Peacock’s highly anticipated “Crystal Lake“ series marks an exciting new era for slasher fans. Showrunner Brad Caleb Kane transforms the franchise by rebuilding its classic mythos from the ground up. Instead of the familiar ruins, the series immerses viewers in a bustling, fully operational 1970s camp setting.
Exceptional Performances Drive the Horror
Linda Cardellini leads the series with a raw, emotional performance as the grieving Pamela Voorhees. Meanwhile, William Catlett brings intense gravitas to local authority figure Levon Brooks. Young Jason Voorhees gets an eerie origin setup through Callum Vinson’s haunting presence. Franchise veteran Nick Cordileone also returns as the iconic doom-prophet Crazy Ralph. Additionally, Devin Kessler, Gwendolyn Sundstrom, Cameron Scoggins, Joy Suprano, Danielle Kotch, and Phoenix Parnevik deliver strong supporting roles.
The Expanded Jason Universe Launches
Rebellious teens and reckless camp counselors keep ignoring ominous warnings, classic genre style. As a result, bloody chaos erupts across the scenic grounds during this inaugural eight-episode season. This premiere lays the foundation for Peacock’s expansive Jason Universe initiative. Fans can stream “Crystal Lake“ now, which we said “should be required viewing” in our review. Don’t worry, the review avoids major spoilers.
.
.
Catch Up on the Original Franchise
With “Crystal Lake” out now, it’s the perfect time to relive the horrors of the main franchise. Get this: the entire collection is now streaming on Peacock, the home of the new series. Start with the new series, then dive into the franchise that still scares us today.
Friday the 13th (1980)
Camp counselors attempting to reopen Crystal Lake face a deadly, hidden stalker. This foundational slasher classic delivers iconic twists and unforgettable gore effects.
Friday the 13th Part 2 (1981)
Five years later, a new set of counselors gathers near the cursed grounds. A bag-headed Jason Voorhees emerges to avenge his mother in his true debut.
Friday the 13th Part III (1982)
Jason targets a group of unsuspecting friends vacationing at a nearby lake house. The sequel famously introduces his iconic hockey mask for the very first time.
Friday the 13th: The Final Chapter (1984)
Escaping from a local morgue, Jason unleashes a bloody rampage against local teens. Young Tommy Jarvis steps up to confront the seemingly unstoppable killer head-on.
Friday the 13th Part V: A New Beginning (1985)
A traumatized Tommy Jarvis moves to a secluded halfway house for troubled youth. Soon after, a mysterious killer wearing a hockey mask resumes the gruesome slaughter.
Friday the 13th Part VI: Jason Lives (1986)
A lightning strike accidentally resurrects Jason as an immortal, undead monster. The reanimated killer relentlessly pursues a brand-new batch of camp counselors.
Friday the 13th Part VII: The New Blood (1988)
A telekinetic teenager accidentally releases Jason from his underwater grave beneath Crystal Lake. Her powerful psychic abilities lead to a unique physical showdown with the supernatural slasher.
Friday the 13th Part VIII: Jason Takes Manhattan (1989)
Jason hitches a ride aboard a graduating high school class’s cruise ship. The deadly voyage eventually spills into New York City’s dark alleys and subway tunnels.
The Perfect Binge
Grab some snacks, get comfy, turn down the lights, and make it a Friday the 13th weekend thanks to Peacock.
