It’s been over three years since we last saw Leatherface…
Coming courtesy of Legendary, and distributed by Netflix, 2022’s Texas Chainsaw Massacre was derided critically, but was a hit with streaming audiences.
However, it’s been three years, and no sequel has emerged, despite fan demand.
Now, in a rather unexpected turn of events, we’re hearing The Texas Chain Saw Massacre IP is at the centre of a “heated” bidding war.
According to reputable sources, several “heavyweight” studios and producers are vying to make the next Chain Saw instalment.
Primary rights holders Verve and Exurbia Films are said to be fielding up to eight pitches from various studios and producers, some currently among the cream of genre work.
Longlegs filmmaker Oz Perkins is said to be championing a pitch by The Strangers director Brian Bertino. Should this idea win out, Perkins will produce the project, with NEON aboard to distribute.
Next in the running, we have a story we previously reported on. Strange Darling filmmaker J.T. Mollner is still in the running, working alongside Weapons producer Roy Lee. A further development reveals that A24 are the studio attached to the pitch. We are hearing that it will likely emerge as a television project, and Top Gun: Maverick star Glen Powell remains attached.
Producer Roy Lee is also said to be pushing a feature film pitch, with Netflix also aboard this version.
Nope and Get Out filmmaker Jordan Peele has also thrown his hat in the ring. Peele is said to be eager to board the Chain Saw franchise, offering a pitch attached to his Monkey Paw Productions banner. Should this emerge victorious, Universal will distribute the resulting film.
Finally, prolific television creator Taylor Sheridan is said to be in the running. Sheridan has created a vast television empire through shows like Yellowstone, 1923, Land Man, and Tulsa King. It is unknown whether Sheridan’s offering will be for television, or have him branch out to the big screen. Should Sheridan win the bid, it’s likely MTV Studios will acquire the distribution rights.
So, it’s a great time to be a Texas Chain Saw fan. Although we have no concrete details on what the pitches involve, the sheer number of parties involved means the franchise is alive and well.
Undoubtedly, we’ll have further updates on the results of the bidding war soon. However, what we can say with certainty is that Leatherface and his kin will return soon… Very soon. Watch this space!
