Need an Account? Sign Up
 

A Nightmare on Elm Street

Release Date: November 09, 1984
Director: Wes Craven
Writer: Wes Craven
Starring: John Saxon Ronee Blakley Heather Langenkamp Amanda Wyss Jsu Garcia
Studio: New Line Cinema
Rating: R
Official Site: Click Here

Official Score


Average User Rating


Read 122 User Reviews


You have to be logged in to comment!
If you don't have an account register now for free! Your account allows you to post comments and reviews, upload videos and images, access or our forums, write personal blogs, and maintain your profile.


USERNAME:
PASSWORD:




Posted By: CountOrlok at 7:16am, November 13, 2009

What more can be said, a classic 80s slasher from the beginning with the creation of the infamous glove to the shock ending.

One, two, Freddy's coming for you...



Posted By: Atheist-American at 5:00pm, November 8, 2009

My favorite of the major franchises (even the worst in this series- Freddy's Dead- is still much more interesting than a bad Halloween or Friday the 13th flick), and this is definitely the best of them (maybe tied with New Nightmare).
Looking at this movie without the weight of the so-so, hit or miss sequels that came after it, this is one of the most original horror movies ever. Such a great, original idea that was executed perfectly. The only complaint I can make is the ending, and the music for the film, which is just waaay too 80's (of course, that one is completely forgivable).



Posted By: MONSTA at 2:30pm, November 6, 2009

Great movie, Freddy Kruger is a classic horror slasher. Love this movie more and more every time I watch it. As a kid Freddy was the scariest boogie man imaginable. The way Freddy stalks these kids is so creepy and menacing that some of the scenes are the most memerable in horror movie history.


Posted By: josh'snewnightmare at 9:12pm, November 1, 2009

A pure classic, one of the best horror films ever made.


Posted By: voorheesmyers2 at 9:20am, November 1, 2009

a truly great horror film one of my favorites too. The sequels are more like spoofs then they are supose to be scary. I just hope the remake lives up to what Wes Craven did, but probably not or who knows maybe it might.


Posted By: evil_ash86 at 2:14am, October 17, 2009

if anyone could do a good killer nightmare movie, i'm glad Wes Craven beat other directors to it first.

Robert Englund did play a good part, but he wasn't as scary as i thought he'd be.

the way i hear it, there's obviously gonna be a new Elm Street movie featuring Jackie Earle Haley from "Watchmen" as Freddy Krueger, and they're gonna make him much more scary.

well, i'll be looking forward to it, and i hope they do make Krueger much more scary.



Posted By: JohnaSuperstar at 1:50pm, October 6, 2009

a truely amazing movie and one of my all time favorites too . also this is the only movie in the series where freddy is actualy scary . the sequals i see more like spoofs as it is more funny than scary but this original will never be beaten so i am slightly worryed about this remake . will this ruin the nightmare? i hope not


Posted By: Horrorfan81 at 6:05pm, October 5, 2009

An AWSOME horror flick, love Freddy and this movie, the other movies just got stupid. Hopfully the remake will make up for Nightmare 2, 3 and all of them.


Posted By: Bostic101 at 6:29am, September 13, 2009

A decent movie, nothing special. I never was much of a Freddy fan but i think this movie had much creativity also Freddy gave Jason a run for his money.


Posted By: BloodCount at 11:19am, September 7, 2009

This is absolutely one of the greatest horror classics and it is also one of three Wes Craven movies that made it into the book "1001 MOVIES YOU MUST SEE BEFORE YOU DIE"(The other ones beeing "THE HILLS HAVE EYES"(1977) And "SCREAM"(1996)).

FREDDY KRUEGER is one of the greatest Characters ever to be seen in Horror Cinema. It's a shame they are remaking this but since it is a reboot they might pull it off like they did with the THE HILLS HAVE EYES remake in 2006.



Posted By: Mrs_Vorhees at 12:47pm, September 4, 2009

A Nightmare on Elm Street. What could compare? What other movie has a Nasty Horrificly disfigured Child Murderer who was burned alive by parents seeking revenge, who kills you in your dreams? AWESOME MOVIE ! The deaths were very original, Robert Englund did an AMAZING job as Freddy, nobody could possibly come close so his amazing tactics. He truly is the one and only Freddy. I hear there's a remake in progess, but Robert Englund isn't cast as Freddy. Already I am not interested. A Nightmare on Elm Street is truly a CLASSIC.

1, 2 Freddy's coming for you
3 , 4 Better lock your door.
5, 6 Get your cruicifix
7, 8 Stay up late
9, 10 never sleep again. TOTALLY CREEPY!

10/10 by far!



Posted By: AmericanPsycho630 at 7:00pm, September 3, 2009

One of the greatest horror characters and movies of all time. I look back at the series and laugh at the fact that the first one was one of the last movies I saw. (when I was younger I mean because I didn't see them in order I saw 5 then 2 then 3 then one then 4 and so on) But this movie is a classic. It's got a really good story a strong cast. The dream sequences are very creepy as is freddy who was probably at his scariest here before he became the anti-hero. The kills are some of the most iconic moments in the history of horror. And top of all that it has johnny depp so how can you go wrong : ) In all seriousness this is probably my favorite horror movie of all time. I think if your fan of horror you HAVE to see it.


Posted By: Garfieldthe3rd at 5:51pm, August 30, 2009

This is one of the best horror moives ever. The acting is incredible, the gore is good, and the plot is good. It is a very original movie and it shows how creative wes craven is. Freddy Krueger is one the most iconic figures in horror and robert englund did an excellent job portraying him. he was very creepy and sadistic, just the way a killer should be. also nancy was a very likable character who had a brain unlike most horror movie victims. Overall great movie.


Posted By: bloodnguts313 at 10:31pm, August 25, 2009

This movie was an ok origanal movie...maybe the remake hopfuly is better tho.


