Legacy sequels are still thriving in the slasher genre, with recent entries from “Halloween,” “Scream” and “Texas Chainsaw Massacre.” Now, “I Know What You Did Last Summer” can be added to that list.
Not every horror franchise needs a revival, but in this case, it actually helps.
The Fisherman Returns in Terrifying Form
Unlike other horror icons like Michael Myers, Ghostface or Leatherface, The Fisherman never held quite the same weight. And the original trilogy never reached classic status. That’s why this new version works so well – it doesn’t come with impossible expectations.
The film embraces what worked before and dials everything up. The score builds suspense whenever the killer appears, and the varied use of weapons gives the attacks an extra edge. The villain is truly frightening in a way the earlier versions never managed.
This movie also takes chances. While some choices might frustrate longtime fans, they give the film a sense of unpredictability. There’s real tension, and the pacing never drags across the 111-minute runtime. The movie wastes no time, jumping into its story and rarely slowing down. Even when leaning into genre tropes, it manages to surprise.
Fresh Blood, Familiar Faces
The film brings back Jennifer Love Hewitt and Freddie Prinze Jr., but the focus shifts to a new group of characters. Chase Sui Wonders leads the younger cast with a grounded, emotionally layered performance. Madelyn Cline plays things lighter, adding comic relief that occasionally works. Rounding out the group are Tyriq Withers, Sarah Pidgeon and Jonah Hauer-King.
These Gen Z characters come with plenty of sarcastic quips – sometimes too many. The constant stream of jokes makes it hard to take the horror seriously. That lack of realism takes away from some otherwise strong moments.
A Messy Finish, But a Sharp Revival
The film stumbles in its ending, seeming unsure of where to conclude. After what feels like a natural stopping point (or several of them), it keeps going. This doesn’t ruin the flick, but it does lessen its momentum.
“I Know What You Did Last Summer” is a welcome return for a franchise that never fully lived up to its potential. It’s bloodier, riskier and far more polished than its predecessors. Even if it might alienate some longtime fans, it feels like a slasher made for a new audience.
Rating: 3.5 out of 5
