If you want to watch the Scream movies in order, the process is relatively straightforward because the franchise follows a mostly linear storyline. The Scream series is one of the most influential slasher franchises in horror history and is famous for its meta-horror style and unexpected killers.
The films revolve around a masked killer known as Ghostface who targets victims through a deadly game involving horror movie trivia and psychological manipulation. The story primarily follows Sidney Prescott, along with other survivors who repeatedly become targets of new Ghostface killers.
This guide explains the correct way to watch the Scream movies in order, including chronological order and release order so you can follow the entire storyline of the Ghostface murders.

Scream Movies in Order – Table of Contents
- Scream Movies in Chronological Order
- Scream Movies in Release Order
- Scream Movies Checklist (Printable)
- FAQ
Scream Movies in Chronological Order
- Scream (1996)
- Scream 2 (1997)
- Scream 3 (2000)
- Scream 4 (2011)
- Scream (2022)
- Scream VI (2023)
The Scream franchise follows a mostly chronological timeline centered around the recurring Ghostface killings. While each movie introduces new characters and killers behind the mask, the central storyline revolves around the survivors of previous attacks.
The original trilogy focuses primarily on Sidney Prescott and her traumatic connection to the murders. Later entries expand the story by introducing new generations of characters while still maintaining links to the original events.
Scream Movies in Release Order
- Scream (1996)
- Scream 2 (1997)
- Scream 3 (2000)
- Scream 4 (2011)
- Scream (2022)
- Scream VI (2023)
The best way to watch the Scream movies in order is usually by release date. This allows viewers to experience the evolving meta-horror commentary that made the series famous.
Scream Movies Checklist (Printable)
- Scream (1996)
- Scream 2 (1997)
- Scream 3 (2000)
- Scream 4 (2011)
- Scream (2022)
- Scream VI (2023)
Download Scream Movies Checklist (PDF)
FAQ
How many Scream movies are there?
There are six Scream movies released between 1996 and 2023.
Do the Scream movies follow a continuous story?
Yes, the Scream movies share a connected storyline involving recurring characters and the ongoing legacy of the Ghostface killers.
Is Scream (2022) a reboot?
Scream (2022) acts as both a sequel and a soft reboot, introducing new characters while continuing the story of the original survivors.
Why is the Scream franchise so popular?
The franchise became famous for combining classic slasher horror with self-aware humor and commentary about horror movie tropes.
Final Thoughts
The Scream movies in order showcase one of the most iconic slasher franchises ever created. With its mix of suspense, mystery, and dark humor, the series has remained relevant for nearly three decades.
Watching the films in order allows viewers to follow the evolution of the Ghostface legend and understand how each new killer fits into the larger storyline.
For more details about the series, you can visit the Scream film series overview.