Hey, groovy friends! So you're thinking about diving into the wild and hilarious world of Ash vs Evil Dead? Awesome choice! But you might be wondering, "Where do I even start?" Should you jump right into the series, or is there something else you need to see first? Well, let's break it down, because getting the order right can seriously enhance your experience with everyone's favorite chainsaw-wielding hero, Ash Williams.

The Evil Dead Universe: A Quick Overview

Before we get into the specifics, let's take a quick look at the Evil Dead universe. It's a franchise that's been around for decades, starting with a low-budget horror film that became a cult classic. Over the years, it's evolved, bringing in elements of comedy and action, making it a unique blend that keeps fans coming back for more. The main character, Ashley J. Williams, or Ash for short, is the heart of it all. He's not your typical hero; he's a bit of a goofball, often makes terrible decisions, but somehow always manages to save the day (or at least survive) in the most over-the-top ways possible. Understanding the basic timeline and the progression of Ash's character will really help you appreciate the Ash vs Evil Dead series.

The Importance of The Evil Dead (1981)

Alright, let’s get straight to the point: If you’re planning to watch Ash vs Evil Dead, the first movie you absolutely need to see is The Evil Dead from 1981. I know, I know, it might seem a bit old-school, especially if you’re used to modern horror flicks, but trust me on this. The Evil Dead is where it all began, and it lays the foundation for everything that follows. This low-budget masterpiece introduces us to Ash Williams, a young man heading to a remote cabin in the woods with his friends for a weekend getaway. Of course, things quickly go south when they discover the Necronomicon Ex-Mortis, the Book of the Dead, and an audiotape containing incantations. Naturally, they play the tape (because why not?), unleashing Kandarian Demons that possess and torment them. This film is raw, gritty, and genuinely terrifying. It establishes the lore, the stakes, and the sheer horror that Ash and his friends are up against. It also introduces us to the Deadites, the relentlessly evil creatures that Ash will be battling for years to come. Without seeing this film, you'll miss out on the origins of the Necronomicon, the cabin in the woods, and the very first glimpses of Ash's transformation from a regular guy into a reluctant hero. Plus, it's a classic for a reason – the practical effects are amazing, and the atmosphere is incredibly suspenseful. Honestly, watching The Evil Dead first will give you a much deeper appreciation for the entire Evil Dead universe and Ash vs Evil Dead in particular.

Why Evil Dead 2 is Also Essential

Okay, so you've watched the original Evil Dead. Great! But don't stop there. The next movie you should watch is Evil Dead 2 (1987). While it technically retreads some of the same ground as the first film, Evil Dead 2 is where the franchise really starts to embrace its comedic side. It’s almost a remake/reboot hybrid, with Ash returning to the same cabin, but this time, the tone is much more slapstick and over-the-top. This film is crucial because it solidifies Ash's character as the bumbling, wisecracking hero we all know and love. He loses his hand, gets possessed, and battles Deadites with chainsaws and shotguns – all while delivering hilarious one-liners. Evil Dead 2 also expands on the mythology of the Necronomicon and introduces new elements that become important in Ash vs Evil Dead. You'll see more creative and outrageous practical effects, and the film's energy is infectious. It’s a wild ride from start to finish, and it perfectly sets the stage for the series. Watching Evil Dead 2 will help you understand the humor and the over-the-top action that defines Ash vs Evil Dead. It shows how the franchise evolved from pure horror to a blend of horror and comedy, and it’s a key part of Ash's journey. Plus, it’s just plain fun to watch. Who doesn't love seeing Ash battle Deadites with a chainsaw hand?

Don't Skip Army of Darkness

Now that you've experienced the horror and humor of the first two films, it's time to watch Army of Darkness (1992). This film takes Ash on a completely different adventure, sending him back in time to medieval England. Army of Darkness is arguably the most comedic of the original trilogy, and it further cements Ash as a cult icon. He's still fighting Deadites, but this time he's doing it with knights, castles, and a whole lot of anachronistic humor. This movie is important because it shows Ash fully embracing his role as a hero (even if he's still a reluctant one). He learns to lead, strategize, and even deliver inspiring speeches (sort of). It also introduces iconic lines and moments that are referenced throughout Ash vs Evil Dead. Army of Darkness is a blast to watch, and it expands the scope of the Evil Dead universe in a fun and creative way. It might seem a bit disconnected from the cabin-in-the-woods setting of the first two films, but it’s still an essential part of Ash's story. It demonstrates his ability to adapt and survive in any situation, no matter how absurd. Plus, the film's ending (or endings, depending on which version you watch) adds another layer to Ash's character and sets the stage for his eventual return in Ash vs Evil Dead. Without Army of Darkness, you'll miss out on some of the most memorable moments and quotes in the entire franchise.