Posted By: groundgamer at 7:57am, August 21, 2009

Freddy is in town! This awesome slasher flick puts Robert Englund in the shoes of the "dream catcher". Freddy! Freddy haunts dreams of the residents on Elm Street, stalking his prey after a deadly incident years ago. Freddy is gonna' get you! This movie has to be one of my favourite shasher movies ever. Robert Englund gives one of his greatest performances in the movie, along side Johnny Depp, the duo are at top form here. The cast are picked off one by one, horrible, grisly deaths I can't even explain, makes this movie a topper at first sight. The acting is wonderful, especially the haunted, crazy figure of Freddy, who is a horror icon even today. The script is well scripted, with some wonderful one liners and a great love / hate reaction to the cast. The plot is well thought out, and the overall idea of the movie is perfect! This movie doesn't fall short of great suspense, and the scares come and go, but this movie is simply the best!

Overall, one hell of an amazing slasher, gore filled movie. Don't watch this and expect a crummy, low budget horror, because this is one of the best horror movies ever made. Honest.

10/10



Posted By: ChakorBloodMoon at 11:28am, August 12, 2009

AWESOME MOVIE!!!
Great film by Wes Craven.
I would definitely recommend this film to any horror fan



Posted By: jugchord1 at 1:28am, August 12, 2009

Nightmare on Elm Street is one of the most unique slashers of all time. The idea of an allout assualt on you physically through you're dreams is one of the greatest ideas to every hit the big screen, Robert Englund also pulls off his role as Freddy with perfection, he really lives up to the hype that has been built up around him in past years, and he pulls it all off while giving a tone of dark humor throughout the series not as much in this installment as in the sequels but it is an element in this movie as well, just not as often. The death scenes of course have went down in history as some of the greatest in horror history. The most notable kill is when Johnny Depp's character gets sucked into his matress while shorty afterword a pool of blood explodes upwards out of his bed. The bottom line is that Nightmare on Elm Street is essential to all fans of horror, I rec getting the boxset, which is the best boxset I own and it is fairly cheap.


Posted By: =AuTI_tAkahashi= at 8:04am, August 10, 2009

Here's the thing. A Nightmare on Elm Street is considered a classic. I don't have a problem with that.


My problem is that everyone calls this one of the best horror films ever made. Some call this a masterpiece. But sadly it's not. Here's why.


FREDDY KRUEGER is a masterpiece horror character.
Everything else is crap. A Nightmare on Elm Street is driven by the villain, just like all other slasher flicks. All Slasher Films has almost 0 plot, with the possible exception of the SAW series, that is if you consider Jigsaw a slasher.


I hope i'm clear about this.
I love Freddy Krueger.



Posted By: Bumper1 at 4:46am, August 10, 2009

Quite simply the geatest horror film ever made.

Welcome to prime time, bitch!!! (and yes i know thats from part 3 but couldn't resist)



Posted By: keepin It Reel at 1:45am, August 10, 2009

One of the most original horror films in the entire history of the genre. The brainchild of none other than world renowned horror mastermind Wes Craven, this film stands apart from all his others, and will forever remain his masterpiece. The concept of the film centers on Freddy Krueger, a child murderer who has been burned alive by the parents of Springwood, after being set free due to the incompetantcy of the judge appointed to his trial. Years later, he(his spirit to be more accurate) returns to exact revenge on the people responsible for sending him to his grave, by stalking and killing their children in their dreams. These themes (dreams, child murdering, and the consequences of acts of vigilanty) up until that point, were not explored often, if at all, by cinema. The main protagonist, a high school teenager played by Heather Langenkamp (very sexy by the way), must face the villain who is slowly killing each of her friends off one by one, while along the way, uncovering the secret of her parents' involvement in Krueger's death, and why he is after her and her friends. This movie is a classic, and for the few whom haven't already seen it, I highly recomend it. But beware the sequels, for the quality of the series deteriorated with each subsequent installment.


Posted By: horrorbuff28 at 4:21pm, August 9, 2009

An ultimate slasher classic.
Every bit of originality is put into this film.
Freddy is absolutely terryfying.
You cant find a horror movie today that matches up to the classic legends like A Nightmare on Elm Street. This movie was insanely scary.
i recommend this movie to anybody that considers themself a true horrorbuff because if you havent seen this film than you are not into horror films.



Posted By: YoungHorror at 12:52am, August 7, 2009

A classic slasher. This is the only Nightmare film except for New Nightmare where Freddy is actually scary. This movie has great gore effects, a notorious killer, and one of the most imaginative stories of all the slashers ever made.


Posted By: el terror at 4:19pm, August 6, 2009

This is my favourite horror film ever! This review is going to be a little one-sided because in my eyes Nightmare on Elm Street can do no wrong!
The film is really dark and creepy with some great dream sequences. The visual effects were also outstanding for the time (well, maybe not the doll being dragged through the window but that only adds to the film's charm!) and the music is really atmospheric and memorable.
It's full of creepy one liners such as "Whatever you do....DON'T FALL ASLEEP" and "I'm your boyfriend now Nancy!".
Most of the characters are very likeable and you sympathise with the real life situations they are in as well as the supernatural stuff. Heather Langenkamp is great as Nancy who will do anything to survive and Robert Englund is a legend in my eyes. I must've seen this film over 100 times and I never get bored of it.
I can't say enough good things about this film but I will say that it's a horror classic and a must see for all horror fans.



Posted By: hellangel at 5:00pm, August 4, 2009

Love it! Movie is classic!


Posted By: x495 at 5:47pm, August 3, 2009

A Nightmare on Elm street may not be a top notch film, but is certainly worthy of being labeled a classic. Freddy Krueger is at his wicked best in this entertaining nightmare inducing slasher.

Heather Langenkamp stars as Nancy Thompson, a troubled teen faced with disturbing dreams about a man with knives on his fingers chasing her. Who is this man? Freddy, of course!

Tina Gray (Amanda Wyss) is having the same problem. So the two girls and Nancy's boyfriend, Glen Lantz (Johnny Depp) have one big sleepover. But they don't know that Tina is about to be butchered by the evil Freddy Krueger.

