
Following the success of the original, sequels came quickly. Freddy’s Revenge arrived the next year, earning $30 million, but this time Wes Craven only wrote the script instead of directing. While less popular, Dream Warriors was released two years later with Chuck Russell as director, and this film marked a shift towards darker humor. The franchise then truly entered pop culture, with Freddy Krueger merchandise – dolls, gloves, hats, and striped sweaters – appearing before Halloween. This was boosted by the rap group The Fat Boys’ hit song, ‘Are You Ready for Freddy?’, with Craven directing the music video. Although a risk to move away from the intense horror of the first film, it proved successful, earning $44 million. The fourth film, directed by Renny Harlin, followed the next year and became the highest-grossing in the series with $49 million.