The latest entry in the Scary Movie franchise, simply titled Scary Movie, hits cinemas on 5 June, but it appears to be haunted by the spectre of its own past. While the film attempts to resurrect the spirit of the beloved spoof series, it often stumbles into unfocused humour and outdated tropes. With Marlon Wayans back in the fold alongside co-writer Shawn Wayans, the film tries to navigate the choppy waters of horror and comedy, but the results feel more like a tired retread than a fresh take.
A Spoof in Search of Relevance
The Scary Movie franchise has always thrived on its timing, both in terms of cultural relevance and the release calendar. The original film made waves in 2000, cleverly capitalising on the slasher trend ignited by Scream. Fast forward twenty-five years, and audiences are still keen on horror, as this summer’s box office has shown with hits like Backrooms and Obsession. Yet, the sixth instalment seems to have missed the pulse of current trends, opting instead to riff on the fifth and sixth Scream films from 2022 and 2023—an odd choice given that the horror landscape has evolved drastically since then.
Despite the absence of the behind-the-scenes turmoil that plagued earlier sequels, Scary Movie feels out of sync with contemporary tastes. The Wayans brothers return to helm the screenplay and star in significant roles, but their script often feels like a collage of tired references and recycled gags. With a storyline that introduces Sara and Tuesday—daughters of the original heroine Cindy Campbell (played by Anna Faris)—the film struggles to find its footing amidst the familiar framework of masked killers and slapstick antics.
Nostalgia vs. New Frontiers
At its core, Scary Movie aims to be a homage to the genre it parodies, but it often falls flat when trying to balance nostalgia with innovation. The film abandons the clever pastiche of earlier entries, opting instead to directly reference the Scream franchise’s infamous Ghostface. This shift might signal a desire to connect with viewers familiar with the source material, but it also undermines the creativity that once defined the series.
Interestingly, the film does boast some amusing moments, such as a cheeky nod to the Final Destination series and a self-aware joke about “elevated comedy” aimed at Judd Apatow. However, many of the jokes feel like they stretch for laughs rather than build on a coherent narrative. The Wayans’ attempt to poke fun at horror clichés sometimes leads them into the very traps they aim to critique. For instance, when the film glosses over potential references to cult hits like It Follows due to their obscurity, it showcases a reluctance to engage with the genre’s deeper nuances.
A Mixed Bag of Gags
The film’s execution is uneven, with some scenes landing well while others drag on without delivering the intended punch. Marlon Wayans shines as the goofy Shorty, maintaining a chaotic energy that somewhat revitalises the proceedings. Anna Faris and Regina Hall continue to bring their comedic chops, even amidst the film’s more uninspired moments. However, Shawn Wayans resorts to tired gay-panic jokes that feel out of place in today’s comedic landscape.
Despite its flaws, there is a certain charm in witnessing this ensemble reassemble for a blend of slapstick and horror references. Yet, as the film progresses, a noticeable bitterness emerges towards the younger generation, which shifts the tone from playful banter to a more hostile stance. The Wayans may view this as classic, no-holds-barred comedy, but it raises questions about their willingness to embrace the evolution of humour in a rapidly changing cultural landscape.
Why it Matters
In an era where comedy and horror are continually reinventing themselves, Scary Movie serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between nostalgia and innovation. While the film attempts to rekindle the spirit of its predecessors, it ultimately underscores the need for parody to adapt and evolve. The Wayans’ latest offering is a reflection of a franchise grappling with its legacy, and as such, it raises important discussions about the future of spoof films in a world where audiences are increasingly discerning. As we revisit the familiar tropes of yesteryears, it’s crucial to consider whether our comedic tastes have shifted, leaving some beloved franchises behind.
