'Evil Dead' Review Roundup: Remake to Sam Raimi's 1981 Horror Film is as Good as the Original

On April 5^th, the remake to "Evil Dead" will open nationwide.

The film, directed by Fede Alvarez, tells the story of five friends who head to a remote cabin, where the discovery of a Book of the Dead leads them to unwittingly summon up demons living in the nearby woods. The evil presence possesses them until only one is left to fight for survival.

The film had its world premiered at the SXSW Film Festival and scored incredible reviews. It currently has a 79 percent aggregate score on Rotten Tomatoes. The Hollywood Reporter stated "Gory scares abound in a remake that will win the hearts of many of the original's fans."

Variety was also favorable and stated "The rare remake that likely will be enjoyed most by diehard fans of its predecessor."

IGN gave the film a 9 out of 10 stars and said "While it doesn't exactly reinvent the wheel, this new take on the Evil Dead is every bit as good as Sam Raimi's originals, and praise doesn't get much higher than that."

ScreenCrush gave it an 8 out of 10 and said "Manages to carve out its own distinct and memorable place in the history of this franchise. With a chainsaw."

"Evil Dead" marks the feature length directional debut for Alvarez. He has previously directed the award winning shorts "Panic Attack," and "Los Pocillos." The script was written by Alavrez and Academy Award winner Cody Diablo. Diablo is best known for her Oscar winning script "Juno" and "Young Adult." She recently wrapped her directional debut "Paradise" which will be seen later this year.

The film stars Jane Levy, Shiloh Fernandez, Jessica Lucas and Elizabeth Blackmore. Tristar will release the film in 3,000 theaters and is rated R for strong bloody violence and gore, some sexual content and language.