Arguably, the final installment of the Elm Street series is better or even New Nightmare (if it should be included) or even the first Nightmare. But in terms of CLASSIC Freddy, this installment is clearly the best. The third Nightmare has serial killer Freddy Krueger returns to plague a new set of victims. But here there is a notable twist in that his main opponent is Nancy (Heather Langenkamp) his enemy from the first film who has grown up to become a "dream" counselor.
Robert Englund hardly needs any praise. His classical training shines once again. But Craig Wasson deserves mention since his supporting role is crucial not just in motivating the story but in providing some of the saddest and most provocative scenes in the film. What's really interesting is just how psychologically real everyone feels. The "dream warriors" refers to kids in a mental hospital who each tap into a special power - but that's the surface material and despite some impressive special effects really don't matter in the end. (Actually, in one case, a dream warrior turns out to be more powerful than Freddy but still loses!!)
Truth be told, this is Langenkamp's picture and she gives us one of the cinema's lamentably forgotten heroines' best performances. In terms of Freddy being scary AND funny - this picture, literally, has it all - from old cast members returning to the most up-to-date effects (for their time) and we even learn Freddy's origin. Not a perfect film by austere horror standards - Michael is still king there - but the Nightmare series at least goes out on a strong note.
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