Texas Chainsaw Massacre (2022) – Movie Review
Synopsis:
The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (2022) is a modern-day sequel that serves as a direct continuation of Tobe Hooper’s infamous 1974 original. The narrative is set in Harlow, Texas, a town that has seen better days. The film kicks off with a group of young millennials, led by the ambitious and overzealous Melody (Elsie Fisher), who arrive in town with dreams of reviving the area through their plans for a gentrified community. The group comprises her sister Lila (Mark Burnham) and their friend Dante (Jacob Lattimore) along with their partner Ruth (Alice Krige).
As the group uncovers the remnants of the town’s dark history, they unwittingly incite the wrath of Leatherface (Mark Burnham), the iconic masked killer who has been lying dormant for decades. The tension escalates when the group discovers Leatherface’s hideout and intrudes upon his territory, triggering a horrific rampage that leads to relentless violence. The film juxtaposes themes of modernity with the primal horror embodied by Leatherface, challenging the notion of progress while confronting the audience with raw terror and gore.
Cast:
- Elsie Fisher as Melody
- Mark Burnham as Leatherface
- Jacob Lattimore as Dante
- Alice Krige as Ruth
- Nell Hudson as Anna
- William Hope as Sheriff
- Olwen Fouéré as the Old Woman
Review:
The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (2022) attempts to honour the legacy of the original while tapping into contemporary social themes. As the movie begins, there is an evident effort in establishing a narrative that highlights the clashes between the old and the new, tradition and progress. The cast delivers a competent performance, with Elsie Fisher’s portrayal of Melody being a standout. Fisher embodies the character’s determined spirit but also brings a layer of vulnerability, making the audience root for her survival in the face of unspeakable horrors.
However, the pacing of the film struggles in its opening act. It takes its time to delve into the characters and their motivations, which at times feels drawn out and meandering. Viewers looking for a quick pace reminiscent of slasher films may find the first half of the movie a bit tedious. The film inevitably leads to the visceral violence associated with the franchise. While some critics argue that the slower build-up was necessary for character development, others contend that horror films should adhere to a formula that keeps the suspense high from the outset.
When Leatherface finally re-emerges, the atmosphere shifts instantaneously into chaos. Those familiar with the franchise will recognise the iconic brutality of his character, but this modern iteration brings a few new twists to the familiar formula. The gore is plentiful, and the cinematography does a commendable job of capturing the rawness of the atmosphere. The filmmakers utilise a mixture of practical effects and CGI that creates an impactful visual experience with eye-popping thrills. There are several sequences that will leave fans of the horror genre gasping, evoking the same kind of visceral reactions that characterised the original movie.
One notable aspect of this film is its attempt to instigate discussions around modern societal themes. The film takes an intriguing stance on issues such as gentrification, the responsibility of the younger generation, and the socio-economic divide represented by the character of Leatherface. While these themes are introduced, the execution feels somewhat superficial. The script seems torn between delivering schlocky horror and making a statement, which unfortunately undermines its potential depth.
The performance from Mark Burnham as Leatherface is chilling, skillfully embodying the character’s monstrous instincts while providing hints of depth from his tragic backstory. However, unlike the original portrayal by Gunnar Hansen, which drew sympathy for its victimhood status, this iteration often feels like a caricature of horror. While Leatherface’s history is touched upon, the film throws away the opportunity to delve into the complexity of his character, overshadowing his motives in favour of bloodshed.
Supporting characters, such as Ruth and Dante, occasionally feel underdeveloped, lacking the emotional weight that would make their fates matter in the grand scheme. Apart from Melody, the rest of the millennials become mere fodder for Leatherface’s rampage, which is a missed opportunity for the film to explore the complex dynamics that exist within their group.
The dialogue, at times, falls into trite modern clichés, leaning heavily on contemporary slang and occasionally humour that doesn’t quite land. This attempt at levity runs the risk of undermining the film’s sinister momentum and distilling the tension that horror aficionados crave during nail-biting sequences.
Director David Blue Garcia’s approach has generated mixed reactions from audiences. There is a clear vision to create a horror experience that stands on its own while respecting its legacy. Yet, some scenes — particularly those relying heavily on shock value — come across as gratuitous rather than meaningful, echoing criticisms often directed toward remakes and sequels that fail to innovate.
The film’s climax includes a moment in which the protagonists face off against Leatherface that aims to position it as a brutal reckoning. While it fulfils the expectancy of a horror film finale, it also establishes a disconnect from the investment towards the characters’ fates. There’s a peculiar element of disbelief that creeps in when the lead-up to the climax seems weighted more on visual terrors than emotional stakes.
Visually, the film benefits from stunning cinematography, employing a desaturated palette that captures the decay of rural Texas and enhances the pervasive dread. The sound design, laden with unsettling ambience and stark contrasts, significantly contributes to the film’s unsettling atmosphere. Each slash and stomp resonate with horrifying clarity, making the audience feel every inch of the pain that protagonist endures.
Conclusion:
Overall, The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (2022) offers an intriguing yet flawed homage to the franchise’s legacy. While it possesses moments of brilliance with its ambitious visual storytelling and chilling performances, it ultimately falters due to its uneven pacing, ill-defined character arcs, and a tonal imbalance that detracts from its horror potential. Fans of the film’s predecessors may find it a worthy addition, but it lacks the heart and depth that made the original so groundbreaking. In attempting to bridge the gap between old and new, the film sometimes loses sight of what made it terrifying in the first place.
For its ambitious attempt and moments of gruesome thrills, the film earns a score of 6 out of 10.
