Review by More Horror -
The long-awaited 4k UHD release of the 1974 horror classic THE TEXAS CHAIN SAW MASSACRER is here from Dark Sky Films! The film is regarded as one of the most notorious horror films in modern cinema history. It was marketed as a depiction of true events, and although the character of Leatherface was loosely inspired by the heinous crimes committed by the infamous Ed Gein, it must be highlighted that the portrayal in the film is not entirely accurate.
Despite the limited factual similarities, the marketing of The Texas Chain Saw Massacre was intended to attract audiences while making a social statement about the government's falsehoods surrounding war and other crises. The film's grittiness and rawness were initially captured by director Tobe Hooper and cinematographer Daniel Pearl, and the transfer to 4K has raised concerns about the potential loss of these qualities. However, the transfer is not as drastic as one might anticipate, and the original atmosphere remains largely intact. In fact, the upgraded picture quality offers a new dimension to the viewing experience. We dig it!
The bonus features included in the 4K release are also noteworthy, with commentary from Hooper and key cast members such as the late Burns and Gunner Hansen, as well as numerous interviews and documentaries. The Legacy of The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, a feature-length documentary included in the set, is particularly interesting as it provides various perspectives on the film's impact from critics and filmmakers alike.
Overall, The 4K release of The Texas Chain Saw Massacre is a well-executed package that pays homage to the film's original intentions. These intentions were numerous, but included a desire to shock audiences with a dose of reality while highlighting the hypocrisies present in society. Plus, it's just a plain old great time! The film's relevance and power have endured, and it has rightfully earned its place in horror film history as one of the best in the genre of all time. For those curious about the 4K experience, both the steelbook and slipcase releases are highly recommended.