Exciting Developments in the Sequel to ‘I Know What You Did Last Summer’

There’s thrilling news for horror enthusiasts as Columbia Pictures unveils additional details regarding the highly anticipated sequel to the 1997 slasher classic, I Know What You Did Last Summer.

During a recent presentation at CinemaCon held at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, Sony revealed the first look at the new horror installment directed by Jennifer Kaytin Robinson. The crowd erupted in applause when original cast members Jennifer Love Hewitt and Freddie Prinze Jr. were spotlighted on the screen, marking a nostalgic moment for fans.

Premise and Plot Insights

Set to hit theaters on July 18, the sequel continues a gripping narrative that unfolds after five friends are involved in a tragic car accident. In a desperate attempt to conceal their actions, they make a pact to keep their secret buried. However, their plan spirals into horror as they are stalked one by one by a mysterious killer. As the body count rises, the group seeks out two survivors from the notorious 1997 Southport Massacre for guidance.

Returning Stars and New Faces

The return of Hewitt and Prinze Jr. as Julie James and Ray Bronson adds a compelling layer to the film. Joining them in this chilling narrative are new cast members Madelyn Cline, Chase Sui Wonders, Jonah Hauer-King, Tyriq Withers, Sarah Pidgeon, Billy Campbell, Gabbriette Bechtel, Austin Nichols, Lola Tung, and Nicholas Alexander Chavez.

First Look and Audience Reactions

The initial footage featured Cline’s character in a serene bath, unaware that downstairs her boyfriend is being attacked by the killer brandishing the famous hook. A tense moment arises as she questions the potential repercussions of their actions: “Do you think this is some kind of messed up karma for what we did … or did someone see what happened?” The suspense escalates when Bronson warns the town at a hall meeting, hinting at a dark past with violent incidents in Southport.

When Hewitt reappears on screen, the excitement was palpable, particularly when she delivers the iconic line, “I just have one question, what did you do last summer?” This moment resonated deeply with the audience, underscoring the film’s blend of nostalgia and horror.

Behind the Scenes

This new installment is crafted from a screenplay by Leah McKendrick, co-written by Robinson and journalist Sam Lansky, with Robinson and McKendrick credited for the story. Neal H. Moritz serves as the producer, supported by executive producers including Robinson, Jackie Shenoo, and Karina Rahardja.

CinemaCon Overview

The annual CinemaCon event gathers cinema owners and Hollywood studios and is hosted in Las Vegas by the recently renamed Cinema United, formerly known as the National Association of Theatre Owners. This year, the convention runs from March 31 to April 3, offering an array of insights and previews from the film industry.

For more in-depth information, visit the Hollywood Reporter.