When a group of college students finds a mysterious book and recording in the old wilderness cabin they've rented for the weekend, they unwittingly unleash a demonic force from the surrounding forest.
To say that the Evil Dead movies are not for everyone is an understatement. A strong stomach is required.
– James Berardinelli,
ReelViews,
15 Oct 1981
fresh:
Short on characterisation and plot but strong on atmospheric horror and visual churns.
– Steve Grant,
Time Out,
26 Jan 2006
fresh:
While injecting considerable black humor, neophyte Detroit-based writer-director Sam Raimi maintains suspense and a nightmarish mood in between the showy outbursts of special effects gore and graphic violence which are staples of modern horror pictures.
– Variety Staff,
Variety,
24 Sep 2007
fresh:
Sam Raimi directed this 1983 horror feature fresh out of film school, and his anything-for-an-effect enthusiasm pays off in lots of formally inventive bits.