Horror movie enthusiasts are likely familiar with the Texas Chainsaw Massacre franchise, featuring Leatherface as its iconic chainsaw-wielding psychopath. Have you ever wondered which order the movies were released in? Fear not, as we chronologically embark on a blood-soaked tour through all 9 films to reveal both blood-soaked tales and their development into such an unforgettable franchise.

The Original Texas Chain Saw Massacre (1974)

In 1974, “The Original Texas Chain Saw Massacre” emerged and revolutionized horror. Directed by Tobe Hooper and featuring no big-budget scares, this movie provided no end of thrills without needing big-budget scares. Following three friends as they stumble into the lair of an unsavory Texas family who practices cannibalism against each other unwittingly. What set this film apart was its uncompromising and gritty approach to horror, leaving an indelible mark on genre fans worldwide and continuing to give horror enthusiasts chills today.

The Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2 (1986)

In 1986, Tobe Hooper brought back his hit franchise “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2,” adding a fresh spin. Directed once again by Tobe Hooper, this sequel offered up a wild mix of black comedy and over-the-top violence as two innocent individuals stumble into the clutches of the Sawyer family – radio DJs and former Texas Rangers! Although not quite reaching iconic status like its predecessor did, it soon earned its cult following over time; particularly notable is this film for its unique blend of horror and dark comedy, making it stand out among series installments!

Leatherface: The Texas Chainsaw Massacre III (1990)

“Leatherface: The Texas Chainsaw Massacre III,” released in 1990, further escalated the horror meter. This time, it follows an innocent couple on a straightforward road trip who are unfortunately caught up with the Sawyer family – including Leatherface, who returns in full force! While not reaching legendary status like its predecessors, this sequel delivers spine-tingling scares that keep audiences guessing until its finale!

Texas Chainsaw Massacre: The Next Generation (1995)

“Texas Chainsaw Massacre: The Next Generation,” released in 1995, brought a unique flair to the franchise. Starring Renee Zellweger and Matthew McConaughey, it dabbled in both dark comedy and satire, depicting an unlikely group of friends being taken captive by the Sawyer family through unfortunate circumstances. However, some folks enjoyed its fresh take while others found it more controversial; its legacy remains unique within horror culture despite not reaching iconic levels as its predecessor did.

The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (2003)

Horror fans were in for a treat in 2003 with “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre,” directed by Marcus Nispel and depicting an updated take on a classic horror tale. A group of friends traveling along an east Texas road trip come upon the Hewitt family – an oddball bunch of people with some strange behaviors who pose no threats at first, only later becoming deranged themselves!

It set this one apart with its polished and intense approach, designed to reintroduce Leatherface’s nightmare-inducing world for a new generation of horror fans. While not quite reaching iconic status like its predecessor did, this chapter managed to revitalize its ability to shock us out of our seats again, making it a noteworthy chapter for those who prefer thrilling and intense horror.

The Texas Chainsaw Massacre: The Beginning (2006)

We got a chilling background with “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre: The Beginning.” Jonathan Liebesman directed this prequel to the 2003 remake and takes us through an adventure to discover more about Hewitt’s family origins.

This time, we explore the early years of their descent into madness and cannibalism. Unbeknownst to them, a group of innocent individuals become their targets – making for a terrifying tale.

As it turns out, Leatherface 2 was still an integral part of the franchise’s story arc; we got an insight into his frightening family and legacy, making this chapter of horror excellent viewing.

Texas Chainsaw 3D (2013)

In 2013, “Texas Chainsaw 3D” returned with all its terrifying thrills under John Luessenhop’s direction, picking up where the original 1974 classic left off. Leatherface, once again, wields his scary chainsaw to cause fearful havoc!

Imagine this: an unsuspecting young woman suddenly inherits a Texas estate only to discover its uncanny ties to the Hewitt family – and its horror-film roots. While only some were impressed by its success, the film tried to honor its legacy; while not entirely creating the original film’s impact, it kept the chainsaw running as it told Leatherface’s terrifying tale for a whole new generation of horror fans.

Leatherface (2017)

Horror fans were given an unforgettable look into Leatherface’s early life in “Leatherface.” Directed by Alexandre Bustillo and Julien Maury, this prequel to Texas Chainsaw Massacre provided us with a fascinating peek into his early days as Leatherface.

The story takes us on an incredible adventure as a group of young patients escape a mental institution by kidnapping one of its nurses as hostage and breaking out. What ensues are gruesome and shocking events which show how Leatherface evolved into the vicious killer we fear today.

While “Leatherface” attempts to deepen our understanding of this character, it didn’t garner quite as much recognition as its predecessors in the series. Still, its presence adds another level of intrigue for viewers who seek deeper insight into Leatherface’s enigmatic yet terrifying world.

Texas Chainsaw Massacre (2022)

Horror fans were treated to an unforgettable cinematic experience in 2022 with “Texas Chainsaw Massacre,” directed by David Blue Garcia and designed to introduce Leatherface into mainstream horror culture.

Imagine this: A young woman returns home only to discover it is now under the control of Leatherface and his ruthless family.

Here’s the rub: while this film attempted to breathe new life into the franchise with modern horror sensibilities, it failed to reach legendary status like its predecessors had. However, it kept Leatherface and his nightmarish world alive in viewers’ minds, making this installment notable among horror fans.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Texas Chainsaw Massacre movies have earned themselves a distinctive place within horror. From its inception in 1974 until its 2022 release, audiences have been riveted to these flicks, and Leatherface has become synonymous with horror cinema; his influence can only be denied.

Now, Grab your seat, watch the trailers above and have a great movie night.