dark humor, the action, the characters, the final reveal. Every aspect is near perfect. The final act is a brilliant, blood-soaked finale, full of twists and turns that kept me on the edge of my seat. It definitely leaves an impression on anyone who watches it.
This one dives into the psychology of the characters, questioning all of their morals. It really keeps it open for anyone to be the killer. Not to mention the stellar performances, most notably Matthew Lillard, Skeet Ulrich, and David Arquette. It really was ahead of its time, and influenced so many more horror films to come.
“Scream 5” (titled “Scream”) releases January 14, 2022.
