The summer’s darkest secrets come back to haunt Southport. I Know What You Did Last Summer (2025), Netflix’s latest horror offering, takes the slasher classic into the modern age, combining suspense, tension, and a touch of ’90s nostalgia. The story follows a group of friends whose lives unravel a year after a fatal accident, as a mysterious figure starts targeting them, threatening to reveal the deadly secret they’ve been hiding.
Critics and audiences alike have praised the film for its tight pacing, atmospheric coastal setting, and clever mix of horror and mystery. Since its release, it has climbed into Netflix’s U.S. Top 10, quickly becoming a favorite among both longtime fans and newcomers. Here is everything you need to know about I Know What You Did Last Summer – from the plot and cast to reviews and release date. The trailer is at the bottom of the article.
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I Know What You Did Last Summer – all the key details
- Title: I Know What You Did Last Summer
- Format: Film
- Runtime: 1h 51 min.
- Genre: Horror, Slasher, Thriller
- Country of production: United States
- Original language: English
- Release date: October 16, 2025
- Director / Creator: Jennifer Kaytin Robinson
- Lead cast: Chase Sui Wonders, Madelyn Cline, Tyriq Withers, Jonah Hauer-King, Jennifer Love Hewitt, Freddie Prinze Jr., Sarah Michelle Gellar
- Produced by: Sony Pictures Releasing
What I Know What You Did Last Summer is about
In this modern reboot, five college friends reunite in their hometown of Southport, North Carolina, to celebrate an engagement. The festivities take a dark turn when they accidentally cause a fatal car accident and decide to cover it up. A year later, as they gather for another celebration, they begin receiving ominous messages from someone who knows their secret. The group must confront their past and the consequences of their actions as a mysterious figure begins to hunt them down.
I Know What You Did Last Summer cast: the main characters
The film features a blend of returning stars and new talent. Chase Sui Wonders (The Studio) stars as Ava Brucks, while Madelyn Cline (Outer Banks) portrays Danica Richards. Tyriq Withers (HIM) plays Teddy Spencer, and Jonah Hauer-King (A Dog’s Way Home) takes on the role of Milo Griffin. Sarah Pidgeon (The Wilds) rounds out the new cast as Stevie Ward. The film also sees the return of original stars Jennifer Love Hewitt as Julie James and Freddie Prinze Jr. as Ray Bronson, who reprise their iconic roles from the original 1997 film. Sarah Michelle Gellar also returns as Helen Shivers, adding to the film’s nostalgic appeal.
Is it based on a true story?
No, I Know What You Did Last Summer is a fictional story. It is a reboot of the 1997 slasher film, which was loosely based on the 1973 novel by Lois Duncan. The 2025 film updates the original concept for a modern audience, introducing new characters while retaining the central theme of a group of friends haunted by a deadly secret.
The Reviews
Critics have offered a range of opinions on the 2025 reboot of I Know What You Did Last Summer, but many have highlighted its strengths. The film has been praised for its suspenseful atmosphere, effective scares, and strong performances from the new cast, which bring fresh energy to the familiar story. Reviewers have also noted the return of Jennifer Love Hewitt and Freddie Prinze Jr., whose presence adds a nostalgic charm that resonates with longtime fans. Viewers enjoy the mix of tension, mystery, and self-aware humor, making it the fourth most-watched movie on Netflix US.
Filming locations
The film was shot in various locations, including Southport, North Carolina, and Sydney, Australia. Filming took place in New South Wales, Australia, in October 2024, with additional scenes shot in Los Angeles in early 2025. The production aimed to capture the coastal town’s atmosphere, enhancing the film’s suspenseful and eerie setting.
Behind the scenes
Director Jennifer Kaytin Robinson, known for her work on Do Revenge, brings a fresh perspective to the slasher genre. The film incorporates modern elements, such as social media, to explore themes of guilt and accountability. A mid-credits scene featuring Brandy Norwood’s character hints at potential future installments, depending on audience reception.
Release date on streaming
The film is available on Netflix starting October 16, 2025.
