Scream 2 (1997) ***1/2 [Scream Double Feature Pt. 2]

While I've always really enjoyed Scream 2 (1997)—basically as much as its predecessor—after this latest rewatch, I can now safely say that I think it's better than Scream (1996) (my review here).

Wes Craven and Kevin Williamson's follow-up more cleverly satirizes the horror/slasher genre, along with sequels—handling its meta, whodunit nature and its characters' self-awareness in a much more satisfactory way. Partly that's because the film embraces its Scooby-Doo qualities and ups the craziness in a slightly campy way that still works. Introducing the film school and theater aspects was inspired as well. What's impressive is that Scream 2 managed to accomplish all this, despite being rushed out only a year after the success of the first film and with constant rewrites during production.

The cold open isn't as strong as the original, but Scream 2 features better kills, which Randy (Jamie Kennedy) mentions is a must in horror sequels. It also has better acting, better direction and very well-staged set pieces (the sound booth and the locked car are highlights). None of the Scream films are classics in my opinion, but they are fun to revisit every so often.

You can find my Wes Craven Feature Films Ranked list here.

You can find my Scream Franchise Films Ranked list here.