‘Sweet Revenge’ Brings Jason Back: New ‘Friday the 13th’ Reboot Ignites Horror Fandom

After sixteen years trapped by legal disputes and cinematic limbo, horror icon Jason Voorhees has finally clawed his way back to the screen in “Sweet Revenge,” a short-form reboot unveiled by Jason Universe on August 13, 2025, marking the 45th anniversary of the original “Friday the 13th” film . Directed by Mike P. Nelson, whose recent horror credentials include “Wrong Turn” and “Silent Night, Deadly Night,” the vignette is presented by Jason Universe and sponsored by Angry Orchard .

With a runtime of thirteen minutes, “Sweet Revenge” is not the full-length feature fans might have anticipated, but it is an official canonical entry, ending a sixteen-year hiatus since the 2009 Platinum Dunes reboot . The release is part of a larger campaign to reignite interest in the franchise and includes a broader push to bring the series into the modern era, with new faces and broader representation.

While “Sweet Revenge” remains rooted in the classic slasher formula, queer horror fans will find much to celebrate in its casting and production. Schuyler White stars as Jason, joined by Ally Ioannides as the new “final girl” Eve—bringing fresh energy and a more inclusive lens to the iconic bloodbath at Crystal Lake .

The horror genre has historically provided a safe space for queer audiences to explore themes of otherness and survival, and the franchise’s decision to cast diverse actors and showcase new perspectives is being hailed as a positive move by LGBTQ+ commentators on social media (Instagram: @bdisgusting; Twitter: @bdisgusting; Facebook: BloodyDisgusting) . As one fan commented, “Seeing more representation—whether explicit or subtle—in a franchise as legendary as Friday the 13th is a huge win for the queer horror community.”

Director Mike P. Nelson’s approach brings both nostalgia and innovation. The short film’s production values are high, with atmospheric cinematography and practical effects that recall the gritty suspense of the original, while integrating contemporary storytelling techniques . The setting—an isolated cabin in the woods—remains unchanged, but the cast’s chemistry and the script’s self-awareness offer a more inclusive take on survival horror.

The 45th anniversary of “Friday the 13th” is more than a celebration of cinematic legacy; it is an opportunity for the franchise to evolve. The Jason Universe project hints at a future where horror fans of all backgrounds—especially those in the LGBTQ+ community—feel seen and heard. As the short film “Sweet Revenge” circulates on YouTube and horror streaming platforms, fans are already speculating about full-length features, expanded character backstories, and deeper exploration of queer identity within the slasher canon .

Social media reactions have been overwhelmingly positive, with hashtags #Fridaythe13th, #JasonVoorhees, and #SweetRevenge trending across Twitter and Instagram as fans celebrate Jason’s return and the franchise’s renewed commitment to diversity .

The release of “Sweet Revenge” marks a watershed moment for horror cinema and queer fans alike. While the short form leaves audiences hungry for more, it sets the stage for a new era in slasher storytelling—one that welcomes all identities and backgrounds into the woods of Crystal Lake.