Ranking the Friday the 13th Films: From Worst to Best

When it comes to slasher franchises, Friday the 13th is my absolute favorite. Here I rank all ten films of the original series (Parts I–X) from worst to best. I decided to leave out Freddy vs. Jason and the 2009 remake. Here’s how it all stacked up

10. Jason Goes to Hell: The Final Friday (1993)

 

"I’m just not into the supernatural stuff. Jason’s not in it. This is not the movie I wanted it to be."

After the FBI blows Jason to bits in the opening, the film takes a bizarre turn with body-hopping demons and Voorhees family mythology that feels completely disconnected from what made the franchise work. Jason barely appears as himself, instead possessing random people while hunting for a blood relative to complete his resurrection. 

It's a divisive entry that radically shifts the lore with strange supernatural elements. Uneven and bizarre, but it dares to take the series somewhere new. If you approach it with curiosity, then maybe there are a couple of moments worth seeing.

For me this Friday was so bad. I saw it in the theater twice. I was a high school senior, and I went twice because I thought, "No way it was that bad." But it was that bad.

Jason Goes to Hell (1993)

A franchise curveball.

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

 

"What can I say, the trailer for this flick was dope!"

A graduating class boards a cruise ship headed for New York, but Jason stows away and starts picking them off one by one. By the time they reach Manhattan, the body count is already high, and the promised NYC mayhem amounts to only the final act—mostly shot in Vancouver alleys. The concept had so much potential, but budget constraints and the cruise ship setting meant we got far less Big Apple carnage than promised. A polarizing, yet watchable entry to the series.

This was the second Friday the 13th I was able to see at the movies, and boy was I excited. Hyped as Jason wreaking havoc in New York, most of the action actually takes place on a boat. Bummer. A few fun kills couldn't save the disappointment with this entry.

Jason Takes Manhattan (1989)

A polarizing, yet watchable entry to the series.

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8. Jason X (2001)

 

"Ridiculous, silly, and wildly entertaining."

In the year 2455, Jason is thawed out aboard a space station and immediately starts slaughtering the crew. After being frozen for centuries, he's resurrected in the future where he faces off against androids, holographic simulations of Crystal Lake, and even gets a cyborg upgrade.

A completely over-the-top sci-fi take on Jason that puts him in space. More camp than horror, but it embraces the absurdity and delivers plenty of outrageous kills. A guilty-pleasure entry for ridiculous spectacle.

Jason X (2001)

A sci-fi spin with full B-movie energy.

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7. Friday the 13th (1980)

 

"Always takes me back to the first time I saw it in the basement of my grandmother's house. That's how you set a mood."

Camp counselors arrive at Camp Crystal Lake to reopen the cursed camp, ignoring warnings from the locals about its bloody past. One by one, they're picked off by an unseen killer in increasingly brutal ways.

It's not Jason doing the killing; it's his grieving mother, Mrs. Voorhees, seeking revenge for her son's drowning years earlier.

Kinda sad and creepy as all get out. The original is iconic, feels slow by today’s standards, but serves as a perfect launchpad for all the sequels that followed.

Friday the 13th (1980)

The iconic original — slow, suspenseful, and perfectly chilling.

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6. Friday the 13th Part 2 (1981)

 

"Even better than the original… fun slasher with that 80s campiness."

Five years after the original massacre, a new group of counselors-in-training arrive at a camp near Crystal Lake. This time, Jason himself is the killer, wearing a burlap sack over his deformed face, and seeking revenge. The kills are brutal, the tension is high, and final girl Ginny uses psychology to outsmart him. 

The first two entries do the best job of giving you the heebie-jeebies while you watch, balancing suspense and classic slasher thrills.

Friday the 13th Part 2 (1981)

Jason’s first appearance — campy, creepy, and iconic.

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5. Friday the 13th Part V: A New Beginning (1985)

 

"The kills are fun and the characters are the best kind of ridiculous."

Tommy Jarvis, traumatized from his encounter with Jason, is now a teenager living in a halfway house. When a series of murders begin, everyone assumes Jason has returned. But the twist reveals it's actually a copycat killer seeking revenge for his son's death.

It’s not Jason; it’s Roy, but the man behind the mask moves like Jason, busts through doors like Jason. To me, it feels like Jason, so I enjoy it.

A New Beginning (1985)

Another bold but divisive entry in the franchise.

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4. Friday the 13th Part 3 (3D) (1982)

"Gimmicky, but iconic."

