Product: The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (Original Uncut) [Region 2] (1974)
Rating: 5.0
Absolute classic of the horror genre
The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, a classic of the horror genre, has gotten even better on DVD. For newer viwers, don't expect a "gorefest" but rather a film which inspires horror more from setting, effective pacing, and just the right amount of screen time for the villains. It is a classic because of its influence and because it pulls few punches. Don't watch it with all the lights out unless you know the doors are locked!What makes the DVD so great are the extras: the commentary by the director, cinematographer and the guy who plays Leatherface. Actually, Tobe Hooper speaks the least of the three, and when he does, I am surprised to hear that he sounds like a kindly grandfather--I always imagined a really rough guy. Unfortunately, since it's been about 26 years since the film was made, he sometimes forgets very specific details, but it's obvious they had fun and great commitment. Gunnar must be commended for his ability to play Leatherface, wielding an actual chainsaw and with little or no peripheral vision. The commentary is a must-listen. Also, check out the trailers, posters, and deleted scenes with full script excerpts--this was no "shot in one weekend with three people" affair, but rather a fully realized piece of art which may not have had a Titanic-like budget but did have a lot of integrity.So pick up this DVD, which once again shows why TCM is one of the finest horror films of the '70s, tied with Halloween, The Exorcist and maybe Suspiria.