What We’re Currently Expecting From the Highly Anticipated Scream 7
The Scream franchise has carved a unique place in horror history, blending slasher thrills with sharp social commentary and a healthy dose of meta-humor. Now, with Scream 7 currently in production and slated for an early 2026 theatrical release, anticipation is naturally reaching an all-time high. And this next installment already promises to be a significant one, bringing back a few beloved characters and potentially pushing the boundaries of the series.
Although we don’t know much, we’re clearly desperate for more—so here are our current thoughts on what audiences can expect from Scream 7:
Scream (1996)
Sidney Reclaims the Spotlight
After a notable absence in Scream VI, Neve Campbell's Sidney Prescott is back, and this time, it feels like she's truly reclaiming the spotlight. Scream 7 marks the first film since Scream 4 to truly center around Sidney, and this shift opens up exciting narrative possibilities. We anticipate a deeper exploration of Sidney's character, particularly how she's evolved since becoming a mother (given her tragic experiences with generational trauma). The franchise has always subtly explored the trauma passed down through generations, and Scream 7 could delve further into Sidney's relationship with the legacy of her mother, Maureen Prescott.
A Ghostface with a specific vendetta against Sidney, or her family, could provide the catalyst for this exploration, adding a personal edge to the terror.
A Daughter Close to the Horror
The whodunnit nature of Scream necessitates a cast of potential suspects and victims, and we fully expect Sidney's daughter to be drawn into the heart of the mystery. Considering the franchise's penchant for mirroring past events, it's highly likely that some of her daughter's friends will become targets (or killers), placing her in a position eerily similar to Sidney's teen years. However, the crucial difference lies in the stark contrast of the mother-daughter dynamic that the franchise has never been able to depict (Sidney/Maureen and Sam/Christina).
With Sidney having repeatedly survived these events, they have someone who’s prepared to guide them as much as possible. Which, unfortunately, wasn’t something Sidney had in her life at that age. This difference could provide a fascinating alternative to the mother-daughter relationship that we haven’t witnessed in the Scream franchise. That also means there’s other new avenues to explore, including how will Sidney navigate protecting her daughter from not just a masked killer, but from the potential for suspicion and betrayal amongst her peers. This could add a new layer of emotional depth to the film while also making Sidney’s daughter a worthy next-gen final girl. But one thing is certain—with a legendary Ghostface-slaying mother, she’s going to have an easier ride.
New Levels of Brutality
With Kevin Williamson, the writer of the original Scream, taking the directorial reins for Scream 7, we're bracing ourselves for a visceral and intense experience. Williamson's influence on the franchise is undeniable, and his opening sequence for the original Scream remains one of the most unsettling and iconic in the slasher genre. And ultimately, it suggests that he won't shy away from pushing the boundaries of the franchise's violence.
Adding fuel to the fire, star Mason Gooding has even hinted at a particularly disturbing prop that left him unsettled during filming. While details remain scarce (for good reason), this suggests that Scream 7 may delve into new levels of brutality, perhaps exploring more psychological horror alongside the physical gore. Hopefully including suspenseful set pieces, innovative kills, and a deeper exploration of the psychological impact of violence on the survivors. It's a delicate balance to strike, but if done right, it could elevate Scream 7 beyond simple slasher thrills.
Returning Cast Members are Crucial
Scream 7 boasts the return of several key players, including Sidney Prescott, Gale Weathers, Mindy Meeks-Martin, Chad Meeks-Martin, and even former killers Roman Bridger and Stu Macher (likely in explainable cameo appearances). Though, these returning characters are not just fan service; they're crucial to the narrative fabric of the franchise.
Their presence allows for a deeper exploration of the ongoing trauma and the complex relationships that have been forged through shared experiences of terror. And that’s a huge part of what makes the franchise so magnetic. Furthermore, the return of Roman and Stu, even in limited roles, makes us believe that the film will include significant callbacks to the rich Scream history (like Scream 2022 and Scream VI) but we’ll just have to wait and see…
The Spyglass Media Group and Paramount Pictures film Scream 7 carves its way into theaters on February 27, 2026.
