Marley Shelton first played Judy Hicks over a decade ago in Scream 4, and now she’s back reprising the role in the latest installment, Scream. The new horror movie, which has earned very positive reviews ahead of its release, combines multiple generations of characters to stop the latest Ghostface threat. Shelton is one of a few familiar faces coming back for more thrills, along with the likes of David Arquette, Neve Campbell, and Courteney Cox. Among the newcomers is Dylan Minnette, who plays Judy’s son, Wes.
The two actors spoke to Screen Rant about their experience making Scream, their favorite franchise moments, and more.
Screen Rant: Marley, I want to start with you because Scream 4 is at the top for me, and I was so thrilled to see you come back and have Scream 4 be recognized. How did you react when you found out they were making a new Scream and that they wanted Sheriff Judy Hicks back in the mix?
Marley Shelton: Exactly. Keyword, Sheriff. I was thrilled. I couldn’t believe it. I got this call out of the blue that they were relaunching the franchise and that Judy Hicks was coming back, and I was over the moon. I loved playing Judy in Scream 4 and, as you just pointed out, she’s had some nice evolutions since we’ve last seen her. She’s gone from deputy to Sheriff. She has a 16-year-old son. Yeah, the Scream franchise is a blast and it’s really, really great to be a part of it.
Dylan, we get to meet you as Judy’s son, Wes, and I have to imagine that the naming was intentional as a tribute to the late, great Wes Craven. Is that the case? What discussions did you have with the filmmakers about that?
Dylan Minnette: It’s definitely is the case. But regrettably, it took me a moment to realize it. I obviously am completely aware of Wes Craven, his legacy, and what he’s done with Scream. And I knew that my character name was Wes, but it did not compute with me until someone pointed it out randomly to me, they’re like, “Yeah, cause Wes is named after Wes Craven!” I was like, “Oh, my God, of course.” I didn’t realize. I mean, it’s of course an honor. It’s a subtle nod. But, if it has to do with me, then I’m all for it. It’s really great. I’m proud.
If it makes you feel better, it took me a minute too, in the movie. And I was like, “Oh, wait!”
Dylan Minnette: Yes, Exactly! Okay.
Marley Shelton: That’s the great thing, though, about this movie, is that there are so many cool easter eggs and references. I want to see it multiple times, just to pick up all the hidden treasure and think, “Oh, wait a minute! That’s from that!” It’s pretty cool.
There are really subtle ones like last names, little names that are mentioned and you’re like, “wait a minute!”
This is such a wonderful franchise and everyone has a different Scream ranking of ones that they love the most. Do you have a favorite Scream line or moment across the entire franchise?
Marley Shelton: I think the line for me, I’m not gonna do the voice but, “Hello, Sidney.”
Dylan Minnette: I feel like some of my favorite lines of the franchise are honestly from this one, the new Scream, but I can’t say them. But my favorite Scream movie? The original. It’s my favorite horror film of all time. We’ve been talking about that opening scene with Drew Barrymore. I mean, that set the tone for everything and helped jumpstart this franchise into what it was with an incredible opening sequence. That’s got to be up there for my favorite moment.
Marley Shelton: And nobody knew she was doing a cameo. That was the other thing. It was a complete surprise.
Dylan Minnette: Was it really?
Marley Shelton: Yeah!
