Blood in Zero G as ‘Jason X’ Returns to Kill Again

Horror meets hyperspace in Jason X, the long-misunderstood 2001 entry in the Friday the 13th franchise, which is returning in a newly restored 4K Ultra HD edition on 19 May. Often dismissed on its original release for its outrageous setting and campy tone, Jason X has since found its audience as a gory cult gem with a fondness for creative kills, gleeful absurdity, and one of the most bonkers franchise pivots in horror history.

Directed by veteran special effects artist Jim Isaac, who previously worked on Gremlins and eXistenZ, Jason X transports the hockey-masked killer far beyond Crystal Lake and into deep space. It’s the year 2455 and Earth has been rendered uninhabitable. A crew of students and scientists investigating the now-desolate planet stumbles upon the frozen remains of Jason Voorhees in a ruined facility near the former site of the infamous summer camp. Naturally, they bring the corpse aboard their spaceship, which proves to be a catastrophic mistake.

Once thawed, Jason does what he does best – slashing his way through the crew in increasingly inventive ways. But this time, it’s with a futuristic flair, culminating in the debut of “Uber Jason”, a cybernetically enhanced version of the killer that turns the film’s final act into a techno-horror brawl for survival.

Fan favourite Kane Hodder dons the mask for the fourth and final time in this film, giving Jason an imposing physicality that anchors even the wildest moments. From liquid nitrogen face-smashes to virtual reality showdowns, Jason X is gleefully unhinged and loaded with moments that gleam with creativity and self-awareness. It’s horror that knows exactly what it is—and relishes every blood-soaked second.

Arrow Video’s limited edition 4K release includes both new and archival material that explores the film’s production and legacy. There are three commentary tracks, including one with the late Jim Isaac and writer Todd Farmer, alongside interviews with composer Harry Manfredini, producer Sean S. Cunningham, and the cast. The bonus content delves into the film’s notoriously troubled development, fan reception, and the decision to launch the franchise into orbit.

Also included are behind-the-scenes documentaries, trailers, still galleries, and newly commissioned artwork from Gary Pullin, as well as an illustrated collector’s booklet with essays by genre writers Matt Donato and JA Kerswell.

Though often the black sheep of the Friday the 13th franchise, Jason X has endured as a celebration of the slasher’s evolution. Its space setting might have been mocked in 2001, but in today’s climate of horror experimentation, its boldness feels oddly ahead of its time.

Jason X makes its limited edition 4K UHD debut on 19 May, courtesy of Arrow Video.

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