It’s been far too long since slasher fans had a Friday the 13th film. While the wait for the film is seemingly a bit longer, we have an A24 series titled Crystal Lake on the way. The hockey-masked killer has a brand-new look ahead of that relaunch for the iconic franchise.
Adweek dropped an exclusive first look at Jason Voorhees, and he looks…similar to what we all know and love.
“We strive to maintain Jason’s original essence, while continuing to move toward the future with a defined look and feel that takes Jason into his next chapter,” confirms Rob Barsamian. “We’re also working with both familiar and fresh franchise voices to strike that balance.”
For those who don’t know, Rob Barsamian is president of Horror, Inc., the company that’s been a part of the character’s past, present, and future. It’s reported he teamed with horror designer and VFX maestro Greg Nicotero: “We gave Greg our new 13-hole mask and worked together on this full body look that embodies classic Jason,” Barsamian says. “He’s a strong, towering, and terrifying slasher with a machete, his weapon of choice.”
SEE ALSO: Every Friday the 13th Movie Ranked From Worst to Best
The journey to get here hasn’t been easy. With a legal battle holding up any new projects, even squashing a beloved video game, things have seemingly settled. As of 2021, the original film’s screenwriter, Victor Miller, won back domestic rights to the franchise in a case involving director Sean S. Cunningham. Horror, Inc. was also involved. However, we’d soon see a final ruling issued in favor of Miller in 2024. Per Conn, Horror, Inc. is working with Miller, his copyright attorney, and partner in Friday the 13th LLC, Marc Toberoff, on Jason Universe projects going forward.
“We’re listening to fans and actively developing a slate under the Jason Universe banner that spans new movies, gaming, immersive experiences, collectibles, and more,” said Horror, Inc.’s chief marketing officer Sheri Conn. “Our film franchise is one of the most enduring horror properties in cinematic history, and we’re actively reimagining what the next chapter—and the slasher genre overall—can become.”
Described as an “expanded prequel”, Crystal Lake is being overseen by Welcome to Derry showrunner Brad Caleb Lane. Linda Cardellini has been confirmed as Pamela Voorhees, with further casting news expected soon.
Stay tuned for more news from Jason Universe.
