12 Best Movies Like Scream

1996’s film “Scream,” similar to the persistent Ghostface killer character, continues to thrive and captivate audiences. With each new generation, a fresh batch of viewers discovers why this movie directed by Wes Craven is an exceptional blend of tension and insightful commentary on the horror genre. The 11 most meta moments in the “Scream” series cleverly satirize horror tropes while rekindling your fondness for horror through suspenseful scenes and plot twists. Although the initial “Scream” remains a masterpiece, the abundance of sequels encompassing the entire “Scream” timeline guarantees that if you’re yearning for more “Scream” after the first movie ends, this franchise offers plenty more to enjoy.

Instead of just sticking with more “Scream” films, why not explore other horror movies that beautifully complement the original? Here are 12 must-watch features for fans of “Scream,” either because they are significant in ’90s horror or share the same intrigue towards meta-commentary. Crucially, none of these movies replicate “Scream” exactly. These films will remind you why you enjoy horror movies by expanding upon what made “Scream” so appealing, offering a fresh and thrilling experience similar to Ghostface’s debut.

The Cabin in the Woods

Apart from “Scream”, there are other exhilarating horror films that delve into the history of scary cinema, and one such example is “The Cabin in the Woods”. Directed by Drew Goddard in 2012, this film playfully references classic horror movie elements. Unlike “Scream” which features a character overly familiar with horror movies, “The Cabin in the Woods” takes its meta-aspects to a whole new level. It reveals a secret organization that designs and sets free horrific scenarios to placate a malevolent deity.

The movie ‘Cabin in the Woods’ is deeply rooted in horror cinema lore, yet its most delightful aspects are accessible even without a deep understanding of the genre. Who wouldn’t find joy in watching unicorns brutally attacking people or the cleverly timed dark comedy as Joss Whedon’s script unfolds, bringing together a group of teenagers in a cabin and a larger, terrifying secret. ‘The Cabin in the Woods’ shares similarities with ‘Scream’, but it has more than enough unique qualities to prevent it from feeling like a repetition of Ghostface’s first killing spree.

Wes Craven’s New Nightmare

Prior to his work on “Scream,” horror maestro Wes Craven experimented with his chilling oeuvre through “Wes Craven’s New Nightmare.” This innovative spin-off of the “Nightmare on Elm Street” series saw Heather Langenkamp portraying a character resembling herself, immersed in the process of creating a new “Elm Street” film. Not unlike the on-screen horrors depicted in “Scream 3,” “New Nightmare” explores the grim reality that death visits those involved in the production, as the characters played by Langenkamp and her colleagues find themselves confronted with the actual Freddy Krueger slasher, who starts claiming victims. As the line between fiction and reality blurs, terrifying scenes rooted in filmmaking mishaps unfold.

In “New Nightmare,” the most chilling moments stem from the blending of reality and fantasy, creating an atmosphere where nothing is what it seems. The audience is constantly kept guessing about harmless props and potential lethal objects that might strike their favorite characters. This ambiguity fuels a thrilling film with deep insights into both “Elm Street’s” influence and horror as a genre. Furthermore, the design of Krueger in this production offers a fresh perspective on an iconic villain. Despite his widespread recognition in pop culture, the creators of “New Nightmare” manage to breathe new life into Freddy Krueger with his distinctive appearance. Leading the cast is Langenkamp, who delivers a strong performance that fits well with the complex tone of the movie. If you’re looking for more self-aware Wes Craven films in the vein of “Scream,” then “New Nightmare” is definitely worth watching.

You’re Next

A key factor that made “Scream” stand out is the well-defined character of Final Girl Sydney Prescott, who isn’t just there to scream or serve as an object for male gaze. Instead, she’s a character that viewers can deeply connect with. This creates a heightened sense of drama whenever Ghostface attempts to kill her, making it more gripping than other slasher films that focus mainly on violence. If you’re craving more slasher movies with an added dose of entertainment from watching a Final Girl fight off ominous intruders, consider watching Adam Wingard’s 2013 film “You’re Next.” This movie starts with a traditional home invasion where masked intruders disrupt a wealthy family gathering and systematically eliminate the family members.

