‘Crystal Lake’ review: I wasn’t sure we needed a ‘Friday the 13th’ prequel series. I was wrong

As spooky season approaches, fans of the iconic "Friday the 13th" franchise have a new prequel series to dive into: "Crystal Lake." This show, produced by A24 and Peacock, takes us back to the origins of the infamous lakeside community and the tragic story of Jason Voorhees' mother, Pamela.

With a 4/5 star rating from Tom's Guide, critics believe "Crystal Lake" is exactly the kind of prequel the franchise deserves. Linda Cardellini shines as Pamela Voorhees, delivering a phenomenal performance that brings depth and emotion to the character that was previously explored in a superficial manner.

The series sets itself apart from other prequels by focusing on Pamela's grief and trauma, rather than simply rehashing the familiar story of Jason's drowning. The creators have taken care to alter established canon only enough to provide a fresh perspective, while still staying true to the original film's core elements. The attention to detail in recreating the 1970s setting, including the campsite and Pamela's jeep, helps immerse viewers in the world of Crystal Lake.

While there are a few canon changes, "Crystal Lake" manages to maintain the bloody, campy spirit of the original franchise. The creative kills and practical gore are top-notch, giving fans plenty of gruesome fun to enjoy. Despite initial concerns about overexplaining the franchise, the show strikes a balance between delivering classic slasher elements and exploring the emotional journey of its central character.

For horror fans who appreciate the ridiculous side of slasher films, "Crystal Lake" is a welcome addition to the "Friday the 13th" universe. Linda Cardellini's captivating performance as Pamela Voorhees makes this prequel series a must-watch, offering a new layer of complexity and depth to a beloved horror legend.