Scream VI (2023) Movie Review

Scream VI Movie Review: Ghostface in NYC

Mar 12, 2025 3 min read Scream VI Movie Review: Ghostface in NYC backdrop image

Ah, Scream VI. What a wild ride—literally through the bustling streets of New York City. Directed by the dynamic duo Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett, this installment brings a refreshing urban vibe to the beloved horror franchise. Those familiar with the chill-inducing Ghostface will find this shift intriguing in what can only be described as an invigorating movie review of a classic reimagined.

Taking a familiar horror slasher trope and tossing it into NYC's chaos was a bold move. And guess what? It works—most of the time. The survivors from Woodsboro are trying hard to escape their past trauma, but Ghostface, well, he's as relentless as a New York subway during rush hour. The plot thickens as they navigate their new lives, discovering that you can run, but you can’t hide from the horrors that know too well how to dial a number. This theme of run-or-hide coupled with urban isolation brings a fresh terror. Imagine Carrie Bradshaw from 'Sex and the City' wondering if her latest admirer might be a psycho killer!

Let’s talk acting—standout performances are delivered by Melissa Barrera and Jenna Ortega, who manage to evolve their characters amidst chaos. Oh, and let's not forget Courteney Cox! She's as fierce as ever, bringing a nostalgic yet refreshing energy to the screen. The cinematography brilliantly captures the gritty vibe of NYC, making the city feel like a character in itself. On the flip side, some might argue that the screenplay, penned by James Vanderbilt, Guy Busick, and the legendary Kevin Williamson, occasionally tries to juggle too many horror clichés at once—typical of a 'best horror movies' list try-hard.

In the realm of slasher films, Scream VI carves its niche. Aligning closely with movies like ‘I Know What You Did Last Summer’ and ‘Halloween,’ it keeps up the suspense and popcorn-worthy scares. Yet, unlike some predecessors, it doesn’t entirely reinvent the wheel. Remember the scream queen era of the '90s? This film is like a reunion with just the right dose of nostalgia for fans and solid scares for newcomers.

If you love the horror genre and have a soft spot for a well-executed cinematic scare, Scream VI is a must-watch. Despite its minor pitfalls, the movie delivers on its promise—an unexpected yet thrilling twist to a classic slasher. Dive into this cinematic masterpiece if you dare! But beware, after watching, you might double-check that no one's behind you on your next nighttime stroll through the city!