Jason continues his killing spree, now targeting a group of friends vacationing at a lakeside cabin. This entry is famous for one thing: Jason finally gets his iconic hockey mask after stealing it from a victim. 

Shot in 3D, the film features plenty of "coming at you" moments with spears, yo-yos, and popcorn flying at the screen. The gimmick does not translate well, but the kills and energy are memorable. Pure early-80s slasher fun.

Friday the 13th Part 3 (1982)

The iconic hockey mask appears — a fan favorite.

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

"This one strikes a balance between supernatural revival and slasher fun, making it a standout."

Tommy Jarvis, still haunted by Jason, digs up his grave intending to cremate the body once and for all. But when lightning strikes Jason's corpse, he's resurrected as an unstoppable undead killer. Now fully supernatural (that's what I thought), Jason returns to Crystal Lake, which has been renamed Forest Green and reopened as a summer camp. 

Clean film with great kills. The box art was dope, and the film's mix of suspense and subtle humor keeps it engaging. 

Jason Lives (1986)

Supernatural slasher fun with dope kills and Tommy Jarvis.

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

"Essential Friday viewing — probably the best entry of the series."

After being "killed" in Part 3, Jason's body is taken to the morgue, where he awakens and escapes. He returns to Crystal Lake for another killing spree, targeting a group of teenagers and a family living nearby, including young Tommy Jarvis, who becomes instrumental in stopping him.

A fan-favorite that solidified Jason's legend. Tighter pacing, memorable kills, and a perfect blend of suspense make it a classic. This could have been an ideal finish to the series

The Final Chapter (1984)

Tight, suspenseful, and unforgettable — a true fan favorite.

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

"Personal nostalgia makes this my top pick."

Tina, a telekinetic teenager haunted by accidentally drowning her father, returns to Crystal Lake for therapy. Her psychic powers accidentally free Jason from his watery grave, and he immediately resumes his killing spree. But this time, he faces an opponent who can fight back with her mind. 

My favorite. The first Friday I saw at the movie theater. Telekinetic Tina introduces a fresh twist, while Kane Hodder takes over the role as Jason, bringing unprecedented physicality to the character. Sure, Friday the 13th is a bit watered down and neutered at this point, but this entry sits at the top of my list with clever kills, strong tension, and memorable visuals. 

The New Blood (1988)

Telekinetic powers, suspense, and creativity at their peak.

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Final Thoughts

After revisiting the Friday the 13th films, it’s clear that not all films are equal. Jason Goes to Hell disappointed with its supernatural detour, and Jason Takes Manhattan underwhelmed with promises of a memorable NYC setting. 

The original Friday the 13th set the stage, Part 2 introduced Jason, Part 3 gave us the iconic hockey mask, and The Final Chapter delivered a thrilling finish.

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Friday The 13th Movies Ranked Worst to Best

My favorite series of them all. The series that started my interest in the horror genre. Hold on to your seats, horror aficionados, because we're diving into the spine-chilling universe of Friday the 13th movies!

Brace yourself for a rollercoaster ride as we rank these films from the depths of terror to the pinnacle of horror greatness. Get ready for the ultimate Jason Voorhees experience!

11. Jason Goes To Hell: The Final Friday 

Kicking off our fright fest is Jason Goes To Hell: The Final Friday. This film had my heart pounding with anticipation upon its release in '93, only to shatter my expectations.

So disappointing that I gave it a second chance, heading back to the theater the following weekend, hoping for a glimmer of redeeming fear factor beyond Jason's fleeting appearance.

Alas, it left me hanging with a fun tease of Freddy Krueger's glove, leaving me craving more. That 'more' didn't come for several years later.

10. Jason X

From space, where no one can hear you scream, we crash-land into Jason X. Initially dismissed as a laughable idea of Jason in space, this flick eventually carved a niche in our horror-loving hearts. Outrageous kills turned this initially silly affair into a cult classic.

I rented Jason X from Blockbuster Video. After being disappointed with Jason Takes Manhattan and The Final Friday years before I was not going to the movie theater to watch Jason in space.

Jason X takes the iconic horror franchise to new and uncharted territory, boldly launching Jason Voorhees into the depths of space.

The very concept of placing the notorious serial killer in a futuristic setting much like the Critters and Leprechaun franchises before him initially raised eyebrows and skepticism among fans and critics alike.

Despite the skepticism, the film's outlandish yet thrilling kills and inventive scenarios became the driving force behind its unexpected charm. What began as an ostensibly far-fetched and perhaps even comical idea gradually transformed into a beloved cult classic within the realm of horror cinema.

