A Nightmare on Elm Street is a 1984 American supernatural slasher film written and directed by Wes Craven and produced by Robert Shaye.

The story follows a group of teenagers who become the targets of Krueger, a vengeful, undead child killer who haunts and murders them in their dreams.

His attacks serve as retribution against their parents, who burned him alive years earlier.

The film became a massive success, blending psychological horror, surreal dream sequences, and brutal slasher elements. It also launched one of horror’s most infamous franchises, spanning multiple sequels, a remake, TV series, and crossovers. Additionally, it marked the film debut of Johnny Depp.

A Nightmare on Elm Street was released on November 9, 1984, and went on to gross $57.1 million worldwide. Upon its release, the film received widespread critical acclaim and has since been regarded as one of the greatest horror films of all time.