Every Hellraiser Movie Ranked From Worst To Best

It’s easy to forget how much of a game-changer Hellraiser was back in 1987.

Barker rewrote the book on horror movies with the Cenobites’ first outing, proving that such films could be multi-layered and thought-provoking.

Frank and Julia’s twisted love affair has been interpreted in many different ways - is it simply an exploration of the consequences of lust or something much deeper?

At its core, Hellraiser is an examination of the fine line which separates pain and pleasure, but many of its themes and subtexts are open to interpretation.

Some have interpreted Pinhead and his hideous band of Cenobites as a representation of conservative culture, while Frank’s desperation to don his brother’s flesh can be seen as a individual’s longing to be perceived as a ‘normal’ family man.

The fact we’re still analysing these themes almost 30 years later is testament to the poignance of the original Hellraiser, which remains the standout entry in the series, untarnished by a string of inferior sequels - this is essential Halloween viewing for the more discerning horror fans.

How would you rank the Hellraiser films? Share your rankings below in the comments thread.