The long-awaited reboot of the 1997 slasher film, “I Know What You Did Last Summer,” has hit the screens, bringing back the chilling atmosphere of the original while introducing a new generation to its horror. The film, which premiered in March 2024, follows a group of friends whose careless actions one summer night lead to dire consequences, echoing the premise of the original movie.
Set in a secluded coastal town, the narrative begins with a group of friends enjoying a carefree summer evening. However, their night takes a tragic turn when an accident results in a death. While good-natured Ava, portrayed by Chase Sui Wonders, believes in taking responsibility, her peers, including the self-absorbed Danica, played by Madelyn Cline, prefer to bury the incident and move on. The group, which also features Tyriq Withers as Teddy, Sarah Pidgeon as Stevie, and Jonah Hauer-King as Milo, collectively decide to forget the past, including Ava after some persuasion.
A year later, the friends gather for Danica’s wedding to newcomer Wyatt, played by Joshua Orpin. The atmosphere shifts when Danica receives an ominous note referencing the film’s title, reigniting fears from their past. As the story unfolds, a murder occurs, committed by an assailant reminiscent of the original film’s iconic fisherman killer. The tension escalates as the characters realize their dark past is catching up with them.
This reboot leans heavily on nostalgia, featuring appearances from Jennifer Love Hewitt and Freddie Prinze Jr., who played key roles in the original film. Their return adds a layer of familiarity, though their involvement is more than just a nostalgic nod; they contribute significantly to the unfolding drama. The film also introduces elements such as a true-crime podcaster, portrayed by Gabbriette Bechtel, who adds a modern twist to the suspense.
The narrative is punctuated by the local authorities, represented by Teddy’s father, played by Billy Campbell, who seeks to suppress the truth to maintain property values. The presence of a suspicious local pastor, played by Austin Nichols, raises further questions about who can be trusted in this web of deceit and murder.
Despite its familiar premise, the film struggles to elevate itself beyond the original’s legacy. Critics have noted that while it aims to recapture the thrill of the classic horror film, it often resorts to cliché plot devices and predictable twists. Some moments elicit laughter rather than fear, mainly due to the exaggerated portrayal of minor characters as potential suspects.
The film’s reliance on nostalgia, coupled with its lack of fresh creativity, may leave audiences feeling that it does not warrant a viewing, especially for those who are not fans of the original. While it attempts to engage a new audience, many may find that the experience is more about reliving past fears than discovering new horrors.
In summary, the reboot of “I Know What You Did Last Summer” delivers some thrills but ultimately relies too heavily on its predecessor’s shadow. For both newcomers and fans of the original, the film offers a blend of nostalgia and horror, albeit without the depth of storytelling that could have made it a standout in the genre.
