Scream

UK Release Date: 02 May 1997

Certification: 18
Director: Wes Kraven

Cast: David Arquette, Drew Barrymore, Neve Campbell, Courtney Cox, Jamie Kennedy, Matthew Lillard, Rose McGowan, Liev Schreiber, Skeet Ulrich

Rating: 72%

Review:

Scream is a staple of the slasher sub-genre. It was unlike any horror film of its time and the film's originality remains its main appeal to this day. Unspeakably meta, to the point where Scream could be viewed as a parody. With knowing nods to tropes of the genre. Characters mock and acknowledge the setting and circumstances of the film. There are some not so subtle references to other classics - particularly Halloween (1978), my favourite horror film - which leave the environment lived in and relatable to the audience. 

Ghostface became synonymous with the franchise and is one of the most notable horror villains. Everybody recalls both his costume and his voice. The way he moves is supernatural-like. Floating across the screen, appearing as if he's in two places at once. The portrayal of Ghostface as a whodunnit serial killer is a genus idea with a certain amateur quality to his kills.

Scream's opening is iconic. Drew Barrymore was the film's biggest star when it came out, she was heavily marketed as the main protagonist. Which is why it was so shocking when she was murdered by Ghostface in the first ten minutes. Similarly, the twist is remarkably unanticipated in spite of all the clues laid out for the audience. It makes for a captivating, chilling finale.  

The ensemble cast assembled for Scream is fantastic. With enticing lead characters Dewey Riley, Sidney Prescott and Gale Weathers played respectively by David Arquette, Neve Campbell and Courtney Cox. But Matthew Lillard is the scene stealer. Electric and hypnotic. His classic one-liners are hilarious leading to several laugh out loud moments. I absolutely loved his performance as Stu Macher. 

Scream had absolutely no right to go so hard with its soundtrack. Utilising Moby's uber-cool, stylistic 'First Cool Hive' from his best album, in my opinion, 'Everything Is Wrong'. The track oozes elegance and flair. 'Red Right Hand' by Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds is the perfect backdrop to the events taking place during the runtime. The use of the music from Halloween is strangely clever but the iconic 'Halloween Theme - Main Title' immediately puts audience members on edge leading to a scene full of tension.