I Know What You Did Last Summer bombed with critics

The new film of the I Know What You Did Last Summer franchise premiered in theaters on July 16, 2025, in Southport, North Carolina, where the original 1997 movie was also set. This fourth installment follows a group of friends who attempt to cover up a fatal car accident, only for their past to resurface when a killer begins targeting them. Original stars Jennifer Love Hewitt and Freddie Prinze Jr. reprise their roles, yet early reviews indicate that the film does not succeed in establishing itself as either a memorable horror film or an effective legacy sequel. Critics have pointed out the film's reliance on nostalgic elements without delivering a compelling narrative. Despite the return of familiar characters and a connection to past events, the story fails to engage audiences meaningfully, evidenced by a predominately unfavorable rating from Rotten Tomatoes critics, who describe the film as lacking fresh ideas and relying heavily on fan service. The film introduces new characters, including Ava, who returns to Southport for her friends’ engagement party and becomes embroiled in the horror that ensues. Critics noted that the plot dilutes tension by introducing victims unrelated to the primary incident, diminishing the sense of danger for the main cast. With a series of predictable jump scares and little innovation, this legacy sequel has left many feeling underwhelmed. While some reviews have praised technical aspects of the film, the consensus leans heavily toward disappointment for not adding depth or excitement to the franchise. The reception from audiences has been mixed, with a 68% fresh score on Rotten Tomatoes' Popcornmeter reflecting a more favorable view from general viewers as opposed to critics. Despite the backlash, some positive opinions emerged, focusing on the film's connection to the fishing industry setting, but many critiques emphasized how it ultimately does not elevate the source material. This division in reception underlines discrepancies in expectations between critics and fans of the original film series. As the movie continues to screen across theaters nationwide, discussions around its impact on horror cinema and legacy sequels are likely to intensify. The overarching theme of the film—consequences of past actions—remains relevant. However, the execution has been found lacking, suggesting that filmmakers may need to rethink how they approach revivals of established stories in order to resonate with both longtime fans and new audiences. As the film rolls out more widely, its true impact on the box office and future iterations of the franchise will become clearer. Viewing habits and audience engagement with the horror genre may shift following reactions to this release, as it serves as a barometer for what contemporary viewers want from nostalgic properties.