Its unique blend of horror, science fiction, and sheer audacity ultimately solidified Jason X as an unexpected gem that continues to resonate with fans, proving that even in the darkest reaches of space, Jason's legacy of terror endures.

9. Friday the 13th Part VIII: Jason Takes Manhattan

Friday the 13th Part VIII: Jason Takes Manhattan was the 2nd Jason movie I saw in the theater. Summer of 89 introduced me to my first Friday the 13th disappointment. Of course, I still watched this movie repeatedly on video years later. I mean it's Jason the icon.

Promising a city rampage, this '89 disappointment forced us through a tedious boat ride before delivering snippets of Jason's antics in the Big Apple. The premise of Jason Voorhees venturing beyond the confines of Crystal Lake to wreak havoc in the bustling metropolis of New York City initially generated considerable excitement.

However, the film's execution fell short of these expectations. The movie begins with that prolonged journey aboard a boat, delaying the promised rampage in the urban landscape.

Despite this slow build-up, the glimpses of Jason's menacing presence in the concrete jungle of New York managed to salvage some thrilling moments. Notably, the scenes featuring Jason stalking victims in the eerie atmosphere of the subway, confronting New York street gangs, and knocking a boxer's head square off his shoulders, left an indelible mark in the annals of horror history.

These particular sequences showcased Jason's resilience and ruthless pursuit, albeit in a somewhat truncated manner. Despite its evident flaws and the disparity between the promised concept and its execution, these sporadic instances of horror amidst the iconic backdrop of New York City have endured, securing a place in my memory and contributing to the film's lasting impact within the franchise's lore.

8. Freddy vs. Jason 

The clash of titans we waited a decade for—enter Freddy vs. Jason. This campy crossover felt more like a collectible than a spine-tingling showdown. While an interesting addition, the thrill of anticipation didn’t translate to satisfaction.

Freddy vs. Jason was a monumental event in the horror genre, heralding the long-awaited collision between two of cinema's most iconic villains. I had yearned for this epic face-off between Freddy Krueger and Jason Voorhees for nearly a decade. The announcement of this crossover film in 2003 sparked immense excitement and anticipation among horror enthusiasts worldwide.

The blend of campy elements and a deliberate focus on the clash between these horror icons created an atmosphere that felt more like a cherished collectible or fan service than a genuinely chilling and enthralling showdown.

With the thrill of witnessing Freddy and Jason finally share the screen, the film struggled to translate the heightened anticipation into complete audience satisfaction. The fusion of the distinct styles and mythologies of the two franchises presented challenges in maintaining a cohesive and satisfying storyline, ultimately leaving me yearning for a more impactful and nuanced execution of this long-awaited battle between the titans of terror.

I Bought Freddy vs. Jason on DVD at the Virgin Mega Store in Union Square in New York. By the time this one was released in the theaters in 2003, 10 years after it was teased, I was renting out an apartment in Washington DC while living and working in New York City.

A lot had changed in my life, but I eventually got around to pressing play on the Freddy vs Jason disc. I didn't have any excitement for their clash anymore. A campy film that I'm happy to have in my collection, but I find no real joy in watching it.

7. Friday the 13th Part 2 

Picture this: a dark, eerie basement setting the stage for a Friday the 13th Part 2 movie viewing. With blanket-covered heads, I navigated the chills alongside the original. This sequel's atmosphere and sequel-to-original experience created an unforgettable horror night.

Staying overnight at Grannie's house in the mid-80s. I was in the basement. The basement was dark and dank.

The whole setting was creepy as hell. I was spooked but I loved horror movies. Friday the 13th Part 2 was playing back-to-back with the original Friday the 13th. I watched much of it with a blanket over my head.

Now we get to the good stuff.

Friday the 13th Part 2 cast a chilling aura that lingered in the minds of audiences, setting the stage in a foreboding manner right from the start. The film's ominous tone was palpable, immediately immersing me in its sinister world.

Navigating the sequel's chilling narrative alongside the memory of the original "Friday the 13th" intensified the horror experience. This sequel-to-original experience deepened my emotional investment, creating an unforgettable night of horror where the past merged seamlessly with the present, amplifying the impact of each suspenseful twist and terrifying revelation.

The film's ability to maintain an atmosphere of fear, utilizing the eerie settings and the relentless pursuit of its antagonist, contributed to the creation of an unforgettable cinematic experience.

