Exciting news for Scream enthusiasts: Scream 7 has officially been confirmed, with a fresh director onboard. Scream IV proved to be a remarkable triumph for the slasher franchise, presenting an innovative setting, the return of beloved character Tara Carpenter (portrayed by Jenna Ortega), and elevated levels of gore and terror. The movie garnered a colossal $168 million in global box office revenue, as reported by Box Office Mojo, stoking anticipation among fans. Consequently, it comes as no surprise that the franchise is forging ahead. Despite the departure of all but one of the original cast members, Scream VI adeptly balanced the seasoned and newer characters, a trend likely to persist in the forthcoming installment.
The newly appointed director of Scream 7 is an astute choice, having helmed numerous horror films and possessing a captivating filmmaking style. Who is this director, and what other noteworthy projects have they been involved in?
Who Is Directing Scream 7?
Scream 7 will be helmed by Christopher Landon, as reported by The Hollywood Reporter. Meanwhile, the previous directors of Scream (2022) and Scream IV, Tyler Gillett and Matt Bettinelli-Olpin, are collaborating on a forthcoming Universal horror film. Operating under their own production company, Radio Silence, Bettinelli-Olpin and Gillett rose to prominence with their impeccably crafted 2019 horror flick, Ready Or Not, boasting a sensational finale.
Ever since the release of Scream VI in March 2023, which was a tremendous success, horror enthusiasts have been eagerly anticipating news of a seventh installment in the franchise. Fortunately, fans will have the opportunity to witness Ghostface's return once again. Although there is currently no casting news or information available regarding the movie's writer, the excitement remains high.
What Are Christopher Landon's Other Movies?
Christopher Landon, a prominent figure in the horror genre, is renowned for his comedic masterpieces Happy Death Day (2017) and its sequel, Happy Death Day 2U (2019). Alongside helming these beloved films, he was also the creative force behind the critically acclaimed horror flick, Freaky, in the early 2020s.
In a recent venture, Landon both penned and directed the 2023 Netflix feature, We Have A Ghost. This captivating film revolves around a family's relocation to a haunted house, where they encounter a benevolent apparition portrayed by the talented David Harbour.
Previously, Landon was responsible for the screenplay of several movies within the Blumhouse Paranormal Activity franchise. This includes the sequel to the original film, titled Paranormal Activity 2, which was released in 2010. Following that, he also wrote the script for Paranormal Activity 3, a continuation of the series, which came out in 2011. Landon's involvement continued with Paranormal Activity 4, the next installment in the franchise, released in 2012. In addition to his writing contributions, he also took on the role of both writer and director for the fifth film in the series, titled Paranormal Activity: The Marked Ones, which hit theaters in 2015.
Why Christopher Landon Is The Right Director For The Scream Franchise
Christopher Landon's ability to blend humor and scares makes him the perfect choice to direct Scream 7. With films like Happy Death Day and Freaky, he has proven that he understands the tone that the Scream franchise requires. Scream 4, in particular, stands out as the best movie in the series because it fully embraces its campy nature. Landon's horror movies not only provide laughs but also cleverly subvert slasher film conventions. Audiences can anticipate an exciting and innovative approach from him in the Scream franchise, ensuring there will never be a dull moment.
Happy Death Day reimagines the concept of Groundhog Day, as Tree Gelbman (Jessica Rothe) is murdered by Babyface, only to wake up the following day and relive the events all over again. Given the captivating and comedic nature of Tree's story, fans eagerly anticipate another installment in the franchise. In 2022, Jason Blum discussed the possibility of Happy Death Day 3, suggesting that while no official plans are in motion, one should never say never.
An exceptional manifestation of Christopher Landon's unique filmmaking style is evident in Freaky. Drawing inspiration from Freaky Friday, the film infuses a heavier dose of gore. Millie Kessler (Kathryn Newton) and The Blissfield Butcher (Vince Vaughn) find themselves swapping bodies, leading to remarkable performances from both actors and a series of thrilling and fast-paced scenes. The Butcher's portrayal stands as a testament to Christopher Landon's ability to handle iconic horror villains, akin to Ghostface.
Even though it is arguably the least discussed movie in Christopher Landon's body of work, "Even We Have A Ghost" demonstrates his ability to create silly yet frightening circumstances for his characters. The ghost, Ernest, may not have the ability to speak, but he effectively portrays his backstory and reveals a sad motive for his continued presence in the house.
With remarkable kills in Scream VI and the iconic backdrop of New York City, the latest installment in this beloved franchise proves that there is still a vibrant essence to be captured. Christopher Landon's takeover is bound to be successful, and his forthcoming project, Scream 7, is expected to strike a perfect balance between humor and horror.