Scream (1996) Dir: Wes Craven
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An iconic 90s slasher, this film became an instant hit and spawned a multitude of sequels of varying quality. Director Wes Craven, who also directed the iconic horror 'A Nightmare On Elm Street', does well to mix the serious horror with some self aware, almost spoof-like comedy.
On the subject of Craven's other major horror film, he actually pays homage to the film's villain in one scene, which was fun to see. The story is relatively simple, but works well, and has a twist that has since become part of horror legend.
Neve Campbell stars, giving a pretty good performance, although at points she felt a little flat. Skeet Urlich gives one of the best performances of the film in my view, and has a number of great moments.
David Arquette is, in the nicest way possible, not the strongest actor, but I'll give him credit, he was okay here. I think he worked well with Courtney Cox.
Speaking of whom, Cox gives one of my favourite performances of hers - showing how she has more to give in pop culture than just being Monica in F.R.I.E.N.D.S.
Another supporting performance comes from the popular Matthew Lillard. His character is a bit strange, but I didn't dislike him. Lillard acts up to this strangeness hilariously, being one of the more entertaining characters of the film.
Rose McGowan is another who has some really solid moments, though I wish she'd had a little more screentime.
Finally, I'll mention Liev Schrieber and the iconic Drew Barrymore, who both have small but well acted roles, especially Barrymore.
Overall, I have to say it's easy to see why this slasher became so iconic. It's gory, goofy and most importantly very entertaining.
It doesn't take itself too seriously but manages to deliver a high stakes and suspenseful story with an awesome twist.
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