Wayans says the new film aims to revive fearless comedy and make fun of everyone
Marlon Wayans is returning to one of the roles that helped define a generation of comedy, and he says the upcoming film aims to revive a style of humour he believes audiences have been missing.
The actor and comedian will reprise his character Shorty Meeks in Scary Movie 6, the latest instalment in the long-running horror spoof franchise. As the project approaches its theatrical release, Wayans has begun speaking publicly about what viewers can expect from the new film.
In a recent interview with Entertainment Weekly, Wayans described the upcoming sequel as a “multi-generational” comedy that intends to bring audiences together through laughter.
“What we’re trying to do is bring back laughter,” Wayans said. “This is about bringing back comedy the way it used to be. And I think the only way to do it is you have to cancel the cancel culture.”
The Scary Movie series built its reputation on parodying popular horror films and pop culture trends, often using exaggerated humour and satire. According to Wayans, the newest instalment will continue that tradition.
The trailer offers a glimpse into the type of jokes the film plans to deliver. Wayans said the approach will follow the formula the franchise has used since its early years.
“We’re gonna do what we always do. We’re gonna make fun of everybody because we’re equal opportunity offenders,” he said. “We have a recipe, we have a formula that you can’t mimic or copy. You could try, but it’s very specific.”
Wayans also pointed to his upbringing and family background as a major influence on the humour seen in the franchise.
“It’s how we grew up, and it’s how we see the world,” he explained. “It’s the household we were raised in with the sense of humour that we all were governed with, that we inherited from our mother.”
The actor said the creative team wants to maintain the bold style that defined earlier entries in the series while still allowing audiences to laugh at themselves.
Wayans said the filmmakers “like to be fearless” but also try to approach comedy in a way that encourages people to enjoy the jokes rather than feel attacked by them. He added that they aim to handle the material carefully while still pushing boundaries.
Scary Movie 6 is directed by Michael Tiddes and written by Marlon Wayans, Shawn Wayans, Keenen Ivory Wayans, Craig Wayans and Rick Alvarez.
The film features a large ensemble cast that brings together returning stars and new faces. Marlon Wayans appears alongside Shawn Wayans, Anna Faris and Regina Hall, all of whom have been closely associated with the franchise since its earlier entries.
Additional cast members include Damon Wayans Jr., Gregg Wayans, Kim Wayans, Benny Zielke, Cameron Scott, Cheri Oteri, Chris Elliott, Dave Sheridan, Heidi Gardner, Lochlyn Munro, Olivia Rose Keegan, Ruby Snowber, Savannah Lee Nassif and Sydney Park.
The Scary Movie franchise first gained popularity for its comedic take on horror films and cultural trends, becoming known for its fast-paced jokes and satirical tone.
With the new film, Wayans says the goal remains the same: deliver a style of comedy that embraces irreverence and encourages audiences to laugh at everything, including themselves.
Scary Movie 6 is scheduled to open in cinemas on 5 June.