Scream Movies in Order: Ultimate Guide to Ghostface’s Timeline (1996-2026)

The chilling Ghostface mask has haunted audiences for nearly 30 years, sparking a cultural phenomenon that redefined horror. With Scream 7 confirmed for 2026, new fans are racing to binge the iconic franchise—but diving in requires navigating twists, legacy characters, and a legacy of meta-commentary. Here’s the definitive viewing order to survive Ghostface’s reign.

How Many Scream Movies Exist?

Six films currently comprise the saga, with Scream 7 arriving in 2026. Launched in 1996 by Wes Craven, the series blends slasher thrills with self-aware satire, grossing over $900 million globally (Box Office Mojo, 2023). Each installment builds on Sidney Prescott’s (Neve Campbell) battle against copycat killers obsessed with the fictional Stab film series.

Scream Movies in Release Order

Watching chronologically aligns with the timeline. Start here:

1. Scream (1996)
   • Director: Wes Craven
   • Cast: Neve Campbell, Courteney Cox, David Arquette
   • Woodsboro teen Sidney Prescott faces Ghostface’s first rampage, revealing horror’s “rules” and a killer linked to her mother’s death.
2. Scream 2 (1997)
   • Sidney enters college, but a new Ghostface emerges, inspired by the Stab movie adaptation. Themes of media exploitation take center stage.
3. Scream 3 (2000)
   • The trilogy climaxes on a Hollywood set. Ghostface targets Sidney again, unveiling a family secret that reshapes her identity.
4. Scream 4 (2011)
   • Sidney returns to Woodsboro as a survivor memoirist. A Gen-Z killer uses social media to reignite terror, critiquing reboot culture.
5. Scream (2022)
   • Directors: Matt Bettinelli-Olpin & Tyler Gillett
   • 25 years later, Sidney’s legacy haunts new targets—Sam Carpenter (Melissa Barrera) and Tara (Jenna Ortega)—linked to original killers.
6. Scream VI (2023)
   • Ghostface stalks Sam and Tara in New York, wielding relics from past murders. The “Core Four” face a cult-like fanbase.
7. Scream 7 (2026)
   • Status: Filming delayed (per Variety, June 2024). Plot details remain secret, but legacy characters may return.

Chronological Order: Why Release = Timeline

Unlike franchises with prequels or flashbacks, Scream’s story unfolds linearly. Release order is chronological:

• Scream (1996) → Scream 2 (1997) → Scream 3 (2000) → Scream 4 (2011) → Scream (2022) → Scream VI (2023) → Scream 7 (2026).

Skipping entries risks confusion—each killer’s motive ties to prior events. For example, Scream VI’s shrine of Ghostface artifacts (masks, weapons) references every previous attack.

Pro Tip: The 2022 reboot (Scream 5) revitalizes the saga for modern audiences while honoring Craven’s legacy. Start here if older visuals deter you, then circle back to 1996.

The Ghostface saga remains terrifyingly relevant because it weaponizes our obsession with true crime and fandom. Whether you marathon chronologically or prioritize new entries, each film dissects horror tropes while delivering razor-sharp suspense. Before Scream 7 drops, stream all six films on Paramount+—and remember: never say “I’ll be right back.”

Must Know

Q: Do I need to watch all Scream movies before Scream 7?
A: Yes. Scream 7 will likely continue plot threads from Scream VI, including Sam Carpenter’s arc and unresolved mysteries like Stu Macher’s rumored survival. Skipping films dilutes emotional stakes.

Q: Why isn’t Scream 3 on streaming platforms?
A: Music licensing issues temporarily pulled Scream 3 from some services (per The Wrap, 2023). It’s currently available on Paramount+ and Max.

Q: Are the new Scream movies reboots or sequels?
A: Both. The 2022 Scream and Scream VI are sequels set in the original timeline but focus on new characters like the Carpenter sisters, blending legacy and fresh blood.

Q: Will Neve Campbell return for Scream 7?
A: Campbell exited over pay disputes (Deadline, 2022) but negotiations reopened in 2024. Spyglass Media confirms Sidney’s return is “a priority” (Collider, May 2024).

Q: What’s the best order for first-time viewers?
A: Release order. Scream 4’s critique of “requels” (reboot-sequels) hits harder after seeing the originals, and Scream VI’s callbacks land meaningfully with context.