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Scream 7’ Opens to Polarized Reviews as Pro‑Palestine Protesters Target Premiere

The nostalgia‑steered sequel pivots to Neve Campbell under Kevin Williamson after Melissa Barrera’s firing reshaped the film’s direction.

Overview

  • Scream 7 begins its theatrical run on Feb. 27 with early critical reactions sharply split between praise for throwback slasher thrills and criticism of an uninspired, derivative approach.
  • Pro‑Palestine activists demonstrated outside the Los Angeles premiere at Paramount Pictures Studios, urging a boycott in support of Melissa Barrera following her 2023 removal from the franchise.
  • Following Barrera’s dismissal, Jenna Ortega and director Christopher Landon exited, and original Scream writer Kevin Williamson took over directing as Neve Campbell returned to lead the cast.
  • Several outlets report leaked footage circulating online that allegedly uses AI/deepfake imagery to reference legacy characters, a development feeding pre‑release discourse.
  • Reviews note standout moments and performances alongside complaints that the film leans heavily on nostalgia and scales back the series’ trademark meta commentary.