The Texas Chain Saw Massacre (1974)

October Challenge Day 16

You know what is one of the best things and can never be taken from me? The experience of taking my eldest nephew to see this film, for the first time, in the theater. 

Let's talk about the EVER classic:

The Texas Chain Saw Massacre

Happy to report my nephew enjoyed it - even though horror is not totally his thing. But he's young - I'll give it time.

This isn't really a review of the film itself as it is a review about the wonderful experience of seeing this film in a packed theater. Which was FANTASTIC!

I love theaters - I worked in one lifetimes ago but I still love going to see films in the theater. I'm a big supporter of independent film and independent theater, which is why I support the Seattle Independent Film Festival (SIFF), which now owns and operates several theaters in Seattle. 

SIFF was showing this film one night while my nephew was visiting from out-of-town so of course my brother and I knew what we needed to do as a stellar aunt and uncle. I was totally delighted to see the theater was filled with so many like-minded folks, where we all jumped at the same time and clapped at the credits. Even though I'm sure nearly everyone has seen this film several times before. Great bonding experience with strangers.  

Something I forgot about this film is the constant screaming for the last 30 minutes. It's .... a lot. So I went and grabbed another beer to just have a break for a minute. Still, this film is a master class in just general chaos and mayhem. 

The film is a right of passage and a must see for ANY horror fan. But if you're reading this, you already know that. 

In all, support independent theater and movies. Enjoy the experience with others.

I watched this film (again) at the Egyptian Theater in Seattle. Or use the Find It! Watch It! links on Horror Habit's side bar to see where else you can experience this film with someone. 

Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974)

Two major life events happened to me today!

#1: I taught my first art class! I think it was a success - at least that is what I was told. No seriously, it went well. People learned stuff and art was created where there wasn't any before! Everyone wins. My students were great, my Husband was a tremendous help, and I learned lots too.

#2: I'm watching the original Texas Chainsaw Massacre tonight. SERIOUSLY. I've never seen this movie before. I've seen snippets! I know what it's about! I know it's gruesome and ugly! But I've never actually seen it.

I've been warned that the sound will set me on edge, and I will probably feel gross all over. But still, it's go time. I've waited to long, it's now or never.

Why is this Sunday night - this beautiful, peaceful, happy/celebratory night the night I'm choosing to watch Texas Chainsaw Massacre? Because it's a beautiful, peaceful, celebratory night. If I went into this after a bad day, I think I wouldn't have the strength or gumtion to continue with this horror movie watching adventure.

I guess what I'm saying is that I think you need to be super happy and care free to get your face into the original Texas Chainsaw Massacre. Yup. That's what I said.

I could be wrong! My theory could blow up in my face and you might not hear from me for a couple days, but hey. My middle name isn't Dawn for nothing.... not sure what that meant but it sounded good...

So, here we go folks. I'm doing it [takes one last look behind her, from the edge of the high dive]. Happy Sunday, I'm going in. See you after the show!

UPDATE

Folks, there is a reason this movie is unanimously seen as one of the best horror movies of all time.

This is one Very disturbing film!

The sound effects are bone chilling. The cinematography is gritty, mind-bending, hard core. The dialog is uncomfortable, and the (innocent) characters are symaptheic while the (WTF) charactor are so scary you'll want to hug someone after the show.

And that's what Mike and I did. After a few minutes of credits, we agreed a hug was needed. No high -fives this time, it just wouldn't have been right.

To help us get come down from this horror show adrenaline rush, we checked out the DVD's Extras section.

People, there was a Bloopers option. A Texas Chainsaw Massacre Bloopers section!!

Naturally, we had to watch it. These "bloopers" were of no comfort Whatsoever! In fact, I think it just made this movie watching experience all the more terrifying.

This is a seriously scary movie. A great classic. Fantastic horror. I still believe this should be approached while in a good mood and not a bad one. Watch with good friends or alone if you want to curl up in the corner and cry afterwards.

Recommended pairing: BBQ from a questionable source.