“The Evil Dead” is a 1981 horror film directed by Sam Raimi. This cult classic is well known for its innovative camera techniques, intense atmosphere, and a blend of horror and dark humor. It has become a seminal piece in the horror genre. My first viewing was from behind a couch.
The story centers on five college students who venture into a remote cabin in the woods for a vacation. The group consists of Ash Williams (Bruce Campbell), his girlfriend Linda (Betsy Baker), his sister Cheryl (Ellen Sandweiss), their friend Scott (Hal Delrich), and Scott’s girlfriend Shelly (Sarah York).
Upon arrival, the friends discover a tape recorder and an ancient Sumerian text known as the “Naturom Demonto” (referred to as the Book of the Dead). When they play the tape, it recites incantations from the book, inadvertently awakening demonic forces in the surrounding forest.
As night falls, Cheryl becomes increasingly disturbed by strange occurrences and voices that seem to emanate from the woods. When she ventures outside to investigate, she is attacked and possessed by an unseen force. Cheryl returns to the cabin, but her behavior becomes increasingly erratic and violent, leading the group to confine her in the cellar.
The malevolent spirits possessed the friends one by one, resulting in a gruesome battle for survival. Scott is the next to succumb, followed by Shelly and Linda. Ash is forced to confront his friends, who have become monstrous, undead versions of themselves.
The film culminates in a harrowing showdown between Ash and the possessed entities. In a desperate attempt to survive, Ash dismembers his friends’ bodies and incinerates them, believing this is the only way to stop the evil. Despite his efforts, Ash is left alone, bloodied and traumatized, as dawn breaks. The film ends on an ominous note, suggesting evil is far from vanquished.
Directed by Sam Raimi, “The Evil Dead” showcases his innovative and energetic style. Raimi employed creative camera work, including the now-iconic “shaky cam” technique, to represent the perspective of the unseen evil force. The film’s practical effects, makeup, and gore were groundbreaking for their time, contributing to its shocking and visceral impact. It has since spawned a franchise, including sequels, a television series, and a remake, solidifying its place in horror film history.
Word of advice: don’t fall asleep to “Vet for the Insane” by Fields of the Nephilim as I once did. It will only lead to anxiety and nightmares.
The Other Cinema 