Brings Fun To The Teen Slasher

Rating: 10/10 (28 August 2005)

Every once in a while a movie breaks the mold and redefines a genre, Scream is one such movie.
This isn't going to teach you anything new about life, broaden your horizons, or appeal to those of you looking for such. The movie is titled, "Scream," and if you think you're getting something other than a teen slasher, you're mistaken. This movie doesn't save the planet, it's only there to entertain, which it does better than any other horror film you'll see. No, it isn't the most frightening movie ever made, just the most fun. If you want terrifying slasher, go with the original "Halloween."
Scream keeps all the tenets of the slasher genre: teens, serial killer on the loose, killer is unknown, killer has a unique look, and all the characters are stereotypes. On a deeper level, the genre is really about the dangers (really sin) of girls losing their virginity before marriage, where the slasher is a metaphor and symbolism abounds. But don't worry, Scream doesn't take itself seriously, it's postmodern fun. Scream stays true to the genre but is able to maintain a comedic element while all the time keeping you in suspense.
The cast is a St. Elmo's Fire of the 1990s, and all turn in solid performances. Matthew Lillard's character is particularly memorable and propelled him to many lesser films, but also the excellent indie film from 1998, "SLC Punk."
Please don't confuse this movie with Scream 2 or Scream 3, both with use the same casts, basically, and prove the first film really was catching lightning in a bottle. Scream 2 and 3 are bad films, sadly.
Overall, an important movie in the middle 90s. Big box office hit that contributed to a whole slew of lesser films and parodies. A great time, fun to watch, and expertly put together.