Friday the 13th: A New Beginning (1985) - A Slasher Misstep

Simon (0:00)

Today's review is for Friday the 13th, A New Beginning. Friday the 13th, A New Beginning is a film that attempts to continue the legacy of its predecessors, but ultimately falls short of expectations. Released in 1985 and directed by Danny Steinmann, this installment in the iconic horror franchise tries to carve out a new path while staying true to its roots. However, it struggles to find its footing, leaving fans with mixed feelings.

The plot picks up five years after the events of the fourth film, with Tommy Jarvis, played by John Shepherd, now a young adult haunted by his past encounters with the infamous Jason Voorhees. Tommy is sent to a rural halfway house for mentally disturbed teenagers where a new wave of murders begins. The film teases the audience with the possibility of Jason's return, but the real killer's identity remains a mystery until the end. One of the film's major drawbacks is its lack of engaging characters. The residents of the halfway house, including Pam Roberts, played by Melanie Kinnaman, and Reggie the Reckless, played by Shavar Ross, are introduced but not fully developed, making it difficult for viewers to connect with them. The film also introduces a slew of secondary characters who serve as little more than fodder for the killer's rampage. The film's pacing is another issue, as it moves at a sluggish pace, failing to build the tension and suspense that fans of the franchise have come to expect. The kills, a staple of the series, lack the creativity and shock value that made earlier entries memorable. The absence of over-the-top gore, which is often a hallmark of slasher films, leaves the audience wanting more.

Visually, the film lacks the stylistic flair that could have elevated its storytelling. Steinmann's direction feels uninspired, and the film's visuals do little to enhance the horror experience. The opening sequence, featuring a dreamlike encounter with Jason, is one of the few genuinely eerie moments, but it quickly gives way to a more mundane and predictable narrative. Despite its shortcomings, a new beginning does have a few redeeming qualities. The film's attempt to return to the mystery roots of the original Friday the 13th is commendable. Even if it doesn't fully succeed, the twist ending, while divisive among fans, adds an unexpected layer to the story, though it may leave some viewers feeling unsatisfied.

In summary, Friday the 13th. A New Beginning is a film that struggles to live up to the legacy of its predecessors. While it tries to introduce new elements and characters, it ultimately falls into the trap of repetition and predictability. Fans of the franchise may find some enjoyment in its nostalgic nods to the past. But those seeking a fresh and thrilling horror experience may be left disappointed.

That's my take on Friday the 13th A New Beginning, and I'm giving it 2 stars out of a maximum of 5 stars. Thank you for listening. If you've enjoyed this content, please like, subscribe, and I hope to see you next time on Mindset Movie Reviews.