As we begin our descent into the Spooky Season, it is appropriate that we look at the nostalgic films that delve into horror. When I think of spooky, nostalgic films, I think of those that have a lasting impact on what scares me at night. Therefore, the first film selected for October is Scream (1996).
Kevin Williamson wrote Scream, and this slasher feature is directed by the iconic horror director Wes Craven. The movie follows a group of teenagers as they try to survive the killings of a masked serial killer throughout their quiet, quaint California town. The primary protagonist, Sidney Prescott, played by Neve Campbell, must escape the jaws of this ruthless maniac throughout the film as she becomes the primary target of this maniac killer called Ghostface.
This movie has remained a staple throughout my family as a Halloween classic. I have so many fond memories of watching this iconic horror movie. This movie has become a tradition throughout my family to be the first horror movie that most family members watch when they come of age. I have shown this feature film to at least ten of my cousins once they became the appropriate age to engage with this film. Some of my fondest memories are scaring people during this film or using a cell phone to scare my family.
The iconic voice of Roger Jackson truly brings bone-chillingness to the voice of Ghostface. The murder mystery element associated with this film also adds excellent complexity to the slasher film, which was much needed when slasher films were becoming cinema trash. The critique done on slasher films within this film allows audience members to understand when nostalgic feelings lead them to fall in love with Slasher icons such as Jason Voorhees or Michael Myers while adding a very Meta element to the feature. Screams acknowledge what led to the slasher genre’s failure and does not make those same mistakes. The sharp writing associated with this film truly elevates this horror icon movie, while the direct style of Wes Craven elevates this movie into a cinematic masterpiece. The various actors also truly embodied what being a teenager in the 90s was like.
Therefore, I give Scream (1996) nine out of teen film projectors, and it should be an instant watch during the Halloween season. This movie reinvigorated the slasher genre and elevated the genre for future generations to enjoy. The opening scene of this film is truly one of the most special sequences in cinema history.
I would love to know from my audience what you think of this phone, and do you still get scared to answer your phone from an unknown number?
- The Nostalgic Film Critic
