Director Sam Raimi and actor Bruce Campbell each recently released new films that were attempts at recapturing the spirit of their gory and silly 1981 cult classic, "The Evil Dead." Raimi's "Drag Me to Hell" was the more successful attempt, reminding fans what he does best. Campbell's micro-budgeted "My Name Is Bruce" was a bit of fun, but lackluster in its execution. But why bother with those when you have the one that started it all? Yet another perfect midnight selection (the director's uncut version) at the Uptown sees hero Ash (Campbell, sharing the screen with that infamous chin) and five friends heading to a proverbial remote cabin in the woods, discovering a haunted book and unsuspectingly awakening some nasty demons. Blood, guts and tree rape ensue. The energy, wit and inventive filmmaking that Raimi (of "Spider-Man" fame) brings to the first installment in his original trilogy -- only to be bettered in "Evil Dead II" -- more than make up for the familiarity.
about the writer
Erik McClanahan
The "winners" have all been Turkeys, no matter the honor's name.
