Skeet Ulrich Reflects on Billy Loomis, Scream's 30-Year Legacy, and a New Angry Orchard Collaboration Built for Horror Fans
When Scream first hit theaters, few predicted that the film would become one of the most famous horror movies. Skeet Ulrich played Billy Loomis and captured the character's cunning duplicity. At one moment, he is captivating. When he turns, the audience is shocked. This spooky season, Ulrich reflects on the film, the character, and a new seasonal beverage that pairs perfectly with a movie night.
Recently, Ulrich partnered with Angry Orchard and its limited-edition Thriller Variety Pack, in collaboration with the Scream franchise. The specialty cider features Mystery Caller, Caramel Apple Curse, Blood Orange, and Headless Pumpkin. In addition, the brand will host an Angry Orchard Video pop-up in New York City on October 2 and 3.
Through his Angry Orchard partnership, Skeet Ulrich answered some questions for FlickDirect. Since the Thriller Variety Pack features Ghost Face, as well as the classic line "What's your favorite scary movie?", he knows that many fans will happily enjoy the number one cider brand this spooky season.
It wasn't just about putting a logo on something. There was a real appreciation for what Scream means to people, and that made it feel authentic.
For Ulrich, this partnership succeeds because there is real authenticity behind the concept. Specifically, he said that the idea is genuinely creative. "It wasn't just about putting a logo on something. There was a real appreciation for what Scream means to people, and that made it feel authentic."
He believes that all the little details excite Scream fans. Whether it is the line, the glow-in-the-dark packaging, or the "mystery" aspect to the specialty flavor, it draws people to the experience.
In a way, that concept harkens back to the complexity that Ulrich's Scream character, Billy Loomis, epitomized. That rebellious, duplicitous man had people fawning over him at one point only to be repulsed in another.
As Ulrich believes, Billy's unsettling nature is one of the reasons why people still are infatuated with the character. At the same time, Ulrich said, "Looking back, there's no way any of us could've predicted people would still be talking about this film or this character 30 years later. I feel very blessed that Wes Craven entrusted me with this part!"
With Scream, it is more than a slasher flick or horror film filled with tropes. Ulrich asserts that Wes Craven and Kevin Williamson created a story that combines funny with terrifying and irreverence with shock. In his opinion, the reason why the film maintains its lasting legacy is the "true whodunnit" component. He said, "People love and revel in not knowing who's under the mask."
During this Halloween season, as people rewatch Scream, Ulrich suggests that people debate Billy's role and actions while enjoying the Thriller Variety Pack. He believes that Billy would enjoy the Mystery Caller. That flavor has a little unexpected twist with its boldness that pairs well with a Scream movie marathon.
For Scream fans who want a real, tangible, in-person experience, Ulrich invites them to visit the pop-up Angry Orchard Video event in New York City. He shared that it is an immersive experience any fan would want. From a personalized membership card to perusing the shelves, it is a step back in time. As Ulrich said, "Watching the movie is one thing, but getting to physically walk into a part of that world, the way going to a video store used to be, feels cool."
Ready to step back into the Scream world again this spooky season? Take Skeet Ulrich's advice. Enjoy some popcorn, crack open an Angry Orchard Mystery Caller, and catch the clues to solve one of the most iconic whodunnits in movie history.
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