Are you a fan of horror movies and want to watch the Texas Chainsaw Massacre series in the right order? With a mix of scary thrills and gripping storylines, this series is a must-watch for any horror enthusiast. The correct order to watch the Texas Chainsaw Massacre movies can be tricky due to various reboots and prequels.
Starting with the original 1974 classic, followed by sequels and remakes, the series has grown over the years. For the best viewing experience, follow the correct order that includes titles like the 2003 reboot and the 2017 prequel. This way, you’ll understand the full story and character arcs.
Knowing which movies to watch and in what order can save you time and make your viewing more enjoyable. Whether it’s the horrifying original or the modern remakes, each film brings something unique to the table. So grab your popcorn, turn off the lights, and get ready for a spine-chilling adventure!
Texas Chainsaw Massacre Movies in Order of Release
- The Texas Chain Saw Massacre (1974)
- The Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2 (1986)
- Leatherface: The Texas Chainsaw Massacre III (1990)
- Texas Chainsaw Massacre: The Next Generation (1995)
- All American Massacre (2000) (Not Released)
- The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (2003)
- The Texas Chainsaw Massacre: The Beginning (2006)
- Texas Chainsaw (2013)
- Leatherface (2017)
- Texas Chainsaw Massacre (2022)
Original Film Series
The original series of “Texas Chainsaw Massacre” movies started with the 1974 classic and continued with a follow-up in 1986. These films introduced you to the harrowing world of Leatherface and his cannibalistic family.
1. The Texas Chain Saw Massacre (1974)
This film is the beginning of the horror series and is known for its gritty and realistic style. Directed by Tobe Hooper, the movie introduces you to Leatherface and his terrifying family. A group of friends is traveling through rural Texas when they encounter Leatherface, who wields a chainsaw.
The movie is famous for its suspense and shocking moments. Despite its age, it remains one of the most influential horror films, impacting the genre significantly. The film’s low budget adds to its raw and unsettling atmosphere. If you love horror, this is a must-watch.
IMDb Rating 7.4/10
2. The Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2 (1986)
Directed by Tobe Hooper, this sequel takes a different approach by adding dark comedy elements. The story happens 13 years after the first film. A DJ named Vanita “Stretch” Brock gets involved when she plays a recording of a murder committed by Leatherface.
Unlike the first film, this one is gorier and more explicit. It also delves deeper into the family dynamic of Leatherface and introduces new, disturbing characters. The mix of horror and humor makes this film unique in the series. If you are interested in seeing a different side of the story, give this movie a try.
IMDb Rating 5.6/10
1990s Reboot
In the 1990s, the Texas Chainsaw Massacre series saw two major releases which added new elements and characters to the horror saga. These movies introduced fresh storylines while retaining the franchise’s core themes of terror and survival.
3. Leatherface: The Texas Chainsaw Massacre III (1990)
This movie came out in 1990. The story follows a couple traveling through Texas who encounters Leatherface and his family. The film begins with Michelle and Ryan driving across the country. They stop at a gas station and meet a hitchhiker who sets them on a path to danger.
Introduces new family members, including “Tex” and “Tinker.” More gruesome and intense compared to the previous films. Mixed reviews, praised for its horror elements but criticized for the storyline. Known for its darker tone and inventive kills.
IMDb Rating 5.0/10
4. Texas Chainsaw Massacre: The Next Generation (1995)
This sequel was released in 1995. It features a new cast, led by Renee Zellweger and Matthew McConaughey before they became Hollywood stars. Set during a prom night, a group of teens takes a wrong turn and ends up at the mercy of Leatherface’s family. Introduction of Vilmer, a sadistic family member played by McConaughey.
Mixes dark humor with horror, making it different from earlier movies. Received negative reviews initially, with some later viewing it as a cult classic. Gained more attention over time due to its famous cast and unique take on the series. These two films in the 1990s brought new life and direction to the Texas Chainsaw Massacre franchise.
IMDb Rating 3.3/10
2000s Remakes and Prequels
During the 2000s, the Texas Chainsaw Massacre series saw a resurgence with remakes and prequels. These movies aimed to breathe new life into the horror franchise while exploring new storylines and backgrounds for key characters.
5. The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (2003)
The 2003 remake of The Texas Chainsaw Massacre is a reboot of the original 1974 film. Directed by Marcus Nispel, it follows a group of friends who encounter the infamous Leatherface and his family. The film keeps the core elements of the original but updates the setting and characters for a new audience.
