2. Evil Dead II (1987)
Sam Raimis first Evil Dead film is notorious for how raw and visceral it was upon its release, but it's lost a lot of its power of the years, so while it's still essential viewing for fans of the genre, its not nearly as effective these days as its reputation would lead some to believe. Far better is Raimis second film in the series. Here we get to see Sam Raimi coming into complete control of all the powers he would wield as a director for the rest of his career. He still uses raw gore and splatter to scare us, but also embraces the campy aspects of the first film, indulges his love of fantasy and comic humor, and elevates Bruce Campbells Ash from simply being main character into a genre legend. Some people look at Evil Dead II as essentially a remake of the first film, and while the plots are virtually identical most of the way, I see it as more of a revision of the first film. Raimi has a bigger budget and more leeway to indulge himself in out and out wildness that wouldnt have worked in the first film. Its half comedy and half horror, but all entertainment. Evil Dead II is not only one of the most enjoyable horror sequels ever, its one of the most enjoyable horror films of all time, period.