The “Friday the 13th” franchise is a renowned American horror series that has expanded into a comprehensive media presence, including twelve slasher films, a television show, novels, comic books, video games, and various merchandise. The narrative primarily revolves around Jason Voorhees, who supposedly drowned as a child at Camp Crystal Lake due to the camp staff’s negligence. This location becomes infamous for a string of mass murders in subsequent years. Jason appears in all the films, either as the murderer or as the inspiration for the killings.

The original movie was released in 1980, inspired by the success of the 1978 film “Halloween,” and was written by Victor Miller and directed by Sean S. Cunningham. The franchise has been financially successful, grossing over $468 million worldwide. It also includes a television series titled “Friday the 13th: The Series,” which, despite its name, does not share characters or settings with the movies but is based on the concept of bad luck and curses associated with the franchise.

For behind-the-scenes insights, “Friday the 13th Part III” is particularly notable. It was the first film in the series to be shot in 3D, which contributed to the rise of 3D horror movies in the 1980s. This installment is also recognized for featuring one of the most intelligent and fastest versions of Jason Voorhees. Released on August 13, 1982, it was the first of five films in the franchise to premiere on a Friday the 13th.

The franchise’s cultural impact is significant, with Jason’s hockey mask becoming an iconic symbol in horror and pop culture. The series has a dedicated fanbase, some of whom create their own films, craft replica costumes, and even get tattoos of the franchise’s artwork.

For more detailed behind-the-scenes information and photos from the franchise, you can explore various resources and archives that document the production of the films and the television series.