We're back with a new horror movie franchise ranking video. This time we're looking at the entirety of the Friday the 13th franchise. That includes all 10 movies in the main series and the reboot movie. Since I have already reviewed Freddy vs. Jason in my look at the Nightmare on Elm Street post.
As always these are purely your thoughts and opinions on these movies. If you have different opinions please feel free to comment them down below in the comment section. I'm more than excited to hear what you think about this cult classic series.
Friday the 13th
7/10
Friday the 13th (1980) is the quintessential slasher film that became a cult classic and set the stage for one of the most enduring horror franchises in cinema history. Directed by Sean S. Cunningham, the film follows a group of teenagers at Camp Crystal Lake who are hunted by a mysterious killer. While the villain in this first installment is not the iconic Jason Voorhees we associate with the series, the film’s atmospheric tension, chilling score, and sudden, brutal kills lay the groundwork for the future of slasher the film. The twist ending, revealing the true killer, has become a hallmark moment in horror.
The film’s strength lies in its simplicity and raw suspense. It introduced audiences to a new level of horror with its no-frills approach to murder and mayhem, focusing on building tension rather than relying on elaborate effects. The low-budget production works in its favor, giving it a gritty, unsettling edge. While some performances may not have been groundbreaking, the cast does include a young Kevin Bacon, who would later rise to fame. The basic plot may seem predictable by today’s standards, but in 1980, Friday the 13th stood out for its ability to keep viewers guessing until the climactic reveal.
Although the film is not without flaws—some pacing issues and occasionally flat dialogue—it paved the way for what would become a horror juggernaut, solidifying its place in pop culture. Its impact on the slasher genre is undeniable, even if it’s overshadowed by its sequels, where Jason Voorhees becomes the iconic figure he is today. For its contributions to the genre and memorable moments, Friday the 13th earns a solid 7/10. It’s a must-watch for horror fans who want to see the origins of one of the most famous franchises in the genre.
Friday the 13th: Part 2
8/10
Friday the 13th: Part 2 (1981) builds on the momentum of the original while establishing Jason Voorhees as the true face of the franchise. The film’s shocking opening scene, where Jason hunts down Alice, the sole survivor from the first movie, immediately sets a more brutal tone. No longer a mysterious presence in the background, Jason bursts onto the screen as an unstoppable force of vengeance. This entry shifts the focus back to Camp Crystal Lake, where a new group of counselors finds themselves hunted by the now-adult Jason.
In this sequel, Jason hasn’t yet donned his signature hockey mask but still proves to be a terrifying figure with his sackcloth mask and raw physicality. His ability to stalk his prey, combined with the gritty, backwoods setting, adds to the film’s relentless tension. The kills are creative and often brutal, with each counselor facing a uniquely gruesome fate. Director Steve Miner does an excellent job of using suspense and atmosphere, turning the quiet, isolated camp into a death trap. The film also establishes Jason’s supernatural resilience, giving him an almost mythic status that sets him apart from other slasher villains of the time.
Friday the 13th: Part 2 succeeds as a horror sequel by deepening the lore of the franchise while delivering on scares and action. Though Jason doesn’t yet wear the hockey mask that would become his trademark, his terrifying presence is more than enough to make this film one of the stronger entries in the series. It balances the necessary slasher tropes with a heightened sense of dread, making Jason an unforgettable horror icon. For its solid pacing, effective kills, and the introduction of Jason as the main villain, this installment earns an 8/10. It remains a must-see for fans of the genre and a defining moment in the evolution of slasher films.
Friday the 13th: Part 3
6/10
Friday the 13th: Part 3 (1982) brings Jason Voorhees back to Camp Crystal Lake as he terrorizes a group of friends staying at a nearby family cabin. The film picks up on the formula established by its predecessors, mixing slasher thrills with isolated setting horror. A new group of teens faces the deadly wrath of Jason after a run-in with a group of bikers, adding an additional layer of conflict to the plot. While the introduction of Jason’s iconic hockey mask in this film is significant for the franchise, the overall experience is hampered by weak characters and predictable outcomes.
The biggest issue with Part 3 is the flatness of its characters. The group of friends lacks depth, with many of them serving as little more than fodder for Jason’s rampage. The film’s dialogue and interactions feel superficial, making it hard to connect with or care about any of the characters. This lack of character development makes the deaths, though creative, feel expected rather than shocking. The plot feels somewhat formulaic, relying heavily on the same jump scares and chase sequences that defined earlier entries, without bringing much new to the table.
