Directed by Steve Miner, 1982
Why am I reviewing Friday the 13th Part III without having reviewed any of the other 9 films in the series (counting Freddy vs. Jason)? First, because Christine and I have horror marathons whenever she comes down during which we try to watch all kinds of random movies we haven’t seen. Second, because it’s the first Friday the 13th in which Jason wears the iconic hockey mask. And C), because it was originally in 3D!!!11one
And that last bit is why you can’t take this movie seriously. It hasn’t been available in its original 3D format (except for on Japanese laser disc) since its theatrical run in 1982, so instead of that wacky third dimension, there are just countless shots of people poking rakes at the camera lens. Over and over and over. EXXXTREEEEMEEEE 3D!!!!
I’m told by the intarweb that the plot kicks off where Part II ended, but since I haven’t seen Part II that’s pretty meaningless. And the rest of the film’s plot is equally meaningless as well. Kids end up at a cabin. Kids get killed at a cabin. Well, some hardcore bikers show up, but still, kids at a cabin is all there is to tell. But this time Jason wears a hockey mask!!
IN EXTREME 3D!!!
But seriously, that’s the only reason to see this movie. It’s interesting to know that this film is when what is arguably the most recognized horror icon (it’s a toss up between Jason’s hockey mask and Freddy Kruger, with Michael Myers coming in a close third) made it’s first appearance, but it’s nothing but a novelty. It’s all about the 3D shots that are depressingly no longer three dimensional.
This is the ultimate horror movie drinking game. If you were to take a drink every time something happened which was obviously originally in 3D, but has been reduced to an unnecessary (but hilarious) extreme close up, you’d probably be gone before Jason actually puts on the hockey mask.
With Friday The 13th Part III has Steve Miner, who happens to be helming the Day of the Dead remake, created a truly memorable slasher flick? Not really, but he did create the most fun you’ll ever have giving yourself and your friends alcohol poisoning.
I love the opening credits to this movie, with the funky music and the titles that just shoot out at ya. This is one of my favorite Friday the 13th’s. Part 2 is worth seeing, I love the way it starts. Plus, it’s Jason’s first appearance and he wears a potato sack over his head instead of a hockey mask.
Hell yeah.
I liked the burlap sack more than the hockey mask.