When one thinks of the iconic moments in horror cinema, the Evil Dead franchise undoubtedly emerges as a stalwart representation of the genre. Directed by Sam Raimi, the series is characterized by its unique blend of cartoonish camp, over-the-top gore, and genuine moments of terror. Yet, at the heart of the series’ enduring popularity lies Bruce Campbell’s unforgettable portrayal of protagonist Ash Williams. As fans of the franchise know, Ash is not just a character; he embodies the spirit of horror-comedy, balancing moments of bravery with gut-busting humor.
The 2015 television series, *Ash vs. Evil Dead*, marks a continuation of Campbell’s journey as Ash, adding further layers to a character that has already captured the hearts of fans for decades. The series cleverly picks up three decades after the events of *Army of Darkness*, where Ash finds himself struggling to adapt to a mundane life, all while elegantly weaving in plotlines that resonate with both newer audiences and long-time devotees of the franchise.
Set 30 years after *Army of Darkness*, *Ash vs. Evil Dead* explores the intersection of Ash’s storied past and his present-day life. It’s an interesting twist that Raimi and Campbell have chosen to juxtapose Ash’s chaotic upbringing as a demon-fighter with his current role as a stock boy. This balance of nostalgia and the retrograde nature of Ash’s life makes it more relatable and humorous.
But when evil re-emerges on the horizon, Ash springs back into action, reinvigorating his chainsaw hand and inaccuracies in chainsaw targeting to reclaim his status as humanity’s defender. He isn’t alone in this resurgence; he is joined by a cadre of new characters, notably Pablo (Ray Santiago) and Kelly (Dana DeLorenzo). Together, they confront harrowing supernatural threats and afford fans the chance to witness Ash’s comedic yet gruesome escapades as a seasoned demon-slayer.
This Halloween season offers an excellent opportunity for horror aficionados to delve into the entire *Ash vs. Evil Dead* experience, particularly through the Blu-ray release that consolidates the entire series for home viewing. Originally broadcast on Starz, the collection is typically priced at $50, but savvy shoppers can catch a major discount on Amazon, with the price slashed to $28—a notable 47% decrease. Moreover, the collection comes with the added perk of free shipping for Prime members, making it a compelling choice for those who wish to add to their horror collections.
Alongside the excitement surrounding the show, there’s also the recently unveiled *RetroRealms Arcade*, a charming double-feature compilation spotlighting side-scrolling horror games that continue the thematic legacy of the franchise. Game enthusiasts have given it respectable reviews, applauding its nostalgic graphics and responsive controls.
Although the physical editions of these games faced slight delays, they are slated to launch soon, with various special bundles that will certainly delight fans and collectors alike.
Digging deeper into the offerings surrounding *RetroRealms Arcade*, the special edition promises ample rewards for those willing to splurge. This includes collectibles such as an 8-inch plush of Michael Myers, a retro-inspired Halloween poster, and even playable character DLC, which adds another layer of engagement to the gaming experience. These collectibles serve not just as memorabilia but as a way to honor the legacy that *Evil Dead* and *Halloween* have carved into the collective consciousness of horror culture.
In closing, as Halloween beckons, celebrating the rich history of *Evil Dead* has never been easier. With enticing Blu-ray discounts and an available new gaming experience, fans can immerse themselves once again in the terrifyingly hilarious world that Bruce Campbell and Sam Raimi built. For both new viewers and steadfast enthusiasts, this is the season to embrace the might of Ash Williams and the horrors that await.