In a new development for horror fans, the Jason Universe has been launched, bringing fresh content based on the infamous Friday the 13th series. This comes after a long legal battle over rights between Victor Miller, original writer of Friday the 13th, and director Shaun S. Cunningham. The dispute, which seemed resolved in Victor Miller's favor in 2021, concluded with him obtaining rights to the franchise's original elements, though not the character of adult Jason Voorhees.
The announcement of the new multimedia venture, culminating in the Jason Universe's creation, signifies a collaborative effort between Cunningham's Horror Incorporated and Miller, despite their prior legal differences. This universe aims to expand into various media and branding opportunities centered around the character of Jason.
The latest addition to this universe is "Sweet Revenge," a short film written and directed by Mike P. Nelson, known for his work on the Wrong Turn reboot. Released on the Jason Universe YouTube channel, this 13-minute horror piece combines classic slasher elements with surprising product placement from cider brand Angry Orchard.
The short follows a group of youthful characters encountering mayhem at a lakeside location, featuring the return of iconic horror figure Jason in typical brutal fashion. Despite its brief runtime, "Sweet Revenge" has stirred discussions due to its unexpected story choices and portrayal of Jason, which some fans find lacking compared to previous entries.
This initiative highlights the ongoing evolution of the Friday the 13th franchise. However, it's clear from "Sweet Revenge" that opinions remain mixed regarding the direction and potential success of the Jason Universe.