The Wrong Turn franchise, a gruesome testament to backwoods horror, presents a unique viewing challenge: chronological order doesn’t necessarily equate to narrative coherence or optimal enjoyment. The best approach is a blend of release order for initial immersion, followed by targeted revisits based on individual preferences for mythology versus standalone terror.
Untangling the Web of Wrong Turn: A Franchise Overview
The Wrong Turn movies, known for their inbred cannibal families and creative kill sequences, aren’t exactly cinematic masterpieces vying for Oscar glory. However, their unwavering dedication to raw, visceral horror has cultivated a dedicated fanbase. While the films loosely connect through shared elements like the mutated family and their hunting grounds in the West Virginia wilderness, continuity is often disregarded or retconned. Therefore, understanding the core elements allows for a more flexible and ultimately satisfying viewing experience.
The franchise currently consists of seven films:
- Wrong Turn (2003)
- Wrong Turn 2: Dead End (2007)
- Wrong Turn 3: Left for Dead (2009)
- Wrong Turn 4: Bloody Beginnings (2011)
- Wrong Turn 5: Bloodlines (2012)
- Wrong Turn 6: Last Resort (2014)
- Wrong Turn (2021) – A complete reboot, distinct from the original storyline.
Release Order vs. Chronological Order: Which is Best?
The most common debate revolves around whether to watch the films in release order (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7) or chronological order. While the prequels (Wrong Turn 4 and Wrong Turn 5) delve into the origins of the cannibalistic Hillicker family, their narrative inconsistencies and often weaker storytelling make release order a better starting point.
Release order allows you to experience the evolution of the franchise – for better or worse – as intended by the creators. You witness the gradual expansion of the mythology and the increasing levels of gore and absurdity. This approach provides a foundational understanding before exploring the prequel elements.
Chronological order (Wrong Turn 4, Wrong Turn 5, Wrong Turn, Wrong Turn 2, Wrong Turn 3, Wrong Turn 6, Wrong Turn (2021)) attempts to stitch together a more linear narrative, but often highlights the plot holes and inconsistencies. While it provides context to the Hillicker family’s origins early on, it can disrupt the pacing and enjoyment, especially if the initial prequels don’t resonate with your taste.
The 2021 Reboot: A New Beginning
The 2021 Wrong Turn movie is a significant departure from the original series. It abandons the inbred cannibal family altogether and presents a completely new storyline featuring a hidden, ancient society called “The Foundation.”
This reboot stands alone and can be watched independently of the original six films. In fact, viewing it after the initial franchise might provide a refreshing change of pace and prevent franchise fatigue. Treat it as a separate entity within the broader “Wrong Turn” universe, rather than a direct sequel or prequel.
Crafting Your Wrong Turn Marathon: A Recommended Viewing Guide
Here’s a recommended viewing guide that balances release order with the option to delve deeper into specific aspects of the franchise:
- Wrong Turn (2003): Start here. It sets the tone and introduces the core concept.
- Wrong Turn 2: Dead End (2007): A significant improvement in gore and humor.
- Wrong Turn 3: Left for Dead (2009): Continues the established formula.
- Optional: Wrong Turn 4: Bloody Beginnings (2011) & Wrong Turn 5: Bloodlines (2012): If you are interested in the origins of the Hillicker family and their escape from the Glensville Sanatorium, these prequels provide background, but be prepared for inconsistencies.
- Wrong Turn 6: Last Resort (2014): Known for its gratuitous nature, watch this only if you’re a dedicated fan seeking the full experience. Many consider it the weakest entry.
- Wrong Turn (2021): Experience the reboot and its distinct take on the survival horror theme.
This approach allows you to build familiarity with the core elements of the Wrong Turn universe before delving into the less essential prequels and the standalone reboot.
FAQs: Decoding the Wrong Turn Maze
Here are twelve frequently asked questions to further clarify your Wrong Turn viewing experience:
FAQ 1: Is there a Wrong Turn 7?
Technically, yes. The 2021 film, titled simply Wrong Turn, is often considered Wrong Turn 7 due to its position in the release timeline. However, it is a complete reboot and shares no continuity with the original six films. It’s more of a spiritual successor than a direct sequel.
FAQ 2: Are the Wrong Turn movies based on a true story?
No, the Wrong Turn movies are fictional. While they draw inspiration from elements of Appalachian folklore and the “hills have eyes” trope of isolated, inbred families, they are purely works of horror fiction.
FAQ 3: Which Wrong Turn movie is the scariest?
Subjectivity reigns supreme, but many consider the original Wrong Turn (2003) the scariest due to its suspenseful atmosphere and realistic portrayal of being lost in the wilderness. Others might find Wrong Turn 2: Dead End more terrifying due to its extreme gore.
FAQ 4: Do I need to watch all the Wrong Turn movies to understand the plot?
No. While there are overarching themes and recurring characters (specifically in the first six films), each film generally presents a self-contained story. The reboot (2021) is entirely independent.
FAQ 5: What are the names of the cannibalistic brothers?
The prominent cannibalistic brothers are Three Finger, Saw Tooth, and One Eye. These names are descriptive of their physical mutations, often caused by inbreeding and environmental factors.
FAQ 6: Where is Wrong Turn set?
The majority of the Wrong Turn movies are set in the remote, mountainous regions of West Virginia. The isolation and unforgiving terrain contribute significantly to the films’ atmosphere of dread.
FAQ 7: Is Wrong Turn 2 better than the first one?
Many fans consider Wrong Turn 2: Dead End to be a superior film. It features a higher budget, more intense gore, and a more self-aware, humorous tone. However, the original maintains a certain suspenseful charm.
FAQ 8: Is there a Wrong Turn TV series?
As of now, there is no Wrong Turn TV series. However, the franchise’s enduring popularity means that a television adaptation remains a possibility.
FAQ 9: What is the Foundation in the 2021 Wrong Turn about?
The Foundation is a secret society that has lived in the Appalachian Mountains for centuries, predating the arrival of European settlers. They are fiercely protective of their land and traditions and have developed their own unique language and culture. They are not cannibals but are brutal in their defense of their way of life.
FAQ 10: Can I watch the Wrong Turn movies with my kids?
Absolutely not. The Wrong Turn movies are extremely violent and gory, containing graphic depictions of murder, torture, and cannibalism. They are intended for mature audiences only.
FAQ 11: Are there any deleted scenes worth watching?
Some special editions of the Wrong Turn movies include deleted scenes. Whether they are “worth” watching depends on your tolerance for even more gore and character development that was deemed unnecessary for the final cut. They generally don’t add significantly to the overall narrative.
FAQ 12: Where can I watch the Wrong Turn movies?
The Wrong Turn movies are available on various streaming platforms, including Amazon Prime Video, Hulu (depending on your region), and through digital rentals on platforms like Google Play Movies and Apple TV. Check your local listings for availability. You can also find physical copies on DVD and Blu-ray.
By following this guide and considering these FAQs, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate the twisted roads of the Wrong Turn franchise and craft a viewing experience that suits your individual taste for terror. Remember to brace yourself for the gore, the grotesqueries, and the sheer unpredictability of the West Virginia wilderness.