Friday the 13th Part 2 not only continued the legacy of the franchise but also solidified its place in the pantheon of classic horror, offering me a night of fright that transcended mere entertainment, becoming a visceral and unforgettable encounter with fear itself.

6. Friday the 13th 

Friday the 13th was the first part of the doubleheader airing that creepy night in Grannie's basement. This is where I initially started watching with the blanket over my head. 

They did dark and scary very well during this period. Pamela Voorhees with her knit sweater looked especially nightmarish. You just can't go wrong with the first two entries in this series.

Friday the 13th stands as a foundational pillar in the realm of horror, igniting a passion for the genre in me. The film's mastery of darkness and its spine-chilling narrative set the stage for an unforgettable initiation into the world of Jason Voorhees and the terror of Crystal Lake.

My introduction to the series within the confines of Grannie's basement during a doubleheader screening added an extra layer of eerie ambiance to the experience.

The atmosphere of darkness and the tension in the air combined to create an immersive and frightening setting, compelling me to watch with a blanket over my head, shielding myself from the onscreen horrors while simultaneously heightening the suspense.

During its era, Friday the 13th demonstrated a mastery of crafting darkness and fear. Pamela Voorhees, with her seemingly innocent knit sweater juxtaposed against her nightmarish presence, embodied the essence of terror.

The film's ability to weave a tale of vengeance and horror, coupled with its skillful manipulation of suspense and the unknown, showcased the artistry behind creating a truly terrifying experience.

The first two entries in the series hold a special place in the hearts of horror aficionados due to their ability to capture the essence of fear and the unknown. These films set a precedent for the franchise, establishing a legacy of terror that captivated audiences and served as a testament to the mastery of horror during that period.

They exemplify a time when storytelling, atmosphere, and the portrayal of genuine terror were at their pinnacle, solidifying their status as quintessential classics in the horror genre.

5. Friday the 13th Part VI: Jason Lives 

This film is #1 on a lot of lists. Super entertaining movie that follows the Tommy Jarvis plotline from The Final Chapter. I did not appreciate how great this flick is upon first watching it. Quite frankly it is great. The kills are A++. 

My only complaint about this film was the lack of scare factor. I found it too bright in certain areas. On re-watch, I find it very clean. Cleaner than the films in my top 4. It also has my favorite cover artwork.

Picking up the narrative threads from The Final Chapter, this film further delves into the character of Tommy Jarvis as he grapples with the haunting legacy of Jason Voorhees. Despite initial reservations about its scare factor, the movie captivated me through its unique strengths and distinguishable elements.

What Jason Lives might have lacked in sheer terror or the eerie atmosphere prevalent in some of its predecessors, it compensated for with an abundance of thrilling and inventive kill sequences.

The film elevated the slasher genre by showcasing an array of top-notch kills that not only shocked but also showcased the creativity behind the gruesome deaths orchestrated by Jason Voorhees. These memorable kill scenes became the focal point, earning my admiration for their execution and adding to the film's entertainment value.

The movie's cleanliness and crispness in cinematography and setting brought a bright flavor to the franchise, creating a contrasting yet refreshing ambiance that allowed the horror and story elements to stand out even more starkly against the brighter backdrop.

The film's visual style contributed to its distinctiveness, showcasing a level of innovation and willingness to experiment within the confines of the franchise, garnering appreciation for its attempt to carve a new path while remaining faithful to the essence of the series.

Friday the 13th Part VI: Jason Lives succeeded in making its mark by offering a thrilling experience filled with inventive kills, a departure from the established tone, and a crisp visual presentation. Its ability to evolve within the confines of the franchise while delivering on the iconic elements that fans cherish cemented its place as a beloved entry in the saga of Crystal Lake's terror.

4. Friday the 13th: The Final Chapter 

As a huge fan of The Goonies, I was excited to see that Corey Feldman was in a "Jason" movie. No disappointment here. The movie is dark and fun. A grounded follow-up from part 3 and the perfect setup for part 6. This episode resets the series and gives direction and purpose to the series again.

The Final Chapter stands as a pivotal installment in the Friday the 13th franchise, marking a significant turning point in the series. Embracing the essence of '80s horror classics, the film pays homage to the era while delivering a dark and exhilarating narrative that redefines the trajectory of the Jason Voorhees saga.

This sequel serves as a critical juncture that redefines the series by seemingly closing a chapter while also revitalizing the franchise. Aptly titled The Final Chapter, it attempts to bring closure to the Jason Voorhees storyline, albeit temporarily. The film presents a narrative that feels darker and more intense than its predecessors.

