Every I Know What You Did Last Summer Movie & TV Show Ranked

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In 1973, Lois Duncan penned her Young Adult thriller novel “I Know What You Did Last Summer“, which unfolds the tale of four high school companions who unintentionally run over and kill a young bicyclist following a fateful night of drinking at a party. They hastily conceal the evidence and vow to never disclose their secret. However, as time passes, they start receiving chilling reminders in the form of anonymous messages, such as “I know what you did last summer.” The novel was later reimagined by Kevin Williamson, the writer of “Scream”, in 1997. The film adaptation diverged from the original plot, transforming from a straightforward tale of revenge into a quintessential ’90s slasher movie.

Over time, a media franchise spawned from the original novel and its initial adaptation has grown, encompassing film sequels, a TV show, and an awkward reboot. Despite generally negative reviews, I Know What You Did Last Summer solidified its position in popular culture and introduced us to the Fisherman killer with his iconic hook.

5) I’ll Always Know What You Did Last Summer (2006)

2006 saw the release of the direct-to-video movie titled “I’ll Always Know What You Did Last Summer,” which aimed to rejuvenate the slasher franchise, but ended up falling short. The story revolves around Amber Williams (played by Brooke Nevin) and her Colorado companions, who find themselves hunted and murdered a year after they concealed the unfortunate demise of one of their friends during a mismanaged prank that exploited the urban legend of “the Fisherman.

Under the direction of Sylvain White and penned by Michael D. Weiss, the movie “I’ll Always Know What You Did Last Summer” falls short due to a scarcity of fresh ideas and an excessive reliance on overly stylish editing that includes abrupt, frequent cuts which clash with the film’s overall mood. The characters are hard to connect or feel for, but it does boast a distinct indie horror ambiance and offers a surprising supernatural element (which some viewers might find intriguing or off-putting). Unfortunately, this installment in the “I Know What You Did Last Summer” series is generally considered the least compelling.

I’ll Always Know What You Did Last Summer is available to rent or buy on Prime Video.

4) I Still Know What You Did Last Summer (1998)

In the directorial hand of Danny Cannon, famously known for Judge Dredd, and scripted by Trey Callaway, I Still Know What You Did Last Summer unfolds a year after the chilling events depicted in the initial film. The protagonist, Julie James (portrayed by Jennifer Love Hewitt), grapples with the haunting memories of her friends’ gruesome murders at the hands of the Fisherman, also known as Ben Willis (played by Muse Watson). Her life is further complicated by a tumultuous relationship with her fellow survivor and love interest Ray Bronson (Freddie Prinze Jr.).

The narrative takes an intriguing turn when Julie’s college roommate Karla (Brandy) wins a Bahamas trip, which she invites Julie, Karla’s boyfriend Tyrell (Mekhi Phifer), and new acquaintance Will (Matthew Settle) to join. Little do they know, their idyllic vacation at a secluded island resort turns out to be a cunningly laid trap, orchestrated by none other than the vengeful and still-alive Fisherman, Willis.

This movie offers some enjoyable moments, such as recurring slasher themes, several new actors (although Jack Black’s character is mostly just uncomfortable), snappier dialogue, and catching up with Julie and Ray after they thought they had vanquished the Fisherman. Additionally, the major twist in the sequel (“Ben’s son.”) is delivered in a rather unintentionally amusing manner. However, I Still Know What You Did Last Summer has its fair share of issues, including pacing flaws, predictability, a couple of subpar performances, and plot inconsistencies that are hard to ignore.

I Still Know What You Did Last Summer (1998) is available to rent or buy on Prime Video.

3) I Know What You Did Last Summer (2021 Series)

2021’s revamped take on Duncan’s novel “I Know What You Did Last Summer” stirred debate among critics and audiences alike. Given its title, viewers anticipated the classic slasher feel, but the brief Amazon series veered towards a frequently dreamlike, teen horror drama with characters who were far from perfect. In this reimagined tale, a group of teens is embroiled in a lethal hit-and-run incident following an exhilarating graduation party. The victim on the road turns out to be Lennon, the twin sister of Allison, who was behind the wheel. However, the other teens mistakenly believe they have killed Allison, as she had taken on her twin’s identity and persists in maintaining the deception even after discovering her sister has perished. The sole individual aware of the truth is their father, who surprisingly chooses to uphold the lie and the cover-up.

