Friday the 13th

Name: Friday the 13th
Director: Sean S. Cunningham
Genre: Horror
Released: 1980-01-01
Duration: 95 min
Rating: 6.4
Cast: Adrienne King, Betsy Palmer, Kevin Bacon, Jeannine Taylor, Harry Crosby

1980Dir. Sean S. Cunningham1h 35m

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Runtime1h 35m

Released1980

Budget$550K

Box office$59.8M

DirectorSean S. Cunningham

About This Movie

Friday the 13th is one of those films that really shaped the slasher genre. The pacing is relentless, almost suffocating at times, with that notable score heightening the tension. Sean S. Cunningham creates a murky atmosphere that feels claustrophobic yet gives just enough space for the dread to build. The performances are pretty solid for a low-budget affair—especially Betsy Palmer as Mrs. Voorhees, who brings an unsettling presence. And let’s talk about the practical effects; Tom Savini’s work here is gnarly and creative, making the kills feel raw and raw. It’s interesting how it plays with that summer camp nostalgia, turning it on its head. Definitely a film that started a franchise and left a mark on horror cinema.

Released on May 9, 1980, by Paramount PicturesFilmed primarily in New Jersey, at Camp NobeboscoTom Savini crafted the film's practical effectsBudget was around $550,000; grossed over $39 million