The newest chapter in the “Scream” franchise features the latest Woodsboro survivors starting a new life in New York City. 

The movie has an opening about the death of a film professor. Samantha Carpenter (Melissa Barrera), her sister, Tara (Jenna Ortega), and twins Mindy (Jasmin Savoy Brown) and Chad (Mason Gooding) but this new Ghostface is different. 

Joined by other returning characters Gale Weathers (Courteney Cox) and Kirby Reed (Hayden Panettiere) as well as a slew of newcomers including Anika (Devyn Nekoda), Josh (Danny Brackett), Ethan (Jack Champion), Quinn (Liana Liberato), and Detective Bailey (Dermot Mulroney), the newly named “core four” will have to face off against the killer(s) once again. This time in the heart of the Big Apple.

However, one name sorely missing from this cast is none other than franchise original Sidney Prescott (Neve Campbell). Cambell said she didn’t get a financial offer good enough for her return.  In Campbell’s absence, Courtney Cox enjoys more of the spotlight, finally getting a call from Ghostface and fighting another round with the killer. 

But the biggest breakout star of the “Scream” movies is Jenna Ortega, whose sharp one-liners spark every scene she’s in. This time, she’s gotten a few chances to land blows and kicks, a change from the last movie, where she spent most of the film wounded.

Usually I’m a little wary with companies that keep trying to add to a franchise or attempt to reboot it. Yet, this movie goes well with the franchise as a whole. It knows that it is a part of legacy, so the movie doesn’t try to overdo it. I loved the strong theme of “chosen family.” 

The suspense and intensity of scenes where the group is being chased down brings a chill down my spine. (PS: The ladder scene.) 

Ghostface seemed to be more brutal and careful. If you’re a fan of slasher movies or borrow in general, then this movie is great for you. 

I give this a 10/10.