Ranking Every Friday the 13th Movie — From Worst to Scariest Jason Ever
New York: Who didn’t jump the first time Jason’s hockey mask glided into frame? For those growing up on VHS nights and horror marathons, Friday the 13th is more than slasher fodder—it’s a nostalgia-soaked rite of passage. Whether you’re a retro horror hound or just getting into spooky season mode, this ranking brings back those terrifying Monday movie memories (Friday the 13th vibes included).
Some movies hit like a masterclass in suspense while others… well, let’s just say Jason’s charm faded like spoiling milk. But there’s something oddly magnetic about each entry—twisted charm, iconic kills, and that unforgettable theme song. So cozy up or cover your eyes; we’re ranking all 12 films based on emotional atmosphere, scare level, and how totally badass Jason is.
From the franchise’s humble origins to its wild experimental detours, this guide is your all‑in one hunt for which installment still haunts—and which one should stay buried under Crystal Lake. Ready? Let’s discover where your favorite screams land.
Worst Friday the 13th Movie – Friday the 13th Part VIII: Jason Takes Manhattan
Fans often agree this one belongs at the bottom. Jason barely hits New York, and much is shot in Vancouver, making the big-city premise feel flat . With watered-down kills and a PG-13 edge, it lost that raw slasher grit.
Jason Goes to Hell: The Final Friday – Runner-up Least Scary
This supernatural detour sidetracked the franchise. Critically panned and box office flopped, the ghost-possession plot sidelined classic Jason, and the lore got tangled.
Jason X – Jason in Space
A kitschy cult favorite—but more for laughs than chills. Critics lambasted it for cheap set design and uneven tone. Think camp with a capital “K.”
Also Read: Don’t Do This on Friday the 13th – Weird Rules & Beliefs
Friday the 13th Part V: A New Beginning – Slasher With a Twist
This one tried something different but lost the essence of what makes Friday fun: Jason. Featuring a copycat killer, misogynist moments, and uneven writing, it’s divisive.
Freddy vs. Jason – Icon Clash, Not Classic
Alright, this one’s fun—but story depth? Not so much. Critics called it familiar, while fans appreciated the mash-up.
Friday the 13th (2009) – A Decent Reboot
A passable remake with nice visuals, but critics derided its plotting and echo of past films.
Friday the 13th Part III – Iconic Mask Debut
First full appearance of Jason’s hockey mask. Dull parts, but the reveal brings the slasher energy.
Friday the 13th Part VII: The New Blood – Classic Massacre With a Twist
Jason vs. Carrie vibes—telekinesis meets killer clown. A fun, weird mash-up with enough gore to satisfy diehards.
Friday the 13th (1980) – The OG Narrator
This one established the creep: tension, twist ending, and no campy gimmicks. Raw, smart, and iconic .
Friday the 13th Part 2 – First Real Jason
Now Jason’s adult, savage, and intentional. Creepy kills, camp legend origin unfolding—solid terror .
Friday the 13th: The Final Chapter (Part IV) – The Crown
Fans and critics agree: this is the high point. Creative violence, strong characters (USB Corey Feldman cameo!), and a satisfying finale.
Friday the 13th Part VI: Jason Lives – Scariest Jason Ever
Lightning reanimates Jason—and with it, an unexpected comedic yet gruesome tone. Predictable? No. Campy creativity? Yes. This is Jason at peak undead horror.