Product: The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (Original Uncut) [Region 2] (1974)
Rating: 5.0
Saw Is Family
I've always said that the only good thing about remakes is that the originals finally get the special edition treatment they deserve. Case in point, the "ultimate edition" of The Texas Chain Saw Massacre. It's been put out on the home video market a number of times since the 80's, and everyone thought the "special edition" DVD that coincided with the remake was going to be THE copy to own. But as it goes in the movie biz, a new sequel (prequel in this case), means a new edition of the original. And for once, it is actually worth re buying.We'll start with the packaging. While the "special edition" had the really cool ground beef packaging, this has a fantastic metal tin. I hate to say it but sometimes, for me at least, if the packaging is good enough, I'll double dip. And while this defiantly does fall into that category, it's got the material to back it up. The inside looses some points with me only because I hate it when discs are over top of each other. I see that happening more and more and more these days, but if the rest of the packaging is good enough I'll look over it. The artwork for the inside of the tin as well as the discs themselves is as great as the outside.The bonus disc is packed. My favorite being "The Shocking Truth" featurette. Almost anything you ever wanted to know about the film and its franchise is in this documentary. Goes in depth on the creation of the original, and goes on to give a good look at the sequels (warts and all). The second documentary is "Flesh Wounds", which offers stories from not only the actors and creators, but the fans as well. Also available on the disc are Trailers, TV and radio spots, Still Galleries, Tour of the Texas Chainsaw Massacre house before and after remodeling, conduced by Gunnar Hansen, Deleted scenes and outtakes, Blooper reel, and Outtakes from "The Shocking Truth".All which will keep you happily busy for over a couple hours.The main feature is being presented in an HD transfer from original 16mm negatives, for the first time ever. Now I know a lot of people will say that the film is meant to be seen all worn and dirty, but watching this transfer will show you just how horrifically beautiful the film is. The cinematography is amazing, and you can fully take in the surroundings of the house, as much a character in the film as any family member or kid getting butchered.There are two commentaries available as well. One by actors Marilyn Burns, Paul A. Partain, Allen Danziger, and art designer Robert A. Burns. And another by director Tobe Hooper, cinematographer Daniel Pearl, and actor Gunnar Hansen.I personally recommend this film to any fan of not only Horror, but of cinema in general. It..s truly a classic, groundbreaking piece of cinema that has stood the test of time, and a lot of lesser quality sequels and remakes. This DVD edition is the ultimate presentation of the film to date. PICK THIS UP NOW!