We’ve grown to love their performances in front of the camera, but how about seeing them take on a new role behind it? Some of the most beloved stars from the Scream franchise have transitioned to the director’s chair, showcasing talent and vision shaped by years in the spotlight—and perhaps a little inspiration from the legendary Wes Craven himself.

In 2014, three notable stars debuted their directorial projects, each with a unique and personal touch:

Dawn

Directed by Rose McGowan

From her first appearance on screen, Rose McGowan has been impossible to ignore—not just for her captivating beauty but for her bold instincts and artistic sensibilities. With Dawn, McGowan took her first steps into directing, crafting a poignant short film that premiered at Sundance to rave reviews.

The film tells the story of a reserved teenager yearning to escape her sheltered existence, capturing a blend of nostalgia and tension.

“I am a big film and art buff, I think better films would be made if more people were. My three inspirations for Dawn were the look of the original Parent Trap, the tension of Night of the Hunter, and the loneliness of an Edward Hopper painting,” McGowan explained to The Hollywood Reporter.

The Girl on the Roof

Directed by Skeet Ulrich

Skeet Ulrich’s short film, The Girl on the Roof, is a touching and visually arresting family project. Funded through crowdsourcing, it tells the story of a young girl who finds an unlikely savior in a moment of despair.

The film became a family affair, with Ulrich’s wife, Amelia Jackson-Gray, writing and starring alongside their children, Naiia and Jakob. The heartfelt collaboration earned accolades at film festivals, proving that creativity runs deep in the Ulrich household.

Check it out: Visit the official site.

Just Before I Go

Directed by Courteney Cox

Courteney Cox is no stranger to directing, having previously helmed episodes of Cougar Town and the TV movie Talhotblond. However, Just Before I Go marked her first venture into feature filmmaking.

The film stars Seann William Scott as Ted, an ordinary man grappling with life’s misfortunes who decides to end it all—only to find unexpected twists and lessons along the way.

Adding to the charm, David Arquette makes a cameo in the movie, making it a treat for Scream fans.

Dive deeper: Check out this interview and watch Just Before I Go.

These projects show that the stars of Scream are just as talented behind the camera as they are in front of it, proving once again that their creative potential knows no bounds.