Anna Faris has revealed how two of Hollywood's biggest horror stars reacted to being spoofed in the cult hit Scary Movie. The actress, now 49, shared the surprising and heartwarming responses from Neve Campbell and Jennifer Love Hewitt ahead of the release of the long-awaited new instalment of the franchise.
Unexpected Kindness from Jennifer Love Hewitt
Jennifer Love Hewitt, who skyrocketed to fame after starring in I Know What You Did Last Summer, sent Faris a bouquet of flowers right after the first Scary Movie was released in 2000. "Jennifer Love Hewitt sent me flowers, which was so kind," Faris told news.com.au. The gesture was particularly surprising given that the film spoofed Hewitt's iconic role. However, the goodwill apparently did not extend to the film's creators, with Marlon Wayans jokingly adding, "She didn't send me any!"
Neve Campbell's Friendly Rivalry
Neve Campbell, known for her role in the Scream franchise, also took the spoof in good humour. Faris recalled running into Campbell at an audition after the film's release. "She wasn't mad, but she was like, 'I'm going to get this damn audition!'" Faris said. Despite Campbell's competitive spirit, Faris noted that she was lovely, though Faris did not land the role. "I think the key to Scary Movie, or at least one of our strengths, is that it's so ridiculous that you can't be offended," Faris added.
The Return of the Wayans Brothers
The new Scary Movie marks a major comeback for the billion-dollar franchise, 13 years after its universally-panned fifth instalment. Written and produced by the Wayans brothers, their nephew Craig, and Rick Alvarez, and directed by Michael Tiddes, the film sees the return of original stars Anna Faris and Regina Hall, along with Marlon, Shawn, and Keenan Wayans. The Wayans were cut out of the franchise after Scary Movie 2 in 2001 by then-Hollywood moguls Harvey and Bob Weinstein, making this reunion particularly significant.
A Spoof of Modern Horror
The new film spoofs recent popular horror films including Get Out, Sinners, The Substance, and countless others. The Wayans have long been known for their risky comedy, and the official tagline makes their intentions clear: "Nothing is sacred. No trope survives. Every line gets crossed. The Wayans are back to cancel the Cancel Culture."
Stars Eager to Be Spoofed
According to Marlon Wayans, once word spread that a new Scary Movie was in the works, showbiz peers inundated them with requests to be the butt of jokes. "Everybody," Marlon responded when asked who had reached out. One big-time horror director, whose franchise was spoofed, was thrilled. "He was giddy, he was like, 'Yes! I made it!'" Marlon revealed, noting that the director was happier about being spoofed than about his billion-dollar box office success.
Faris's Return to the Franchise
Faris, who stepped away from the franchise in 2006, knew it was a no-brainer when the Wayans got in touch about the new movie. "I always thought that if I ever returned to Scary Movie, I'd feel a little bad about it, I'd be a cameo – it wouldn't be with these guys," she explained. But after Marlon called her last February, she signed on. "It's been such a dream, and people are so excited about it."
Faris also reflected on the enduring impact of the original film. "People say, 'I remember where I was in 2000 with my family in that theatre, just laughing.' What a gift that is." She added that returning to the franchise now, with more experience, has been a joy. Marlon Wayans praised her, saying, "You've always been great."
Scary Movie is in Australian cinemas from this Thursday, June 4.