As it happens, the main character Erin (played by Sharni Vinson) is among those who are targeted by the attackers. Growing up in a doomsday prepper household that was secluded from the world gave Erin some knowledge about hand-to-hand combat. The movie “You’re Next” starts off showing a group of people being mercilessly attacked, but it eventually becomes a crowd pleaser as we watch Erin systematically take down these unexpected villains. Director Adam Wingard skillfully structures the plot with numerous creative kills, while Sharni Vinson’s captivating performance on screen makes Erin an entrancing protagonist. The way Erin’s strained relationship with her family impacts the gruesome events is also intriguing. Similar to Sydney Prescott before her, “You’re Next”‘s Erin stands out as one of the most compelling Final Girls in horror film history.

Barbarian

In a skillful manner, the film “Scream” manages to intertwine horror and comedy. Other directors such as Peter Jackson, Sam Raimi, and Coralie Fargeat have also demonstrated that humor can enhance, rather than detract from, scares. A recent example of this is Zach Cregger’s 2022 directorial debut “Barbarian,” which is a fantastic illustration. The movie centers around Tessa, played by Georgina Campbell, who finds herself in an AirBnB with some chilling secrets hidden beneath its floors. The narrative unfolds with a playful touch that makes the humor seem more fitting. Although “Barbarian” isn’t a whimsical film, it does possess darkly comedic undertones, as the characters continue to uncover increasingly disturbing material in the labyrinthine tunnels beneath this AirBnB.

From my perspective as an enthusiast, moments of humor in “Barbarian,” such as AJ’s hasty attempt to capitalize on a torture chamber, subtly tap into human nature rather than relying on witty, tension-shattering quips that characters might deliver. This film masterfully intertwines laughter with its most unsettling scenes and striking instances of grotesque visuals by simply focusing on providing an enjoyable experience for the audience. Regardless of the tone it presents, entertainment is always present in some form or another. It’s this blend of horror and comedy that “Barbarian” executes so skillfully, a feat that would make “Scream” proud.

Pearl

Similar to “Scream” and numerous other horror films that have come before, “Pearl” maintains a strong connection with cinema’s history. But if you’re seeking a horror film with distinctly different cinematic references than those influencing “Scream”, “Pearl” is an absolute must-see. Director Ti West delves into the backstory of “X’s” antagonist, drawing heavily on visual cues from classic Technicolor musicals, Douglas Sirk productions, “The Wizard of Oz”, and other mid-20th-century films. Remarkably, a significant amount of enjoyment can be derived from blending the aesthetic of “All That Heaven Allows” with the portrayal of Mia Goth’s menacing character.

The performance in Goth’s “Pearl” is as gripping as Matthew Lillard’s role in “Scream.” It’s hardly surprising that the camera lingers on Goth during her lengthy monologues, all of which are seamlessly filmed in long, uninterrupted shots. You’re drawn into her character and can’t tear yourself away. The vibrant set design of “Pearl” is a visual feast, with its most captivating moments being the extravagant elements like the famous line delivery, “but I’m a star.” Modern cinema continually builds upon its cinematic history, as “Scream” demonstrated so effectively. In 2022, “Pearl” reinvents this concept in innovative and unforeseen ways.

Tucker and Dale vs. Evil

In the world of gaming, I’d say “Tucker & Dale vs. Evil,” directed by Eli Craig, is as aware as any horror game NPC (Non-Player Character) about horror movie stereotypes. It particularly acknowledges that many classic horrors have portrayed redneck hillbillies as visual cues for characters who are supposed to be creepy or untrustworthy. However, the main characters Tucker (Alan Tudyk) and Dale (Tyler Labine), in this tale, flip that trope on its head by being down-to-earth Southern guys in overalls, contrary to the usual stereotype. On the other hand, the antagonists of the story are typical attractive youngsters like jock Chad (Jesse Moss) who’d usually be the hero in any other horror flick, trying to escape a slasher villain.

