Detective Camp Films – A Summer Mystery Collection

Description: This iconic horror film starts with a detective-like investigation into the mysterious deaths at Camp Crystal Lake, setting the stage for one of the most famous slasher franchises. The initial mystery of who or what is behind the killings adds a detective element to the horror.

Fact: The film was shot in just 28 days, and the iconic hockey mask didn't appear until the third installment.

Description: While not strictly a detective film, this classic slasher flick set in a summer camp has elements of mystery and investigation as campers try to uncover the identity of the killer. It's a must-watch for its atmospheric setting and iconic campfire scene.

Fact: The film was inspired by the urban legend of Cropsey, and features early appearances by Jason Alexander and Holly Hunter.

Description: Although not set in a summer camp, this Stephen King adaptation features a teacher who wakes up from a coma with psychic abilities, leading him to investigate and prevent future crimes. The summer camp setting in the book adds a layer of nostalgia to the film's atmosphere.

Fact: Christopher Walken's performance earned him a Saturn Award nomination for Best Actor.

Description: Although not set in a summer camp, this film features a group of sorority sisters who must solve the mystery of a killer targeting them. The summer-like setting of the sorority house adds to the campy feel of the film.

Fact: The film was one of the first to use the "final girl" trope in a sorority setting.

Description: This slasher film involves a college sorority initiation that turns deadly, with elements of mystery as the characters try to uncover the killer's identity. The summer-like setting of the initiation adds to the campy atmosphere.

Fact: The film features a young Daphne Zuniga, who later starred in "Melrose Place."

Description: This anthology horror film includes a segment where campers tell stories around the fire, one of which involves a detective-like investigation into a ghostly presence at the camp. It's a fun nod to the detective genre within a horror context.

Fact: The film features a segment directed by a young Sam Raimi, known for his work on the Evil Dead series.

Description: This sci-fi horror film involves students at a high school (which could be considered a summer camp-like setting) who must investigate and combat an alien invasion. The detective work to uncover the truth adds to the suspense.

Fact: The film was directed by Robert Rodriguez, who also directed "From Dusk Till Dawn."

Description: While not set in a traditional summer camp, this meta-horror film involves a group of friends who are unknowingly part of a larger mystery. Their investigation into the strange events at the cabin adds a detective layer to the horror.

Fact: The film was co-written by Joss Whedon, who also wrote the screenplay for "Toy Story."

Description: Set in a remote forest camp, this film involves a group of campers who must solve the mystery of a lurking killer. It's less known but offers a compelling mix of survival horror and detective elements.

Fact: The film was originally titled "Carnivore" and was intended to be a straightforward survival horror but evolved into a mystery thriller.

Description: This film blends horror with a detective story as the audience tries to piece together the identity of the killer at a summer camp. The ending twist is one of the most memorable in horror cinema, making it a unique entry in this collection.

Fact: The film's ending was so controversial that it was edited for subsequent releases, and the director, Robert Hiltzik, returned to direct a sequel after 27 years.