I’m just going to start by saying that as a fan of the 1981 film, The Evil Dead, starring Bruce Campbell, I was a little afraid to go see the remake. Personally, I thought the previews looked corny and part of me was afraid that one of my favorite horror movies was going to be butchered — although with The Evil Dead’s low, low budget I’m sure anything would be a bit better. Thankfully I can say that the 2013 remake of Evil Dead was nothing short of amazing.

In an attempt to kick their friend Mia (Jane Levy) of her drug addiction, four friends, David (Shiloh Fernandez), Eric (Lou Taylor Pucci), Olivia (Jessica Lucas), and Natalie (Elizabeth Blackmore), head out to Mia and David’s parents cabin in the woods for a weekend intervention. But what starts out as a fun time quickly turns sour when they discover dead animals and a strange book in the basement. Curious about the book, Eric begins looking through it and accidentally unleashes an evil set to kill them all.

I thought the 2013 remake definitely added some elements that enhanced the story, including a new opening scene that gives some background to what will be happening. But, although it was super gory, sometimes to the point of overkill, it wasn’t exactly scary. More jumpy. I will admit to hiding my eyes quite a few times, but it was either because I knew something was about to jump out or someone was getting mutilated. Not that this is a bad thing. I think it allows for people who aren’t really into scary movies to go see it. As long as they don’t mind blood and gore.

I also loved the actors they chose. I sometimes watch Suburgatory on TV, so it was a pleasant surprise seeing Jane Levy playing a role that was so far away from her character on the show. She did a great job playing possessed.

However, I will admit that I was a little sad they didn’t have any iconic quotes from the original. I also did miss the creamed corn and claymation at the end. And let’s not forget that beautiful blue screen moon. But in a way it’s kind of good that the two movies branched away from each other, each keeping their own memorable qualities, as well as the budget allotted.

So, if you’re looking for a movie with blood, gore, and lots of “WHY THE HELL ARE THEY GOING IN THERE!?!” moments, check out the remake of The Evil Dead (but I recommend seeing the original too).

Oh, and if you’re a fan of the original Evil Dead, make sure to stay after the credits for a nice little surprise. 🙂

Grade: A