Review of Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2, The

Introduction

1974 saw the release of the original film in this series. It has been described as an "all time classic" and a "defining moment in the horror genre". This sequel is the first of three that tried to follow in the footsteps of one of the earliest slasher films.

I don`t really need to talk about the plot, as I`m sure you can guess it involves chainsaws. And as it`s not a documentary on lumberjacks, you know exactly what those chainsaws are going to be used for.

Video

A non-anamorphic 1.85:1 transfer, which is pretty average on the whole. The lack of anamorphic enhancement counts against it, and there are flecks and specks appearing at regular intervals, as well as the odd vertical line. Colours are muted and this is not a film for great visuals.

There are some cheap hack`n`slash moments and some nice cheap blood`n`guts moments, but there`s nothing really innovative or groundbreaking.

Audio

A DD2.0 surround soundtrack, but there`s little evidence of this, apart from the opening credits and a few fleeting moments along the way. Dialogue is clear and audible at all times.

There`s plenty of 1980s rock playing (as part of the story revolves around a radio station), but there`s nothing very exciting about the soundtrack overall.

Features

The original trailer (in 1.85:1 anamorphic unlike the main feature). And that`s it.

Conclusion

An appaling sequel that cannot hold a candle to the original. There really is nothing to recommend it. Even Dennis Hopper can`t save this, and I can`t believe that this is the same actor who appeared in the excellent Blue Velvet in the same year.

The disc itself is pretty average, with average picture, average sound and a distinct lack of extras. Maybe the lack of extras is actually a good thing, as I wouldn`t want to watch anything else about this film.

A bit of a stinker I`m afraid, only recommended for really, really desperate slasher fans.