Evil Dead Movies List: Ranked In Order and Where To Watch
In this blog post, we will rank the Evil Dead movies in order of release date, exploring the terrifying worlds created by Sam Raimi and his team of filmmakers. The Evil Dead franchise has been terrifying audiences since 1981. It began as a low-budget horror movie and has since grown into a cult classic, inspiring a loyal following of horror fans. With its gory visuals, spine-chilling sound effects, and unforgettable characters, the Evil Dead franchise has become a staple of the horror genre.
But which Evil Dead movie is the most frightening? Which will leave you quaking in your boots and watching over your shoulder long after the credits have rolled?
So, prepare yourself for a journey through the darkness, and hold on tight as we delve into the Evil Dead movies list.
Evil Dead Movies In Order
1. The Evil Dead (1981)
In the horror classic “The Evil Dead” (1981), a group of five friends retreats to a remote cabin in the woods for a weekend of relaxation. But their peaceful trip soon turns into a nightmarish fight for survival when they unwittingly awaken an ancient evil spirit.
The group finds an old tape recorder and a mysterious book in the cabin’s basement. As they play the recorder, they unleash an incantation that releases demonic forces into the woods. One by one, the friends become possessed by the evil spirits, and they must fight to survive against their former comrades turned violent monsters.
The film’s director, Sam Raimi, employs inventive camera techniques and a chilling score to create a tense, claustrophobic atmosphere. The use of practical effects and gore, including scenes of dismemberment and bodily fluids, shocked audiences upon the film’s release and contributed to its reputation as a cult classic.
Critics praised “The Evil Dead” for its creativity and effectiveness as a horror film. Roger Ebert gave it three stars out of four, calling it “a superb example of the basic, scary horror movie,” while Variety described it as “an unrelieved assault on the senses.”
Despite initial controversy over its graphic content, the film has since become a beloved cornerstone of horror cinema. It spawned two sequels and a remake, as well as a television series. “The Evil Dead” has influenced countless horror films and remains a must-see for fans of the genre.
As you watch “The Evil Dead,” you’ll feel the terror mount with each passing minute. You’ll hold your breath as the characters are subjected to unimaginable horrors, wondering who will be the next victim of the ancient evil spirit. With its relentless pacing, gory practical effects, and eerie score, “The Evil Dead” is a masterclass in horror that will leave you shaken to your core.
Watch on Amazon prime video: The Evil Dead (1981)
2. Evil Dead II (1987)
Evil Dead II (1987) is a cult horror film directed by Sam Raimi, and is the sequel to the 1981 film, The Evil Dead. The movie tells the story of Ash Williams (Bruce Campbell), a young man who travels with his girlfriend to a secluded cabin in the woods for a romantic getaway. However, things take a sinister turn when they discover a recording of an incantation that awakens ancient demons in the forest. The demons possess Ash’s girlfriend, forcing him to battle against a horde of possessed corpses and grotesque creatures.
The film is a twisted blend of horror, comedy, and action, with a gory and relentless pace that leaves viewers on the edge of their seats. From the moment the incantation is played, the film takes a dark and violent turn, with Ash fighting for his life against the demonic forces that surround him. The film is filled with memorable moments of terror, including a grotesque transformation scene where Ash’s hand is possessed by evil forces and he is forced to cut it off with a chainsaw. The film’s use of practical effects and stop-motion animation also add to the eerie and otherworldly atmosphere.
Despite its B-movie roots, Evil Dead II has become a cult classic and is considered one of the greatest horror films of all time. The film’s humor and over-the-top gore have earned it a dedicated following, and its influence can be seen in countless horror movies and TV shows. The film has been praised for its imaginative visuals and inventive use of practical effects, which have helped it stand the test of time.
Critics have lauded Evil Dead II for its unique blend of horror and comedy, with many praising Bruce Campbell’s performance as Ash. Roger Ebert gave the film three stars, stating that “Evil Dead II is like a porno movie that doesn’t quite make it to the sex scenes. It’s all buildup and anticipation, and when the action finally starts, it’s too much, too soon.”
Watch on Amazon prime video: Evil Dead II (1987)
3. Army of Darkness (1993)
Army of Darkness is a horror-comedy film released in 1993, directed by Sam Raimi and starring Bruce Campbell. It is the third installment in the Evil Dead franchise and follows the adventures of Ash Williams, who is transported back in time to medieval England and must fight an army of the undead to return to his own time.
The film begins with Ash being transported to medieval England through a time portal after being sucked into a vortex at the end of the previous film, Evil Dead II. In medieval England, Ash is mistaken for a soldier from a rival kingdom and is imprisoned. He soon discovers that the kingdom is being attacked by an army of the undead, led by the evil Deadite, and is forced to team up with the kingdom’s warriors to fight the army.
