Product: The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (Original Uncut) [Region 2] (1974)
Rating: 5.0
Slightly mis-leadingly titled classic
I actually own the 'old' 1998 TCM DVD, and all I can say is that this 2006 version cannot possibly be worse...and that's because the '98 edition was excellent.Apparently, they went back and remastered it for hi-def this time. The '98 version was 'painstakingly restored', so not sure if they used that version and remastered it for hi-def. But again, it can only look a bit better, though perhaps there's a limit on films of a certain age, particularly something that was always kind of grainy like TCM.This double-disc version does have some new extras, including another commentary (this time with the actors), and a new documentary, among other bits. Definitely, horror fans should own a proper DVD or Blu Ray or whatever next-gen format version of this now-legendary flick.The movie is not for everyone, not even today with films that are actually bloodier. No, TCM is downright macabre and twisted, and even with a 1974 date, make no mistake it's an effective horror film. It's quite literally horrifying as it tells the tale of some ill-fated folks who wander into the backwoods of Texas and encounter a demented cannibal family. Seems this clan all got laid off at the local slaughterhouse but have gone into business for themselves making fresh 'barbecue'. Most notable of the Sawyer family is the iconic Leatherface, the hulking man-child who wields the titular power tool with maniacal fury. (Please note that there's actually less chain-sawing in this movie than you may be led to believe.) And don't forget Grandpa, who's apparently about 120 years old and may or may not be dead. Perhaps the most demented scene involves a 'dinner' with the family in which the 'final girl' is tormented by insane family rituals. This climaxes with Grandpa trying (and failing, in a truly black-gallows-humor moment) to kill one more time.This flick was admitted to MoMA's archives, so even serious film critics give it the time of day. Seriously, while one can't be sure this is really the 'ultimate' version of the film (because there will be another anniversary edition with a replica chainsaw or bone necklace in a box), this is another reverent horror release on the format.