A return to Texas

The remaking of classic films is a risky endeavor. Time after time, countless projected box office hits have resulted in great failure, and although they come equipped only with the best intentions in mind -- remaining true to the original -- these attempts at film rejuvenation are often scrutinized for their attempts at renewed innovation. The remake's inherent stylistic differences are criticized harshly, the film's rebirth dulls in comparison and the fanatical filmgoer mourns the death of the original dynamism processed by its predecessors.

Marcus Nispel's rendition of the acclaimed 70's cult classic The Texas Chainsaw Massacre ultimately fails in capturing the eerie oddities of the original, but one is reluctant to say that the film fails holistically. As all horror movies ultimately aim to do, the remake still manages to terrify, and it represents one of the scariest movies that has been released in some time.

Though Nispel's rendition lacks Texas Chainsaw's original trademark portrayal of the grotesque redneck family of Texan cannibals gone mad, it makes up for this offense with sensational suspense and violence. Nispel places more of an emphasis on portraying the main villain, "Leather Face," and his killing spree than the original. Ostracized for his disfiguring skin condition who aims to seek out personal vengeance, the character slaughters anyone trespassing on his property and sees to it that their bodies are appropriately dismembered.

Cheesy, predictable, 80's 'slasher' film techniques are utilized successfully, ultimately rendering the viewer scared enough to pull the good old "I'm covering my eyes because this is too damned scary, but leaving one eye open because it's still too good to miss" trick. In addition, traditional melodramatic orchestration accompanies the terrifying sequences for that typical horror flick feel.

To those who might object to the film's abandonment of a deep sociological examination of the rural Texan landscape, you might be better off sticking to the original. But if you enjoy Hollywood-style suspense, terror, and classic chase scenes which keep you on the edge of your seat, you'll more than likely be able to look past Nispel's alterations in order to enjoy his film for what it really is.

Although not nearly as graphic as one would have expected when compared to other horror greats, what the film lacks in artery sprays and close-ups of oozing lacerations is more than made up by its suspense. Star Jessica Beil delivers a rather sexy performance, as she is constantly chased by the terrifying Leatherface, often clad in white as it rains. In addition, she does a decent job portraying her character, as one dimensional as it may be.

While this stereotypical portrayal of Beil's character subjects itself to feminist ridicule, one must not view this film with the expectation of a progressive innovative thriller. Simply enjoy it for what it is worth. Allow yourself to scream at the all too predictable surprise entrances of Leather Face. Feel free to watch through squinted eyes as extremities are separated from bodies.

Skip Meatloaf's film d?©but in Rocky Horror Picture Show this Friday night, save one of the countless Halloween or Friday the 13th series films for another time. Don't squander this year's Halloween away: treat yourself to the horror of The Texas Chainsaw Massacre.