Overview
- The film earned $7.8 million in Thursday previews, a franchise best that surpassed the $5.7 million preview haul for 2023’s Scream VI.
- Industry forecasts updated through Saturday estimate a roughly $59–$60 million domestic debut, which would top the series’ $44.4 million opening record set by Scream VI.
- The release has been met by organized protests tied to Melissa Barrera’s 2023 dismissal and coordinated spoiler drops on social media, but tracking indicates strong audience interest.
- Critics’ scores are notably weaker than the last installment, yet presales have been robust, including a franchise record for first-day tickets on Fandango and high intent-to-see metrics.
- After exits by cast and the initial director, Kevin Williamson stepped in to direct and co-write as Neve Campbell returned to lead, with the production budget rising to about $45 million.