The Complete Guide to Evil Dead Movies and Their Sequels
Are you a fan of the classic horror franchise Evil Dead? Let's dive into the rich and tumultuous history of this iconic series, spanning over three decades and featuring one of the most beloved characters in horror: Ash Williams, played by the legendary Bruce Campbell. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore all the Evil Dead movies, the TV show, and the cultural impact of this horror legend.
The Classic Trilogy
The main chronology of the Evil Dead franchise comprises three classic films:
Evil Dead (1981) - This groundbreaking film was the first in the series and laid the foundation for the horror genre. Directed by Sam Raimi and written by Tom Spezialy, the movie follows the adventures of Ash Williams (Bruce Campbell) and his friends who are trapped in a cabin and attacked by powerful, evil spirits. Evil Dead II (1987) - Continuing the story from the first film, this sequel sees Ash and his friends facing even greater challenges as they fight against the oppressive clutches of evil. The iconic tagline "Maybe you should have called for a priest instead of a cop!" has become one of the most memorable moments in horror cinema. Ash's Army of Darkness (1992) - The title itself hints at the thrilling action and gore. This third installment introduces the iconic line "Chainsaw massacre and shoot to kill." directed by Sam Raimi and written by Bruce Campbell and Sam Raimi, the film pushed the boundaries of what was possible in the horror genre.The Reboot and Beyond
However, the story doesn't end there. In the mid-2010s, a reboot of the series was produced, taking a darker tone away from the comedic edge of the original trilogy:
Evil Dead (2013) - Often considered a remake of the original film, this reboot explores the origins of the consumerism and true horror behind the myth of Ash Williams. Bruce Campbell includes a cameo in this film, marking a return to the franchise after a decade-long hiatus. Ash vs Evil Dead (2015-2018) - This TV series continues the story several years after the ending of Army of Darkness. The show offers a deeper exploration of Ash's character and his ongoing battle against evil. It also introduces new characters and storylines, making it a noteworthy addition to the franchise.Current Status and Future
As of now, we have four definitive entries in the main timeline, plus an ongoing TV series:
Evil Dead (1981) Evil Dead II (1987) Ash's Army of Darkness (1992) Evil Dead (2013) Ash vs Evil Dead (2015-2018)A fifth entry is slated to arrive later this year, titled Evil Dead Rise. Although it's Bruce Campbell-free, the film promises to continue the franchise's legacy of horror and action. Additionally, there's a short film titled Within the Woods that came out several years before the initial feature film.
Cultural Impact and Behind the Scenes
Throughout the years, the Evil Dead franchise has not only entertained but also influenced the horror genre. The movies are known for their innovative special effects, memorable catchphrases, and the enduring appeal of Ash Williams. From the iconic line "I got blood on me!" to the unforgettable scenes like the chainsaw massacre, these films have left a lasting impact on pop culture.
Beyond the films, Ash vs Evil Dead provided a new dimension to the story, bringing new life to a beloved character while still honoring the original trilogy. The television show offered a more grounded and emotional take on the character, focusing on his ongoing struggle against evil and the emotional weight of his past experiences.
The franchise continues to captivate new generations of horror fans and is a testament to the enduring power of a well-crafted and beloved character like Ash Williams, played by the endearing Bruce Campbell.