While spinning through the usual suspects to watch on Netflix, my friend Cody and I stumbled upon this cult classic favorite. “I Know What You Did Last Summer” (1997) is a horror mystery film that I’ve heard so much about. It’s been on my must watch list for years but I just haven’t been seeking out the film to purposely watch it.
Well this seemed like the perfect opportunity. Even though Cody isn’t a fan of scary movies.
The storyline itself was rather interesting. I love 90s horror and the certain style it takes with the lighting and the scares. 90s horror just has this almost nostalgic ambience to it that just makes it enjoyable. From the start, I think the way they tried to connect a scary story about the man with a hook was a cool addition, but it didn’t seem like it was needed within the film. I believe they did this so the movie would have more longevity. Meaning, they could make more films if this was a huge success. And it obviously was.
To be honest, we mainly wanted to watch this film because it was made in the 90s and it had some recognizable talent starring in the movie.
Even though this wasn’t Jennifer Love Hewitt’s very first film, I do believe it was one of her first films where she played a main character — at least in the horror community. It was fun seeing a young Jennifer Love Hewitt playing a character but I wasn’t a huge fan of her acting in this film. I think she was a bit overdramatic (especially in the climax sequence of the film) and her screaming almost seemed fake. I thought it was too much but I think I understand what the filmmakers were trying to accomplish.
The other two key talent I enjoyed watching was Freddie Prince Jr. and Sarah Michelle Gellar. Sadly, they weren’t a couple as characters in the movie (which I think would have made this better) because let’s face it they are iconic as Fred and Daphne and adorable as a celebrity married couple. I was thoroughly impressed with both of their acting in this film. I actually think these two were the stars of the show.
The only downside to “I Know What You Did Last Summer” is the storyline was a bit confusing. Cody and I had to talk it out to understand the twist. Even afterwards, I had to go online to figure it out. I don’t think they put enough pieces in place to fully understand who was coming after them. Also there were parts of the film that did seem a bit cheesy, in some eyes, it could be considered good cheese. But it almost made parts laughable as well.
I also feel like the kills were done well, there wasn’t a ton of gore in certain scenes leaving the viewer to visualize what really happened to themselves which I think actually makes the film that much scarier.
Overall this 1997 horror mystery film is definitely a classic, and it’s a much watch for people who enjoy horror or even just a good mystery. “I Know What You Did Last Summer” was a memorable movie and I can’t wait to find and watch the sequel.
What were your thoughts on “I Know What You Did Last Summer,” do you think the acting was great and the stars filled their roles perfectly? Do you also enjoy the twist? Or did you think it was confusing as well?
Let me know your thoughts in the comments below!
Spooky Reviews 