‘Scream 7’ Projected to Slash Box Office Records This Weekend
The box office is bracing for a scare as Paramount’s Scream 7 arrives in theaters this weekend, with projections estimating a debut of around $45 million.1 This potential opening could challenge the franchise’s current record of $44.4 million held by Scream VI, positioning the 30-year-old series for one of its strongest starts yet.2
A Latest Chapter for Sidney Prescott
Scream 7 centers on Sidney Prescott (Neve Campbell) as she navigates life in a quiet town, only to find her darkest fears realized when a new Ghostface emerges and targets her daughter (Isabel May).1 The film features a cast including Courteney Cox, Jasmin Savoy Brown, Mason Gooding, Anna Camp, Joel McHale, Mckenna Grace, Michelle Randolph, Jimmy Tatro, Asa Germann, Celeste O’Connor, Sam Rechner, Ethan Embry and Mark Consuelos.1
Critical Reception and Fan Division
The sequel has arrived with mixed reactions. While horror films often provide a late-winter box office boost, Scream 7 currently holds a 42% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a score of 36 on Metacritic.4 Some critics view it as a return to the franchise’s roots, while others suggest the series may be losing its edge. The creative decision to sideline characters from the previous two films, following the departures of Melissa Barrera and Jenna Ortega, has also sparked debate among fans.4
Weekend Box Office Projections
Behind Scream 7, GOAT is expected to take second place with approximately $12 million, continuing to offer family-friendly entertainment.4 Wuthering Heights is projected to follow in third with around $6 million as its Valentine’s Day momentum wanes.4
Rounding out the top five are I Can Only Imagine 2, pacing for about $3.5 million, and Crime 101, close behind at just over $3 million.4 Disney’s Send Help is projected around $2 million, potentially falling just outside the top five.
Wildcards and Limited Releases
Baz Luhrmann’s EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert expands nationwide after a successful IMAX debut and could challenge the lower end of the chart if its nostalgic appeal continues.4 Also opening in limited release are Dreams starring Jessica Chastain, Undercard featuring Wanda Sykes, and The Napa Boys, all targeting specialty audiences.4
New Releases Details
- Scream 7 (Paramount Pictures) – Directed by Kevin Williamson, rated R, running time 1 hour 54 minutes.1
- EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert (Neon) – Directed by Baz Luhrmann, rated PG-13, running time 1 hour 36 minutes.
- Dreams (Greenwich Entertainment) – Directed by Michel Franco, rated R, running time 1 hour 38 minutes.
- The Napa Boys (Magnolia Pictures) – Directed by Nick Corirossi, running time 1 hour 32 minutes.
- Undercard (Seismic Releasing) – Directed by Tamika Miller, rated R, running time 1 hour 46 minutes.