Celebrate Halloween with a 'Scream' Movie Night!

This weekend, let's gather virtually to revisit Wes Craven's iconic 1996 classic 'Scream'. Whether you're a horror aficionado or just curious to see what all the fuss is about, I'm inviting you to join my watch party!

As someone who has a complicated relationship with horror films, I admit, I usually prefer the comfort of a good drama or romcom. The heart-pumping suspense—combined with the inevitable jump scares—can leave me jittery. However, when it comes to 'Scream', there's a quirky charm that disarms the face-melting fear usually reserved for horror flicks. There is something about the 90s aesthetic and the thrilling narrative that keeps me engaged even when I'm worried I might scream.

"I can watch this film on repeat without losing my nerve. It's like horror but with a wink!"

The Magic of 'Scream'

The film is a clever deconstruction of the slasher genre, packed with tongue-in-cheek humor while still delivering the blood and guts fans expect. Can we talk about that chilling opening scene featuring Drew Barrymore? Iconic! From the get-go, we're thrust into a whirlwind of suspense and expertly crafted horror tropes, all while Ghostface lurks just beyond our vision.

What's truly delightful about 'Scream' is its self-awareness. It plays along with the typical horror clichés, challenging not just its characters, but its audience—it reminds us NOT to do the very things we see in scary movies. It's almost a roadmap for survival! Just consider the line often quoted when someone decides to venture off alone: "Hi, I'll be right back—" Yeah, right!

Join the Watch Party

You're welcome to partake in the fun! All you need to do is watch the film before Sunday, October 26, and share your thoughts in the comments section. What part made you laugh? What aspect terrified you?

Here's how you can ensure you're prepared:

• Rewatch (or watch for the first time!) 'Scream'—Here's a link to stream it.
• Gather your snacks—popcorn is a must, but I wouldn't blame you for a bowl of Halloween candy!
• Log on and share—join us in the chat afterward!

Discussion Questions

As we prepare for our virtual chat, here are some prompts to ponder:

1. How well does 'Scream' hold up in 2025?
2. What was something you didn't notice on your first watch?
3. Is there a line or scene that still resonates with you?
4. Reflecting on the sequels, do you think the original set a new benchmark?

Meet Our Panel

I'm thrilled to have some wonderful colleagues joining the discussion:

• Alissa Wilkinson, our very own movie critic, will give fresh impressions as this is her first time watching.
• Maya Salam, culture editor, who has a soft spot for the character Stu and his wonderfully chaotic antics.
• Mekado Murphy, assistant film editor and fearless foodie who can't resist Jiffy Pop during scary movie marathons.

So grab your phones, dim the lights, and remember: none of us should ever say we'll be right back! I can't wait to hear your thoughts and reactions after our movie night!

Let's see if 'Scream' still holds that special place in our hearts as we embrace the thrill of the chase, complete with all its nostalgia and a few petrifying thrills!