Movie Review: Jeepers Creepers 5: Curse of the Hollow (2025)
“Every 23rd Spring… begins again.”
The Creeper returns in Jeepers Creepers 5: Curse of the Hollow, the latest installment in the long-running horror franchise. Directed by David F. Sandberg (Lights Out, Annabelle: Creation), this chapter aims to rejuvenate the series with a darker tone and expanded mythology
Set nearly 25 years after the events of Jeepers Creepers 2, the film follows a group of college archaeologists who uncover an ancient tomb beneath rural Louisiana, inadvertently awakening the Creeper during its feeding season. The narrative delves into the creature’s origins, intertwining Native American folklore and blood rituals, offering a fresh perspective on the iconic villain.
The cast features Thomas Doherty, Kaitlyn Dever, and Giancarlo Esposito, with Jonathan Breck making a cameo as the original Creeper. Esposito’s character warns, “The Creeper is not just a monster anymore. It’s a curse… a cycle of death that we were never meant to break.” The film’s atmosphere is enhanced by its gritty visuals and psychological horror elements, reminiscent of films like Hereditary and The Witch.
Visually, the film employs moody cinematography—fog-drenched fields and shadowy barns—capturing the franchise’s gritty vibe. Practical effects for the Creeper’s grotesque form, paired with minimal CGI, echo the tactile horror of the first two films. A pulsing, industrial score heightens the dread, though some scenes feel rushed or undercooked
Despite production challenges, including legal disputes over distribution rights, Jeepers Creepers 5 strives to reclaim the franchise’s early glory. It blends nostalgia with gore-soaked thrills, aiming to satisfy long-time fans while attracting new audiences
Final Verdict: ★★★☆☆ (3.5/5)
Jeepers Creepers 5: Curse of the Hollow offers a fresh take on the Creeper’s lore, delivering atmospheric horror and intense visuals. While it may not surpass the original, it revitalizes the series with renewed energy and ambition
