The horror franchise “Scream” has a long history of character deaths. While many supporting characters have faced grim fates, the main protagonists often escape. This changed in the latest installment, “Scream 5,” where a significant character, Dewey Riley, meets a tragic end.
Major Character Death in ‘Scream 5’
Dewey Riley, portrayed by David Arquette, was killed in “Scream 5,” released on January 14, 2022. This decision sparked controversy among fans, many of whom believed Dewey should have survived. Dewey’s death marked a departure from the franchise’s pattern of allowing key characters like Sidney Prescott, Gale Weathers, and Dewey himself to endure multiple assaults from Ghostface.
The Decision to Kill Off Dewey
Directors Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett faced pressure from the studio after the controversial script choice. Spyglass, the production company, requested an alternative scene showing Dewey recovering. The directors, however, felt it was crucial to maintain the narrative’s emotional weight and filmed a scene that was intentionally unconvincing. Tyler Gillett mentioned, “We very begrudgingly got one shot that you could put some voiceover over…” to emphasize their discontent with the request.
Dewey’s Role in ‘Scream 5’
In “Scream 5,” Dewey is portrayed as a retired sheriff living alone in Woodsboro. His character grapples with the trauma of previous Ghostface encounters. As a new killer emerges, he reaches out to both Sidney and Gale for support, evoking the emotional stakes that drive his character.
- Character: Dewey Riley
- Portrayed by: David Arquette
- Film Release Date: January 14, 2022
- Directors: Matt Bettinelli-Olpin, Tyler Gillett
- Runtime: 114 minutes
The Impact of Dewey’s Death
The death of Dewey serves as a significant plot twist, compelling Sidney to return to Woodsboro. Executive producer Chad Villella stated that Dewey’s demise was essential to create a believable scenario that would bring a beloved character back into the fold. This choice challenged the typical conventions of the horror genre, where notable characters often survive unscathed.
The “Scream” franchise has often been criticized for a lack of real consequences. With Dewey dead, the emotional stakes rise dramatically. As villainous threats become more palpable, the franchise reestablishes its horror roots by allowing important characters to face lethal outcomes.
Conclusion
With “Scream 5,” the franchise took a bold step by eliminating Dewey, marking a significant shift in character dynamics and narrative direction. This choice resonates with audiences as a reminder that the horror genre must retain its edge, ensuring that the stakes remain high and unpredictable.
“Scream 5” is currently available for streaming on Paramount+ in the U.S., inviting fans to explore the chilling saga anew.
