Friday the 13th Part 2 (1981)

Five years after the gruesome events of the original *Friday the 13th*, Jason Voorhees, the seemingly dead killer, emerges from his hiding place to terrorize a new group of unsuspecting camp counselors. Ignoring local warnings, Paul opens up a new camp near the notorious Camp Crystal Lake, attracting a cast of attractive, hormone-driven counselors, including the intelligent and observant Ginny, a psychology major. Little do they know, Jason has been lurking in the shadows, honing his lethal skills and seeking vengeance for his mother's death, leading to a series of terrifying and creatively brutal murders. This sequel ramps up the suspense and delivers the first true appearance of the hockey-masked Jason, solidifying the franchise's iconic killer. This film earns its place on a list of "Best Steve Miner Movies" for several reasons. *Friday the 13th Part 2* marks Miner's directorial debut, showcasing his ability to build tension and deliver effective scares within the slasher genre. He established a recognizable visual style for the series and expertly crafted the suspenseful atmosphere of a classic slasher film. Beyond that, Miner deftly builds upon the narrative foundation laid in the first movie, expertly transitioning the narrative between the two films in the series. Finally, by introducing Jason's signature look and style of killing, he cemented the film as a crucial piece of the *Friday the 13th* legacy and a cornerstone of the slasher genre, making it a significant achievement in Miner's career.