In a move that’s sure to thrill horror enthusiasts, Arrow Video has announced a comprehensive 4K UHD release of the 2009 “Friday the 13th” remake, set to hit shelves this September. This deluxe edition promises to breathe new life into the polarizing film, offering fans a fresh perspective on Jason Voorhees’ bloody return to Camp Crystal Lake.
Directed by Marcus Nispel, known for his 2003 remake of “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre,” the 2009 “Friday the 13th” reimagining took inspiration from the first four films in the iconic slasher franchise. The movie follows Clay Miller (Jared Padalecki) as he searches for his missing sister near the infamous Crystal Lake, unwittingly leading a group of teenagers into the hunting grounds of the masked killer, Jason Voorhees (Derek Mears).
Upon its initial release, the film saw a record-breaking opening weekend, grossing $43.5 million and becoming the second highest-grossing entry in the franchise domestically. However, mixed reviews from critics and fans alike led to a steep 80.4% drop in its second weekend. Despite this, the film ultimately proved financially successful, earning $92.7 million worldwide on a $19 million budget.
Now, over 15 years since Jason’s last big-screen appearance, Arrow Video is offering fans a chance to revisit the film with a wealth of new features. The limited edition 4K release will include both the theatrical cut (97 minutes) and an extended “Killer Cut” (105 minutes), providing viewers with a more comprehensive look at Nispel’s vision for the remake.
The package boasts an impressive array of special features, including new interviews and audio commentaries with director Marcus Nispel and writers Mark Swift and Damian Shannon. Fans can also look forward to a double-sided foldout poster, a collector’s booklet, and a reversible sleeve featuring original and new artwork by Gary Pullin.
Film critic Matt Donato contributes an exclusive video essay titled “A Killer New Beginning,” which explores the merits of the 2009 remake and its potential as a template for future franchise revivals. Additional features include behind-the-scenes featurettes, deleted scenes, and a gallery of promotional materials.
While the “Friday the 13th” franchise has been mired in legal disputes over rights issues in recent years, this release offers a glimmer of hope for fans eagerly awaiting Jason’s return. Although plans for new films remain uncertain, with an A24 prequel series currently undergoing creative reevaluation, this 4K edition serves as a testament to the enduring appeal of the hockey-masked killer.
As the horror community continues to debate the merits of remakes, this deluxe release of the 2009 “Friday the 13th” provides an opportunity to reassess Nispel’s contribution to the franchise. Whether viewers are longtime fans or newcomers to Camp Crystal Lake, the upcoming 4K edition promises a fresh and terrifying experience when it arrives this September.