Despite its shortcomings, Friday the 13th: Part 3 does have its merits, most notably the introduction of Jason’s iconic hockey mask, which would become synonymous with the character and horror genre. The film also takes advantage of the 3D technology of the time, though the effect feels gimmicky by today’s standards. Ultimately, the movie falls short due to its predictable plot and two-dimensional characters, earning a score of 6/10. It remains an important entry in the franchise for its impact on Jason’s look, but it lacks the suspense and depth needed to stand out in the series.
Friday the 13th: The Final Friday
8/10
Friday the 13th: The Final Chapter (1984) is often regarded as one of the best entries in the franchise, delivering a perfect mix of suspense, brutality, and memorable characters. The film follows siblings Trish and Tommy Jarvis, who are caught in Jason Voorhees’ latest killing spree. While Trish tries to connect with a group of teens staying nearby, Tommy, played by a young Corey Feldman, quickly becomes the standout of the film. His love for making scary masks and fascination with horror adds an intriguing layer to his character, making him a key part of the film’s tension and ultimate resolution.
One of the strengths of The Final Chapter is how it ramps up the intensity and violence compared to previous entries. Jason’s kills are more brutal, showcasing the heightened stakes as he methodically eliminates the group of teens and anyone else in his way. The film strikes a perfect balance between slow-building suspense and shockingly violent moments, keeping viewers on edge. As the body count rises, the sense of dread builds, culminating in one of the most memorable and shocking finales in the series. This was intended to be Jason’s definitive end, and the film goes all-in to deliver a climactic showdown.
Though The Final Chapter was far from the true end of the franchise, it succeeds in feeling like a satisfying conclusion to the original run of Jason’s story. Corey Feldman’s performance as Tommy, along with the brutal action and tense atmosphere, sets this entry apart. For fans of the series, this installment offers some of the best moments and character dynamics, earning it a strong 8/10. It’s a must-watch for those looking for peak Friday the 13th horror, delivering a gripping experience while cementing Jason as an unstoppable force in pop culture.
Friday the 13th: A New Beginning
4/10
Friday the 13th: A New Beginning (1985) is widely considered one of the weakest entry in the franchise, earning its reputation for poor storytelling and a baffling twist that disappointed fans. The film follows a teenage Tommy Jarvis, now traumatized from his previous encounter with Jason Voorhees, as he joins a group home for troubled teens. When one of the teens is brutally murdered by another resident, Jason seemingly returns to terrorize the group. The film tries to build tension around the idea that Tommy, scarred by his past, may have become the new killer, but this angle quickly falters.
What drags A New Beginning down is its disjointed plot and unconvincing twist. While the film features the familiar slasher setup and a series of gory kills, the story feels rushed and confusing, with underdeveloped characters who serve as little more than victims for the body count. Instead of Jason being the true villain, the film leads viewers down a frustrating path, revealing that the killer is actually a random EMT introduced briefly earlier in the movie. This character’s motivation—that he snapped after discovering his estranged son was killed at the group home—feels contrived and lacks any emotional depth or impact.
The twist, which reveals that the killer is a Jason copycat, not Jason himself, is the final nail in the coffin for A New Beginning. Fans expecting a return of the iconic slasher were left disappointed by this bizarre, poorly executed plotline. The film’s pacing, lackluster kills, and forgettable characters further contribute to its 4/10 rating. While it had the potential to explore Tommy Jarvis’ trauma in an interesting way, the weak story and unsatisfying twist make it a low point in the Friday the 13th series, with few redeeming qualities.
Friday the 13th: Jason Lives
7/10
Friday the 13th Part VI: Jason Lives (1986) is one of the stronger entries in the series, balancing campy fun with intense horror elements. The film follows an adult Tommy Jarvis, once again haunted by Jason Voorhees. In an attempt to destroy Jason’s body for good, Tommy accidentally revives him through a lightning strike, bringing Jason back to life with supernatural strength. This new, unstoppable Jason quickly embarks on another killing spree, and Tommy is left trying to warn the authorities, though his history with Jason makes it hard for anyone to believe him.
What makes Jason Lives stand out is its blend of self-aware humor and horror. The film leans into the ridiculousness of Jason’s supernatural resurrection, embracing the over-the-top nature of the series while still delivering some genuinely tense and brutal moments. The decision to have Camp Crystal Lake open for the first time in the series, with actual campers present, raises the stakes. This time, it’s not just counselors who are in danger but also children, adding an extra layer of suspense. The sheriff’s daughter, Megan, plays a key role in helping Tommy, and their dynamic adds a fresh element to the story as they try to stop Jason before he wipes out the camp.
