Critics label ‘I Know What You Did Last Summer’ sequel as unnecessary and lacking vitality.

The recent release of a new installment in the iconic slasher franchise, “I Know What You Did Last Summer,” seems to have missed the mark with both critics and audiences alike. This sequel introduces a new generation of characters, featuring rising stars like Madelyn Cline from “Outer Banks” and Chase Sui Wonders from “Bodies Bodies Bodies.” Central to the film’s plot is a familiar trope—the cover-up of a tragic accident, which ultimately leads to the protagonists being pursued by a vengeful masked killer the following summer.

Fans of the original 1997 film will be pleased to see familiar faces returning, with Freddie Prinze Jr. and Jennifer Love Hewitt reprising their roles as Ray and Julie, respectively, alongside original cast members Sarah Michelle Gellar and Ryan Phillippe. However, many viewers have expressed disappointment regarding the sequel’s execution, stating that it lacks originality and the emotional resonance that characterized the original film.

As of Friday afternoon, the new iteration holds a disheartening 39% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, while the original film scored slightly higher at 46%. In terms of critical reception, the sequel has fared poorly on Metacritic as well, where it currently has a score of 44—indicating mixed to negative reviews from critics.

Some industry observers have harshly criticized the film. A review from Rolling Stone declared that the movie “barely earns the rights to a theatrical release,” likening it to a cash-grab that tarnishes the reputation of franchise revivals. The Detroit News described it as a “lifeless attempt to squeeze blood from a stone,” assigning the sequel a disappointing D+. The Boston Globe echoed this sentiment, awarding the film a mere 1.5-star rating while branding it an unnecessary reboot of a franchise that was never strong to begin with.

However, not all reviews have been negative. IndieWire referred to the film as a “lean, mean serial killer flick,” awarding it a B+, while Entertainment Weekly recognized its “clever” moments and praised Cline’s performance as a key factor in keeping the franchise alive.

“I Know What You Did Last Summer” is currently screening in theaters nationwide, but its critical reception may suggest a challenging road ahead for this horror series.