Why These Two Iconic Films Are More Popular Today Than at Release

Matthew Lillard Reflects on the Resurgent Popularity of Two Iconic Films

Actor Matthew Lillard has offered a candid perspective on why two of his most memorable films—Scream (1996) and Hackers (1995)—are experiencing a cultural resurgence decades after their original releases. In a recent interview, Lillard attributed the renewed interest to a combination of nostalgia, generational rediscovery, and the films’ enduring themes, which resonate with contemporary audiences in unexpected ways.

The “Honest” Reason Behind the Moment

Speaking about the phenomenon, Lillard described the current popularity of Scream and Hackers as part of a broader trend in Hollywood, where classic films are being revisited by both longtime fans and younger viewers discovering them for the first time. “It’s not just about the movies themselves,” Lillard said. “It’s about the way they make people feel. They’re time capsules, but they’re also timeless in their own weird way.”

The actor emphasized that the films’ appeal transcends their original eras, thanks in part to their subversive humor, genre-defining moments, and the way they captured the spirit of their respective decades. Scream, directed by Wes Craven, redefined the horror genre with its meta-commentary on slasher tropes, while Hackers, though initially a box-office disappointment, became a cult classic for its stylized depiction of early internet culture. Both films have since developed devoted followings, fueled by streaming platforms, anniversary screenings, and viral social media moments.

A Hollywood Trend: Nostalgia as Box Office Currency

Lillard’s comments arrive at a time when Hollywood is increasingly leaning on nostalgia-driven content to drive audience engagement. The entertainment industry has seen a surge in anniversary re-releases, remakes, and sequels, with studios capitalizing on the built-in fanbases of beloved properties. According to industry reports, classic films like Jaws (1975), Back to the Future (1985), and Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith (2005) have recently outperformed new releases in limited theatrical runs, underscoring the commercial viability of revisiting older titles.

This trend aligns with Lillard’s observation that audiences are seeking out films that offer more than just escapism. “People want stories that feel real, even if they’re wrapped in genre,” he noted. “There’s something about these movies that still feels urgent, even if the technology or the fashion is dated.”

The Role of Streaming and Social Media

The resurgence of Scream and Hackers has been amplified by streaming platforms, which have made older films more accessible to new generations. Scream, in particular, has benefited from its inclusion in horror-themed collections on services like Netflix and Shudder, introducing the film to viewers who may not have experienced it in theaters. Meanwhile, Hackers has found a second life on platforms like YouTube and TikTok, where its campy aesthetic and quotable dialogue have made it a favorite among Gen Z audiences.

Social media has also played a pivotal role in sustaining the films’ relevance. Clips from Scream—such as the iconic opening scene featuring Drew Barrymore or the film’s self-aware rules for surviving a horror movie—frequently go viral, while Hackers has become a meme staple, with its over-the-top hacking sequences and 90s cyberpunk vibe inspiring countless parodies and homages. Lillard acknowledged the impact of these digital spaces, saying, “The internet has a way of keeping things alive in ways we never could have predicted.”

Lillard’s Career and the Legacy of His Iconic Roles

For Lillard, the renewed popularity of Scream and Hackers has brought a new wave of attention to his career, which has spanned decades in both film and television. While he is perhaps best known for his role as Stu Macher in Scream, Lillard has also appeared in a range of projects, from voice acting in Scooby-Doo (2002) to starring in the TV series Bosch (2014–2021). His ability to balance mainstream success with cult appeal has made him a unique figure in Hollywood, and the current “moment” for his early work has only reinforced his status as a beloved character actor.

Lillard’s reflections on the films’ enduring appeal also highlight the unpredictable nature of cultural legacy. “You never really know what’s going to stick,” he said. “Some movies are hits right away, and some take 20 years to find their audience. I’m just grateful that people are still talking about these films.”

What’s Next for the Films—and for Lillard

As Scream and Hackers continue to attract new fans, there is speculation about whether the films will receive official re-releases or special editions to capitalize on their renewed popularity. While no announcements have been made, the success of other anniversary screenings—such as Jaws’ 50th-anniversary run, which grossed $15 million worldwide—suggests that studios may be taking note of the demand for classic films.

For Lillard, the focus remains on his ongoing projects. He recently wrapped production on a new horror film, The Last Stop, and is set to reprise his role as Shaggy in an upcoming Scooby-Doo animated series. Despite the resurgence of his early work, Lillard seems content to let the films speak for themselves. “At the end of the day, it’s not about me,” he said. “It’s about the movies and the people who love them. That’s the real story.”

The Bigger Picture: Why Nostalgia Dominates Hollywood

The phenomenon Lillard describes is part of a larger shift in the entertainment industry, where nostalgia has become a dominant force. Studios are increasingly turning to remakes, reboots, and legacy sequels to mitigate financial risk, often prioritizing familiar properties over original ideas. This strategy has proven successful in some cases—such as Disney’s live-action remakes of animated classics or the Jurassic World franchise—but it has also sparked debates about creativity and innovation in Hollywood.

Critics argue that the industry’s reliance on nostalgia stifles new voices and original storytelling, while proponents contend that it provides a way to introduce classic stories to new audiences. Lillard’s perspective offers a middle ground, suggesting that the appeal of older films is not just about nostalgia but about their ability to connect with audiences on a deeper level. “These movies weren’t just products of their time,” he said. “They were about something bigger—fear, identity, the future. That’s why they still matter.”

As Hollywood continues to navigate the challenges of a post-pandemic landscape, the success of films like Scream and Hackers serves as a reminder that great storytelling can transcend its era. For Lillard, the current moment is less about personal validation and more about the enduring power of cinema. “It’s wild to think that something you did 30 years ago is still finding new life,” he reflected. “But that’s the magic of movies, isn’t it? They don’t just disappear. They wait for the right moment to come back.”