If you’re a horror movie buff, the Texas Chainsaw Massacre movies are likely on your radar. With a mix of sequels, prequels, reboots, and revised timelines, the franchise can be a bit of a maze to navigate. From the gritty original to the latest release, each film brings a new twist to the chilling tale.
As you gear up for a movie marathon, knowing the correct order to watch the Texas Chainsaw Massacre films can make the experience even more thrilling. With a lineup that spans decades, each installment adds its own flavor of terror to the iconic story. So, grab your popcorn and get ready to look into the chaotic world of Leatherface and his gruesome legacy.
All Texas Chainsaw Massacre Movies In Order
Here’s the Texas Chainsaw Massacre movie series in order of release date:
1. The Texas Chain Saw Massacre (1974)
Directed by Tobe Hooper, this groundbreaking horror classic introduces the world to the cannibalistic Sawyer family and the iconic villain, Leatherface. Filmed on a tight budget, it became a massive hit, grossing over $30 million at the box office. Critics and audiences were both horrified and fascinated by its gritty realism and terrifying premise. It’s widely regarded as one of the greatest and most influential horror films of all time.
2. The Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2 (1986)
Tobe Hooper returns to direct this sequel, taking a drastic tonal shift towards dark comedy and excess. The story follows a radio DJ and a former Texas Marshall as they become entangled with Leatherface and his deranged family. Despite mixed reviews from critics who were divided over its comedic approach, it has since gained a cult following for its over-the-top style and special effects. The film earned a modest box office return.
2. Leatherface: The Texas Chainsaw Massacre III (1990)
This installment aims to return to the darker roots of the original, featuring a couple’s terrifying encounter with Leatherface and his family during a cross-country drive. Directed by Jeff Burr, the film faced significant censorship issues, leading to multiple edits to reduce its gore content. It received generally unfavorable reviews from critics and performed modestly at the box office, but it has its share of fans who appreciate its attempt to recapture the horror of the original.
3. Texas Chainsaw Massacre: The Next Generation (1994)
Directed by Kim Henkel, co-writer of the original film, this installment features a group of teenagers who encounter Leatherface and his psychotic family after their prom night goes awry. Notable for early appearances by Matthew McConaughey and Renée Zellweger, the film was panned by critics for its confusing plot and lack of suspense. It struggled at the box office but has since garnered a cult following for its bizarre and eccentric take on the franchise.
4. The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (2003)
This reboot, directed by Marcus Nispel and produced by Michael Bay, offers a modernized retelling of the original film’s story, focusing on a group of young travelers who fall victim to Leatherface and his family. Praised for its intense scares and stylish direction, it was a significant box office success, grossing over $107 million worldwide. While some critics appreciated the film’s visual flair and suspense, others criticized it for its reliance on gore and violence.
5. The Texas Chainsaw Massacre: The Beginning (2006)
Directed by Jonathan Liebesman, this prequel to the 2003 reboot looks into the origins of Leatherface and the deranged Hewitt family, depicting how the horror began. Despite its attempt to provide a backstory to the iconic villain, the film was met with negative reviews from critics, who found it excessively violent and lacking in new ideas. However, it managed to perform decently at the box office, appealing to fans of the franchise’s more brutal aspects.
6. Texas Chainsaw 3D (2013)
Taking a unique approach, this film attempts to directly sequel the original 1974 movie, ignoring the continuity of the previous films. Directed by John Luessenhop, it follows a young woman who inherits a Texas estate, only to discover that it comes with a horrifying tenant. The film received mixed to negative reviews, with criticism aimed at its lackluster plot and poor execution of 3D effects, but it was a box office success, indicating the enduring popularity of the franchise.
7. Leatherface (2017)
This prequel to the original film, directed by Julien Maury and Alexandre Bustillo, explores the early days of the titular character, revealing the events that led him to become the monstrous killer known as Leatherface. The film aimed to offer a deeper psychological insight into its main character but received mixed reviews for its violence and deviation from the series’ traditional themes. Its direct-to-video release limited its exposure and box office potential, but it provided fans with a new perspective on the character’s origins.
8. Texas Chainsaw Massacre (2022)
The 2022 “Texas Chainsaw Massacre” serves as a direct sequel to the original 1974 film, ignoring the events of the other sequels and reboots. Directed by David Blue Garcia, this installment aims to capture the spirit of the original, bringing Leatherface back to terrorize a new group of young people who venture into his Texas territory. The movie attempts to blend classic horror elements with modern sensibilities, focusing on themes of gentrification and trauma. Despite ambitious goals, it received mixed reviews, with some praising its homage to the original and others criticizing it for not fully capturing the original’s raw terror. At the box office, it faced challenges but garnered attention for its attempt to revitalize the iconic franchise for a new generation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Texas Chainsaw Massacre movie franchise about?
The Texas Chainsaw Massacre movie franchise revolves around the horrifying tale of Leatherface and his deranged family, known for their gruesome murders and penchant for wearing human skin masks.
How many films are in the Texas Chainsaw Massacre franchise?
There are a total of 8 films in the Texas Chainsaw Massacre franchise, including the original 1974 movie, sequels, prequels, and modern adaptations.
Which film is considered the most important in the franchise?
The Texas Chain Saw Massacre (1974) is considered the most important film in the franchise, setting the standard for horror and influencing the genre for decades to come.
Are there any unique or standalone stories within the Texas Chainsaw Massacre franchise?
Yes, there are unique entries like Texas Chainsaw Massacre: The Next Generation and standalone stories like Leatherface (2017) that offer different perspectives on the legacy of Leatherface and his family.
Has the Texas Chainsaw Massacre franchise influenced other horror movies?
Yes, the Texas Chainsaw Massacre franchise has had a significant impact on the horror genre, inspiring filmmakers and setting a benchmark for intense and unsettling storytelling.
I’m Elena Finley, a writer and English Literature student with a heart full of wanderlust and words. Singing is my escape, and football is my thrill. I’m an explorer at heart, constantly seeking new horizons and experiences. My love for movies is as vast as my desire to travel, leading me to write blogs where I share my cinematic adventures. Every day is an adventure and I’m excited to see where it takes me!