The murders continue in this devilishly funny, but dark fantasy/horror film. While this film is entertaining, it isn't a ten point movie.



Posted By: !!rogue!! at 3:36pm, August 1, 2009

Absolute classic. A very fun, entertaining and scary slasher flick. Breakout the popcorn!


Posted By: bufffiiieee at 2:33pm, July 29, 2009

One of my all time favs.So cheesy but you gotta love it :).I own the box collection :)


Posted By: Mayhem at 11:37am, July 13, 2009

One of the most perfect horror films every made & the beginning of the reign of Freddy. If you haven't seen this then stop whatever you're doing & go get it immediately!


Posted By: deepRED11 at 2:52pm, July 11, 2009

THE BEST OUT OF THE 20 FILMS AND THE ONLY ONE BETTER THEN THIS ONE WAS FREDDY VS JASON AND THE REMAKE OF THIS COULD BE AS GOOD AS THIS ONE AND JOHNNY DEPP IS IN IT SO IF YOU DONT WONT TO RUIN YOUR GOOD THOUGHTS OF THIS FILM DONT WATCH THE OTHER ONES ONLY WATCH FREDDY VS JASON AND THE REMAKE


Posted By: ZombieJasonVorhees at 4:06pm, July 9, 2009

Amazing movie. They made a horrable decision by remaking this franchise without Robert Englund. I mean why not just continue the legend with modern day special fx. I'll still go see it, but im honestly not expecting it to be nearly as good as the original.


Posted By: truchainsaw28 at 11:48am, July 8, 2009

An utter classic in every sense of the word. Nightmare on elm st. created a new subgenre in its time and expanded the slasher genre full fold. It's still scary and even a little campy but theres no other film like it.


Posted By: Chadinator92 at 2:09am, July 3, 2009

This was absolutely a fantastic film to say the very least. Also Freddy scared the hell out of me when I was a youngster!


Posted By: GRUDGE4life at 12:15pm, June 15, 2009

i love this movie...i love this series...and the fact that a serial killer can kill you in your dreams freaks the shit out of me...great idea, directing, and followthrough!


Posted By: xXFacelessXx at 12:32pm, June 7, 2009

I just had to write a review for this. This was the first horror movie I saw in my lifetime and it didn't let me down. The fact that Wes Craven took an idea such as sleeping, something that's important and crucial, and made people fear it was an ingenious idea! I didn't sleep for three days after seeing this. I watch it now days and see it as true art and one of the most legendary horror films EVER. Freddy was perfect. He had the super natural element and had personality, he was a smart ass, jokester, and somewhat of a horny fella. God, I remember watching this with surround sound. Scary stuff. This movie is and always will remain in my collection of movies. Story, characters, idea, the best for its time and even ours. I'm SOOOOO EXCITED for the re-make and I really hope it doesn't let me down. Seeing Freddy with his burnt up body all realistic like and his kills being so fresh as breathing in the aroma of blood and brand new kills in the sickest ways...it'll look amazing with what we can do now. Sorry, maybe a bit too excited.


Posted By: xln10 at 5:07pm, May 16, 2009

Really good movie. Other than New Nightmare this is the only one I liked in the series. Hope the remake is good!


Posted By: Googopqp at 9:17pm, May 3, 2009

Idk, something about this movie just made it perfect. The feeling, or the characters, or Johnny Depp dying in one of the most exaggerated and bloody deaths of all time. Idk but the movie works and it is great fun.

This movie is, of course, about a child killer who returns in the dreams of Elm Street's youth to kill them in their dreams, then in reality they die...lol. This movie is great fun and one of my all time fav slahers and IM PISSED IT IS BEING REMADE. Robert Englund was perfect in this, he is the perfect match for Freddy, he started Freddy, HE IS FREDDY, but now they are remaking this with out Robert Englund and it will suck ass.

If you havn't seen this movie and call urself a horror fan then f*** you you f***ing loser, just like Halloween, you need to see this classic, perfectly done, horror film to be a true horror fan, so get off the f***ing couch and buy this movie now you f***. Wooh Deja Vu'...(halloween review)

This is a classic of its time and Robert Englund is a horror legend because of it, even though the movie spawned some bad sequels, there are some good ones in the bunch (3,4,7, the others sucked). This movie gets an easy 10/10!



Posted By: Jason4eva at 3:29pm, April 16, 2009

Oh what can you say about NOES!? It's one of the best horror movies ever! I don't just say that because its a classic and everyone loves it but it truely is!Wes Craven was a genious with this just like Scream!(my very favorite movie)no one has come up with anything like this before or now and its truely special.My first horror movie when i was three.My dad said they put it in and I never turned away.Was hooked to horror ever since!I still watch it and its just as new now as it ever was and not corny like so many other horror films back then now.NOES and Halloween are my two favorite classics!


Posted By: Psycho78 at 12:09pm, April 15, 2009

Everything about this movie is awesome. Still one of my fav. to this day. My life wouldn't be the same without it. Every time i watch the scene with tina in the body bag still creeps me out. Kudos to you mr. craven, kudos to you!


Posted By: kyle.voorhees at 10:06am, April 15, 2009

One of the most unique slashers of all time, let alone the '80s. Wes Craven's dream villain Freddy Krueger was immediately destined for monster stardom, and New Line Cinema quickly cashed in knowing this. An unnerving film at times, this is vintage Krueger, before he became a joke spewing funny man. In this he is pure evil, making one of the creepiest films of the 80s.


Posted By: chewbaccawakka at 9:42am, April 15, 2009

One of the best horror movies of all time, introducing the icon Freddy Krueger. The best of the freddy films next to part 3 and freddy vs jason.


