Texas Chainsaw Massacre Rights Generate Buzz as Filmmakers Eye Revival

LOS ANGELES, CA — The cinematic landscape is abuzz with prospects as studios and filmmakers express interest in reviving the iconic horror franchise, The Texas Chainsaw Massacre. The agency Verve has represented the rights to the series since 2017 and is now seeing a surge of inquiries amid a post-COVID film industry looking for reliable hits.

Interest is particularly strong from filmmaker and producer Steven Mollner, who is fresh off his $3 million-grossing film, Strange Darling, acclaimed for its 96% Rotten Tomatoes score. Mollner reportedly plans to assemble a script, while major studios such as Lionsgate and A24 are also exploring potential versions of the project. Neon may join the fray after successful collaborations with horror director Oz Perkins.

A representative from Verve commented on the situation, noting, “Verve represents The Texas Chainsaw Massacre estate and is building out a multimedia strategy for the seminal horror franchise.” The rep added that the property has not been officially submitted to filmmakers or producers as the demand has led to pre-emptive offers coming in.

The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, first released in 1974, was created by Tobe Hooper and Kim Henkel, and has become a hallmark of horror cinema. The film, made for a mere $140,000, depicts the chilling tale of Leatherface, a chainsaw-wielding killer. Its production faced significant challenges, including extreme heat and a cast of unknown actors. Despite its humble budget, the film grossed over $31 million worldwide.

The franchise, which has generated a total of nine films and over $252 million in global box office receipts, has a rich history intertwined with various horror adaptations, comic books, and video games. The franchise also launched the careers of several stars, including Matthew McConaughey and Renée Zellweger in the 1994 sequel, The Texas Chainsaw Massacre: The Next Generation.

In 2003, a successful remake directed by Marcus Nispel grossed $107 million, cementing the franchise’s status in contemporary horror. That remake was notable for reuniting some key talents from the original film, including director of photography Daniel Pearl.

As interest swells around revitalizing this classic horror franchise, Verve remains a crucial player, showcasing the potential for new interpretations of a property that continues to frighten audiences. Projects in development will be monitored closely as filmmakers aim to harness the legacy of The Texas Chainsaw Massacre.