Redefining the Slasher Genre
Day 9 we explored our dark and light selves in the psychological horror interpretations of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde with Jekyll’s Elixir, Hyde’s Chaos. Today, Day 10 of 31 Days of Horror Movie Challenge: ‘90s Summer Screams, immerses us in the quintessential ’90s horror experience, with two competitive and comparative films at the time, Scream (1996) and I Know What You Did Last Summer (1997). Directed by Wes Craven, Scream redefined the slasher genre, injecting it with self-awareness and a postmodern twist. I Know What You Did Last Summer, released in the aftermath of Scream, capitalized on the revitalized interest in slashers, contributing to the era’s surge in teen-oriented horror.
Contrasting Horrors
Scream set itself apart by deconstructing traditional horror, introducing meta-horror elements, and creating return characters, notably Sidney Prescott. Its impact on the horror genre is immeasurable, inspiring a franchise that continues to thrive today. In contrast, I Know What You Did Last Summer played a role in the post-Scream slasher. As we explore Day 10 of 31 Days of Horror Movie Challenge: ‘90s Summer Screams, the influence of Scream reverberates through the decades, proving that its unique blend of horror, wit, and self-awareness remains a masterful formula for attracting audiences.