As Tucker and Dale attend to the injured Allison (Katrina Bowden), the script cleverly generates laughs from her supposed rescuers meeting unfortunate, darkly comical ends, such as being fed into a woodchipper. The contrast between these grim deaths and the genuine, heartfelt portrayals of Tucker and Dale by Alan Tudyk and Tyler Labine creates an enjoyable viewing experience. Additionally, like “Scream” did by reworking slasher film tropes, there’s an undeniable thrill in how “Tucker and Dale vs. Evil” cleverly subverts the typical social classes and hero/villain stereotypes often seen in horror movies. If you can stomach some intensely graphic violence (courtesy of excellent practical effects), “Tucker and Dale vs. Evil” makes an ideal pairing with “Scream” for a double feature.

Bodies Bodies Bodies

In much the same vein as “Scream,” where the body count climbed steeply, the movie “Bodies Bodies Bodies” is brimming with deceased individuals for its narrative about a group of self-indulgent Gen Z young adults stranded in a mansion amidst a hurricane. As the storm outside worsens and bodies begin to accumulate, these characters who barely trust each other under normal circumstances disintegrate even further. If you enjoyed the dark humor of “Scream” from the 90s, you’ll find a similar blend in the grimly humorous tone of “Bodies Bodies Bodies.” This film features a cast of deliciously selfish characters brought to life by an impressive ensemble of skilled actors. It may not be as heavy-handed as “Scream,” but like that Wes Craven film, it excels at making you jump and shriek at key moments with its bloodthirsty flair.

Just as “Scream” once showcased the budding talents of actors like Neve Campbell and Matthew Lillard in their early days, the film “Bodies Bodies Bodies” also offers an opportunity for a group of emerging performers to make their mark through suspenseful, gory performances. The standout among these actors is undoubtedly Rachel Sennott as the flighty Alice, a woman with a quick tongue who frequently changes her alliances to suit her needs. Sennott’s physical acting and brilliantly hilarious line deliveries are a delight, while Alice, such a drastically different character from Sennott’s breakout role in “Shiva Baby,” showcases her versatile range. Her performance alone makes “Bodies Bodies Bodies” essential viewing for fans of “Scream.

The Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2

Any film enthusiast, whether they lean towards horror or not, should consider watching the 1974 classic “Texas Chain Saw Massacre”. This groundbreaking movie showcases exceptional tension and gripping cinematography. Although its 1986 sequel, “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2”, may not reach the same heights as its predecessor, it’s still worth a watch. For fans of “Scream”, “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2” offers another darkly humorous horror experience filled with social commentary and reflections on the horror genre itself. In essence, “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2” represents an advanced level of self-referential horror cinema for “Scream” enthusiasts, offering a unique twist after you’ve delved into Ghostface’s world.

With its eccentric and darkly comedic style, “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2” stands out remarkably from the original “Texas Chain Saw Massacre.” Characters like the menacing Chop Top and Lt. Boude “Lefty” Enright, played by Dennis Hopper, add an engaging layer of exaggeration to the storyline. The intricate set design and dialogues that are strangely memorable, particularly those delivered by Chop Top, make this film a must-watch. The lack of subtlety in the movie is noteworthy, but it’s exactly this over-the-top nature that makes “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2” such an entertaining watch.

Frankenhooker

1996 saw the arrival of “Scream” in a US horror scene that was facing numerous challenges. Established slasher series had become monotonous, with viewers well aware of the predictable patterns found in each “Friday the 13th” film. The genre had devolved into repetition rather than delivering genuine shocks. However, it’s important to note that “Scream” didn’t enter a completely barren cinematic landscape for horror; several underrated ’90s horror movies were keeping the creative spark alive. The decade started with a witty blend of horror and comedy, offering biting satire and graphic violence that would later make “Scream” a beloved classic. For instance, “Frankenhooker,” released in 1990, was a unique take on Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein tale, combining the use of super-crack, sex workers, and reanimated corpses into one bizarre movie.

In a more comedic tone than terrifying, “Frankenhooker” serves as an early forerunner to “Scream,” skillfully satirizing reality while causing unease in the viewer’s stomach. The film features vengeful, anthropomorphized body parts and organs alongside critiques of ’80s anti-drug messages and possessive male attitudes towards women. Additionally, Patty Mullen’s fearless portrayal of the reanimated title character is as striking as Ghostface’s mask. Her facial expressions are hilarious, and her delivery of sexually charged, gruesome deaths is remarkably nonchalant.

