The only entry in the Scream franchise that seems to get slightly worse with each viewing, the third entry intentionally pivots into humor and absurdity in ways the previous installments merely use for flavoring. Instead of self-awareness, it accidentally attempts self-parody. There’s so much winking at the audience in this one that I’m surprised it doesn’t ask for our number.
But despite a notable left turn in tone and an equally notable dip down in cohesiveness, it’s still a Scream…
The fries, the shake, and the meatball are back for another completely outrageous and randomly constructed adventure: complete with vulgar quips, eccentric sight gags, and ludicrously low stakes. This one attempts a slightly more streamlined narrative than the last film but that doesn’t keep it from firmly riding the edge of anything remotely accessible for people who aren’t already fans.
If you dug them already, you’ll dig this. If you didn’t, good luck.
My opinion won’t be popular (or likely shared), but I loved this movie. I had not read previous reviews going in, but I’d seen the ratings of critics I respect and friends I tend to agree with and they were all pretty dreary.
About halfway through the film, I was actively asking myself: “What’s wrong with me? I think I love this movie. Am I just stupid?” (That last question is still possibly true, by the way.)
But this was…
It’s not perfect. The characterization is truncated and the pacing is too frenetic at times. But it’s got more to offer than the initial consensus would lead you to believe.
I’m convinced that at least half of the negative criticism is due to people expecting 11 Cloverfield Lane.
