Austin, Texas has put the horror back into October with a move that salutes a cinematic classic. As chainsaws buzz in the background—not, mind you—Austin Mayor Kirk Watson has proclaimed October 11 as Texas Chain Saw Massacre Day. This marks the 50th anniversary of the cutting-edge horror flick that still has fans reeling half a century after its full U.S. premiere on October 11, 1974. Fans of the genre are treated to a slice of movie history, celebrating the film extensively shot in and around Austin on a budget that can only be described as "tightly-wound."
The movie itself is a foray into the darkest corners of the Lone Star State's rural stretches. A band of teenagers, seeking gasoline in the fictional Muerto County, find more than they bargained for—an encounter with a family that takes DIY butchery to an entirely new level, redefining the proverbial "meat market" with the help of their son Leatherface, according to a report by MySanAntonio.com.
But the reverence for such a macabre masterpiece isn't merely theoretical. Real-world tributes have sprung up, including the appropriately named "The Gas Station" restaurant in Bastrop County, housed in the very same service station where parts of Texas Chain Saw Massacre were filmed. These eateries aren't just empty gestures, they're slices of fandom made flesh—a chance for enthusiasts to sup where Leatherface once reigned supreme, as per a detailed account found on CBS Austin.
Enthusiasts eager to commemorate the occasion could grab a seat at Austin Film Society's special screening of the 1974 original. Scheduled for 9 p.m. tonight, those itching for a good fright can secure their admission for $13.50. Reflecting on the legacy of the film, photographer Randy Kerr pointed out the inspirational role it played for budding filmmakers, saying, "It inspired young filmmakers to just get a camera and try to make some film. make a movie, scare people. And it drives home what Halloween is all about. I think a little fright is good for us sometimes," Kerr told CBS Austin. Indeed, the spirit of indie filmmaking lives on, fueled by the gruesome tales of the past and the enduring allure of a good scare.
