Friday the 13th (1980)

About Friday the 13th

Friday the 13th is an American horror movie that was directed by Sean S. Cunningham and written by Victor Miller. The movie revolves around a group of teenage camp counselors who are murdered one by one by an unknown killer while attempting to re-open an abandoned summer camp. The detailed plot carries suspense, thriller and fear in classic slasher style.

Making / Production

Produced and directed by Sean S. Cunningham, the film was intended to be an exploitation of the success of John Carpenter's Halloween (1978). It was filmed at Camp No-Be-Bo-Sco in New Jersey in the autumn of 1979 with a budget of about $550,000.

Actors

• Betsy Palmer: Playing the role of Pamela Voorhees, Jason's revengeful mother, Betsy portrayed her character's dark and vengeful side artfully, providing a major shock in the movie's climax.
• Adrienne King: As the character, Alice Hardy, Adrienne delivered an admirable performance, eventually being the 'final girl' surviving the bloody massacre.
• Harry Crosby: Playing the role of Bill, Harry brings a well-rounded character to the screen, meeting his sad end in a shocking sequence.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The film was initially going to be titled "Long Night at Camp Blood".
• The movie spawned numerous sequels, a television series and crossed over with the Nightmare on Elm Street franchise.
• Betsy Palmer took the role of Pamela Voorhees only because she wanted to buy a new car.

Awards

While the movie didn't win any major awards, its cultural impact was profound enough that it is regarded as a cult classic.

Quotes

• "Kill her, Mommy. Kill her. Don’t let her get away, Mommy. Don’t let her live." - Young Jason Voorhees.
• "You're doomed! You're all doomed!" - Crazy Ralph.

Music, Soundtrack

• The chilling theme music was composed by Harry Manfredini, and its signature 'ki-ki-ki, ma-ma-ma' is recognized worldwide.
• Manfredini's score has been released numerous times on different labels, pointing at its continued popularity among fans.