A horror classic gets a Blu-ray upgrade.
So how does The Texas Chainsaw Massacre fare in high definition?
It is all the more tragic in that their acting careers never took off.
For them an idyllic summer film shoot became a nightmare.
Rather than dwelling on that cheesy introduction (was it really necessary?
But if there is, I havent seen it.
The effects in the opening shots ofThe Texas Chainsaw Massacrehold up very well in this Blu-ray upgrade.
Were then afforded a few minutes with the good characters from the film.
They bicker and joke and lure us into believing that were on safe ground.
Then they pick up a hitchhiker, out of sympathy for him having to stand roadside in sweltering heat.
Then things get weird.
The Hitchhiker is a twisted, trippy creation, a crazy human warped into almost cartoon proportions.
Expertly played Ed Neal, the Hitchhiker sets the kids onto their journey into hell.
The character sets the scene perfectly for the madness that proceeds.
The rest of the cast of villains are also terrific.
Jim Siedow plays the father figure of the Sawyer family.
This grounded portrayal is important in maintaining the films tone and prevents things from going too far out.
Gunnar Hansens portrayal of Leatherface is actually quite masterful.
Despite numerous others playing the role, Hansen is still the definitive Leatherface.
People will often remark ofThe Texas Chainsaw Massacrethat its genius lies in how little violence and gore it shows.
Its scarier because you have to imagine it for yourself goes the theory.
Well, thats not strictly true.
While the most grisly stuff does take place off-camera, theres still plenty of gore and violence on display.
The early scene where Leatherface strikes a character with a hammer is very explicit in what you see.
That said, its also very effective.
The highlight of the film is the dinner party scene.
If youve seen the film already, most likely youre nodding at the moment.
The scene is the most disturbing piece of cinema Ive ever seen.
The combination of weird visuals, bizarre events and mind-melting sounds combine to send the human brain into overload.
Atmosphere is the most effective tool a horror filmmaker has, and this film creates a relentlessly terrifying atmosphere.
Its only ever going to look so good.
That said, this is an impressive transfer.
The detail in the picture is greatly improved from the DVD releases and the colours look vivid.
The scenes set in the Texas sun are quite a sight to behold.
The film features heavy grain throughout, although it is particularly noticeable when scenes take place at night.
Whether this bothers you is for you to decide.
Its an old movie, it features some grain, what are you gonna do?
The film also sounds better than ever.
Overall, its a significant improvement over the most recent DVD release.
Extras-wise, this disc features everything from the three disc DVD edition.
No more, no less.
Theres plenty to see, including two feature length making of documentaries.
I would like to have heard him featured on a commentary.
So, is it worth the upgrade?
The picture is great, but its never going to be up there with the most pristine transfers.
The Film:
The Texas Chain Saw MassacreSeriously Ultimate Edition isout now on Blu-ray.
Rating:
5 out of 5