In addition to its chilling atmosphere, The Final Chapter succeeds in resetting the series. It introduces new elements that provide a fresh direction and renewed purpose to the franchise.

By incorporating Corey Feldman's character, Tommy Jarvis, the film not only introduces a compelling protagonist but also sets the stage for a different kind of interaction with Jason Voorhees. This dynamic shift in character dynamics opens up new possibilities for the series, setting the groundwork for future installments.

Ultimately, Friday the 13th The Final Chapter emerges as a standout sequel that revitalizes the franchise. Its dark and intense tone, combined with the introduction of new characters and a renewed purpose, not only captures the essence of '80s horror classics but also sets the stage for the series to evolve in new and intriguing ways.

 3. Friday the 13th Part V: A New Beginning 

Damn you Roy!

And just like that, the season changed. We go back to just another slasher flick, but this one is damn entertaining and brutal. I have to say it...pure entertainment. Sure I was slightly disappointed and surprised to find out Jason wasn't doing the dirt here, but his spirit is all in this film...

Friday the 13th Part V: A New Beginning's change in direction allowed the film to focus on the psychological aspects of horror and the idea of a legacy or copycat killer, adding a layer of mystery and suspense to the storyline.

Friday the 13th Part V: A New Beginning succeeds in delivering sheer entertainment through its gripping and thrilling sequences. The jaw-dropping ax scene with the guy on the bike, in particular, stands out as a prime example of pure, unadulterated horror delight. This memorable moment, fraught with tension and visceral terror, encapsulates the film's ability to shock and captivate audiences without solely relying on Jason's presence.

While it may not have aligned with the traditional expectations of a Friday the 13th installment, A New Beginning managed to carve its own niche within the franchise by offering a different flavor of horror. It surprises and entertains through intense sequences, such as the unforgettable scene where Junior gets his head chopped off, ensuring its place as a memorable and distinctive entry in the series.

2. Friday the 13th Part 3

Ah, the allure of 3D movies was irresistible, especially when it came to the tantalizing previews for Friday the 13th Part 3 back in 1982. I vividly recall catching these previews during an overnight stay at my cousin's place.

I was fortunate to have older cousins, and this particular one shared a trendy condo with friends in Maryland. MTV was a constant presence on their television, pulsating with hip music and cutting-edge content. When the previews for Friday the 13th 3D aired, it felt like a cultural moment—a convergence of horror and coolness that was hard to resist.

As the late '80s rolled around, my aunt, who had a membership at a local Erol's Video, opened up a gateway for me to delve deeper into the realm of horror films.

Until then, my exposure had been limited to the first two installments of the Friday the 13th series. Thanks to Erol's, I eagerly embarked on a journey to catch up on the series, starting with Part 3 in 1987. With Part 6 on the horizon for a video release, I had a considerable amount of ground to cover in the franchise.

The vivid memories of the roller-haired lady, the quirky biker gang, the eerie barn setting, and, of course, the iconic mask drew me in completely. Each element resonated, pulling me deeper into the world of Crystal Lake's haunting saga, and I was wholeheartedly captivated.

1. Friday the 13th Part VII: The New Blood 

As I've previously mentioned in My Favorite Friday The 13th Movie post, Part VII: The New Blood holds the esteemed position as my number one favorite in the series.

Having meticulously rented the preceding films to catch up with the saga, the opportunity to witness The New Blood in theaters in 1988 was an exhilarating prospect.
It marked a significant milestone, being the first Friday the 13th movie I experienced on the big screen, and it happened to be on the Friday night of its opening weekend—a serendipitous and spine-tingling moment for any fan.

The sheer excitement of being immersed in the chilling atmosphere of Crystal Lake, surrounded by fellow horror enthusiasts, remains etched in my memory.

Every moment of the film was a thrill, but one kill in particular stood out—the unforgettable sleeping bag kill, an iconic and brutal sequence that left an indelible impression. Its impact was so profound that the franchise revisited this memorable kill in later years.

Admittedly, upon multiple viewings over the years, it's undeniable that The New Blood exudes a certain level of cheesiness, much like its predecessors. Yet, despite its campy elements, the movie retains a special place in my heart.

The excitement and thrill of experiencing my inaugural Jason movie in the theater persist even after all these years. It serves as a nostalgic reminder of the electrifying energy and unbridled enthusiasm I felt while witnessing the terror of Crystal Lake unfold on the big screen, an excitement that time has not managed to diminish.