Posted By: theother at 11:53am, April 3, 2009

This is one of the best horror movies of all time and always will be. For those of us who were at just the right age when it came out, it will remain the film we were dying to see - that actually lived up to its promise of scaring the crap out of us. Sleepless nights for sure. New generations might not agree. That's fine. They have their "Saw" stuff. I for one, will always love and get scared by this film no matter how many times I've seen it or will get the pleasure of viewing it. Wes Craven is the Master and Robert, along with Heather created characters at the top of the horror genre! Bravo!


Posted By: vampyreman87 at 10:12am, April 3, 2009

the idea of the movie and the story is really good and its a frigtening concept, although this movie doesnt freak me out anymore, and its not one of my favs it still is a classic


Posted By: Skratchy at 3:59pm, March 28, 2009

The best slasher of all time is Freddy Krueger. There's no doubt in my mind about that. The ONLY problem I have with the movie is that he lacks the sense of humor and one liners he later becomes known for. Plus, calling him Fred instead of Freddy just feels wrong.


Posted By: HisNameWasTravis at 10:28pm, March 25, 2009

The Perfect Slasher Movie.


Posted By: Cipher000 at 3:47pm, March 22, 2009

This was the first horror movie i ever saw so naturally it holds a special place in my heart. Its so delicously wierd. I loved it. Hope the remakes good, at least it will probably be a visual trip. I was really hoping to see a Tim Burton version one day but i guess it will never happen. But how about a Tim Burton Wizord of Oz. Common it'll get remade eventually.


Posted By: TheOutcast05 at 10:53pm, March 21, 2009

One of the best horror/slasher movies out there, seen it at least ten times and the ending still makes me scratch my head..Craven made a great movie and Englund made an icon in Freddy.. Sure he got lame as the movies came, but here he was on top of his game as the demonic serial killer who haunts the dreamworld. Plus, we get to see a young Johnny Deep get turned into a geyser of blood, thats gotta be worth something.


Posted By: SERIAL MOM at 11:10am, March 15, 2009

best of the series scared the shit out of me as a kid and i still have to watch it in the day time

one really grusome death that i hope they keep in the remake

brill ending brill watch



Posted By: Carrie at 8:36pm, March 14, 2009

Classic horror film and a must see. Defo the best out of the whole series, with some of the best deaths.

I think I watched this for the first time when I was about 10 and it gave me nightmares for weeks.

The ending is awesome, watch it.



Posted By: horrormoviefan230 at 11:42pm, March 6, 2009

nightmare on elm street is like my 2nd favorite horror movie.the movie aint scary but who cares i kicks ass


Posted By: LAshx at 7:02am, March 5, 2009

Classic! Plain and simple. Has everything you need or want. Can't get enough of Freddy! :)


Posted By: DrJohnMan at 10:10pm, March 3, 2009

A Nightmare on Elm Street is one of the greatest horror movies of all time. In my opinion, it’s also one of the greatest horror stories of all-time. You cannot be a fan of horror, and haven’t watched Wes Craven’s masterpiece.

The story is about the return of a serial child murderer by the name of Freddy Krueger. While alive, he was something evil, now dead, he is something worse. After the legal system failed to lock the murderer up, many of the parents took it upon themselves to take care of Krueger. What they ended up doing was burning him alive.

Problem solved! Or was it?

What happens next is that Freddy returns for revenge. But this time, he is killing the children in their dreams. What happens there sadly happens in real life.

A teen by the name of Nancy Thompson figures out what’s going on, and tries to stop Freddy before he kills her and all of her friends.

This is a great movie. It’s wonderfully directed… and the special effects, though 80’s, still creep me out. Plus, this was Johnny Depp’s first movie… and man, his…*ahem*…left an impact that few in horror have ever achieved.

Watch this movie. Buy it. And relive it over… and over… and over again.



Posted By: clayton_the_dead at 9:42pm, March 3, 2009

Love it watch it.


Posted By: randomrick at 1:27pm, March 3, 2009

THis movie is the only nightmare in the series (besides new nightmare) that agreed with me,but its def a fun ride with some cool effects and freddy is awsome as per usual watch this one but skip the rest.


Posted By: jason's ultimate fan at 4:29pm, February 28, 2009

one of the best horror movies ever


Posted By: That Dead Guy at 9:18pm, February 24, 2009

This is simply unbelievable.

Filled with shocks, suspense, gory deaths and plot twists, this is a masterpiece of misdirection. The movie blurs the lines between fantasy and reality so well that by the final chilling (yet head scratching) frame, you don't no if Nancy's awake or dreaming.

If you want to see Freddy before he became a friend of the Fat Boys and cracked jokes like so many stand up comedians, this is the ticket. Robert Englund is creepy as hell in this installment (check out Part 3 as well); inspiring genuine fear with little more than a chuckle or wave of the hand.

If you are at all new to the Freddy Krueger experience, START HERE!



Posted By: Omar Ramos at 3:53pm, February 24, 2009

doesn't get any better than this folk.a real horror film.


Posted By: kryptonite_soul at 11:34am, February 24, 2009

one or two small problems with it, the scene with freddys long arms ruins it a little bit for me, but still a masterpiece that isnt reallyd dated either some 25 years later


Posted By: nkyphantom at 8:05pm, February 22, 2009

classic. funny and scary.


Posted By: Necronatalusz at 4:46pm, February 22, 2009

I enjoy all of the Nightmare on Elm Stree series.


Posted By: gore nut at 8:10am, February 21, 2009

BEST HORROR EVER!this is the only movie that has ever made me crap my pants! its the only movie that ever will!!!!!


Posted By: mein.herz.ist.wahr at 10:50am, February 17, 2009

i love this film.
i love this film.
i love this film.



Posted By: Sehkmet at 5:30am, February 15, 2009

One of the only classics that I could watch over and over and never get bored!
I love Freddy! Robert Englund is the greatest actor for horror movies!
^_^



Posted By: !rogue! at 6:47pm, February 12, 2009

classic. very scary.