As the battle rages on, Ash must face off against a series of terrifying enemies, including a possessed witch and a giant monster. With the help of his trusty chainsaw and shotgun, Ash fights his way through the army of the undead and saves the kingdom.
Army of Darkness was praised by critics for its mix of horror and comedy, as well as Bruce Campbell’s performance as Ash Williams. The film has become a cult classic and is considered one of the best horror-comedies of all time.
Critics praised the film’s visual effects, which were created using practical effects and stop-motion animation. They also praised the film’s witty dialogue and clever references to other horror films, such as The Seventh Seal.
Despite its critical success, Army of Darkness was not a box office hit upon its initial release. However, it has since gained a large following and has been recognized as a classic of the horror genre.
Watch on Amazon prime video: Army of Darkness (1993)
4. Evil Dead (2013)
In “Evil Dead” (2013), a group of friends travel to a remote cabin in the woods to help their friend Mia (Jane Levy) overcome her addiction to drugs. Once there, they discover an ancient book containing an incantation that unleashes a demonic force, turning their peaceful weekend into a fight for survival. The evil entity possesses Mia, and the group must fight to save themselves and contain the evil before it can spread beyond the cabin.
From the beginning, the atmosphere of the film is tense and foreboding. The isolated cabin, surrounded by dense woods, creates a sense of claustrophobia and paranoia. The film’s expert use of sound design and camera work further immerses the viewer in the terror of the situation. The sound of the wind and the creaking of the old cabin are constant reminders that the group is completely isolated and at the mercy of the malevolent forces they’ve awakened.
As the demonic possession spreads, the film ramps up the intensity, delivering terrifying scenes of gore and violence. The practical effects are particularly noteworthy, as they create visceral and unsettling images that stick with the viewer long after the film has ended. From the demonic possessions to the grotesque transformations of the characters, the horror is unrelenting.
The performances of the actors are also impressive, with Jane Levy delivering a standout performance as the possessed Mia. She manages to convey the terror and confusion of being taken over by an evil force, while still retaining enough of her own personality to create a sympathetic character.
Overall, “Evil Dead” (2013) was well-received by both critics and audiences. Many praised the film’s commitment to practical effects and its willingness to push the limits of on-screen violence. The film was also noted for its dark sense of humor and its ability to balance the horror and comedy elements effectively. Some critics, however, felt that the film relied too heavily on the original “Evil Dead” film for inspiration and failed to create anything truly original.
Regardless of its flaws, “Evil Dead” (2013) is a frightening and intense horror film that is sure to satisfy fans of the genre. Its expert use of practical effects, sound design, and camera work create an immersive and terrifying experience that will leave viewers on edge long after the credits roll.
Watch on Amazon prime video: Evil Dead (2013)
5. Evil Dead Rise (2023)
Evil Dead Rise, the latest installment in the Evil Dead franchise, is a terrifying rollercoaster ride of blood-soaked horror that is sure to delight fans of the series. Written and directed by Lee Cronin, the film follows two estranged sisters, Beth and Ellie, as they try to survive and save their family from the demonic entities known as Deadites. Lily Sullivan and Alyssa Sutherland deliver powerful performances as the sisters, while Morgan Davies, Gabrielle Echols, and Nell Fisher offer strong support in their roles.
The film’s plot is intense and frightening, starting with a gruesome scene that sets the tone for the rest of the movie. From there, the tension and terror only escalate as the Deadites infiltrate and possess the inhabitants of a condemned Los Angeles apartment complex. The film takes viewers on a harrowing journey as the surviving family members fight for their lives against the demonic forces that threaten to consume them.
Evil Dead Rise has received positive critical reception, with reviewers praising its dark atmosphere, brutal violence, and impressive practical effects. The film’s use of practical effects, including gallons of fake blood, gives it a gritty, realistic feel that is sure to thrill horror fans. The movie also effectively balances its horror elements with moments of heart and family drama, making the viewer invested in the characters and their survival.
Overall, Evil Dead Rise is a terrifying and satisfying addition to the Evil Dead franchise. With its strong performances, intense horror, and impressive practical effects, it is sure to delight fans of the series and horror aficionados alike. Be prepared for a wild ride that will leave you gasping for breath and checking the shadows for any lurking Deadites.
Watch on Amazon prime video: Evil Dead Rise (2023)
Conclusion
And there you have it – the definitive ranking of the Evil Dead movies. Each of these films has its own unique blend of horror, gore, and humor that has kept audiences coming back for more for over 40 years. From the gritty realism of the original film to the over-the-top absurdity of Army of Darkness, the Evil Dead franchise has something for everyone.
So, whether you’re a die-hard horror fan or just looking for a few scares this Halloween, make sure to check out the Evil Dead movies in the order we’ve presented. And don’t forget to turn off the lights and lock the doors – you never know what evil may lurk in the darkness.
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