If you’re into horror that keeps you guessing, then the Jeepers Creepers movies are probably already on your radar. This franchise has been creeping audiences out since 2001, with its central monster—the Creeper—popping up every 23 years to feast on people in terrifying and bizarre ways. But if you’re new to the series or just need a refresher, here’s a breakdown of how to watch the films in order, plus a little dive into what makes this series such a cult favorite.
The Birth of Jeepers Creepers
When the first Jeepers Creepers movie hit theaters in 2001, it didn’t take long to make a name for itself. Fans loved its mix of supernatural horror and tense psychological thrills, with the Creeper emerging as one of horror’s most intriguing and terrifying villains. Directed by Victor Salva, the film stood out by taking a “less is more” approach to horror, building tension and atmosphere rather than relying on cheap jump scares.
Origins and Inspiration
Salva didn’t just pull the Creeper out of thin air. He mixed elements of folklore and urban legends to create this creature that reawakens every 23 years to go on a grisly hunt. The idea of a cycle of evil that returns again and again struck a chord with horror fans. And while Salva had the vision, the Creeper’s creepy design came to life thanks to an incredible team of makeup artists and practical effects pros, giving it a look that was both monstrous and oddly human.
Watching the Jeepers Creepers Movies in Order
Now, let’s get into the order of the films and what you can expect from each:
Jeepers Creepers (2001)
This is where it all begins. The first movie introduces us to Trish and Darry, siblings who find themselves caught in the Creeper’s deadly path after witnessing it dump bodies in a pit. The film is packed with suspense, and its mysterious villain leaves a lasting impact. It didn’t get the best reviews at first (Rotten Tomatoes gives it a 46% audience score), but it’s since become a cult classic.
IMDb Rating 6.2/10
Jeepers Creepers 2 (2003)
In the sequel, the Creeper turns its attention to a busload of high school students. The stakes are higher, and the confined setting ramps up the tension. While it gives us more insight into the Creeper’s abilities, reviews were a bit mixed, but fans still appreciate the deeper dive into the monster’s lore.
IMDb Rating 5.7/10
Jeepers Creepers 3 (2017)
This one takes place between the first two films and tries to shed more light on the Creeper’s origins. Unfortunately, it didn’t quite land with fans, with complaints about the weak plot and subpar effects. That said, for hardcore fans, it offers more backstory on the creature.
IMDb Rating 3.9/10
Jeepers Creepers: Reborn (2022)
The most recent installment tried to reboot the franchise, with a storyline centered around a horror festival in Louisiana. The idea was to introduce the Creeper to a new generation, but it fell flat, with poor reviews across the board.
IMDb Rating 2.5/10
The Controversy Surrounding the Franchise
The Controversy Surrounding the Franchise
It’s hard to talk about Jeepers Creepers without addressing the elephant in the room: director Victor Salva’s criminal past. This has understandably led to a lot of backlash, with some viewers choosing to boycott the films altogether. It’s a tough issue for many fans, and it’s definitely cast a shadow over the franchise. If you want to know more, you can find a deep dive on this topic over at Horror History.
Mystery surrounds the Creeper, as its origins and motivations remain shrouded in secrecy. With its supernatural abilities and insatiable hunger for flesh, the Creeper strikes fear into the hearts of those who encounter it. Trish, Darry, and other characters who cross paths with the Creeper find themselves facing unimaginable horrors as they become entangled in its deadly g
The Cultural Impact of Jeepers Creepers
Despite the ups and downs, Jeepers Creepers has left its mark on the horror genre. The Creeper is one of the more memorable villains in modern horror, and the first film’s use of tension and atmosphere is often compared to classics like The Texas Chainsaw Massacre and Halloween. The franchise has also built a strong fan base over the years, with conventions, fan theories, and merchandise keeping the Creeper’s legacy alive.
The Future of Jeepers Creepers
With the flop of Jeepers Creepers: Reborn, the future of the franchise is a little uncertain. There’s talk of potential spin-offs and more exploration of the Creeper’s origins, but it’ll likely take a fresh approach to reignite fan interest.
Conclusion
Watching the Jeepers Creepers movies in order gives you a full picture of how the Creeper’s story has evolved over the years. The series taps into deep fears of the unknown and plays with the idea of an unstoppable, ancient evil. Despite the controversies and mixed reviews, it remains a unique and memorable part of horror history.
For more horror recommendations, don’t forget to check out our guide on how to watch the Scream movies in order!