Tobe Hooper’s legendary shocker, one of the most influential horror films ever made, marks its fiftieth anniversary with a 4K digital restoration, returning to the big screen to terrify a new generation.

Five friends on a road trip through the titular state fall foul of a degenerate family with murderous intent and cannibalistic desires. Led by the iconic Leatherface (Gunnar Hansen), the family pick the group off one by one. Although undeniably bleak, there is a vein of black humour in the film, and it is important to note that its effect comes largely from its atmosphere and suggestive visuals; it is in fact far less violent and gory than its reputation would suggest, and is certainly more restrained than many modern horror films.

Notes by Kevin Coyne