One of the greatest ever.

Rating: Null/10 (3 October 2000)

The original Evil Dead is worth much more to horror fans than a "lead in" to the more popular sequels. Unlike many modern horror films, Evil Dead is actually scary. Evil Dead truly changed the genre. The film created suspense and scares using camera effects, lighting, and intense direction instead of relying on special effects and recycled plots. The harrowing story of kids hiding in an isolated cabin in the woods and being picked off one by one is still good for a chill. The gore is well placed and effective. The music is fantastic and atmospheric. The "possessed" make up is surprisingly effective and gave me nightmares for days afterwards. The scene involving Cheryl and the deck of cards is a great example of the best elements of the movie. The lack of budget adds to the movie, making it seem more realistic. The climax is nerve shattering. The acting isn't the greatest, but it is good enough to make the characters more than cardboard cutouts. Bruce Campbell isn't as brilliant in this film as he was in the others, but his portrayal of a man slowly losing his mind is effective for a young actor.
All in all, the amazing camera work, the kinetic direction, the makeup, the gore, the suspense, and the use of actual scares make Evil Dead one of the greatest horror films ever, and a good way to kick off a fantastic trilogy.