Are you a horror fan? Do you enjoy getting jumped right out of your seat? Well, the Evil Dead has 44 years of scares waiting for you.
Now you must be wondering how this franchise has become so beloved, for so long?
Carry on reading to find out…if you dare, writes Film News Blitz‘s Priya O’Reilly.
The ‘Evil Dead’ beginnings
The Evil Dead franchise began in 1981, created by Director Sam Raimi and is described as “a relentless gory mayhem.”
The franchise introduces the popular horror villain ‘Deadites.’ These demonic entities possess the bodies of the living and will stop at nothing to torment the remaining survivors.
The first film, titled simply The Evil Dead, follows five teenagers spending their vacation in a small remote cabin in the mountains of Tennessee. All seems well until horror ensues.
And since the first film, the franchise has continued haunting screens, with the latest instalment, Evil Dead Burn hitting theatres on July 10.
With 6 films and a Television show, the franchise has become beloved by many. Critics have called it “One of horror’s most successful.”
If that has tempted you to watch it, here is the list of the films in order so you can enjoy the complete Evil Dead experience.
- The Evil Dead – 1981
- The Evil Dead II – 1987
- Army of Darkness – 1992
- Evil Dead – 2013
- Ash vs Evil Dead (TV Show) – 2015 – 2018
- Evil Dead Rise – 2023
- Evil Dead Burn – 2026
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What do fans have to say?
While Evil Dead may not be the highest-grossing horror franchise ever, generating only $354.5 million at the global box office.
It still quickly became a cult classic. And the question is why?
Many fans have applauded the franchise for its shock value and grotesque violence.
At the time of the first film in 1981, gore was minimal, but Evil Dead dared to do things no other film had.
Some fans state it is the “perfect blend of extreme, boundary-pushing gore and relentless psychological torture.”
Definitely not a film series for the faint of heart!
While Evil Dead is most definitely a horror, many describe the series as a genre blend, incorporating comedy into the mix.
And if that wasn’t good enough, one fan review stated the films are “consistent with every entry. Solid acting, effects and storyline”
Not every film has been as well received, with The Evil Dead II being the most frightening and Army of Darkness relying less on scares and more on slapstick comedy.
There seems to be something for everyone in this franchise.
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Overall verdict
It seems clear as to why this franchise has become so beloved.
Through its daring horror choices and overall quality consistency, why wouldn’t you want to watch?
And with the new release, there’s no better time to check the series out.
So the next time you are itching for a fright, try giving The Evil Dead a go.
But if you struggle to sleep that night…don’t say I didn’t warn you!
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