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Leatherface (2017) is a dark and violent prequel that explores the origins of the infamous chainsaw-wielding killer.

Leatherface (2017) is a prequel to the iconic horror film The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974). The film explores the origins of the notorious chainsaw-wielding killer and his twisted family, offering a glimpse into the events that shaped his violent and disturbed psyche. Directed by Alexandre Bustillo and Julien Maury, Leatherface is a dark, gritty and violent film that delivers a disturbing and unsettling experience.

The film opens with a young Jed Sawyer, who is later revealed to be the infamous Leatherface, living in a mental institution. He has been committed after a violent incident involving his family, who are all also inmates. The film follows Jed’s journey as he escapes from the institution with a group of fellow patients and embarks on a bloody road trip that leads to the creation of the Leatherface we all know and fear.

One of the most striking aspects of Leatherface is its visual style. The film is shot in a gritty, realistic way that captures the bleakness and violence of the story. The color palette is muted and dark, creating a sense of foreboding and danger throughout the film. The filmmakers use practical effects and prosthetics to create the gruesome and violent scenes, which are all the more terrifying because they feel real and visceral.

The performances in Leatherface are also impressive. Stephen Dorff delivers a standout performance as Texas Ranger Hal Hartman, who is hell-bent on capturing Jed and bringing him to justice. Dorff brings a sense of gravitas and intensity to his role, making Hartman a formidable and terrifying antagonist. Sam Strike also delivers a strong performance as Jed, portraying him as a sympathetic and tragic figure who is struggling to survive in a world that has cast him aside.

However, the film is not without its flaws. The pacing is uneven at times, with some scenes feeling rushed while others drag on too long. The plot also feels convoluted at times, with too many characters and subplots competing for attention. Additionally, some of the twists and turns in the story feel predictable, robbing the film of some of its suspense and tension.

Despite these shortcomings, Leatherface is still a compelling and entertaining horror film that fans of the genre will enjoy. It offers a unique and disturbing look at the origins of one of the most iconic horror villains of all time, and the filmmakers deserve credit for their bold and ambitious approach to the material. Overall, Leatherface is a solid addition to the Texas Chainsaw Massacre franchise and a film that horror fans should definitely check out.