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The first Scream movie was a blend of homage and deconstruction of well-established horror movie conventions. Initially named “Scary Movie,” the original Scream script laid the groundwork for references later used in the parody film of the same title. After a long hiatus since the last release in 2011, fans received a new trailer and updates on the return of Ghostface in the latest installment.
The upcoming movie, simply titled Scream, is scheduled to premiere on January 14, 2022. Despite the slightly confusing name, this movie is not a reboot of the Scream series, but rather a continuation in the existing storyline. It will bring back familiar characters although they won’t be the central focus. Essentially, this is Scream 5. Directors Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett faced challenges in persuading the original cast to reprise their roles.
“It was a nerve-wracking process,” Gillett revealed to Entertainment Weekly. “These roles were crucial and integral to the essence of the script. We couldn’t envision the movie without them, so not having them confirmed right away was definitely daunting.”
Enjoy watching scary movies? Catch the NEW trailer for #ScreamMovie – Only in theaters on January 14, 2022.
❤️ this tweet to be the first to receive exclusive updates until opening day. pic.twitter.com/fTl4D6Y65x
— Scream (@ScreamMovies) October 12, 2021
Eventually, the directors successfully convinced Neve Campbell, Courteney Cox, and David Arquette to reprise their roles as Sidney Prescott, Gale Weathers, and Dewey Riley, respectively.
“I was genuinely torn,” Campbell admitted. “The thought of creating these films without Wes Craven felt daunting. I held immense regard for him. Yet, Matt and Tyler penned a heartfelt letter, expressing their admiration and deep respect for Wes Craven, and acknowledging that they owe their directorial careers to these movies and Wes, and that resonated with me deeply.”
