Which Evil Dead is Better? A Deep Dive into the Iconic Horror Franchise
Determining the “best” Evil Dead movie is a challenge, primarily because each film offers a unique flavor of horror and comedy. However, if forced to choose, many fans and critics would argue that Evil Dead 2 (1987) is the pinnacle of the franchise. While the original The Evil Dead (1981) introduced the world to the gruesome, low-budget horror, Evil Dead 2 refined the formula, injected a heavy dose of slapstick comedy, and transformed Ash Williams into the iconic, chainsaw-wielding hero we all know and love. It’s not to say other films in the franchise aren’t great – far from it – but Evil Dead 2 often lands atop the list due to its perfect blend of horror, humor, and memorable character development.
The Case for Evil Dead 2: A Perfect Blend
From Horror to Horror Comedy
The original The Evil Dead is a pure, unadulterated horror film. It’s gritty, unsettling, and genuinely terrifying in its presentation of demonic possession and cabin-in-the-woods dread. Evil Dead 2, however, takes a different approach. While it still retains the gore and grotesque visuals, it adds a significant layer of slapstick comedy. This shift isn’t just a tonal change; it’s a masterclass in how to blend horror and comedy seamlessly, elevating both genres. This tonal mix is what makes Evil Dead 2 so rewatchable and enduring.
The Birth of the Iconic Ash Williams
One of the most significant achievements of Evil Dead 2 is its transformation of Ash Williams (played by the legendary Bruce Campbell). In the first movie, Ash was more of a reluctant victim, swept up in the horror unfolding around him. Evil Dead 2, however, sees him embrace his inner hero, albeit a very clumsy, wisecracking one. This is the film where Ash loses his hand, gains his chainsaw, and begins his iconic battle against the Deadites. This version of Ash is the one that has resonated with audiences for decades, cementing Bruce Campbell’s status as a horror icon.
Enhanced Special Effects and Visual Flair
While the original was impressive for its budget, Evil Dead 2 showcases a marked improvement in special effects. The practical effects are gloriously over-the-top, with an abundance of gore, puppetry, and stop-motion animation. Coupled with Sam Raimi’s signature kinetic camerawork, the film is a visual feast. The use of dynamic angles, crash zooms, and a general sense of chaotic energy further amplify its already heightened horror-comedy sensibilities.
The Other Contenders: A Look at the Rest of the Franchise
While Evil Dead 2 frequently takes the top spot, other Evil Dead films also offer plenty to appreciate.
The Evil Dead (1981)
The movie that started it all, The Evil Dead is a low-budget masterpiece. It’s a raw, visceral horror experience that relies on atmosphere, practical effects, and sheer intensity to scare its audience. Its impact on the horror genre cannot be overstated. However, its lack of humor and relatively straightforward plot are where Evil Dead 2 arguably surpasses it.
Army of Darkness (1992)
Army of Darkness continues Ash’s adventures, transporting him to the medieval era. While it’s arguably the most comedic entry in the series, its lighter tone sometimes feels like a departure from the horror roots, which some fans might find less appealing. It is undeniably entertaining, though, and provides the conclusion of the original trilogy.
Evil Dead (2013)
Fede Álvarez’s Evil Dead reboot is a brutal, gore-soaked return to the raw horror of the original. It lacks the comedic elements of Evil Dead 2 and Army of Darkness, and features a new cast of characters. For those craving unadulterated terror, this film certainly delivers. But its lack of Ash and the franchise’s familiar humor has been the subject of debate among fans.
Evil Dead Rise (2023)
Evil Dead Rise takes the franchise in a new direction, moving the demonic horror out of the cabin and into a Los Angeles apartment building. Its urban setting and new family dynamic create a fresh perspective on the Evil Dead formula, showcasing a more modern horror experience. While generally well-received, some fans miss the Ash-centric narratives.
Conclusion
While the subjective nature of artistic preference makes it impossible to declare one film objectively “best,” Evil Dead 2 frequently emerges as the favorite due to its perfect blend of horror, comedy, and memorable character development. It’s a testament to how a sequel can not only match the quality of the original but also surpass it in many respects, further establishing the unique blend of horror and comedy that defines the entire franchise.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Which Evil Dead film should I start with?
