Scary Movie 6 hit theaters this week, ending a thirteen‑year gap for the parody series. while longtime fans gave it a 71% audience rating on Rotten Tomatoes, professional reviewers assigned a dismal 27% based on 86 critiques, creating a stark divide.

71% audience approval versus 27% critic rating on Rotten Tomatoes

General moviegoers praised the film’s “hysterical” moments and lauded the Wayans brothers for pushing comedic boundaries, according to the audience score posted on Rotten Tomatoes. In contrast, critics slammed the sequel, with the aggregate 27% rating reflecting a consensus that the jokes fell flat and, in some cases, crossed a line into offensiveness.

Regina Hall and Anna Faris reprise roles after 13‑year hiatus

The return of Regina Hall and Anna Faris anchors the new installment, marking the first time the original leads have shared screen time since the franchise’s 2013 finale. Their involvement, coupled with the Wayans family’s dual role as writers, directors, and on‑screen talent, was billed as a “spiritual sequel” that would recaptture the early films’ irreverent spirit.

Critics’ 27% score derived from 86 reviews highlights industry backlash

Professional reviewers, as reported by Rotten Tomatoes, compiled 86 critiques that collectively condemned the movie as “offensive” and “laugh‑free.” Some critics even noted that the film was “better than the notoriously panned Scream 7,” a backhanded compliment that undderscores their disappointment.

Why did critics find the film offensive?

Several reviewers singled out specific jokes that targeted marginalized groups, suggesting the humor relied on outdated stereotypes rather than the clever satire that defined earlier entries. The lack of fresh parody targets also left critics feeling the franchise was recycling old formulas, a point that remains unaddressed by the filmmakers.

Open question: Can the franchise adapt to modern comedic sensibilities?

While audience scores indicate a loyal fan base, the critical backlash raises doubts about the series’ abiility to evolve. The Wayans family has not yet clarified whether future installments will adjust their approach to align with today’s more nuanced comedic expectations.