Special Feature Still Alive, Despite A24 Inches Closer to IP Rights to The Gore Classic

In the macabre world of horror, few franchises command the
chilling reverence of the Texas Chain Saw Massacre. The guttural roar of
a chainsaw, the unsettling mask of human skin, and a family defined by
depravity have cemented its legacy as a cornerstone of the genre. Now, as the
iconic IP finds itself at the center of a high-stakes bidding war, a new
chapter in its bloody history is about to be written as A24 is reportedly in
the lead to acquire the rights. The stakes are immense, not just for a piece of
cinematic history, but for the future direction of one of horror’s most
celebrated and terrifying sagas.

With the looming deal, a curious detail has emerged
regarding the future of the franchise.

A24 emerges as frontrunner for The Texas Chain Saw Massacre rights

A24 appears to be the frontrunner to acquire the film and TV
rights for the Texas Chain Saw Massacre franchise after a competitive auction. The
studio, known for horror hits like Hereditary, plans to develop a new
series with JT Mollner and Roy Lee. While the deal is not yet finalized, A24
has reportedly beaten out other notable bidders, including projects from Bryan
Bertino, Oz Perkins, and Taylor Sheridan, according to sources who informed Deadline.

The
report also notes that A24 may still produce a previously planned Netflix film. Written and directed by Tobe Hooper, the 1974 horror film The
Texas Chain Saw Massacre is a landmark of the
genre with fan-favourite reviews. Produced on a budget of around
$140,000, its raw, documentary-style cinematography and psychological terror
made it a massive commercial success, grossing over $30 million and influencing
generations of filmmakers.

The intense competition for the rights to the franchise drew
a host of notable contenders.

Bidding war: The rights to the franchise were up for auction

The auction for the iconic rights became a major event
within the entertainment industry, attracting a wide range of interested
parties. A24 emerged as the clear frontrunner, but the competition was fierce, including other major players such as Sony Pictures. Sony was reportedly
seeking to purchase the rights outright, a different strategy from A24’s
preferred approach of a long-term rental agreement.

Among the notable bidders, director Jordan Peele’s Monkeypaw
Productions initially expressed interest, but their pursuit quickly dissipated.
The bidding also saw a push from filmmaker Taylor Sheridan, who had a specific
vision for a version of Leatherface. Additionally, Oz Perkins and Bryan Bertino
joined forces to pitch a film under the Neon banner. While the deal is not yet
finalized, A24 holds a strong position.

Will A24’s Acquisition of The Texas Chain Saw Massacre
Redefine the Franchise? Let us know in the comments below.