Why Watch the Movies Before the Series?

So, why is it so important to watch the movies before diving into Ash vs Evil Dead? Well, there are a few key reasons. First and foremost, the series is a direct continuation of the films. It picks up Ash's story decades after the events of Army of Darkness, and it assumes that you're already familiar with his history. The series is packed with references to the movies, and many of the jokes and plot points will fall flat if you haven't seen them. The series also brings back characters and concepts from the films, and their impact will be much greater if you have that context. For example, understanding Ash's relationship with the Necronomicon, his chainsaw hand, and his past battles with the Deadites will significantly enhance your enjoyment of the series. Moreover, watching the movies allows you to appreciate the evolution of Ash's character. You'll see how he transforms from a terrified college student into a seasoned Deadite hunter. This journey is a crucial part of what makes Ash such a compelling character, and you'll miss out on a lot of it if you skip the films. Finally, the movies are just plain awesome. They're classic horror films that have stood the test of time, and they're a lot of fun to watch. So, before you start Ash vs Evil Dead, take the time to watch The Evil Dead, Evil Dead 2, and Army of Darkness. You won't regret it.

Chronological Order vs. Release Order

Now, you might be wondering whether you should watch the films in chronological order or release order. Generally, it's best to watch them in release order: The Evil Dead (1981), Evil Dead 2 (1987), and Army of Darkness (1992). This way, you can see how the franchise evolved over time and how the tone shifted from horror to comedy. While Evil Dead 2 retreads some of the same ground as the first film, it's still important to watch it in order to understand the series' comedic direction. Plus, the release order is the way most fans experienced the films, so you'll be joining a long tradition of Evil Dead viewing.

What About the 2013 Evil Dead Remake?

Okay, let's address the elephant in the room: What about the 2013 Evil Dead remake? While it's a solid horror film in its own right, it's not essential viewing before Ash vs Evil Dead. The remake is a completely separate story with different characters, and it doesn't tie into the events of the original trilogy or the series. However, if you're a fan of horror movies, it's definitely worth checking out. It's a brutal and intense film that pays homage to the original while also doing its own thing. Just don't expect it to provide any context for Ash vs Evil Dead.

Getting Ready to Watch Ash vs Evil Dead

Alright, you've watched the original Evil Dead trilogy. You're armed with the knowledge of Ash's past, the Necronomicon's power, and the sheer absurdity of the Evil Dead universe. You're officially ready to dive into Ash vs Evil Dead! Get ready for more Deadite battles, more hilarious one-liners, and more over-the-top gore. The series is a love letter to the original films, and it's a wild ride from start to finish. So, grab some popcorn, settle in, and prepare to get groovy!

Where to Watch the Movies and Series

So where can you actually watch these groovy movies and the Ash vs Evil Dead series? Well, that depends on your region and streaming preferences. Here are a few options:

• Streaming Services: Check out platforms like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and Shudder. Availability varies by region, but these services often carry the Evil Dead movies and Ash vs Evil Dead. Shudder, in particular, is a great option for horror fans, as it specializes in horror content.
• Digital Rental/Purchase: You can rent or purchase the Evil Dead movies and Ash vs Evil Dead on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Google Play, YouTube, and iTunes. This is a good option if you want to own the content or if it's not available on your preferred streaming service.
• Physical Media: If you're a collector or prefer physical copies, you can buy the Evil Dead movies and Ash vs Evil Dead on DVD or Blu-ray. This is a great way to ensure you always have access to the content, even if it's not available online.
• Local Libraries: Don't forget about your local library! Many libraries carry DVDs and Blu-rays of popular movies and TV shows, including the Evil Dead franchise.

Final Thoughts: Groovy Times Await!

So there you have it, friends! Your roadmap to properly experiencing Ash vs Evil Dead. By starting with the original Evil Dead trilogy, you'll be fully prepared to appreciate the humor, horror, and heart of the series. So, get watching, and get ready for some groovy times! Remember, shop smart, shop S-Mart...you got that?