I Know What You Did Last Summer

Synopsis: When five friends inadvertently cause a deadly car accident, they cover up their involvement and make a pact to keep it a secret rather than face the consequences. One year later, the past comes back to haunt them as they learn someone knows what they did last summer. Stalked by a mysterious killer, they soon seek help from two survivors of the legendary Southport massacre of 1997.

Movie Review: 

"I Know What You Did Last Summer," directed by Jennifer Kaytin Robinson, is the third installment in this horror slasher franchise. As a legacy sequel, it attempts to introduce fresh elements while maintaining a classic whodunit mystery. However, it often stumbles under the weight of unnecessary fan service and forced nostalgia, ultimately feeling like a generic slasher that falls flat.

On a positive note, I found most of the new young characters to be quite likable, which made me genuinely care about their fates. Chase Sui Wonders shines as Ava Brucks, a young woman pursued by a hook-wielding killer. Her charming personality, quick wit, and intelligence make her a standout final girl, and she was easily my favorite character in the film.

Madelyn Cline also delivers a memorable performance as Danica Richards, Ava's best friend. While she embodies the classic "dumb blonde" trope, she brings some of the film's funniest lines and moments, providing plenty of laughs. The chemistry between Ava and Danica is fantastic, making their friendship feel authentic and long-standing.

The other young characters—Milo (Jonah Hauer-King), Teddy (Tyriq Withers), and Stevie (Sarah Pidgeon)—offer decent performances, but their roles are mostly forgettable. They come off as silly and disposable, primarily existing to be picked off by the killer.

The film does feature some impressive kills and gore reminiscent of the classic '97 original. Jennifer Love Hewitt returns as Julie James, delivering a solid performance, but her role feels more like a nod to nostalgia than a substantial contribution to the story. Freddie Prinze Jr. also reprises his role as Ray, and his portrayal of an older, wiser character grappling with PTSD adds depth and makes him more compelling.

However, my biggest issue with the movie was the reveal of the killer's identity, which felt silly and ridiculous, ultimately detracting from the overall experience. As someone who doesn't have nostalgia for this franchise 

compelling character. My biggest issue with this movie was the reveal about who the killer was felt silly and ridiculous that killed the movie for me. As some one who doesn’t have nostalgia for this franchise I initially thought this was just another forgettable slasher film, an unnecessary sequel that didn’t really bring anything new to the table. Honestly, it was pretty underwhelming. I’m giving “I Know What You Did Last Summer” a 2.5 out of 5 stars.

Director: Jennifer Kaytin Robinson 

Cast: Madelyn Cline, Chase Sui Wanders, Jonah Hauer-King, Tyrig Withers, Sarah Pidgeon, Gabbriette, Austin Nichols, Joshua Orpin, Billy Cambell, Sarah Michelle Gellar with Jennifer Love Hewitt and Freddie Prince Jr. 

Runtime: 111 Minutes