Where to start withI Know what You Did Last Summer
3 versions · originally a book, 1995
Themes: Guilt, Moral Dilemma, Hit and Run, Consequences, Secrets.
Start with Scary Movie (2000) — the film. I Know what You Did Last Summer exists in 3 versions across media, beginning as a book in 1995; each is ranked below by what it does best.
The franchise centers on the psychological unraveling of teenagers haunted by a shared, fatal secret and a vengeful pursuer.
✦ Most fans start here
Scary Movie (2000)
The original novel
I Know what You Did Last Summer
Lois Duncan · Book · 1995
The 1995 novel by Lois Duncan prioritizes internal moral turmoil and the psychological weight of guilt, making it essential for readers who prefer character-driven suspense over overt slasher violence.
1997 film
I Know What You Did Last Summer
Film · 1997
The 1997 movie transforms the story into a quintessential nineties slasher, featuring a hook-handed killer and high-stakes thrills, perfect for viewers seeking classic teen horror tropes and genre-specific jump scares.
Inspired by
✦ Start hereScary Movie
Film · 2000
The 2000 film Scary Movie offers a razor-sharp satirical take on the franchise's tropes, providing an essential experience for those who enjoy irreverent humor and deconstructive parodies of horror cinema.
Common questions
Is the 1997 movie I Know What You Did Last Summer based on the 1995 book?
Yes, the 1997 film I Know What You Did Last Summer is an adaptation of the 1995 book titled I Know what You Did Last Summer. The movie serves as the primary cinematic translation of the original written source material.
What order should I consume the I Know what You Did Last Summer media?
You should start with the 1995 book I Know what You Did Last Summer to experience the original story. After reading the source material, you can watch the 1997 film adaptation or view the 2000 film Scary Movie for a satirical take on the franchise.
How does Scary Movie relate to I Know What You Did Last Summer?
The 2000 film Scary Movie is a parody that references the 1997 movie I Know What You Did Last Summer. It uses the plot and themes established in that specific film adaptation to create its comedic content.
Is the 1997 movie I Know What You Did Last Summer the only adaptation of the book?
The 1997 film I Know What You Did Last Summer is the direct adaptation of the 1995 book of the same name. While other films like Scary Movie reference the 1997 movie, the 1997 production remains the primary film adaptation of the 1995 book.