While the film doesn’t reinvent the slasher formula, it’s one of the most entertaining and well-paced entries in the franchise. The action is relentless, and Jason’s resurrection gives the film a fresh energy. The tension between Tommy and the disbelieving sheriff, along with Megan’s determination to help, adds a compelling human element to the chaos. For its mix of humor, horror, and a solid plot, Friday the 13th Part VI: Jason Lives earns a 7/10. It’s a fan favorite for good reason, delivering a fun, thrilling ride that rejuvenates the series while staying true to its roots.
Friday the 13th: The New Blood
8/10
Friday the 13th Part VII: The New Blood (1988) brings a fresh twist to the franchise, introducing a psychic element that elevates the slasher formula. The film centers on Tina, a troubled teen with telekinetic abilities who accidentally resurrects Jason Voorhees from his watery grave at Crystal Lake. Tina is staying at a cabin with her mother and therapist, grappling with guilt over her father’s death, which she believes her powers caused. The film cleverly juxtaposes Tina’s desire for normalcy, especially after meeting a group of nearby teens, with her terrifying psychic abilities, setting up a unique and engaging conflict.
What makes The New Blood stand out is its blend of supernatural powers with the traditional slasher formula. Tina’s psychic abilities introduce a whole new dimension to the Friday the 13th universe, leading to some of the franchise’s most memorable and creative moments as Tina battles Jason with her telekinesis. The teens in the film follow the usual tropes, including catty rivalries and reckless behavior, but Tina’s powers and her inner turmoil give the movie a sense of unpredictability. The relentless killing spree by Jason is as brutal as ever, but the psychic-powered showdown between Tina and Jason offers a refreshing and exhilarating twist.
For a franchise often criticized for sticking to a formula, The New Blood injects a level of creativity that reinvigorates the series. The psychic-versus-Jason storyline keeps the audience hooked with its inventive action and dramatic tension, and the film balances its campy elements with intense, suspenseful sequences. Tina’s character adds depth to the narrative, making her one of the most compelling final girls in the series. For its daring plot, thrilling psychic battles, and Jason’s relentless carnage, Friday the 13th Part VII: The New Blood earns a strong 8/10. It’s a standout in the franchise, bringing a unique twist to Jason’s legacy.
Friday the 13th: Jason Takes Manhattan
7/10
Friday the 13th Part VIII: Jason Takes Manhattan (1989) may be ranked low by many fans, but it deserves more credit for what it sets out to achieve. Often dismissed for its outlandish premise and minimal use of its Manhattan setting, the film is actually a self-aware, campy slasher that leans into its absurdity. Jason Voorhees is unleashed on a group of teens aboard a ship bound for New York City, and while the film spends much of its time on the boat, once Jason reaches the city, it becomes a schlocky, fun ride. Those expecting a serious horror film will be disappointed, but if you embrace the camp and dark humor, Jason Takes Manhattan offers plenty of entertainment.
One of the film’s strengths is its playful tone and its inventive kills. The movie knows it’s over-the-top and doesn’t shy away from embracing that. Jason takes down victims in increasingly ridiculous and creative ways, with the standout moment being a boxing match atop a New York rooftop. One of the teens attempts to take on Jason with his fists, delivering a series of blows, only for Jason to decapitate him with a single punch. It’s one of the most memorable kills in the entire franchise, perfectly capturing the film’s mix of dark humor and violence.
While it may not be the most suspenseful or scary of the series, Jason Takes Manhattan delivers a unique and fun take on the Friday the 13th formula. The film’s campy tone and self-awareness make it more enjoyable than it’s often given credit for, especially for those who appreciate the absurdity of slasher films. With its entertaining kills and willingness to embrace its own ridiculousness, Friday the 13th Part VIII earns a surprising 7/10. It’s not a horror masterpiece, but it’s a wildly fun, schlocky ride for those who go in with the right expectations.
Jason Goes to Hell: The Final Friday
3/10
Jason Goes to Hell: The Final Friday (1993) is a major departure from the traditional Friday the 13th formula, and unfortunately, it ranks as my least favorite in the franchise. The film opens with a promising start as Jason Voorhees is blown to pieces by an FBI ambush, seemingly putting an end to his reign of terror. However, things quickly go off the rails when the story shifts to a bizarre body-hopping plot. Jason’s spirit starts possessing people, turning them into killers in his place. This concept feels like a stretch and almost makes the movie feel like a Friday the 13th film without Jason at its core.
