I Know What You Did Last Summer (2025)
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ (out of 5 stars)
When horror fans see the title I Know What You Did Last Summer, memories swing into their minds, taking them back to the 90s horror/slasher films. From Scream to Halloween, as well as other classic franchises like Friday the 13th, titles that bring chills, grimaces, and jump scares back with a vengeance. The original film was released in 1997 and featured up-and-coming stars whose names are now recognisable to multiple generations: Jennifer Love Hewitt, Sarah Michelle Gellar, and Freddie Prinze Jr.
Initially, upon hearing of the reboot of this franchise, there was an assumption that it would be a modern retelling with a brand-new cast of young actors. However, a pleasant surprise was in store as things unfolded on screen. This new adventure is a continuation of the original movie, set in the exact same location, with some of the original cast members making an appearance and playing an integral part in this new story. Trailer contains disturbing images
To put fans at ease, the overall plot remains the same as in the original: a group of friends finds itself witness to a tragic accident on the 4th of July Holiday Weekend in the seaside town of Southport, North Carolina. Instead of owning up to the authorities about what has happened, they make a pact to keep the secret among themselves. A year later, they are reunited, but their relationship dynamic has undergone a change. They have resorted to the vices of alcohol and illicit sexual affairs to try to deal with their doubts and anxiety over what took place the previous year.
When an ominous card materialises with the message, "I know what you did last summer," a race begins to uncover who else knows of their secret. A search evolves into a test of survival when an assailant dressed in the same fisherman's outfit as the 1997 killer and armed with a hook starts a murder spree. The target involves friends and associates of the group of five, as well as targeting the group itself. As the body count begins to grow and the audience is left to wonder who will be the next victim, as well as try to work out the identity of the killer.
Despite the predictable nature and slasher heritage, this instalment in the series delivers the essential requirements: a bit of suspense, gruesome deaths, a growing body count, and the inevitable twist that involves the killer's identity. With a healthy dose of nostalgia and well-timed comedic elements added to lighten the overall tone, this film will satisfy fans of the genre. To involve portions of the original cast, but this element may not be appreciated by a whole generation of audiences who may be introduced to this franchise for the first time. The cameos may not be appreciated, but should inspire the audience to revisit the original horrific visit to Southport.
The 2025 adaptation of I Know What You Did Last Summer will provide devotees to the franchise with the satisfaction of the original, along with fresh inclusions for this generation to enjoy. For those who find themselves in the cinema, be sure not to be scared out of your seats before the post-credit scene, which promises more for the future.
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REEL DIALOGUE – Retribution and Mercy
The title and overarching theme of this franchise will hit viewers in the face as the killer looks to punish those responsible for causing them grief and loss. As a parallel to the actions of the story's nemesis, the group of friends feel self-loathing, guilt, and struggle to carry on as if nothing happened – they know they did something terrible and need to atone for it. These are experiences that all of humanity endures throughout their lives without needing to be chased by a serial killer.
Interestingly, within the pages of the Bible, we can read about how God is a righteous God who must punish sin and evildoers, and no one can escape this judgment. Yet, God in His mercy has provided a way out – His son Jesus Christ came into the world to live a perfect life and then give it up in exchange for ours. Woven into the biblical narrative is the assurance that we can place our faith and trust in Jesus. Regardless of what we have done in our past, He has dealt with our sins and failings through His death on the cross. An action that enables us to reestablish a relationship with Him.
