Horror films have haunted cinema since its earliest days — from the silent terror of NOSFERATUto the iconic Universal Monsters of the 1930s, to demonic classics like ROSEMARY’S BABY and THE EXORCIST. For generations, filmmakers have pushed the boundaries of fear, redefining what it means to scare audiences.
Then came 1974. When THE TEXAS CHAINSAW MASSACRE premiered, it didn’t just terrify audiences; it changed horror forever. Directed by Tobe Hooper, this low-budget, gritty masterpiece arrived in the aftermath of Vietnam and political turmoil, channeling the anxieties of its time. Today, it remains one of the most influential horror movies ever made, inspiring generations of filmmakers.
Acclaimed documentarian Alexandre O. Philippe turns his lens on THE TEXAS CHAINSAW MASSACRE in his new documentary CHAIN REACTIONS. Rather than retelling the well-known production story, Philippe highlights the film’s cultural impact through the eyes of five devoted fans — all accomplished artists themselves. They reveal how this horror classic shaped their creativity, careers, and storytelling.
Philippe has built his career exploring cinema’s cultural touchstones. His celebrated works include 78/52 — a deep dive into Alfred Hitchcock’s iconic Psycho shower scene — and LYNCH/OZ, which uncovers how THE WIZARD OF OZ influenced David Lynch’s surreal filmmaking. With CHAIN REACTIONS, Philippe adds another must-see documentary to his filmography.
Whether you’re a lifelong horror fan, a filmmaker seeking inspiration, or just curious about why THE TEXAS CHAINSAW MASSACRE still matters today, this conversation is for you. Even if you don’t typically watch horror films, you’ll find fresh insight and passion in our discussion with CHAIN REACTIONS director Alexandre O. Philippe on Inside the Arthouse, starting now…