Starz orders ‘Evil Dead’ series starring Bruce Campbell

Strap on your chainsaw arm and get ready for the return of Ash.

Starz announced on Monday that it has ordered a series version of “Evil Dead,” a project announced by Sam Raimi back at San Diego Comic-Con in July. 

The 10-episode order for “Ash Vs. Evil Dead” is full of intriguing elements.

First, the most obvious: Bruce Campbell will return to play Ash, as if anybody else would be able to get away with interpreting the iconic role.

Of the plot, Starz summarizes, “Bruce Campbell will be reprising his role as Ash, the stock boy, aging lothario and chainsaw-handed monster hunter who has spent the last 30 years avoiding responsibility, maturity and the terrors of the Evil Dead.  When a Deadite plague threatens to destroy all of mankind, Ash is finally forced to face his demons — personal and literal.  Destiny, it turns out, has no plans to release the unlikely hero from its 'Evil' grip.”

Seems fair enough.

Let's get back to the intriguing elements:

Well, for one, “Ash Vs. Evil Dead” will be a half-hour series, rather than an hour, and it will premiere in 2015. The length/format is an interesting choice and could produce an oddity like a “Survivor's Remorse”/”Ash Vs. Evil Dead” pairing next year, especially since “Survivor's Remorse” would be a totally viable subtitle for the various “Evil Dead” sequels. 

Adding to the fun, Sam Raimi, director of “Evil Dead,” “Evil Dead II” and “Army of Darkness,” will direct the pilot, which he co-wrote with Ivan Raimi and Tom Spezialy. Raimi will also serve as an executive producer along with Campbell and long-time producing partner Rob Tapert. 

“Starz first worked with Sam and Rob on ‘Spartacus,” and we are thrilled to be back in business with them,” blurbs Carmi Zlotnik, Managing Director of Starz. “With Sam writing and directing and Bruce Campbell returning to the screen, we are certain the show will give 'Evil Dead' fans around the world the fix they”ve been craving.”

Adds Raimi, “'Evil Dead' has always been a blast. Bruce, Rob, and I are thrilled to have the opportunity to tell the next chapter in Ash”s lame, but heroic saga. With his chainsaw arm and his ‘boomstick,” Ash is back to kick some monster butt. And brother, this time there”s a truckload of it.”

And the statements go on! 

Campbell states, “I'm really excited to bring this series to the Evil Dead fans worldwide – it's going to be everything they have been clamoring for: serious deadite ass-kicking and plenty of outrageous humor.”

And Tapert adds, “Starz has always been a great creative partner and we are excited to be working with them on this project.”

The 2013 remake/reboot of “Evil Dead” earned nearly $97 million and featured Ash in a post-credit scene. It's unclear if that movie will be considered to be part of the “Evil Dead” continuity” for purposes of “Ash Vs. Evil Dead.” Probably the musical won't be in continuity, but knowing the assembled talent, you probably shouldn't rule it out with certainty.

Intrigued?

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