This version is noted for its intense atmosphere and graphic scenes. It helped revitalized interest in the series, becoming a box-office success. The cast includes Jessica Biel, who plays the role of Erin, one of the main characters trying to escape Leatherface.
IMDb Rating 6.2/10
6. The Texas Chainsaw Massacre: The Beginning (2006)
Released in 2006, The Texas Chainsaw Massacre: The Beginning serves as a prequel to the 2003 remake. Directed by Jonathan Liebesman, it delves into the origins of Leatherface and his family. This movie aims to explore how the iconic killer came to be.
The story focuses on two brothers, Eric and Dean, who, along with their girlfriends, must survive against Leatherface and his murderous family. The film’s dark tone and gruesome scenes add depth to the character of Leatherface, explaining some of his motivations and background.
IMDb Rating 5.8/10
Modern Sequels and Reimagining
In the past decade, the Texas Chainsaw Massacre series has seen several reboots and reimagining efforts. Each entry offers a fresh take on the horror classic, with varying results.
7. Leatherface (2017)
Leatherface is a prequel to the original 1974 film. It explores the origins of the famous killer. This movie shows Leatherface’s early years. You learn about his life before he became a masked murderer.
The story begins with a young Leatherface. He ends up in a mental institution. Through various events, he escapes with other inmates. This film gives depth to his character. It shows his transformation into the horror icon.
Notably, the film is gritty and violent. It dives into the dark family dynamics that shaped Leatherface. It is a must-watch if you are curious about his backstory.
IMDb Rating 5.0/10
8. Texas Chainsaw 3D (2013)
Texas Chainsaw 3D picks up right after the events of the original film. It offers a direct sequel to the 1974 classic. This entry ignores all other sequels and reboots, creating a new timeline.
The story revolves around a young woman named Heather. She inherits a house in Texas, only to find out it belongs to her family, the Sawyers. Upon discovering her connection to Leatherface, chaos ensues.
This movie blends modern horror with classic themes. There are intense scenes and throwbacks to the original. For fans, it is an interesting take on the ongoing saga. The 3D effects add an extra layer of immersion, making it memorable.
IMDb Rating 4.8/10
9. Texas Chainsaw Massacre (2022)
Released on Netflix, Texas Chainsaw Massacre (2022) is the latest reboot. This film serves as a direct sequel to the 1974 classic, ignoring all previous sequels and reboots.
The story is set almost 50 years after the original. A group of young entrepreneurs plans to revitalize a ghost town in Texas. They unknowingly awaken Leatherface, now older but still lethal.
Sally Hardesty, the final girl from the first film, returns, seeking revenge. This reboot blends modern horror elements with the legacy of the original. It offers a fresh yet familiar take, appealing to both new and old fans. The blend of nostalgia and gore makes it gripping.
IMDb Rating 4.7/10
All American Massacre (2000) (Never Released)
All American Massacre is an unreleased film connected to the Texas Chainsaw Massacre series. Directed by William ‘Tony’ Hooper, son of Tobe Hooper, this film was fully completed but never made it to theaters.
This film was intended as both a prequel and sequel to The Texas Chainsaw Massacre 1 and 2. The character Chop Top, played by Bill Moseley, was set to feature prominently, reprising his role from the second film. Fans have long anticipated the release of All American Massacre. Though it was fully filmed, the movie remains unseen by the public.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the correct order to watch The Texas Chainsaw Massacre series?
To watch the series in the correct order, start with Leatherface, followed by The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974), and continue with the sequels and remakes.
How many films are in The Texas Chainsaw Massacre franchise?
There are nine films in the franchise. The most recent one was released in 2022. This includes the original movie, sequels, prequels, and remakes.
Are all Texas Chainsaw Massacre movies related in timeline and story?
The timeline is quite complex and not all films directly follow each other. Some movies are reboots or have different storylines, which can be confusing.
Is The Texas Chainsaw Massacre from 2003 a reboot or a continuation?
The 2003 movie is a reboot. It re-imagines the story of the original 1974 film and is not a direct continuation of any previous movies in the series.
What is the chronological timeline of The Texas Chainsaw Massacre movies?
The chronological timeline differs from release order. It starts with Leatherface (2017) followed by The Texas Chainsaw Massacre: The Beginning (2006), and then the original 1974 film.
Does Leatherface appear in all The Texas Chainsaw Massacre films?
Leatherface is the main villain in almost all the films. However, his backstory and character can change slightly between movies. For specific appearances, refer to the Texas Chainsaw Massacre series.