Scream VI (2023) takes the beloved slasher franchise to terrifying new heights, proving that even after decades, the Ghostface mask still has the power to shock, thrill, and entertain. Directed by Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett, this sequel continues the legacy of the iconic series while carving out fresh territory, introducing a darker, more relentless Ghostface than ever before. The film embraces its meta roots while delivering visceral horror and a tense, high-stakes narrative that keeps viewers on edge from start to finish.
The story follows the survivors of Scream V—Sam Carpenter (Melissa Barrera), her sister Tara Carpenter (Jenna Ortega), and twins Chad and Mindy Meeks-Martin (Mason Gooding and Jasmin Savoy Brown)—as they leave Woodsboro behind in an attempt to rebuild their lives in New York City. However, their hopes for a fresh start are shattered when a new Ghostface emerges, stalking them in the sprawling urban jungle. The shift from Woodsboro’s suburban horror to the chaos of New York provides a fresh, dynamic setting, utilizing the city’s anonymity and claustrophobia to amplify the terror.
Sam, still grappling with the psychological scars of her connection to original killer Billy Loomis, becomes the focal point of the new Ghostface’s ᴅᴇᴀᴅly game. The killer’s attacks are more brutal and methodical than ever, targeting not just the survivors but anyone connected to their past. The tension is heightened as the group struggles to determine who they can trust, with Ghostface’s idenтιтy shrouded in even deeper mystery than before.
Jenna Ortega shines as Tara, stepping into a more central role and showcasing her growing strength and resilience. Melissa Barrera delivers a standout performance as Sam, balancing vulnerability and ferocity as she fights to protect her sister while confronting her own dark tendencies. The return of Courteney Cox as Gale Weathers adds a nostalgic touch, her character continuing to navigate the blurred lines between journalist and survivor. Hayden Panettiere’s return as Kirby Reed, a fan-favorite from Scream 4, injects fresh energy into the mix, bridging the gap between old and new generations of survivors.
The kills in Scream VI are some of the franchise’s most intense and inventive, with the urban setting allowing for creative set pieces. A chilling sequence on a crowded subway car during Halloween, where multiple Ghostface costumes blend with real danger, stands out as a highlight. The film masterfully builds suspense, using the city’s vastness and isolation to create an atmosphere of relentless dread.
As always, the meta commentary is a key element, with Scream VI satirizing both the rules of sequels and the evolving horror genre. The film cheekily critiques “franchise rules,” exploring how the stakes are raised when legacy characters are no longer safe, and how audiences now expect bigger twists and deeper lore. This self-awareness is woven seamlessly into the narrative, making it both a critique and celebration of the genre.
The direction by Bettinelli-Olpin and Gillett is sharp and confident, balancing the brutal horror with moments of humor and character-driven emotion. The pacing keeps viewers engaged, with every scene pushing the narrative forward or adding depth to the characters. Brian Tyler and Sven Faulconer’s score heightens the tension, blending eerie tones with nostalgic callbacks to Marco Beltrami’s original compositions.
Scream VI is more than just a slasher sequel; it’s a bold evolution of the franchise. It honors the legacy of Wes Craven’s original films while pushing the story and characters in daring new directions. With its intense kills, sharp writing, and standout performances, Scream VI proves that the Ghostface mask still has plenty of scares left to deliver. It’s a bloody, thrilling ride that keeps fans guessing until the very last moment, cementing its place as one of the strongest entries in the iconic series.
