Fear Street: Prom Queen is the fourth entry in the Fear Street franchise on Netflix this weekend. Directed by Matt Palmer and written by Palmer & Donald McLeary, the film stars India Fowler, Suzanna Son, Fina Strazza, Chris Klein, David Iacono, Ella Rubin, Ariana Greenblatt, Lili Taylor, and Katherine Waterston. As students at Shadyside High are preparing for the 1988 prom, the “It Girls” are fighting to get support to be voted Prom Queen. As an unusual nominee emerges in the race, some of the other candidates begin to vanish without a trace.

It’s hard to believe it’s been four years since we first got the trilogy that was shot back-to-back. It really doesn’t feel like that long ago, but that’s what the pandemic will do to you in terms of time. This is a standalone story from what I aware of. I wouldn’t say that I am a fan, but I do appreciate how these stories don’t hold back from the intensity. Between that and the fact that the film’s popularity, I decided to check this out early. I personally believe this is going to be a big hit for the streamer that may be Netflix’s first big movie franchise.

When it comes to throwback horror to a certain time, I typically see them as nostalgic bait. Nothing more, nothing less. Sometimes they can get it right with movies like The Guest, but 40 years later, what more can a throwback to 80’s horror do? Apparently, with Prom Queen, quite a bit. When the film first starts, the 80’s tone is clearly established. There is cheesy voiceover and typical plot points, but as the film lingers on, you can see where director Matt Palmer is influenced by the decade, making the film stand out on its own that fans will appreciate.

The singular aspect that stands out here is the humor. So far, this year has been a solid year for horror comedy. The humor can be quite dark at times, which may not be for everyone. I think the reason why I enjoyed the humor so much is because it adds shock value and characterization. Teacher will abruptly drop the F-bomb in class like it’s normal. The way the characters interact to the killings can also be quite hysterical.

When I was watching this, I got Goosebumps vibes. As I am writing this, I am just now realizing these films are based on a series of books by the same writer, R.L. Stine. I knew these stories were based off a series of books, but I didn’t even think it was from R.L. Stine. I never got that vibe with the original trilogy. I think that speaks volumes at how this franchise could become the next big thing for Netflix. While this isn’t perfect, I still had a great time, and I think others will feel the same way for the most part.

The film boasts an impressive cast that help carry the film. Chris Klein & Katherine Waterston are both nice surprises that I was not expecting. They are having a great time here. India Fowler plays as the main character Lori Granger. You can see where this character has been influenced by other existing characters, but she still manages to make the character her own.

While the film can be fun and embrace the right tone with fresh humor, it can also be quite formulaic and predictable. The motives behinds the killings was a bit predictable. The structure even feels familiar. Where it does stand out a little more is with the use of having a dramatic side plot with Lori’s friend, Megan, played by Suzanna Son, who messed with everyone through violent pranks. She has to deal with the fallout of losing people around her due to how no one can take her serious. It also creates real friction when the actual killings start to occur. Typically movies like this will have random side plots that go nowhere. Here, it feels intentional to keep the film going.

The ending also feels predictable and rushed. Just when the film feels like it’s finished, I had a feeling it would keep going. Again, the motives make sense, but I can’t stand when the villain has to explain those motives to the protagonist. It takes me out every time. It’s literally the one thing I hate in movies that shouldn’t be in movies at this point. The conclusion is quick resolved, too. I would have liked to have seen more of the falling out with the events. It ends on a cool note, I suppose, but it still needed something more to give the characters closure.

Overall, Fear Street: Prom Queen is a solid entry in the Fear Street franchise even if its influences make it formulaic and predictable. It should go on to satisfy fans and in turn give Netflix its next big movie franchise. If Netflix makes more from here, I’m here for it.

VERDICT: 3/5 (Good)