Posted By: Markrdi at 8:23am, February 3, 2009

A Nightmare On Elm Street Pt1...classic. I saw this film when I was 12..and thought "what a Big Man I was"...film started ok until Tina got killed..that was it for me and fled to bed and had nightmares for weeks. In this film freddy is horrible, slimy, and creepy....even his voice resembles that off a dirty old man (esp the deleted scenes from the special edition version)...it's sad that after this film Freddy became a one line baffoon...although the series did have some intresting death scenes..but for me the first one is the best...but there is a problem with the firt film tina's death is slightly edited. Some off you may of noticed this if you have the film on old VHS....as the dvd version deletes the moment when tina falls onto the bed and blood goes everywhere...this could be the BBFC again I'm not sure.


Posted By: horrorqueen005 at 12:35pm, January 28, 2009

Its one of the greatest horror movies. But Halloween is still #1!!!!


Posted By: horrorgeek90 at 11:55am, January 28, 2009

This is the best horror movie of the 80's,it defined the 80's, I cant wait for the remake.


Posted By: MistAh BlistAh at 12:00am, January 25, 2009

Classic. If I had to describe this movie in one word, that's what it would be. Robert Englund is sensational in this role as the bastard son of a thousand maniacs Freddy Krueger. He's scary, sinister and downright psychopathic. Yet, somehow he makes this Dream demon become an icon of the horror genre. Heather Langenkamp plays the heroine Nancy Thompson not only in this movie but two other entries in the series as well. And yes, one can't go without bringing up that this is Johnny Depp's first movie, and he does exceptional well in his acting debut, leaving his mark on the series and the genre in general with a certain scene involving a bed, but more on that in a bit.

Most will know the story already, but I'll go through it anyway. The parents of Elm Street caught and burned alive a local child rapist and murderer after failing to be charged in the courts. So now he comes back for the children of Elm Street through their dreams. Now we must follow four teens in their fight for survival and fear of falling asleep. Such a great concept, which was actually inspired by real events. The real events being reports of people dying in their sleep after warning others it would happen.

This movie has an eerie vibe throughout, as you never really know what is a dream and what is reality, it does a great job of messing with your head. They keep Freddy in the shadows for a lot of the movie, and that definitely adds to the scare factor. His appearance is unforgettable, the red/green sweater, the dirty brown hat and the burned makeup all look phenomenal. Everything about Freddy is scary in this, from his razor sharp blades to his bone chilling laugh, he is the ultimate Boogeyman.

The nightmares themselves, are just fantastic. My favorite scene, and many others, is when Tina (Amanda Wyss) must face off against Freddy. We are treated to a great chase scene, with Freddy just playing mind games throughout. He cuts off his own fingers while giving one of the most sinister looks I've ever seen. And who can forget about the stretched out arms in the alleyway right before running after Tina like a madman with his trademark glove high in the air. After finally catching her, he just butchers her while her boyfriend Rod (Jsu Garcia) can do nothing but look on. She is just tortured as he drags her across the ceiling and walls, while slicing her up with his glove.

There are so many memorable scenes in this, Wes Craven really created a masterpiece with this one. With the movie now being 25 years old, it still holds up reasonably well. The effects are top notch and well placed throughout. Johnny Depp's death scene looks absolutely fantastic. After falling asleep and being pulled into his bed, gallons of blood comes shooting out and completely soaks the entire room. Even little things like the unplugged phone ringing and once Nancy answers it turns in to Freddys mouth, so unexpected and so effective.

The setup for the final showdown between Nancy and Freddy is so intense, and the finale itself is as well. This in my opinion is where Heather Langenkamp really shines. We see her prepare for war in setting up booby-traps and overall becoming a stronger character. She single handily takes on Freddy and stops the dream demon, by showing great courage/no fear, and taking back every bit of energy she ever gave him.

My only complaint would be the final scene of the movie. Where everyone seems to be okay, the sun is shining, and the group of kids are on their way to school when the top comes flying down on the car with the colours being red and green, hmmm, what could that mean. Then the part comes that I don't like, where Nancy's mother is pulled through a small window at the top of their front door by Freddy, the effects here, are pretty poor. Luckily, I can look past this as its about 3 seconds out of the movie that I don't like, and the ending was never properly finished as it's a mixture of a couple possible endings.

This movie is the definition of a classic. My Favorite slasher, my favorite horror, my favorite film period. Everybody involved did a spectacular job and their effort really shows in the finished product.

10/10



Posted By: chambon913 at 7:47pm, January 24, 2009

A Nightmare on Elm Street is a classic Horror film. Freddy Krueger is a great Character, "Michael Myers," "Leatherface," and "Jason Voorhees" they don't really have to act. They just chase people, but Krueger illustrates his Psychotic persona when stalks his victims. Robert Englund is the person that makes Freddy Krueger come to life. With "Michael Myers," "Leatherface," and "Jason Voorhees" you can just dress up someone in their costume and say he's Jason Voorhees or Michael Myers! Its kind of like the "Matrix" if you die in the Dreamworld you die in real life, whats more Terrifying then that. Be sure to check out "A Nightmare On Elm Street" if you never seen it before, its a Classic. If you don't like "A Nightmare On Elm Street" than you're not a Horror movie Fan.


Posted By: De De De at 6:04pm, January 24, 2009

This movie is f?cking retarted a dude with knives on his fingers I could do that my-self. Sericialy what the hell is wrong with his face it looks like my ex's P?ssy.I get he got burned but still that is nasty. LOL


Posted By: Screamer at 5:39pm, January 21, 2009

How do people not like this movie? Some need to realize that it was one of the fine slashers of the 80s, and not expect it to be terrifying. Cause really, what slashers actually terrify hardcore horror fans? None really. They're just fun.
Plus, I do think that this was when Freddy was scariest. The first 3, he wasn't too much of a joke, then the others came along...



Posted By: .::DyingBreed::. at 4:38pm, January 21, 2009

i got this the other month i had no know idea what it would be like . after whatching it i see why people say how good the movie was.