The decision to sideline Jason in favor of this body-possessing storyline misses the mark, leaving fans disappointed. Instead of seeing the iconic slasher in action, viewers are subjected to a series of random people becoming vessels for Jason’s evil spirit, which strips away the essence of what makes a Friday the 13th film enjoyable. The kills lack the brutal creativity of previous films, and the lack of a physical Jason throughout most of the movie feels like a betrayal of the franchise’s core appeal. The film’s mythology, introducing Jason’s family and supernatural elements, feels convoluted and unnecessary.
For a movie marketed as “the final” Friday the 13th installment, Jason Goes to Hell is a major letdown. It strays too far from the classic slasher formula that fans love, and instead of giving Jason a proper sendoff, it feels like a half-baked attempt to reinvent the series. The movie fails to capture the essence of what made Jason such a compelling villain, earning it a low score of 3/10. Despite the promising title, it’s a frustrating and forgettable entry in the series, lacking both the tension and fun of its predecessors.
Jason X
6/10
Jason X (2001) takes the Friday the 13th franchise into a completely new direction by setting the story far in the future and in outer space. This bold move resurrects Jason Voorhees on a spaceship after being cryogenically frozen for centuries. Once revived, Jason gets a futuristic upgrade, turning into the supercharged “Uber Jason” after being rebuilt with high-tech nanotechnology. The film embraces its absurd premise with wacky humor, making it clear from the start that it doesn’t take itself too seriously, similar to Jason Takes Manhattan.
While Jason X is far from a traditional horror film, it’s undeniably fun. The movie knows how over-the-top its concept is and leans into the ridiculousness of Jason stalking victims in space. The kills are creative, with some standout moments like the liquid nitrogen face smash, which is one of the most memorable deaths in the franchise. The high-tech setting allows for some unique action sequences, and the film’s tongue-in-cheek humor keeps it entertaining. The climax, where Jason faces off against an android named KM-14, is a prime example of the film’s campy charm and its willingness to fully embrace its sci-fi setting.
Though Jason X is by no means a masterpiece, it offers a lot of entertainment value if you go in with the right expectations. It’s a goofy, action-packed entry that doesn’t try to replicate the slasher formula of the past but instead delivers a wild, fun ride. For its creativity and embrace of wacky, self-aware humor, it earns a score of 6/10. It may not be a fan favorite for those looking for a traditional Friday the 13th film, but for anyone in the mood for a schlocky, space-bound adventure, it certainly delivers.
Friday the 13th (Reboot)
7/10
The Friday the 13th reboot (2009) often gets criticized by fans for being unoriginal, but when taken on its own, it delivers a solid, fun horror experience. The film reintroduces Jason Voorhees in a modern setting, blending elements from the original films while adding its own twists. One of the main plotlines focuses on Clay, played by Supernatural’s Jared Padalecki, as he searches for his missing sister at Camp Crystal Lake. His presence adds an emotional core to the story, as he encounters a typical group of teens who fall prey to Jason’s relentless killing spree.
The reboot hits familiar horror tropes—the pretty girls, the obnoxious boyfriend, and the stoner friend—but this doesn’t detract from the movie’s overall entertainment value. The cast of characters might be predictable, but they serve their purpose in creating a fast-paced slasher film with enough tension to keep things engaging. The kills are brutal, creative, and well-executed, giving fans the kind of violent thrills they expect from the franchise. Jason is portrayed as a more calculated and menacing figure, adding a fresh layer of menace to his character.
While the Friday the 13th reboot may not break new ground, it’s an enjoyable horror film that honors the spirit of the original while delivering a slick, modern take. Jared Padalecki’s performance as a determined brother adds depth to the typical slasher setup, and the film’s self-awareness of its stereotypes helps keep it fun. For fans looking for a horror movie that delivers on the genre’s expectations without taking itself too seriously, the reboot offers a thrilling ride, earning it a respectable 7/10. It’s not groundbreaking, but it’s certainly worth a watch for fans of both the franchise and the genre.
That's it for today's franchise movie review of Friday the 13th. Hope you enjoyed my thoughts and opinions on these movies. I'd love to hear your own opinions down in the comment section below. See you there.
Till Next Time Friends,
Words by Ali
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