Friday the 13th Films Ranked by Box Office Takings

Exploring the Friday the 13th Film Franchise: Unraveling the Box Office Hits

In the vast realm of horror cinema, slasher films have carved out a niche as one of the most enduringly popular subgenres. Among these, none are quite as iconic as the Friday the 13th film franchise, featuring the infamous Jason Voorhees. Since its inception in 1980, the franchise has left an indelible mark on the horror landscape, captivating audiences with its blend of terror and suspense.

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The Phenomenon of Friday the 13th

Unlike its counterparts in the Halloween and A Nightmare on Elm Street franchises, Friday the 13th movies are more akin to mainstream cult classics, occasionally breaking through with major audiences. Despite not reaching blockbuster status, many of the sequels proved highly profitable due to their modest budgets. The allure of Camp Crystal Lake continues to captivate horror enthusiasts worldwide, ensuring the franchise’s enduring popularity.

Ranking the Box Office Performances

Let’s delve into the box office performances of every Friday the 13th movie, from the lowest to the highest grossing, uncovering insights into their success and impact.

12. Friday the 13th Part VIII: Jason Takes Manhattan (1989)

Despite its intriguing premise of Jason wreaking havoc in New York City, this installment disappointed fans and critics alike. With a global box office gross of just over $14 million, it fell short of expectations, signaling a need for reinvention in subsequent films.

11. Jason Goes To Hell: The Final Friday (1993)

Presented as the “final” chapter, this entry failed to ignite enthusiasm among audiences, earning a modest $15 million worldwide. Despite attempts to inject new life into the franchise, its lackluster performance forced a hiatus in the series.

10. Jason X (2001)

A bold foray into science fiction territory, this installment divided fans and critics with its departure from traditional slasher tropes. While it garnered over $17 million globally, its reception underscored the need for a return to the franchise’s roots.

9. Friday the 13th Part VII: New Blood (1988)

Released amidst waning interest in the slasher genre, this installment struggled to make an impact, earning under $20 million worldwide. Despite introducing supernatural elements, it failed to rejuvenate the series.

8. Friday the 13th Part VI: Jason Lives (1986)

Bucking the trend of declining quality in sequels, this entry injected new life into the franchise with its self-aware tone and engaging storyline. Grossing over $19 million globally, it demonstrated the enduring appeal of Jason Voorhees.

7. Friday the 13th Part 2 (1981)

As the first true sequel featuring Jason as the antagonist, this film laid the groundwork for the series’ future success. Its global gross of over $21 million solidified its status as a seminal entry in the franchise.

6. Friday the 13th: A New Beginning (1985)

Despite deviating from the Jason-centric formula, this installment maintained audience interest with its tantalizing hints of the killer’s return. Grossing over $21 million worldwide, it ensured the franchise’s resilience in the face of changing tastes.

5. Friday the 13th: The Final Chapter (1984)

With its gripping narrative and creative death sequences, this entry became a fan favorite, grossing over $32 million globally. Introducing recurring protagonist Tommy Jarvis, it set the stage for future installments.

4. Friday the 13th Part III (1982)

Capitalizing on the 3D craze of the early ’80s, this installment stood out with its innovative use of technology and iconic imagery. Grossing over $36 million worldwide, it underscored the franchise’s enduring appeal.

3. Friday the 13th (1980)

Launching the franchise with a modest budget and a chilling storyline, this film became a cultural phenomenon, grossing over $39 million globally. Its shocking plot twist and memorable characters set the stage for decades of horror.

2. Friday the 13th (2009)

In a landscape dominated by horror remakes, this reimagining stood out with its blend of nostalgia and modern sensibilities. Grossing over $91 million worldwide, it showcased the enduring popularity of Jason Voorhees.

1. Freddy vs. Jason (2003)

In a crossover event of epic proportions, this film pitted two horror icons against each other, captivating audiences with its high-octane action and thrilling showdowns. Grossing over $116 million globally, it remains the highest-grossing film in the franchise.

Unraveling the Legacy

While the Friday the 13th film franchise has had its share of ups and downs, its enduring legacy continues to resonate with horror aficionados worldwide. From the iconic imagery of Jason Voorhees to the spine-tingling suspense of Camp Crystal Lake, each installment has left an indelible mark on the genre.

As fans eagerly await the next chapter in Jason’s saga, one thing remains clear: the legend of Friday the 13th will continue to haunt the dreams of audiences for years to come.