The anticipation is building in the horror community as whispers of a new reboot of The Texas Chainsaw Massacre surface. Originally released in 1974, this groundbreaking film from director Tobe Hooper introduced the chilling figure of Leatherface, a character whose legacy has become interwoven with the fabric of horror cinema. Despite the film’s meager budget, its success spawned a franchise that has produced nine installments, including the recent 2022 release on Netflix, which received disappointing reviews.
According to a recent report from Deadline, the rights to the Texas Chainsaw Massacre franchise are up for grabs, with bidding set to commence shortly. A mix of five to eight studios and streaming platforms are in the fray, underscoring the eerie allure this classic holds. Verve, the agency managing the franchise rights since 2017, is curating pitches from various studios and creatives  though no clear frontrunners have emerged just yet.
Among the interested parties are Taylor Sheridan and Jordan Peele, two heavyweights in the realm of storytelling. Sheridan, known for the Yellowstone universe and films like Sicario and Hell or High Water, has expressed his desire to step in as a producer. Interestingly, while he’s carved a niche in the drama genre, he has yet to dip his toes into horror. Peele, on the other hand, is no stranger to the genre, having made his mark with critically acclaimed films like Get Out and Us.
What This Means for the Franchise
The potential for reinvention is palpable. Sheridan’s vision could provide a fresh storyline, elevating the franchise from its recent lackluster offerings. On the flip side, Peele’s horror expertise could inject the narrative with the psychological depth and social commentary that have become his trademarks.
What’s more, other creatives are in the mix. Longlegs director Oz Perkins is also vying for a role, looking to co-write with Bryan Bertino. Meanwhile, producers like J.T. Mollner and Roy Lee aim to adapt the franchise for television, actively working on a new vision for the iconic brand.
Our Perspective on Future Directions
Choosing between Sheridan and Peele raises intriguing questions. Sheridan might seem like an unexpected pick for the horror genre, given his background in drama, yet his past successes could translate well into reshaping a chilling tale. Conversely, Peele’s established proficiency in crafting horror narratives positions him as a likely candidate to breathe life into this storied franchise.
In light of the franchise’s rocky history, especially following the 2022 reboot which stands at a dismal 22% on Rotten Tomatoes, any new direction comes with immense potential for revitalization. While it’s uncertain who will ultimately claim the rights, one thing is clear: the world of Leatherface may soon experience a dramatic transformation, setting the stage for a modern retelling that honors its gruesome roots while appealing to today’s audience.
As we inch closer to the next chapter of The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, fans remain eager to see how filmmakers will weave together the franchise’s legacy with contemporary narratives. Whether the next iteration finds its footing in the hands of Sheridan, Peele, or another visionary, the horror community awaits the next chilling saga starring one of cinema’s most infamous characters.