Gremlins 2: The New Batch

Similar to “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2,” “Gremlins 2: The New Batch” serves as a sequel that takes horror comedy cinema to the next level of self-referential humor for fans of “Scream.” If you found Wes Craven’s directorial approach, which acknowledged classic slasher movie elements, amusing, brace yourself for the uproarious spectacle of the title creatures in “Gremlins 2: The New Batch” actually interrupting the film’s flow with mischief in a projection booth. Director Joe Dante takes this concept to hilarious extremes in “The New Batch,” abandoning conventional expectations for a commercial sequel in favor of an abundance of meta-jokes and parodies of franchise tropes. The film also boasts impressive practical effects, showcasing the various Gremlins wreaking havoc in New York City, such as Brain Gremlin and Spider Gremlin.

Gremlins 2: The New Batch” is a blend of disorder and humorous winks that might grow tiresome over time, much like “Scream,” which seemingly defies logic by combining genuinely frightening slasher film suspense with dialogue about the same genre. However, just as “Scream” manages to excel in both self-deprecating humor and crowd-pleasing moments, such as Gizmo becoming a miniature Rambo against the evil Gremlins, “Gremlins 2: The New Batch” does the same. Additionally, Dante’s dedication to absurdity that constantly challenges audience expectations, demonstrated right from the start with Daffy Duck and Bugs Bunny taking over the Warner Bros. logo, is consistently entertaining.

Candyman

Similar to ‘Frankenhooker,’ ‘Candyman’ set the stage for what was to come in ’90s horror, but it was ‘Scream’ that truly rejuvenated the genre when it arrived with its innovative twist on slasher films. While both share a connection to reality and urban legends, they approached this theme differently. Unlike ‘Scream,’ which maintained traditional horror elements, ‘Candyman’ explored the idea of stories having the power to keep the dead among us, long after their physical existence has ended. The film offered a gripping, suspenseful experience centered around protagonist Helen Lyle (Virginia Madsen), whose hold on reality weakens as the Candyman figure increasingly haunts her life.

Amongst the talented cast of “Candyman”, Tony Todd’s portrayal of the titular character truly shines. A memorable and influential figure in film, Todd brings an undeniable allure to Candyman, captivating audiences instantly with a sense of gravity that underscores the character’s menacing nature. He masterfully imbues this bee-covered figure with both intimidation and humanity, delivering a complex performance that elevates “Candyman” to the ranks of horror classics such as “Scream”. Indeed, his powerful and multifaceted portrayal solidifies “Candyman” as one of the most notable horror movies from the ’90s.

A Nightmare on Elm Street

Approximately 13 years before “Scream,” filmmaker Wes Craven had already earned his title as a horror movie icon with the release of “A Nightmare on Elm Street” in 1984. To this day, horror enthusiasts continue to eagerly re-watch “A Nightmare on Elm Street,” as its chills and superior cinematic craftsmanship remain compelling despite multiple viewings. While the early and mid ’80s were saturated with slasher films that merely followed formulaic plots, “A Nightmare on Elm Street” was a notable exception. In this Craven production, Freddy Krueger emerged as an indelible horror icon by exploring the unsettling and frightening aspects of being pursued within dreams. Since anything is possible in dreamscapes, it’s no surprise that even a comfortable bed could transform into a setting for gruesome deaths according to Craven’s twisted mind.

The original “A Nightmare on Elm Street,” with its innovative concept and eye-catching imagery – even down to the distinctive appearance of Krueger himself – stands as a cinematic gem that none of its subsequent sequels could rival in overall excellence. Reflecting upon Wes Craven’s career, it’s intriguing to compare this movie with “Scream” and observe how he managed to create two slasher films that were remarkably different from each other. In a genre often bogged down by repetition, “A Nightmare on Elm Street” and “Scream” showcased Craven’s knack for infusing genuine creativity into two unforgettable interpretations of the slasher movie.

2025-03-11 21:32