Posted By: horrorking95 at 2:23pm, January 21, 2009

I CAN NOT SEE WHAT THE HELL IS SO BLOODY GOOD ABOUT THIS HEAP OF SHIT! (excuse my french)

This film is not scary at all! (and im 14 for christs sake!) it is the naffest story-line ever made and freddy looks like a joke! When he comes out with these stupid lines that really take the horror away from it! Like "IM YOUR BOYFRIEND NOW NANCY!" And the phone licks her WTF! I will admit though i love the character Freddy with his burnt face and knifes for fingers! Which is a really great idea but they just used the character in the wrong way. FREDDY COULD BE TERRIFYING! But they just turn him into a joke. THe film is also very long winded so it got boring. The acting is also appauling! I am not impressed at all!
*
Out Of
*****



Posted By: virgovibe at 10:25pm, January 20, 2009

I LOVE IT, I LOVE IT, I LOVE IT!! What else can I say? I grew up on this series and loved every minute of it. And this is the masterpiece that started it all. The first movie to show me that sometimes its not so bad to root for the bad guy. or is it?


Posted By: halloween9movie at 2:30pm, January 11, 2009

A nightmare on elm street 1 was the best the sequel let it down a little then the sequels started pick up but the original is the best for anyone who hasn't seen the nightmare films before


Posted By: oxley at 8:19pm, January 10, 2009

Wes Craven's A Nightmare On Elm Street. I was the first successful film of its kind, weaving the dream with real life. The directing is amazing and in the process of making this master piece he created one of horrors best and well known Freddy Krueger. Who can forget the wonderfull shots and the film work in this? We get a peeking Freddy push against a latex wall over a sleeping Nacy. It also gave birth to the caree of Jonny Depp. Wes knew he had something big when he came up with this, and boy did he ever! Although the sequels soon span out of controll turning Freddy into more of an Anti-Hero then a cold hearted villain. I think this movie will stand the tes of time along with Friday The 13th and Halloween, as the greatest horror of all time.


Posted By: mikethademon at 9:42am, January 9, 2009

Greatest of all time!


Posted By: theintruder138 at 12:11am, January 9, 2009

A great classic, enough said




Posted By: the black dahlia murder at 2:55pm, January 1, 2009

Ahh the beautifull blood bath that is A Nightmare on Elm St. Truely one of the best of all time. Wes Craven created an original master piece, that I feel will stand the test of time. This movie set the bar very high for future film makers in the genre.


Posted By: whitewire at 8:08pm, December 29, 2008

Awesome movie. The first 'A Nightmare on Elm Street' paved the way for one of the greatest horror icons ever, Freddy Krueger. Although the sequels to reach their true potential with such a fantastic idea (killer stalking kids in their dreams), the first will forever be a classic.


Posted By: jasonvoorhees601 at 9:18am, December 29, 2008

A true, difinitive classic. Wes Craven has created a phenomenon. Robert Englund delivered an awe-inpiring performance as the notorious Freddy Krueger. I had a hell of a time watching this film. Mr. Craven is a pure genius. The acting, music, cinematography, and plot were all right on the nose. If you haven't seen this movie yet(which I'd be surprised if you haven't), you MUST experience this pure horror film. Sir Wes Craven is THE best horror film director of all time. My all time favorite.


Posted By: tom holiday at 8:02pm, December 9, 2008

this movie is great. It solidified wes crevens carreer as a horror director. Much like halloween made john carpenter. Wes creven created a great villain for people to be scared of. Great premise. Everyone has to dream sometime. Dyeing in there sleep was a scary way to go. Strong cast, strong characters, great makeup effects. This movie rocks.


Posted By: Turk3102 at 2:16pm, December 1, 2008

Classic horror movie, and an iconic killer. Although parts come off as a bit campy nowadays, it still stands the test of time.


Posted By: NurseTonks at 2:07am, November 24, 2008

This is my ALL TIME favorite. I have the box set. Can't live without it. The only thing I hate is how silly it gets later on, and I think they could have done a little better of a job with Feddy VS Jason. But otherwise I love it. 100% all time fave.



Posted By: kaicooper at 11:11pm, November 23, 2008

SHUT UP .. this is the most scaryer and gri8 Horror movie ever.. u r the best FREDDY and keep it up killing kids and teenagers .. Yum Yum comon get som


Posted By: rusted31 at 6:54pm, November 12, 2008

One of the original and best Horror mvies ever made. This stands tall and proud next to TCM and Halloween, a true original in Horror History. Got to hand it to Wes Craven, he knows how to create some truly memorable villians. As the series went on Freddy became campy and silly but in this one he was a scary force to be reckoned with. This one had great gore and blood effects, who can never forget the Johnny Depp death scene, my eyes popped out of my head when i saw that for the first time and the ending made me jumpo 10 feet in the air. OK, I was 10 at the time. A true true classic and one of my all time faves.


Posted By: Sean of the Dead at 4:36pm, November 12, 2008

Kevlar sucks. This is one of the best film ever made.


Posted By: Kevlar at 4:06pm, November 12, 2008

A sad attempt for a horror movie. This movie SUCKS ASS!!! Although there are several funny scenes it dosent make the movie any better.


Posted By: Anyanka at 1:51pm, November 12, 2008

By far one of the best horror films of all time!!

Just the concept and pictures terrified me when I was little.



Posted By: yeonightmare at 5:54pm, November 8, 2008

This movie is a classic to me, one of the scariest. I always think of friday the 13th, halloween, and Nightmare the elm st. being on some what the same level. Nightmare is the best although to me, this movie freaks me out, and so do a few sequels. I cant wait for the remake, although im sure it wont come close to the original.


Posted By: horrorfan25 at 8:42pm, November 5, 2008

"What ever you do. Don't fall asleep" is one of the classic lines from Nightmare on Elm Street. Everything about this movie I loved. The acting was top notch, the kill scenes were creative, and most importantly it was scary. The actually good scary movies are the old ones because those actually have clever ideas and the acting isn't actually stupid. Overall I give A nightmare on Elm Street 10 out of 10 or 5 out of 5 skulls. If I could give this 1,000 skulls I would.


