
Watch The Evil Dead
- NC-17
- 1981
- 1 hr 25 min
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7.4 (212,393)
The 80’s were a time that saw the rise of the horror genre for movie goers. Many of these films developed huge followings but none more so than that of 1981's 'The Evil Dead'. This movie was the catalyst for a lot of things; it helped to make Bruce Campbell a cult figure in the movie industry and it helped stimulate and perpetuate the idea of supernatural and zombie themed movies. Aside from these aspects there is also the aspect that the surreal feel of the movie helped in the inspiration of many great horror movies that followed ‘The Evil Dead.’ The premise of the movie is a simply one; Bruce Campbell’s character; Ash and his friends venture to a remote cabin in the woods that belongs to one of Ash’s college professors. The professor has agreed to loan the cabin to Ash, his girlfriend and another couple for the weekend. However, what no one is aware of is that the professor had been doing some research on an ancient book called the Necronomicon or ‘book of the dead.’ The spells that the book contains are meant to release a demon who thrives on the possession of unsuspecting people. The group arrive at the cabin and begin making themselves comfortable when they notice chains and a padlock covering a trap door in the floor of the cabin. Curious, the group explores and finds a tape recorder as well as the Necronomicon. They play the tape that, unfortunately, contains the professor’s recitation of the incantations from the book that calls for the demons who seek to take possession. One by one as Ash’s friends die and become possessed by the spirits called forth, what was supposed to become a nice and relaxing weekend turns into a fight for survival, leaving Ash to stand alone. The beauty of this film is that it leaves the audience sympathizing with the main character as he fights for survival while trying to overcome the feelings that he has for what once were his friends. Yet, the thrills send chills down your spine at the unique and subtle way the horror springs on the audience. This is a film definitely worth watching for all horror fans.