A year post-college, friends reassemble in their coastal Hawaiian hometown. Upon arrival, they find cryptic messages: “I remember what you did last summer.” As time passes, each friend meets an untimely end, while the identity of the murderer becomes a central plot point. However, the storyline tends to require viewers to suspend disbelief and the complex cult subplot sometimes detracts from the show’s overall appeal (it might have been more effective in Season 2, given a compelling finale cliffhanger, but the series was only renewed for one season).

Despite the fact that it showcased a group of gifted young performers who skillfully brought to life intricate characters, some of whom you may have felt sympathy for while others might have provoked disdain, the series’ cast and their intricate relationships were captivating. The production values were stunning, and the plot twists and turns were unexpected yet authentic, shedding light on the dark secrets of these troubled teenagers and offering insight into the killer’s motives.

The I Know What You Did Last Summer series is streaming on Prime Video.

2) I Know What You Did Last Summer (2025)

The latest installment was added to the legacy of “I Know What You Did Last Summer” this year, featuring a new set of friends concealing a lethal secret and the comeback of Sarah Michelle Gellar (Julie) and Freddie Prinze Jr. (Ray). Following their involvement in a fatal car accident 27 years after the initial Fisherman murders in Southport, these schoolmates start getting the chilling reminder of what they did the previous summer via an ominous note. As they dig deeper into the events of 1997, they reach out to Julie and Ray for help, who have since taken different life paths after escaping the wrath of Ben Willis.

In the 2025 version of “I Know What You Did Last Summer”, there are a few challenges such as uneven pacing, some awkward dialogue, and humor that occasionally veers too much into over-the-top silliness. Despite these flaws, it effectively celebrates its roots while introducing fresh characters for the audience, which can be both enjoyable and problematic at times. The character arcs for Julie and Ray are intriguing and daring in their portrayal of how the original characters have been impacted by trauma and guilt, offering unique perspectives on justice.

Apart from depicting Julie and Ray’s personal impacts, the movie showcases changes in Southport town due to the murders, which are still noticeable even after almost three decades. The film includes some unexpected comebacks, hinting at a possible sequel in a post-credits scene. Furthermore, one of the funniest moments occurs when Ray jokes about going to the Bahamas, reminiscent of “I Still Know What You Did Last Summer.” Additionally, the Fisherman’s reemergence in the slasher genre, executed so fittingly, adds a refreshing touch.

I Know What You Did Last Summer (2025) is now playing in theaters.

1) I Know What You Did Last Summer (1997)

In every subsequent movie set in the world of “I Know What You Did Last Summer,” it’s clear that the first film, which started the franchise, remains unmatched. Directed by Jim Gillespie, the original introduced us to characters like Julie, Ray, Helen Shivers (played by Sarah Michelle Gellar), and Barry Cox (Ryan Phillippe). The villain, Ben Willis (Muse Watson), was also introduced, a seemingly indestructible antagonist. One aspect that stood out was the chemistry between the cast members, and another was the nostalgic feel of the ’90s, particularly its music. The slasher elements adhered to a familiar formula that many horror enthusiasts found appealing, and there are several scenes and lines that still give viewers chills today.

The movie “I Know What You Did Last Summer” was incredibly successful, raking in over $125 million globally and playing a significant role in rejuvenating the slasher film genre in the 90s, alongside the influential “Scream” from 1996. Williamson and Gillespie introduced an unforgettable slasher antagonist – the Fisherman, armed with his menacing hook and driven by a relentless desire for revenge and bloodthirsty pursuit of young people in an engaging manner.

I Know What You Did Last Summer (1997) is available to stream on MGM+.

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2025-07-27 22:41