Posted By: Acathla at 3:32pm, October 28, 2008

The movie that brought Freddy to everyone's nightmares.


Posted By: Romerofan123 at 3:06pm, October 28, 2008

What a great movie this will go down in horror history


Posted By: Ed Gein at 9:14pm, October 23, 2008

A true horror classic.


Posted By: Fridaythe13th at 1:43pm, October 23, 2008

This is a definitive classic! Freddy was actually scary in this, unlike his joke making persona in the sequels. Great cast and just an overall great movie!


Posted By: meatcleaver63 at 11:44am, October 23, 2008

A true horror classic, though the series seemed to get a bit campy as it went on, this one still stands up on it's own.


Posted By: downward_spiral at 4:19pm, October 8, 2008

This movie was amazing. One of the true classics in horror, not to mention one of the best slasher films ever. I just wish I could have seen this when it first came out to theaters. That would have been amazing. They also better not fuck up with the remake they plan on doing.


Posted By: sewerdweller198 at 3:11pm, October 5, 2008

In my opinion this is one of the best horror movies ever made, it just goes to prove that you don't always need ridiculously big budget and a team of spookishly great special effects masters. Look at Halloween that had a pretty crap budget and look at the result, most of the time it doesn't matter what the viewer sees it's what they don't see, imply that someone is dying then show the body after the audience hears it, it's more effective because then it gets in their heads once it's in there, it's hard to get it out again which is where the nightmares kick in and then voila! you have a successful psychological horror


Posted By: Protecious at 11:37pm, September 30, 2008

one of the all time greats in the genre, this film and the franchise made new line cinema so much money, this one and the new nightmare one are the best of the series


Posted By: DBlock at 12:57am, September 28, 2008

I really liked the first one, all the rest sucked. Making Freddie Krueger a comedian was the dumbest idea ever. Jacques, this was no kid movie, watch it again. It was original and Freddie was scary in the first installment. This will always be a classic. As for The Last House on the Left, I like the story and I realize the shock value for the time it was shot, but overall;not good. Bad music, acting was poor and had countless cliches and holes in the story. So A Nightmare on Elm Street was one of his best in my opinion.


Posted By: stephie at 10:18pm, September 27, 2008

I truly think this is one of the best horror movies of all time. The first nightmare was by far better then all the rest. All the others had there own creative ideas. But the original was truly truly the most creative. I mean for someone to creat a character that haunts your dreams and kills people. Its Great. I've seen every single nightmare movie created. And this one still scares me everytime.


Oh and if anyone has paid attention to these movies. the character nancy actually dies in the third one. She dies in her dream. Freddy finally gets her. But then in the New nightmare one Wes is writting a brand new script for nancy. Technically that cant happen. I mean if you killed her off in one how can she come back in another. Thats just a thought of mine.



Posted By: dherna7704 at 2:27pm, September 27, 2008

classssssssic fooo


Posted By: BloodyAnneBoleyn at 12:40pm, September 26, 2008

Awesome movie that set the stage for all horror movies to follow, nothing more original that a killer that haunts your dreams and has razors for fingers. trully a classic.


Posted By: Jacques at 10:25am, September 8, 2008

The other day some friends told me they didn’t watch horror movie because every one of them was cheesy and predictable. At the time I wasn’t exactly sure what they were watching to make them think that, but now I know: A Nightmare on Elm Street. I don’t care if it’s a classic, it’s still one of the single worst movies I’ve ever seen in my life. I don’t understand how this is by the same man who wrote The Last House on the Left, which was superior in every way imaginable.

To call this movie cheesy is an understatement. From opening to closing the acting is some of the unintentionally funny I’ve seen in a horror movie ever—some of the melodramatic lines I’m sure Wes Craven had to have laughed at when he wrote them, I’m sure.

The entire movie plays out like something made-for-TV on Cartoon Network, and they actually show this movie on that station around Halloween. There is nothing even remotely dark or serious about this movie because it’s written with the simplicity and corniness of a children’s film. The actors themselves don’t even look old enough to be teenagers. Minus the cliché, comical bedroom scene near the end, the movie has no more blood than a kid’s movie. I really cannot think of ANYTHING in this movie that would be aimed at adults or older teens—A Nightmare on Elm Street is a children’s movie through and through.

The story itself is throw-away and lacks any creativity whatsoever. A guy kills in your dreams. Other than that, every single factor of A Nightmare on Elm Street uses clichés that were around long before it. A secondary character dies off, the main character goes on a quest to kill the killer, the main character goes to school and almost is killed, the main character does research and finds an urban legend (or the equivalent) on how to kill the supernatural killer, her plan succeeds, and the last few minutes show a reversal of expiations. Anyone remember how many times they’ve seen that exact plot before? If I were to list the movies on the top of my head with that same plot it would take at least two pages. Those of you who claim this is a superior slasher because it’s “original” do not know what original means.

Freddy is the single thing that even kept me watching this movie. His character is a tired cliché—exactly like Pennywise and Billy and the Joker and every other villain—but his actual design is at least a little different. He’s essentially Mr. Rodgers with a burnt face and knives for fingers, but that is more original than you’re going to get in most slashers. It’s sad to see him in such a lame movie.

The only reason I didn’t turn A Nightmare on Elm Street off and go to bed is because every “hardcore horror fan must watch it” and I did. But I saw nothing different than every other cheese-horror movie ever made. I hope the remake is better. And has less clothing with primary colors.



Posted By: thedescent08 at 7:15pm, September 1, 2008

:D


Posted By: dorkinb at 12:24pm, August 15, 2008

the original!.


Posted By: DarKnightmare at 5:31am, August 11, 2008

one of Craven's best!!


