Never Hike Alone 2 Review: A Fan Film That Brings Jason Back in Bloody Style

If you're a fan of slasher films—especially the Friday the 13th series—there's a good chance you're familiar with the name Jason Voorhees. But while legal limbo has kept the masked killer out of theaters, passionate fans haven't let him rest. One of the best examples of this is Never Hike Alone 2, the latest entry in a standout fan film series created by Vincente DiSanti and Womp Stomp Films.

This unofficial sequel carries on the story from the earlier Never Hike Alone projects, all of which can be found on YouTube or the official Womp Stomp Films website. These fan films have quietly built a loyal following, and with good reason: they deliver the kind of horror experience that many long-time fans have been missing.

A Quick Synopsis (Spoiler-Free)

Never Hike Alone 2 takes place two decades after Jason Voorhees’ last known appearance. Crystal Lake has changed, but old scars remain. One of the people still haunted is Tommy Jarvis—portrayed once again by Thom Mathews, reprising his role from Friday the 13th Part VI. Tommy has spent years chasing ghosts, but when he receives a distress call about an injured hiker named Kyle McLeod, he finds himself face to face with a very real threat.

What unfolds is a high-stakes showdown featuring familiar faces and fresh characters, including Dr. Diana Hill, a mother searching for answers, and Sheriff Rick Cologne, whose own history with Jason adds weight to the confrontation.

The Review

Let’s be clear: Never Hike Alone 2 is a fan film, but it doesn’t feel like one in the traditional sense. It’s a polished, thoughtfully made horror story that respects its source material while delivering its own unique flair. From the cinematography to the sound design, the production quality is impressive—especially considering the grassroots nature of the project.

The performances are surprisingly strong for an indie production. Thom Mathews brings real emotional depth to Tommy Jarvis, portraying a man who’s scarred but determined. Vincente DiSanti, who also plays Jason, captures the cold, calculated menace the character is known for, and the supporting cast rounds out the story well without feeling like filler.

What truly sets the film apart is its attention to detail. The filmmakers clearly understand what makes Jason terrifying, and they never treat the character like a gimmick. His design in this film is among the best we've seen—grim, brutal, and intimidating.

The kills? Let’s just say they deliver. Creative, practical, and paced for maximum impact, the gore is handled in a way that feels earned and never excessive for the sake of shock value. Horror fans will appreciate the way tension is built, especially in the film’s final act.

Final Thoughts

As a horror enthusiast, it’s refreshing to see creators who not only love the genre but know how to work within its framework to tell a compelling story. Never Hike Alone 2 doesn’t rely on cheap scares or nostalgia alone—it builds on the legacy of Jason Voorhees with care and creativity.

While the film is unofficial and not connected to the original studio series, it stands as one of the most respectful and entertaining tributes to the Friday the 13th franchise out there today. It serves not only as fan service but also as a reminder that great storytelling can come from unexpected places.

I personally rate this film a 4.6 out of 5 for its impressive production, compelling characters, creative kills, and faithful representation of one of horror’s most iconic villains. For fans waiting to see Jason done right again, this is the film you’ve been hoping for.

Where to Watch

To support the creators, you can find Never Hike Alone 2 and the rest of the series on the Womp Stomp Films YouTube channel. Just search the title or visit their official website to stay up to date on future projects.

Final Note

This review is based on personal opinions and experiences with the film. As with all fan projects, viewer discretion is advised regarding availability and platform hosting.

For more horror movie reviews, indie film highlights, and genre deep dives, be sure to follow my blog here on Vocal. Until next time—this is Gator’s Movie Reviews, signing off.