Introduction to the Evil Dead Franchise
The Evil Dead franchise has been a staple in the horror genre since its inception in the early 1980s. With its unique blend of horror, comedy, and over-the-top action, it has garnered a cult following over the years. The series, created by Sam Raimi, follows the misadventures of Ash Williams, played by Bruce Campbell, as he battles against demonic forces.
The Evil Dead Series Overview
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The Evil Dead (1981) - Directed by Sam Raimi, this is the film that started it all. It follows a group of friends who unwittingly unleash demonic forces while staying in a remote cabin.
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Evil Dead II (1987) - A sequel and partial remake of the original, this film ramps up the comedy while maintaining the horror elements.
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Army of Darkness (1992) - The third installment takes a more comedic turn, with Ash Williams transported back to the Middle Ages to battle the undead.
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Evil Dead (2013) - A reboot of the original, this film offers a more serious and gory take on the story.
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Evil Dead Rise (2023) - The latest installment in the franchise.
Current Streaming Availability
Subscription Services
- HBO Max: Currently home to Evil Dead Rise (2023)
- Starz: The original 1981 The Evil Dead is available through:
- The Starz app
- Amazon Prime Video (with Starz add-on)
- Hulu (with Starz add-on)
- Netflix: Availability varies by region
- Shudder: Horror-focused service that often features Evil Dead content
Digital Purchase/Rental Options
You can buy or rent the films on various platforms:
Physical Media Options
For collectors and quality enthusiasts, the entire franchise is available on:
- 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray
- Standard Blu-ray
- DVD
These can be purchased through retailers like:
Free (Ad-Supported) Options
Some Evil Dead movies occasionally appear on free streaming services like:
- Pluto TV
- Tubi
- Crackle
TV Series: Ash vs Evil Dead
The TV series continuation of the original trilogy is available on:
- Netflix (select regions)
- Starz
- Digital purchase platforms
Note: Streaming availability varies by region and changes frequently. It's recommended to check JustWatch for the most up-to-date streaming information in your area.
For more information on the Evil Dead series, you can visit the official website or explore fan communities on platforms like Reddit. Remember to check your local library as well - many public libraries maintain collections of classic horror films, including the Evil Dead series, available for free borrowing.