Posted By: MichaelMyers1031 at 4:40pm, August 8, 2008

One of the creepiest movies of all time one of my personal favorites. Nightmare on Elm Street is probably the best slasher of the 80's Freddy Kruger in this film was creepy as hell all the Nightmare sequences were all just done great. Each time they kept getting scarier and scarier. The music was done great and jump rope song is still popular to this day.

1,2 Freddy's coming for you 3,4 He's at your door
5,6 Grab your crucifix 7,8 Gonna Stay up late
9,10 Never Sleep again

That song might be the most memorable thing out of a horror movie still to this day. The death scenes are all done great (especially Johnny Depp)
The bathroom scene is in my opinion the scariest part of the film. The suspense ending was shot well. (Director Wes Craven actually wanted a happy ending)

Along with Halloween and Friday the 13th. A Nightmare On Elm Street will always be a classic.



Posted By: Anthropophagus at 3:53am, August 2, 2008

Tied with 'The Evil Dead' as being the best horror film of the entire eighties decade. Very scary, gruesome and intelligent - Wes Craven's best work since 'Last House'.


Posted By: j34ngr4y at 4:09pm, July 18, 2008

The only film in the NIGHTMARE series worth watching! This one had an original idae that was trurly scary and it woked...and it has Johnny Depp and he has the greatest death scene in a movie since Defoe in PLATOON!!! This movie rocks it so deserves a 10 out of 10!!!


Posted By: Freddy Returns at 2:44pm, July 16, 2008

As a Nightmare fan, I have to say this is one of the best horror films out there. Robert Englund for his first performance of Fred Krueger was really scary and disgusting, which made him one of the best iconic villains in history. This movie had suspense, and very scary moments that would give you "nightmares." None of the sequels could do better then this, not even "Freddy's Dead." I give this 10, for being one of my favorite horror movies and also for being one of the best movie in it's genre. Thanks Wes Craven for giving us this horrific movie that will last forever.


Posted By: darkamor at 9:45pm, July 15, 2008

Actor Robert Englund (as infamous child killer Freddy Krueger) and Director Wes Craven brought new life into the horror movie franchise right when it was starting to become overwhelmed by inferior slasher flicks (most going straight to video in order to capitalize on the video rental market) ..... this is truly one of those rare horror films so effective that you didn't want to fall asleep after seeing it (which is more than I can say regarding the inferior sequels that followed after the 2nd)!


Posted By: JonnyRotten at 10:04pm, July 8, 2008

This is a classic! The standard by which all horror films should be judged. Completely original idea, can't be compared to any movie before or since its release. Gave birth to not only horror's biggest icon, but also to the best big screen actor of our generation(J. Depp). Most iconic weapon of all time, creepy and catchy song, best ever! The idea that A Nightmare on Elm Street deserves anything short of a 10 is blasphemy. Freddy brought horror to the mainstream and this is the thanks he gets! I had a freddy lunch box for god's sake! This is the Godfather of scary movies. Freddy is the Michael Jordan of murder. G.O.A.T!


Posted By: A fistful of boomstick at 2:53pm, June 6, 2008

This movie is really creepy. Its to bad robert england wasnt in it I was kinda disapointed with him not in it.


Posted By: Domino19 at 3:09am, June 5, 2008

It's a great classic. it is one of the flims that are more then just naked girls running around and blood and guts. Yes it has both of those but it also has a story line.


Posted By: Dallas13 at 9:39am, June 1, 2008

the only good thing in it was jonny depp and he died
this movie was shit



Posted By: jpugly13 at 6:54pm, May 29, 2008

This movie is great. I remember this one from being a kid and then watching it older and it still creeped me out. I own all of these and love to watch them. This is the scariest one of them all. This movie had something new at the time. This is a movie all horror fans should love.


Posted By: sixxchik at 5:17pm, May 16, 2008

this movie is a classic! i love it, when i was really little it would scare me enough to want to stay awake too pluss this is johnny depps first movie :D


Posted By: heatherlindsays at 3:14pm, May 9, 2008

BEST MOVIE EVER. Love all of the Freedy Kruger movies. I know so many people younger than me, that have never even heard of Freddy Kruger. It dissapoints me. I say, you have to see these! He scared the shit out of me. I still watch all of them. I have the whole set. Awesome.


Posted By: cwatts at 12:15pm, April 23, 2008

This movie is creepy. Its really creepy. In my opinion this is the nly film worth a damn in the entire series.


Posted By: leatherfacekillserinfan1 at 8:03am, April 13, 2008

one of the best movies ever. a scaey movie. truly a classic. just hope the remake gets a good nancy, and a good freddy and everything will be fine.


Posted By: QueenOfHalloween at 12:31pm, March 19, 2008

Awesome movie, one of my favorites!!!


Posted By: GGoblin31 at 11:16am, March 18, 2008

One of the best/original horror films out there. Wes Craven created an icon in Freddy Krueger, and scared the shit out of a generation of filmgoers. Freddy is never as menacing as he is here. Watch for Johnny Depp and the infamous "water bed" scene. My only problem with Craven's masterpiece falls in the last few frames of the film. I blame New Line Cinema (R.I.P.), specifically Robert Shaye for fucking with Craven's ending. Otherwise, a staple of any horror fan's collection.



THE HORROR HYPE METER
Excited to see this movie? Rate it here!

   1 Star

2 Stars 3 Stars 4 Stars 5 Stars

Total Votes:

Average Rating:

645




BD NEWS

Main
DVD
Indie
Video Games
Comic Books
MOVIES

Reviews
Coming Soon
Trailers
Movie Pit
FEATURES

Interviews
Articles
Podcasts
Dead Pixels
Graphic Content
COMMUNITY

My Profile
The Infected
Forums
Blogs
Galleries
ABOUT

BD Staff
Contact Us
News Feeds
Advertise

BLOODYDISGUSTING.COM/BLOODY-DISGUSTING.COM, GOHORRORMOVIES.COM © 2001-2008 BLOODY-DISGUSTING LLC - Privacy Policy - Terms Of Service