Welcome to Crystal Lake|Feb. 11, 2009|United States|97 Min.|R
Genre: Action;Adventure;Horror;Mystery;Thriller;Violence(Slasher)
Description: “Friday the 13th” is an iconic American horror series known for its twelve slasher films, a TV show, novels, comics, video games, and merchandise. The story revolves around Jason Voorhees, a fictional character who allegedly drowned as a child at Camp Crystal Lake due to staff neglect. Years later, the lake becomes infamous for its “curse” and is the site of multiple brutal killings. Jason is central to the franchise, either as the perpetrator or the reason behind the murders. The original film, inspired by the success of “Halloween” (1978), was written by Victor Miller and directed by Sean S. Cunningham. The series has earned over $468 million globally, making it one of the most lucrative horror franchises until “Halloween” (2018) surpassed it.
Producer Frank Mancuso Jr. also developed the TV series “Friday the 13th: The Series” after the release of “Jason Lives.” While unrelated to the films in terms of characters or settings, the show embraced the theme of “bad luck and curses,” a concept synonymous with the franchise. When Paramount owned the series, four films were adapted into novels. After New Line Cinema acquired the rights, Cunningham produced two more films and a crossover featuring Freddy Krueger from “A Nightmare on Elm Street.” Under New Line, the franchise expanded with novellas and comic books.
Despite mixed critical reception, “Friday the 13th” remains a cultural phenomenon, celebrated for its impact on horror and pop culture. Fans have created their own films, replicated Jason’s iconic hockey mask costume, and even adorned their bodies with franchise-inspired tattoos. Jason’s mask has become a globally recognized symbol of horror. The series’ enduring popularity cements its status as one of America’s most successful media franchises.
Cast director: Marcus Nispel
Cast actor: Jared Padalecki, Danielle Panabaker, Amanda Righetti, Travis Van Winkle, Aaron Yoo, Arlen Escarpeta, Julianna Guill, Jonathan Sadowski, Ben Feldman, Ryan Hansen
Original name: Friday the 13th