The best place to start is with The Evil Dead (1981), as it introduces the franchise’s core concept and characters. Watching them in release order ( The Evil Dead, Evil Dead 2, Army of Darkness, Evil Dead (2013), and Evil Dead Rise) is generally recommended to understand the evolving narrative and tone.
2. Are all the Evil Dead movies connected?
The original trilogy (The Evil Dead, Evil Dead 2, Army of Darkness) are all directly connected, telling Ash Williams’ continuous story. The 2013 Evil Dead is considered a soft reboot that’s also canon but doesn’t directly continue Ash’s story. Evil Dead Rise stands alone in its storyline but carries the established lore forward.
3. Do I need to watch Evil Dead (2013) before Evil Dead Rise?
No, you do not need to watch Evil Dead (2013) before Evil Dead Rise. Evil Dead Rise is a standalone story within the franchise’s universe, so you can enjoy it without prior knowledge of the other films.
4. Why is Evil Dead 2 so different from The Evil Dead?
Evil Dead 2 is different because it takes a more comedic approach compared to the original’s straight horror. This was partly a creative choice, but it was also due to rights issues that prevented Raimi from using footage from the first movie. The opening of Evil Dead 2 is essentially a condensed retelling of the first film.
5. Why was The Evil Dead banned in some countries?
The Evil Dead was banned in some countries due to its high levels of violence and gore. Its explicit depiction of demonic possession and extreme practical effects were deemed too disturbing for some audiences.
6. Is Evil Dead Rise a remake or sequel?
Evil Dead Rise is neither a direct remake nor a sequel in the traditional sense. It is a standalone entry in the Evil Dead universe, featuring new characters and a new setting, while retaining the core concepts of the franchise.
7. Is there a specific order to watch the Evil Dead movies?
While you can watch them in any order, it is recommended to watch them in release order: The Evil Dead (1981), Evil Dead 2 (1987), Army of Darkness (1992), Evil Dead (2013), and Evil Dead Rise (2023).
8. Why does Evil Dead 2 ignore The Evil Dead?
Evil Dead 2 doesn’t ignore the original; it essentially re-tells the beginning, but with a focus on Ash. The opening of Evil Dead 2 acts as a recap due to the rights issues mentioned earlier.
9. What makes Evil Dead 2 the best of the series?
Many consider Evil Dead 2 to be the best due to its perfect balance of horror and comedy, the development of Ash into a beloved anti-hero, and the improved special effects. It successfully expanded on the original’s premise while creating something unique.
10. Is Evil Dead (2013) a good remake?
Evil Dead (2013) is generally considered a successful reboot that honors the spirit of the original while updating its horror sensibilities for a modern audience. It does lack the overt humor of other entries, which some fans appreciate and others miss.
11. Was Evil Dead (1981) a box office success?
Despite its low budget, The Evil Dead was a box office success, grossing millions and jumpstarting the careers of Sam Raimi and Bruce Campbell.
12. What’s the connection between Evil Dead Rise and the previous films?
The connection between Evil Dead Rise and previous films lies in the shared lore and the presence of the Necronomicon Ex-Mortis (the Book of the Dead). Though set in a new location and with new characters, it’s still part of the same cinematic universe.
13. Why did Evil Dead 2 have censorship issues?
Evil Dead 2 faced censorship issues due to its high levels of violence and gore. Despite aiming for an R rating, its graphic content caused issues with some rating boards.
14. What is the best demon to play as in the Evil Dead Game?
In the Evil Dead: The Game, the Necromancer is often considered the best demon for both beginners and advanced players. Its skills are strong and versatile, making it a formidable opponent.
15. Who is the strongest survivor in the Evil Dead Game?
Many consider Ash Williams (Army of Darkness) and Lord Arthur to be among the strongest survivors in Evil Dead: The Game. Their abilities and skills provide strong advantages in combat and team support.