Sequel’S Sequel Is Good, Blood-Soaked Fun

Mon., Feb. 14, 2000

Dave Rinehart Ferris

“Scream 3” (Rated R)

A good horror film series is hard to find. In the case of the “Scream” trilogy, however, an innovative blend of shtick and scares has created a very successful franchise. The latest addition is “Scream 3.”

While not quite up to par with the original, “Scream 3” is a huge step up from the first sequel, and provides a solid clincher to the trilogy.

Picking up where “Scream 2” left off, a B-horror movie called “Stab” is being made based on the happenings depicted in “Scream.”

“Scream 3” revolves around the filming of the third installment, called “Stab 3: Return to Woodsboro.” Things start to get ugly in the Hollywood hills, however, when cast members begin getting whacked in the same order as those in the script.

These events prompt the return of “Scream” alumnae Neve Campbell and Courtney Cox-Arquette who, along with a large ensemble cast, attempt to catch the elusive killer behind the ghost-face mask.

The original “Scream” was refreshing because it hilariously spoofed the horror genre. Now, however, it is just another franchise, and the originality has all but faded away.

The trilogy has cornered itself, and “Scream 3” can only poke fun at its predecessors. But the fundamentals are retained: it is still hip, fun and scary. There are several hilarious cameos, a smarter, more interesting killer, and a very intense climax.

“Scream 3” is good, blood-soaked fun, and will not let down fans of the series.

Grade: B+

Local journalism is essential.

Give directly to The Spokesman-Review's Northwest Passages community forums series -- which helps to offset the costs of several reporter and editor positions at the newspaper -- by using the easy options below. Gifts processed in this system are tax deductible.

Meet Our Journalists

Jesse Tinsley

Meet Jesse Tinsley. As a certified drone pilot, this veteran Spokesman-Review photographer often can be seen capturing beautiful aerial photographs of our region. Sometimes though, the job requires getting down with the dogs.
Jim Meehan

Jim Meehan is no stranger to Zag Nation. As the lead writer covering the Gonzaga men’s basketball team, he tells the stories behind the game and gets fans a bit closer to their favorite players.
Molly Quinn

There is no artist in Spokane like Molly Quinn. Her whimsical style is instantly recognizable to readers of The Spokesman-Review. She has painted gorgeous illustrations that instantly elevate the journalism accompanying it. She brings to life the stories that defy photography. She makes our pages better.
Rob Curley

Spokesman-Review editor Rob Curley loves to talk with people and learn about their lives, whether it's a best-selling author or a stranger he meets downtown on his walk to lunch. It's that inquisitive nature combined with a playful sense of storytelling that helps make our newspaper different than most.