The Texas Chain Saw Massacre (1974) Review in 2025
A group of friends on a road trip in Texas encounter a family of cannibals, leading to a terrifying and gruesome fight for survival.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
Absolutely not, this movie is extremely graphic and violent, not suitable for anyone under 18.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is a must-watch for horror fans, but be warned: it's extremely graphic and violent. If you're sensitive to gore, you may want to avoid it.
Spoiler Alert!
Hover to reveal spoiler summary
The group, consisting of five friends, including Sally, Franklin, Jerry, Kirk, and Pam, embark on a road trip to rural Texas to visit the grave of Sally's brother. However, their journey takes a dark turn when they stumble upon a family of cannibals, led by the chainsaw-wielding Leatherface, who begin to hunt and kill them one by one.
Review Details
story9.00/10
The story is simple yet effective, with a slow-burning tension that builds up to a gruesome and intense climax. The plot is well-structured, with a clear beginning, middle, and end, and the pacing is well-balanced.
acting8.00/10
The acting is solid, with some standout performances from the cast. However, some of the actors feel a bit wooden, and their delivery can be a bit stilted at times.
characters8.00/10
The characters are well-developed, with distinct personalities and traits. However, some of the characters feel a bit one-dimensional, and their motivations are not always clear.
direction9.00/10
Tobe Hooper's direction is masterful, with a keen eye for atmosphere and tension. He uses the camera to create a sense of unease and dread, and the editing is seamless.
cinematography9.00/10
The cinematography is stunning, with a blend of natural and artificial lighting that creates a sense of realism. The camerawork is inventive, with a mix of close-ups, wide shots, and point-of-view shots.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The Texas Chain Saw Massacre is a masterclass in horror filmmaking, with a slow-burning tension that builds up to a gruesome and intense climax. The cinematography is stunning, and the direction is masterful.
Cons
Some of the characters feel a bit one-dimensional, and the acting can be a bit stilted at times. However, these are minor complaints in an otherwise excellent film.
Notable Quotes
"I don't want to die!"
"Slaughterhouse!"
"You're all gonna die!"
