What Happened
The latest installment in the iconic horror franchise, Scream 7, is set to make a significant impact at the box office, with projections estimating an opening weekend gross of $45 million to $50 million in North America. This would mark a record debut for the series, surpassing the $44.4 million earned by Scream VI in 2023. The film features the return of Neve Campbell, who reprises her role as Sidney Prescott after missing the previous installment due to a pay dispute.
Why It Matters
The journey to Scream 7 has been tumultuous, characterized by high-profile cast changes and creative turmoil. Melissa Barrera, who starred in the previous two films, was fired over controversial social media posts, leading to her on-screen sister Jenna Ortega also opting out due to scheduling conflicts. The film’s original director, Christopher Landon, also departed, prompting a shift in the creative direction back to original writer Kevin Williamson, who now directs and co-writes the film.
What’s Next
Scream 7 is set to open in theaters nationwide following Thursday previews. The film aims to recapture the franchise’s essence while introducing new dynamics, focusing on Sidney Prescott’s life as a mother and coffee shop owner. As the film prepares for its release, industry analysts are keenly observing its performance, which could influence future installments in the franchise.
