Brave New World, Tentative Version, Part 4: Cherry Falls (2000)

Intrigued by how AI can impact my writing, I'm presenting side-by-side comparisons of past articles and their revisions made with Google's Gemini AI. Brace yourselves!

 AI Version of an article that appeared here 

Scream (1996) was a game-changer for the slasher genre. It broke convention by directly referencing familiar tropes and playfully critiquing them, engaging viewers in a self-aware dialogue about the genre itself. This innovative approach resonated with audiences and critics alike, sparking a wave of similar "neo-slasher" films.

Recognizing this newfound opportunity, filmmakers rushed to capitalize on Scream's success. Writer Ken Selden and director Geoffrey Wright envisioned Cherry Falls as a unique entry, aiming to push boundaries by blending gruesome murders with teen-sex comedy - essentially combining Porky's with Friday the 13th. Their hope was that a large-scale orgy scene would be the winning ingredient.

However, the societal tide shifted dramatically, forcing drastic changes on the completed film. In 1999, a series of violent crimes linked to the original Scream and the Columbine tragedy sparked public outcry for stricter movie ratings to limit teens' access to violent content. This outcry, coupled with Senate investigations and the MPAA's refusal of an R-rating, forced USA Films, Cherry Falls' distributor, to heavily cut the sex, violence, and gore, leaving it a pale shadow of its original vision.

In the town of Cherry Falls, a killer targets virgins, sending shockwaves through the high school. Brittany Murphy shines as Jody Marken, the sheriff's daughter, who defies the killer and societal pressures. Unlike typical final girls, Jody maintains her agency, refusing to cave to demands about her sexuality.

Cherry Falls deviates from classic slasher tropes. Jody's transformation doesn't involve a symbolic weapon; she relies on her wit and training. This subverts the "male viewer fantasy" of the final girl as a weaponized extension. Additionally, the film critiques the hypocrisy of adults, particularly Principal Sisler, who prioritize societal norms over student safety.

Unfortunately, the MPAA's refusal to grant an R-rating led to significant cuts, removing gore and nudity. This compromised the film's intended impact, leaving viewers wanting more. Ironically, this forced conformity contrasts with Jody's own defiance.

While not a game-changer, Cherry Falls reflects the evolution of the slasher genre. Its exploration of sexuality and subversion of final girl tropes are noteworthy. However, its controversial editing history serves as a cautionary tale about the impact of societal pressures on artistic expression.