Chronological Guide to Enjoying the Full Friday the 13th Movie Marathon

How to Watch the Friday the 13th Movies in Order

If you’re a fan of horror movies, there’s no doubt that the Friday the 13th series holds a special place in your heart. The iconic slasher franchise, which began in 1980, has spawned a plethora of sequels, remakes, and reboots. But for those who want to experience the full saga in chronological order, it can be a bit of a challenge. In this article, we’ll guide you through the correct sequence of watching the Friday the 13th movies to ensure you get the most out of this chilling horror series.

1. Friday the 13th (1980)

The first film in the series, directed by Sean S. Cunningham, is where it all began. This classic slasher movie introduces us to the infamous Camp Crystal Lake and the killer known as Jason Voorhees. The story revolves around a group of teenagers who visit the camp on Friday the 13th, only to be terrorized by Jason, who seeks revenge for the death of his mother. This film is a must-watch for any fan of the series.

2. Friday the 13th Part 2 (1981)

The second film in the series picks up immediately after the first, with the survivors of the first film returning to Camp Crystal Lake to uncover the truth about Jason’s origins. This film delves deeper into Jason’s backstory and introduces us to his mother, Pamela Voorhees. It’s a thrilling continuation of the story that sets the stage for the rest of the series.

3. Friday the 13th Part 3 (1982)

In this installment, the focus shifts to a group of counselors at Camp Crystal Lake, who are unaware of the danger lurking in the shadows. This film is notable for its use of practical effects and the introduction of a new character, Tommy Jarvis, who becomes the central figure in the series. Part 3 is a great way to continue the story and introduce new elements to the franchise.

4. Friday the 13th: The Final Chapter (1984)

After the events of Part 3, Jason is seemingly defeated, but he returns in this film, leading to a series of confrontations with law enforcement and the camp’s residents. This film marks the end of the original Friday the 13th saga, with Jason facing his ultimate demise. It’s a fitting conclusion to the story and sets the stage for the franchise’s revival in the 2000s.

5. Friday the 13th Part VI: Jason Lives (1986)

The first sequel to The Final Chapter, Jason Lives, follows the story of a young boy named Arnie who is able to communicate with Jason’s soul. The film introduces the idea that Jason can come back to life if he is placed in water, which becomes a recurring theme in the series. This film is a thrilling continuation of the story and features some memorable scenes.

6. Friday the 13th Part VII: The New Blood (1988)

This film introduces a new character, Alice Johnson, who becomes the target of Jason after he is accidentally brought back to life. The New Blood is a bit of a departure from the original formula, as it focuses more on the supernatural aspects of the story. It’s still a great entry in the series, though.

7. Friday the 13th Part VIII: Jason Takes Manhattan (1989)

In this film, Jason travels to New York City in search of his mother’s grave. This marks the first time Jason has left Camp Crystal Lake, and it leads to a series of chaotic events in the Big Apple. It’s a fun and campy entry in the series, with plenty of humor mixed in with the horror.

8. Jason Voorhees (1986)

This made-for-television movie serves as a prequel to the original Friday the 13th, focusing on the young Jason Voorhees before he became the killer we know today. It’s a great way to understand Jason’s background and the events that led to his infamous status.

9. Friday the 13th Part IX: Jason Takes Manhattan (1989)

This film is a sequel to Part VIII and continues the story of Jason’s adventures in New York City. It’s a bit of a mess, but it’s still a fun addition to the series.

10. Jason Jrs. (1990)

This made-for-television movie introduces Jason’s son, Jason Jr., who seeks to avenge his father’s death. It’s a short and somewhat forgettable entry in the series, but it’s still worth watching for any fan.

11. Friday the 13th Part X: Halloween Night (1998)

This film marks the return of Jason to Camp Crystal Lake, as a group of teenagers once again find themselves in danger. It’s a solid entry in the series, with some great kills and a return to the formula that made the original films so successful.

12. Jason X (2001)

This science fiction slasher film takes Jason into space, where he encounters a futuristic world and a new group of victims. It’s a unique entry in the series, with a fun and campy approach to the story.

13. Friday the 13th (2009)

This reboot of the franchise re-introduces Jason Voorhees and the iconic Camp Crystal Lake setting. Directed by Marcus Nispel, this film offers a fresh take on the story, with a new cast and a modernized approach to the slasher genre.

14. Friday the 13th (2010)

This sequel to the 2009 reboot continues the story of Jason Voorhees and the danger he poses to Camp Crystal Lake. It’s a solid entry in the series, with a few new twists and turns.

By following this order, you’ll be able to enjoy the Friday the 13th movies in the correct sequence, from the original 1980 film to the latest reboot. Happy watching, and stay safe!