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Scream Queens (VH1)

common sense media says

Actresses get sexy, scary for horror flick fame.

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What parents need to know

Parents need to know that this reality series -- in which aspiring actresses compete for a role in a horror movie -- has lots of screaming, fake blood, gory imagery, and acting exercises in which the women are required to act as serial killer victims (albeit ones who can fight back). They're expected to perform "sexy" parts, dress in skimpy outfits, and perform in simulated nude scenes. Some practice scenes include same-sex kissing. Also expect plenty of iffy language (the strongest words are bleeped) and some drinking.

Positive messages: The women work hard to demonstrate that they have what it takes to get the part. But there's also lots of catty behavior among the actresses in between challenges, and the scenes force many of them to act in very stereotypical ways. The majority of the contestants are Caucasian; two are Asian, and one is African-American (her race becomes a subject of discussion).
Violence: Lots of blood-curling screaming, fake blood, gory imagery, chain saws, knives, hooks, medical tools, and other items used to simulate victims' torture. The actresses must play characters who physically fight back against serial killers; this action is seen as empowering. But they must act like bloody, brutalized victims at the same time. There's also lots of yelling and arguing between the actresses; physical confrontations occasionally break out between them.
Sex: The actresses must demonstrate that they're sexy enough for the part and are often asked to perform scenes that include strong sexual innuendo. They're also often required to wear skin-revealing outfits and/or perform nude scenes (though actual nudity is blocked out). Females "making out" are featured in some practice scenes. Occasional references to specific sexual acts.
Language: Audible language includes words like "hell," "bitch," "pissed," and "ass." Stronger curse words (like "dick" and "f--k") are bleeped out.
Consumerism: The series is a promotional vehicle for the Saw movie franchise, as well as Lionsgate Entertainment and Twisted Pictures. Music from bands like Thriving Ivy is featured in each episode.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Occasional alcohol consumption (cocktails, champagne).
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More on Scream Queens

What to talk about

Talk to your kids
Families can talk about the appeal of horror films. What makes them entertaining to some people? Are horror films the same as slasher movies? If not, what's the difference? Families can also discuss the challenges of pursuing a professional acting career. Do you think winning a competition like this can actually help aspiring actresses break into the industry, or is it just a one-shot deal? What do you think the contestants motivations are to be on this show?

What's the story?

What's the story?
SCREAM QUEENS follows 10 aspiring actresses as they compete for a coveted role in Saw VI. Each week, they're trained and mentored by horror film director James Gunn, acting coach John Homa, and actress Shawnee Smith, whose role in the Saw franchise has made her scream royalty. After a series of exercises designed to teach the contestants a specific trick of the terror trade, each is screen tested to see if she's got the looks and talent for the part. Those who fail to impress risk being axed from the competition. Adding to the theatrics is the drama resulting from all the up-and-coming performers living together and trying to get along.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 
Scream Queens offers a behind-the-scenes look at what goes into creating horror films and highlights some of the production techniques used to create terrifying movie moments. It also highlights the contradictory traits that the ideal horror film actress has to portray -- from beauty and vulnerability to grittiness and a sense of empowerment -- to create the kinds of scenes that make these films cult classics.

But, like most other reality competitions, the pressure to outperform the other contestants in front of the judges leads to some catty arguing and other scary behavior. The show also has plenty of sexual innuendo, salty language, and violent imagery. It's not appropriate for tweens, but teens who can handle this sort of thing might get a kick out of watching what goes into making the ultimate horror flick.

TV themes & details

TV Details
TV Rating: TV-14
Network: VH1
Cast: John Gunn, John Homa, Shawnee Smith
Genre: Reality TV
Where to watch: VH1
This review was written by Melissa Camacho
 
 

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Most useful reviews by all members

MOVIE13
teen, 14 years old
13
 
GREAT SHOW
Scream Queens is an awsome show!!!!! In this show acrtresses must prove that they have the guts to become the next big star in SAW 3-D! But, to do that they have to go through an 8 week program to show what they have got as an actress in horror. They must show fear, sexy, silince, evil, terror, and much more to be the winner. Each week a girl gets aliminated and no one wants to be that girl. There is some vilonce in this TV show if you havent already guessed. There is some tense moments, some shouting, some fake dead bodies, some creepy bugs and magots, some skulls, some of every creepy thing alive. But in the show it is abuse that none of it is real and most of your attetion goes to the girls acting then the scary bugs and decorations.
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heymonday101
teen, 15 years old
13
 
Koolio
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